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The Liar's Club #1
La fausse fiancée
USA Today bestselling author Vivienne Lorret launches a new series with a sparkling romance about a spinster, a duke, and a fake engagement that blurs the lines between enemies and lovers…
Verity Hartley always tells the truth. Well, mostly. However, when her snooty neighbor returns to their small hamlet to brag about having a grand Season, a plethora of ballgowns, and so many suitors that she cannot possibly decide which one to marry, Verity tells a lie. She claims to be betrothed. To a duke. Who happens to be her family’s sworn enemy. But what are the odds that he would ever learn of this one, little, harmless falsehood?
Magnus Warring, the Duke of Longhurst, is on the precipice of marrying an heiress to save his estate from financial ruin. At least, he was. Until he hears an unbelievable rumor that he is already betrothed. To the daughter of a liar, cheat, and swindler! Needing to protect his reputation, he hunts down the culprit. And when he finds the untamed beguiler, she has the audacity to ask him to lie for her. To pretend to be her fiancé!
One week, that’s all Verity needs. Then Magnus could return to his life. But nothing is ever that simple. Sometimes it doesn’t take that long to fall in love, even with the enemy.
Verity Hartley always tells the truth. Well, mostly. However, when her snooty neighbor returns to their small hamlet to brag about having a grand Season, a plethora of ballgowns, and so many suitors that she cannot possibly decide which one to marry, Verity tells a lie. She claims to be betrothed. To a duke. Who happens to be her family’s sworn enemy. But what are the odds that he would ever learn of this one, little, harmless falsehood?
Magnus Warring, the Duke of Longhurst, is on the precipice of marrying an heiress to save his estate from financial ruin. At least, he was. Until he hears an unbelievable rumor that he is already betrothed. To the daughter of a liar, cheat, and swindler! Needing to protect his reputation, he hunts down the culprit. And when he finds the untamed beguiler, she has the audacity to ask him to lie for her. To pretend to be her fiancé!
One week, that’s all Verity needs. Then Magnus could return to his life. But nothing is ever that simple. Sometimes it doesn’t take that long to fall in love, even with the enemy.
432 pages
First published November 28, 2023
197 people are currently reading
4789 people want to read
About the author
Vivienne Lorret
37 books1,306 followersUSA Today bestselling author VIVIENNE LORRET writes fun and steamy Regency historical romances. She lives in the Midwest where she coaxes words out of giant mugs of tea and attempts to jot them down before they can escape. For her entire catalog of books, including the Liars’ Club, her latest series from Avon, please visit www.vivlorret.net
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 422 reviews
December 13, 2023
This book in three acts:
✨I loathe you 🫶✨
Okay this was FUN fun. It Had to Be a Duke is absolutely a true enemies-to-lovers romp. Those two were at each other’s THROATS the entire book. There was also a body of water *present* during a fight scene, so the similarities to The Princess Diaries 2 were beautiful and perfect. It was also entirely believable that they didn’t like each other; the book easily earned the word enemies. And it was so audaciously funny—I’m still weak thinking about certain scenes.
It’s a unique take on the “I started a rumor we’re engaged so now we have to fake it” trope, as most I’ve read have the other party be at least slightly willing to go along with it. Magnus was NOT having it. Pairing him with Verity was such a smart move. They were so similar but presented themselves in completely different ways, so it was fun seeing them fit together.
We saw the entire relationship develop on the page, so their HEA felt incredibly earned and satisfying. Lorret spent so much space showing the little moments that moved the romance and *feelings* forward, while still keeping that enemies energy present. Verity thinking that man was standing behind her at all times trying not to strangle her while he was actually just trying not to kiss her was just so funny to me. He also did something so perfect and lovesick that gets revealed at the end—if I speak !!!
There was other drama happening throughout the book, but their relationship was so fun that I truly would’ve fought through anything to keep reading about them. He was set on marrying another woman for familial duty, which got a bit old, yet it did it in a way I really couldn’t hate. So while it got a little long, and the breakup felt a bit sudden, everything all together felt necessary. It set up the series wonderfully, and I’m already anxiously awaiting book two.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️.5/5 🌶️🌶️.5*/5
*We only got twoish scenes, but they were pretty long and…that man was down so bad in both I found them to be incredibly hot...
Thanks so much to the publisher for an eARC via NetGalley. All opinions are honest and my own.
✨I loathe you 🫶✨
Okay this was FUN fun. It Had to Be a Duke is absolutely a true enemies-to-lovers romp. Those two were at each other’s THROATS the entire book. There was also a body of water *present* during a fight scene, so the similarities to The Princess Diaries 2 were beautiful and perfect. It was also entirely believable that they didn’t like each other; the book easily earned the word enemies. And it was so audaciously funny—I’m still weak thinking about certain scenes.
It’s a unique take on the “I started a rumor we’re engaged so now we have to fake it” trope, as most I’ve read have the other party be at least slightly willing to go along with it. Magnus was NOT having it. Pairing him with Verity was such a smart move. They were so similar but presented themselves in completely different ways, so it was fun seeing them fit together.
We saw the entire relationship develop on the page, so their HEA felt incredibly earned and satisfying. Lorret spent so much space showing the little moments that moved the romance and *feelings* forward, while still keeping that enemies energy present. Verity thinking that man was standing behind her at all times trying not to strangle her while he was actually just trying not to kiss her was just so funny to me. He also did something so perfect and lovesick that gets revealed at the end—if I speak !!!
There was other drama happening throughout the book, but their relationship was so fun that I truly would’ve fought through anything to keep reading about them. He was set on marrying another woman for familial duty, which got a bit old, yet it did it in a way I really couldn’t hate. So while it got a little long, and the breakup felt a bit sudden, everything all together felt necessary. It set up the series wonderfully, and I’m already anxiously awaiting book two.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️.5/5 🌶️🌶️.5*/5
*We only got twoish scenes, but they were pretty long and…that man was down so bad in both I found them to be incredibly hot...
Thanks so much to the publisher for an eARC via NetGalley. All opinions are honest and my own.
December 6, 2023
Note: Some of my goodreads shelves can be spoilers
Overall: 4.5 rounded ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Readability: 📖📖📖📖
Feels: 🦋🦋🦋🦋
Emotional Depth: 💔💔💔💔
Sexual Tension: ⚡⚡⚡⚡
Romance: 💞💞💞💞
Sensuality: 💋💋💋💋
Sex Scene Length: 🍑🍑🍑🍑 (The first scene is a bit shorter)
Steam Scale (Number of Sex Scenes): 🔥🔥
Humor: Yes!
Perspective: Third person from both hero and heroine
When mains are first on page together: Pretty soon in – about 8%
Cliffhanger: No, this ends with a happily ever after
Epilogue: No
Format: voluntarily read an advanced reader copy through NetGalley
(Descriptions found at end of my review)
Should I read in order?
This is the first book of Lorret’s The Liar’s Club.
Basic plot:
When the needling of Verity’s nemesis, who she has named The Tick, becomes too much, she tells a whopper of a lie. That she’s engaged. To a Duke. That is her family’s enemy...
Give this a try if you want:
- Regency (my assumption)
- country and London setting (about half and half)
- ‘plain’ heroine
- anxiety rep (heroine)
- fake engagement – heroine tells a wallop of a lie and announces her betrothal to the Duke of Longhurst to a nemesis
- rival families vibes – the hero’s family severed ties with the heroine’s after a swindle that ended with the loss of the hero’s father’s fortune
- I would say it’s enemies to lovers? But definitely has that vibe – frenemies?
- elements of close proximity – the hero’s grandmother asks him to spend a week paying court to the heroine to help drive the scandal down of a broken betrothal (make it more believable) and then in the latter half brings the heroine to London as her companion so they are in the house together again.
- other woman aspects – the hero is * almost * engaged to someone else – he is courting her and there is an implied understanding
- low to mid steam - 2 full scenes and some kisses
Ages:
- Heroine is 25 – I’m not sure about the hero but would guess around 30?
First line:
At the time, climbing out of the window seemed like the only practical option.
My thoughts:
Oh Vivienne Lorret just checks sooo many of my romance boxes every time! I enjoyed so much about this novel, but it had a few minors things I would have maybe preferred went a bit different.
The humor in this one I thought was perfection. It was just fun. Verity’s family of actors was such a joy. The closeness of the family (though Verity feels on the outside, you can still see the bond between her and parents, and her siblings – it is a special family dynamic) was appreciated by me – and yes there are some issues and some past trauma – her family is very...chaotic but overall so lovable.
Magnus’ grandmother is another character that I have a soft spot for. The feisty matriarch that tries pulling some strings behind the scenes, I love it.
Verity herself is one of those heroine’s that I just fell in love with. So full of life – the hero calls her feral and I felt I could just related to her and wanted to be her friend so badly. So, so caring and vulnerable.
Magnus took me a bit longer to come around to. He’s more closed off and starchy and definitely an opposite feel from Verity. And she just breaks down all his walls until he’s doing things that surprise himself, thinking things he’s coached himself not to, and wanting a love that is not at all a part of his well planned out life.
There’s something so swoony to me about Lorret’s writing. So many parts I pause over and savor and want to highlight. Their relationship was so much fun for me to read.
I am not a big fan of when one character is kind of ‘promised’ to another, or there’s other woman drama, but in this book all of that worked in a way that didn’t bother me. There wasn’t a ton of drama from it and it provided a bit of angst and uncertainty to their relationship.
I did think there was a part in the middle that drug a bit for me (it felt a bit slow in some parts), I do wish the steam was just a touch higher (2 scenes just felt kind of low here?? Maybe because the tension was so good) and the end where Verity made her feelings known I was pretty frustrated along with her lack of action – BUT the actual ending I thought was adorable and it brought a smile to my face.
I cannot wait for more in this series. Lorret has become one of my favorite HR authors. I’m going to have to read all her books I’ve missed while waiting for the next release.
Endearments
Quotes/spoiler-y thoughts:Any mistakes/typos are my own
Content warnings: These should be taken as a minimum of what to expect. It’s very possible I have missed some.
Locations of kisses/intimate scenes:
Extra stuff like what my review breakdown means, where to find me, and book clubs
Overall: 4.5 rounded ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Readability: 📖📖📖📖
Feels: 🦋🦋🦋🦋
Emotional Depth: 💔💔💔💔
Sexual Tension: ⚡⚡⚡⚡
Romance: 💞💞💞💞
Sensuality: 💋💋💋💋
Sex Scene Length: 🍑🍑🍑🍑 (The first scene is a bit shorter)
Steam Scale (Number of Sex Scenes): 🔥🔥
Humor: Yes!
Perspective: Third person from both hero and heroine
When mains are first on page together: Pretty soon in – about 8%
Cliffhanger: No, this ends with a happily ever after
Epilogue: No
Format: voluntarily read an advanced reader copy through NetGalley
(Descriptions found at end of my review)
Should I read in order?
This is the first book of Lorret’s The Liar’s Club.
Basic plot:
When the needling of Verity’s nemesis, who she has named The Tick, becomes too much, she tells a whopper of a lie. That she’s engaged. To a Duke. That is her family’s enemy...
Give this a try if you want:
- Regency (my assumption)
- country and London setting (about half and half)
- ‘plain’ heroine
- anxiety rep (heroine)
- fake engagement – heroine tells a wallop of a lie and announces her betrothal to the Duke of Longhurst to a nemesis
- rival families vibes – the hero’s family severed ties with the heroine’s after a swindle that ended with the loss of the hero’s father’s fortune
- I would say it’s enemies to lovers? But definitely has that vibe – frenemies?
- elements of close proximity – the hero’s grandmother asks him to spend a week paying court to the heroine to help drive the scandal down of a broken betrothal (make it more believable) and then in the latter half brings the heroine to London as her companion so they are in the house together again.
- other woman aspects – the hero is * almost * engaged to someone else – he is courting her and there is an implied understanding
- low to mid steam - 2 full scenes and some kisses
Ages:
- Heroine is 25 – I’m not sure about the hero but would guess around 30?
First line:
At the time, climbing out of the window seemed like the only practical option.
My thoughts:
Oh Vivienne Lorret just checks sooo many of my romance boxes every time! I enjoyed so much about this novel, but it had a few minors things I would have maybe preferred went a bit different.
The humor in this one I thought was perfection. It was just fun. Verity’s family of actors was such a joy. The closeness of the family (though Verity feels on the outside, you can still see the bond between her and parents, and her siblings – it is a special family dynamic) was appreciated by me – and yes there are some issues and some past trauma – her family is very...chaotic but overall so lovable.
Magnus’ grandmother is another character that I have a soft spot for. The feisty matriarch that tries pulling some strings behind the scenes, I love it.
Verity herself is one of those heroine’s that I just fell in love with. So full of life – the hero calls her feral and I felt I could just related to her and wanted to be her friend so badly. So, so caring and vulnerable.
Magnus took me a bit longer to come around to. He’s more closed off and starchy and definitely an opposite feel from Verity. And she just breaks down all his walls until he’s doing things that surprise himself, thinking things he’s coached himself not to, and wanting a love that is not at all a part of his well planned out life.
There’s something so swoony to me about Lorret’s writing. So many parts I pause over and savor and want to highlight. Their relationship was so much fun for me to read.
I am not a big fan of when one character is kind of ‘promised’ to another, or there’s other woman drama, but in this book all of that worked in a way that didn’t bother me. There wasn’t a ton of drama from it and it provided a bit of angst and uncertainty to their relationship.
I did think there was a part in the middle that drug a bit for me (it felt a bit slow in some parts), I do wish the steam was just a touch higher (2 scenes just felt kind of low here?? Maybe because the tension was so good) and the end where Verity made her feelings known I was pretty frustrated along with her lack of action – BUT the actual ending I thought was adorable and it brought a smile to my face.
I cannot wait for more in this series. Lorret has become one of my favorite HR authors. I’m going to have to read all her books I’ve missed while waiting for the next release.
Endearments
Quotes/spoiler-y thoughts:Any mistakes/typos are my own
Content warnings: These should be taken as a minimum of what to expect. It’s very possible I have missed some.
Locations of kisses/intimate scenes:
Extra stuff like what my review breakdown means, where to find me, and book clubs
October 17, 2025
Dnf at 60%
The beginning was awesome, funny, different and well written.
Then the repetition started. Over and over again, the same conversation, I think we like each other, oh no we don’t They shared one “angry” kiss so far.
He keeps pursuing his intended fiance, not the h and at 60 % that is still where his head is at.
It just wasn’t romantic to me. I felt they only had the one gear and they never moved it up.
Should you read it? If you like repetitive patterns.
The beginning was awesome, funny, different and well written.
Then the repetition started. Over and over again, the same conversation, I think we like each other, oh no we don’t They shared one “angry” kiss so far.
He keeps pursuing his intended fiance, not the h and at 60 % that is still where his head is at.
It just wasn’t romantic to me. I felt they only had the one gear and they never moved it up.
Should you read it? If you like repetitive patterns.
December 31, 2023
2.5ish since I do enjoy enemies to lovers trope. Lots of forced proximity. The hero is conveniently there to catch her each time she’s falling. He gets jealous and protective of her although he doesn't realize it. 🤭
I’d like to know who’s going to be the main characters in this series so I know which characters to care about. I’m not quite sure why their brothers are in the book. Sure, they contributed to the plot in the second half, but I think their roles were unnecessary and they just prolonged the book. And, the vicar swimming naked in the lake? Is he going to have his own book?
Some parts in the second half were confusing. I was listening to the audiobook so I could have missed something. I didn't bother to rewind. When I get a hold of the ebook, I'll read those parts.
No epilogue. 😭
I’d like to know who’s going to be the main characters in this series so I know which characters to care about. I’m not quite sure why their brothers are in the book. Sure, they contributed to the plot in the second half, but I think their roles were unnecessary and they just prolonged the book. And, the vicar swimming naked in the lake? Is he going to have his own book?
Some parts in the second half were confusing. I was listening to the audiobook so I could have missed something. I didn't bother to rewind. When I get a hold of the ebook, I'll read those parts.
No epilogue. 😭
January 12, 2024
4.5/5. Thoroughly entertaining book - lots of laughs and very likeable protagonists. I gave up on this author several years ago after one too many so-so release. I'm glad I gave her another chance because this was a truly entertaining read, very funny but also pulling on some heart-strings. Verity did dig herself the biggest hole to try to work her way out of, but she is so earnest and not at all intimidated by the fury of an incensed duke. As for for said incensed duke, poor man was befuddled and discombobulated by Verity from the word go. He stood no chance.
February 15, 2025
Read for Rake Appreciation Society live show!
November 1, 2023
Verity Hartley never meant to tell such a lie but, when her snooty neighbor brags about the London season, Verity accidentally blurts out that she’s engaged…to a Duke! Magnus Warring, the Duke of Longhurst, is about to propose to an heiress and stabilize his estate…until he hears an unbelievable rumor that he is already betrothed! Now he and Verity must fake an engagement until they can extricate themselves, but they can’t help the electricity that crackles whenever they are together.
This is the first book in Lorret's new Liars Club series. Once family friends, the Hartleys and Warrings no longer speak after a business deal gone very wrong. Magnus is spitting mad about Verity's lie, but he can’t risk his reputation. He has to follow his grandmother's guidance and fake a relationship - and eventual break up - with Verity.
I really enjoyed this book, but I was a little skeptical at the beginning. There was a lot going on with Verity's quirky family, the swindle the started the bad blood with Magnus, and Verity's own insecurities. Lorret pulls it all together though with plenty of wit, charm, and magnetism between the leads. The next story is already queued up and I can’t wait to see what happens with Anna. I'd definitely recommend this book to anyone who likes books where there is a struggle between duty and desire, and in which the hero has big "touch her and you die" energy.
Tropes: Fake Relationship, Opposites Attract, Feuding Families, Ugly Duckling
Steam: 2.5
* I received an ARC and this is my honest review.
This is the first book in Lorret's new Liars Club series. Once family friends, the Hartleys and Warrings no longer speak after a business deal gone very wrong. Magnus is spitting mad about Verity's lie, but he can’t risk his reputation. He has to follow his grandmother's guidance and fake a relationship - and eventual break up - with Verity.
I really enjoyed this book, but I was a little skeptical at the beginning. There was a lot going on with Verity's quirky family, the swindle the started the bad blood with Magnus, and Verity's own insecurities. Lorret pulls it all together though with plenty of wit, charm, and magnetism between the leads. The next story is already queued up and I can’t wait to see what happens with Anna. I'd definitely recommend this book to anyone who likes books where there is a struggle between duty and desire, and in which the hero has big "touch her and you die" energy.
Tropes: Fake Relationship, Opposites Attract, Feuding Families, Ugly Duckling
Steam: 2.5
* I received an ARC and this is my honest review.
July 31, 2023
I. Can't. Even.
Hands down one of the best books I've read so far this year. I discovered Lorret's writing last year with the Mating Habits of Scoundrels series and inhaled it fairly quickly. I ended up adoring every single book in that series. I am so excited that her new series, The Liar's Club, has come out with such a strong start.
Verity Hartley is a spinster. After one short lived season (and two short lived courtings) she's resigned herself to running her brother's household; whenever he comes back to England. A family scandal quickly ruined her prospects and shunned her family from polite society. The Hartley's retreated to the country and have stayed there ever since. Verity, tired of being bullied by her nemesis, ends up lying about being engaged to the Duke of Warring. There is a big problem with the fake engagement; the family have been rivals since the scandal.
The Duke of Warring is in dire straits. He needs to marry an heiress in order to keep the family estates afloat and bring his brother home. Rumor has it that he's already engaged... to a Hartley. He agrees to keep up the fake engagement with Verity for one week in order to save both of their reputations.
When a book claims to be enemies to lovers I usually scoff a bit. The feuding tends to end pretty much immediately. Not with this book! Another reviewer compared the water scene to Princess Diaries Two and I wholeheartedly agree. These two were at each other's throats 90% of the time and I was here for it. Lorret's writing is so witty and had me laughing out loud with a smile on my face the entire time. It was just such a fun read. The way the "other woman" drama was presented was such a good plot choice. I'm glad Anna and Verity ended up having a genuine friendship and not a bunch of cattiness.
I loved how this book set up the series. I kept thinking the next book would be a particular pair but then it was like a bombshell on the last page. I'm so excited for this series to continue. It's going to be such a long wait since this one doesn't even come out until the end of November. Brava, Vivienne Lorret! I can't stop gushing about this one!
Tropes included: enemies to lovers, fake engagement, spinster heroine, the "plain" sister, betrothed to someone else (sorta), family rivalries, meddling grandmothers, witty banter, penniless duke, tree climbing heroine, spicy dreams, kiss it out of our system, family theatrics, violet eyed heroine, naked reverends, monkeys on leashes, and a duke who can't tell a lie.
Thank you to Avon Harper Voyager, Vivienne Lorret, and NetGalley for this eARC. All opinions expressed are my own. #netgalley #viviennelorret #ItHadToBeADuke #TheLiarsClub #AvonHarperVoyager
Hands down one of the best books I've read so far this year. I discovered Lorret's writing last year with the Mating Habits of Scoundrels series and inhaled it fairly quickly. I ended up adoring every single book in that series. I am so excited that her new series, The Liar's Club, has come out with such a strong start.
Verity Hartley is a spinster. After one short lived season (and two short lived courtings) she's resigned herself to running her brother's household; whenever he comes back to England. A family scandal quickly ruined her prospects and shunned her family from polite society. The Hartley's retreated to the country and have stayed there ever since. Verity, tired of being bullied by her nemesis, ends up lying about being engaged to the Duke of Warring. There is a big problem with the fake engagement; the family have been rivals since the scandal.
The Duke of Warring is in dire straits. He needs to marry an heiress in order to keep the family estates afloat and bring his brother home. Rumor has it that he's already engaged... to a Hartley. He agrees to keep up the fake engagement with Verity for one week in order to save both of their reputations.
When a book claims to be enemies to lovers I usually scoff a bit. The feuding tends to end pretty much immediately. Not with this book! Another reviewer compared the water scene to Princess Diaries Two and I wholeheartedly agree. These two were at each other's throats 90% of the time and I was here for it. Lorret's writing is so witty and had me laughing out loud with a smile on my face the entire time. It was just such a fun read. The way the "other woman" drama was presented was such a good plot choice. I'm glad Anna and Verity ended up having a genuine friendship and not a bunch of cattiness.
I loved how this book set up the series. I kept thinking the next book would be a particular pair but then it was like a bombshell on the last page. I'm so excited for this series to continue. It's going to be such a long wait since this one doesn't even come out until the end of November. Brava, Vivienne Lorret! I can't stop gushing about this one!
Tropes included: enemies to lovers, fake engagement, spinster heroine, the "plain" sister, betrothed to someone else (sorta), family rivalries, meddling grandmothers, witty banter, penniless duke, tree climbing heroine, spicy dreams, kiss it out of our system, family theatrics, violet eyed heroine, naked reverends, monkeys on leashes, and a duke who can't tell a lie.
Thank you to Avon Harper Voyager, Vivienne Lorret, and NetGalley for this eARC. All opinions expressed are my own. #netgalley #viviennelorret #ItHadToBeADuke #TheLiarsClub #AvonHarperVoyager
December 17, 2023
The book was very long and very convoluted. Every time I thought it was reaching an ending, it continued. Even when all the conflicts finally appear to be resolved, Also, Viscount Vandemere was not mentioned enough for him to suddenly come out of nowhere in the last chapter. The last chapter really confused me.
Some Miscellaneous Thoughts:
🎀 Chapter 1 was a name dump
🎀 Never made any fun/jokes about Verity’s name meaning truth, and she was bad at lying (maybe that’s too on the nose, though)
🎀 Sock puppets now will forever horrify me + take on a new meaning
Some Miscellaneous Thoughts:
🎀 Chapter 1 was a name dump
🎀 Never made any fun/jokes about Verity’s name meaning truth, and she was bad at lying (maybe that’s too on the nose, though)
🎀 Sock puppets now will forever horrify me + take on a new meaning
November 8, 2023
4.5 stars
This was such a fantastic read! I’m a big fan of Vivienne Lorret’s writing and she brought all the emotions out of me with this one. It Had to Be a Duke had me laughing so hard thanks to the lively Hartley family and all of the disastrous interactions between Magnus and Verity. The book also had me in tears though, as painful pasts and heartaches were revealed. Please check CW’s prior to reading.
Things I loved:
- the meddling families and friends! It’s clear to everyone except Verity and Magnus what’s happening LOL
- awkward and embarrassing meet disasters/encounters that had me laughing so hard (the vicar!)
- a protective starchy hero and delicious "who did this to you?" vibes
- a hero and heroine who have no idea what feelings are and instead ask questions like: what is this tightness in my chest? What’s this strange and peculiar sensation? It's probably indigestion LOL
- the tropes! Soooo many of my favorites were featured in this book, including: fake engagement, starchy grump, forced proximity, he falls first, idiots to lovers, who did this to you?, caretaker, slow burn etc
- the build up! Things progress gradually between these two (mainly because they’re such idiots LOL), but it’s so worth it in the end
- how the story came full circle at the end (though I always want more grovel)
- a hilariously unique birds and the bees talk thanks to Mr. and Mrs. Hartley
- wonderful secondary characters! I already can’t wait for Honoria’s story with her viscount, as well as Miss Snow and perhaps a certain Mr. Dashing. I also would love to see a book for Truman <3
The story flowed well for me overall, but it did stall a bit in the middle, as Verity and Magnus continued to deny their true feelings. I wanted more time with them happy and together. I also wish that the drama in the final 10% could have been avoided, but given Verity’s fears and heartbreaking past, I can see why she reacted the way she did. The book ends rather abruptly and I would have loved an epilogue, but the viscount bombshell the author drops right at the end has me so excited for book 2!
CW: financial ruin/scandal (past), death of parent (past), anxiety and panic attacks, comments about spinster/age, claustrophobia, locked in closet as a child and adult, death of child/sibling, fear of abandonment/being forgotten, bullying, the FMC is insulted (unintentionally) by the townsfolk
*I voluntarily read an advance review copy of this book*
This was such a fantastic read! I’m a big fan of Vivienne Lorret’s writing and she brought all the emotions out of me with this one. It Had to Be a Duke had me laughing so hard thanks to the lively Hartley family and all of the disastrous interactions between Magnus and Verity. The book also had me in tears though, as painful pasts and heartaches were revealed. Please check CW’s prior to reading.
Things I loved:
- the meddling families and friends! It’s clear to everyone except Verity and Magnus what’s happening LOL
- awkward and embarrassing meet disasters/encounters that had me laughing so hard (the vicar!)
- a protective starchy hero and delicious "who did this to you?" vibes
- a hero and heroine who have no idea what feelings are and instead ask questions like: what is this tightness in my chest? What’s this strange and peculiar sensation? It's probably indigestion LOL
- the tropes! Soooo many of my favorites were featured in this book, including: fake engagement, starchy grump, forced proximity, he falls first, idiots to lovers, who did this to you?, caretaker, slow burn etc
- the build up! Things progress gradually between these two (mainly because they’re such idiots LOL), but it’s so worth it in the end
- how the story came full circle at the end (though I always want more grovel)
- a hilariously unique birds and the bees talk thanks to Mr. and Mrs. Hartley
- wonderful secondary characters! I already can’t wait for Honoria’s story with her viscount, as well as Miss Snow and perhaps a certain Mr. Dashing. I also would love to see a book for Truman <3
The story flowed well for me overall, but it did stall a bit in the middle, as Verity and Magnus continued to deny their true feelings. I wanted more time with them happy and together. I also wish that the drama in the final 10% could have been avoided, but given Verity’s fears and heartbreaking past, I can see why she reacted the way she did. The book ends rather abruptly and I would have loved an epilogue, but the viscount bombshell the author drops right at the end has me so excited for book 2!
CW: financial ruin/scandal (past), death of parent (past), anxiety and panic attacks, comments about spinster/age, claustrophobia, locked in closet as a child and adult, death of child/sibling, fear of abandonment/being forgotten, bullying, the FMC is insulted (unintentionally) by the townsfolk
*I voluntarily read an advance review copy of this book*
February 13, 2025
Rake Appreciation Society Winter Session Pick
Live show for Feb 12th
Review to come later
Live show for Feb 12th
Review to come later
October 1, 2023
I received an ARC from the publisher via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own.
I've been reading ARCS lately, and they've all been misses but thank God Vivienne Lorret knows how to write a funny and entertaining enemy to lover's romance. Some other authors should take notes about how well she pulls it off.
Verity Hartley always tells the truth, until she doesn't, and her one lie is so big that it involves a pretend betrothal to the Duke of Longhurst, who is about to propose to someone else. He marches himself right up to the country to interrogate Verity but knows the only way out of this mess is to make their betrothal real for the time being then have her end it. Unfortunately, he can't stop thinking about the wrong woman, and love is what happens when you're busy making other plans.
The passion, the chemistry, the funny moments, the couple were all chefs kiss perfection. I loved Verity and Magnus together, and those special moments between them. At one point, I actually teared up when they were talking about their love and that's what I am talking about. There were actual moments in this story where they went from being enemies to being something more. These moments build their emotional connection to each other, so I believe they actually care about each other enough to throw over anything and everything that gets in their way.
I mean, I can't wait to get a print copy for my keeper shelf because I just adored this one. It was too freaking cute.
I've been reading ARCS lately, and they've all been misses but thank God Vivienne Lorret knows how to write a funny and entertaining enemy to lover's romance. Some other authors should take notes about how well she pulls it off.
Verity Hartley always tells the truth, until she doesn't, and her one lie is so big that it involves a pretend betrothal to the Duke of Longhurst, who is about to propose to someone else. He marches himself right up to the country to interrogate Verity but knows the only way out of this mess is to make their betrothal real for the time being then have her end it. Unfortunately, he can't stop thinking about the wrong woman, and love is what happens when you're busy making other plans.
The passion, the chemistry, the funny moments, the couple were all chefs kiss perfection. I loved Verity and Magnus together, and those special moments between them. At one point, I actually teared up when they were talking about their love and that's what I am talking about. There were actual moments in this story where they went from being enemies to being something more. These moments build their emotional connection to each other, so I believe they actually care about each other enough to throw over anything and everything that gets in their way.
I mean, I can't wait to get a print copy for my keeper shelf because I just adored this one. It was too freaking cute.
August 6, 2023
Oh my god. I absolutely loved this!!!
After recently dnf-ing a Vivienne Lorret I was nervous to dive into her newest novel because I wasn't sure what to expect. After seeing another book reviewer (I can't remember who sadly) call this heroine chaotic and gush about how much they were loving this book I knew I had to pick it up ASAP.
This year historical romances have been letting me down so when I was instantly charmed by the heroine and truly captured by the story within the first 10%? I knew this book was about to turn my historical romance luck around (spoiler it did).
There is simply so much to love about this book. The plot and the romance were perfectly paced and I never once found myself growing bored and there was so much angst in this book. We have enemies to lovers, fake dating, grumpy hero/stubborn heroine dynamic, a "I will murder the person who hurt you"/caretaking scene, and it was perfect. I love how they were both so alike yet so different. It doesn't help that Magnus harbors anger toward Verity's family because of a scandal that happened between their fathers which adds only to the angst!
Verity has always been known as the "plain sister" because compared to her sisters she is not considered as pretty. What makes it even worse is that everyone in the village is constantly commenting on it as well. So when it seems like she snags Magnus? Well, they are in disbelief. It was so cute to see Magnus getting upset and frustrated on her behalf because he was like "She is the most beautiful human in the world what is wrong with you people?".
Verity is also one of those heroines who is chaotic but charming because she is just such a mess by accident. She is always getting herself into trouble and it doesn't help that Magnus seems to encourage this chaotic nature of hers. I love how she was not afraid to be herself and fully embrace when she would mess up. She was so fun to read and I loved being with her. She was also just so sweet that I wanted to protect her at all costs.
Magnus was a stern hero who was in love with Verity but absolutely refused to believe so. I love how he was always there for her and couldn't help but always think "I must protect her" and even slipped and said she was his which made me swoon. I love how Verity helped him learn to unleash control and to be more carefree with life. They truly helped each other bring out their best traits.
The plot of this story was also well-paced and I enjoyed the mystery aspect that we had later on in the story. The first part is the fake betrothal and then the later part is more of discovering what the scandal was and how Verity and Magnus are going to get together. The pacing, plot, and romance reminded me of all the things I love about Kate Bateman's books, so if you liked this check her out or if you like Kate then check this book out!
Overall, I absolutely loved and adored this and it will be making my top books of the year.
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.
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Thank you to the publisher for gifting me an advance reader copy. All thoughts are my own.
After recently dnf-ing a Vivienne Lorret I was nervous to dive into her newest novel because I wasn't sure what to expect. After seeing another book reviewer (I can't remember who sadly) call this heroine chaotic and gush about how much they were loving this book I knew I had to pick it up ASAP.
This year historical romances have been letting me down so when I was instantly charmed by the heroine and truly captured by the story within the first 10%? I knew this book was about to turn my historical romance luck around (spoiler it did).
There is simply so much to love about this book. The plot and the romance were perfectly paced and I never once found myself growing bored and there was so much angst in this book. We have enemies to lovers, fake dating, grumpy hero/stubborn heroine dynamic, a "I will murder the person who hurt you"/caretaking scene, and it was perfect. I love how they were both so alike yet so different. It doesn't help that Magnus harbors anger toward Verity's family because of a scandal that happened between their fathers which adds only to the angst!
Verity has always been known as the "plain sister" because compared to her sisters she is not considered as pretty. What makes it even worse is that everyone in the village is constantly commenting on it as well. So when it seems like she snags Magnus? Well, they are in disbelief. It was so cute to see Magnus getting upset and frustrated on her behalf because he was like "She is the most beautiful human in the world what is wrong with you people?".
Verity is also one of those heroines who is chaotic but charming because she is just such a mess by accident. She is always getting herself into trouble and it doesn't help that Magnus seems to encourage this chaotic nature of hers. I love how she was not afraid to be herself and fully embrace when she would mess up. She was so fun to read and I loved being with her. She was also just so sweet that I wanted to protect her at all costs.
Magnus was a stern hero who was in love with Verity but absolutely refused to believe so. I love how he was always there for her and couldn't help but always think "I must protect her" and even slipped and said she was his which made me swoon. I love how Verity helped him learn to unleash control and to be more carefree with life. They truly helped each other bring out their best traits.
The plot of this story was also well-paced and I enjoyed the mystery aspect that we had later on in the story. The first part is the fake betrothal and then the later part is more of discovering what the scandal was and how Verity and Magnus are going to get together. The pacing, plot, and romance reminded me of all the things I love about Kate Bateman's books, so if you liked this check her out or if you like Kate then check this book out!
Overall, I absolutely loved and adored this and it will be making my top books of the year.
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.
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Thank you to the publisher for gifting me an advance reader copy. All thoughts are my own.
January 25, 2024
4.75 stars
This was absolutely delightful! It had not one but TWO of my favourite tropes:
- The FMC lies about being engaged to a duke, he hears the rumour (while trying to arrange his own betrothal) and tracks her down; and
- The MMC can’t figure out why everyone thinks she’s plain and forgettable, because he finds her exasperating but also irresistible.
The dynamic between Magnus and Verity was very starchy MMC + chaotic FMC (even though she thinks of herself as practical), which was so fun, and their snappy dialogue had me giggling through the whole story. I had such a great time listening to this audiobook!
Minor points deducted for the timing of the third act conflict, but it’s highly possible that I’ll relisten to this at some point and upgrade the rating to 5 stars because I *loved* it.
This was absolutely delightful! It had not one but TWO of my favourite tropes:
- The FMC lies about being engaged to a duke, he hears the rumour (while trying to arrange his own betrothal) and tracks her down; and
- The MMC can’t figure out why everyone thinks she’s plain and forgettable, because he finds her exasperating but also irresistible.
The dynamic between Magnus and Verity was very starchy MMC + chaotic FMC (even though she thinks of herself as practical), which was so fun, and their snappy dialogue had me giggling through the whole story. I had such a great time listening to this audiobook!
Minor points deducted for the timing of the third act conflict, but it’s highly possible that I’ll relisten to this at some point and upgrade the rating to 5 stars because I *loved* it.
December 15, 2025
Dnf at 60%
The beginning was awesome, funny, different and well written.
Then the repetition started. Over and over again, the same conversation, I think we like each other, oh no we don’t They shared one “angry” kiss so far.
He keeps pursuing his intended fiance, not the h and at 60 % that is still where his head is at.
It just wasn’t romantic to me. I felt they only had the one gear and they never moved it up.
Should you read it? If you like repetitive patterns.
The beginning was awesome, funny, different and well written.
Then the repetition started. Over and over again, the same conversation, I think we like each other, oh no we don’t They shared one “angry” kiss so far.
He keeps pursuing his intended fiance, not the h and at 60 % that is still where his head is at.
It just wasn’t romantic to me. I felt they only had the one gear and they never moved it up.
Should you read it? If you like repetitive patterns.
November 19, 2023
My biggest issue that stopped me from really enjoying this was Verity. Her personality was inconsistent and annoying. She often seemed younger than a 26 year old spinster and more like a 17 year old naive girl, especially when it’s mentioned that her parents were very open about the ways of the world and relationships.
I also thought the constant alluding the scandal involving Verity’s and Magnus’ family needed to be revealed earlier on. Using misunderstandings from a lack of communication as a driving force in plot is a pet peeve of mine.
I received an advanced copy through Netgalley in return for an honest review.
I also thought the constant alluding the scandal involving Verity’s and Magnus’ family needed to be revealed earlier on. Using misunderstandings from a lack of communication as a driving force in plot is a pet peeve of mine.
I received an advanced copy through Netgalley in return for an honest review.
Read
January 31, 2024DNF @ 16%.
Verity had the nerve to get mad at Magnus after he told her to tell everyone she made up the betrothal. She not only refused to do it, but told him she was "...equally upset by this turn of events," which he rightly said were "Events of your own creation." She was being so ridiculous and selfish that I had to stop reading.
Verity had the nerve to get mad at Magnus after he told her to tell everyone she made up the betrothal. She not only refused to do it, but told him she was "...equally upset by this turn of events," which he rightly said were "Events of your own creation." She was being so ridiculous and selfish that I had to stop reading.
March 30, 2024
4.2 stars
If Pride and Prejudice and a comedic play like Much Ado About Nothing had a child, then chances are it would read like It Had to Be a Duke 😁😊!
Granted the witty and wordy style of the author gets some using to (the book got into its cruise pace as from the 40% mark imho), I nevertheless found this book so refreshingly different from the usual HR fare. The writing was intelligent and funny. I particularly admired all the little moments imagined by VL which at first glance might seem silly and awkward but which in truth, were constructed so smartly that they fit perfectly in the narrative and brought real depth to the story. And despite the general humorous tone of the book, VL also successfully painted strong emotional and character buildup for both Verity and Magnus. I even shed some tears when Verity recounted the source of her insecurities.
The romance between the straight-laced and opinionated Duke Magnus and the stubborn and insecure Miss Verity was not an easy one, but VL's pen effortlessly managed to surreptitiously make me believe in their falling for each other. There was ample angst between them. Not the flaunting or visceral kind of angst, but the tender, fluttering kind of angst that deliciously and perfectly outlined the simmering tension between the two opposites of the same whole. I was smiling like a big loon each time Magnus saved Verity from one of her mishaps. I ached each time Verity ascribed a different-than-reality motive to Magnus' words and actions (inc. his 'throttle' look 🥰). I melted each time he said she was beautiful (to her perplexed disbelief) 😍. And I fanned myself each time they got lost into a kiss ❤. Clearly, it was a joy to watch them falling in love.
I would have rated it a 5 stars if only the end had not been so abrupt. Sure, it was a HEA, but I desperately needed an epilogue to bask in their happiness. Also, there were many unanswered questions left hanging, some of which possibly in preparation for other novels in the series . At the very least, more of Magnus' POV for the events in the last chapters were direly needed for more breathless swooning. *sigh*
An excellent, fresh read that I fully recommend if you are looking for a different HR experience. I am curious and hopeful to discover the next 'Liar's' book for the 3 siblings of Verity, as well as Magnus' brother. And perhaps I will check the backlist of VL as well.
P.S. I am still ROTFLOL at recalling Verity's 🧦 puppets, Lord Turgid and the weather obsessed Lady Content 🤣🤣🤣
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
September 2, 2023
Enemies to Lovers✅ Witty banter✅ Fantastic story-PRICELESS!
What a delicious romp this is! For being the sensible sister, Verity manages to get into enough scrapes to last a lifetime. Magnus is a stuffy , revengeful duke, who is trying to be the dutiful son and brother. Put the two together and you have a wonderful, messy, mischievous romp! I haven’t had this much fun reading a book in a long time!
The author does a great job of keeping the banter going, the hard things well written and the ending adorable. I especially loved little Miss Nell getting her just rewards! The off page issues and Verity’s response to them are so very real and I felt her pain. Wonderful characters, wonderfully plotted story and fantastic ending.
I received this ARC copy for free and these are my own opinions
What a delicious romp this is! For being the sensible sister, Verity manages to get into enough scrapes to last a lifetime. Magnus is a stuffy , revengeful duke, who is trying to be the dutiful son and brother. Put the two together and you have a wonderful, messy, mischievous romp! I haven’t had this much fun reading a book in a long time!
The author does a great job of keeping the banter going, the hard things well written and the ending adorable. I especially loved little Miss Nell getting her just rewards! The off page issues and Verity’s response to them are so very real and I felt her pain. Wonderful characters, wonderfully plotted story and fantastic ending.
I received this ARC copy for free and these are my own opinions
July 13, 2023
》ARC Review《
Charmed!
I am positively charmed by this delightful romance. It has so much heart, so much swooning, and so much laughter! If I wasn’t in the midst of a fainting spell over how intense the leads’ chemistry hit me, I was doubled over in whole body laughing. Gosh, I could not stop just grinning throughout this read! Charming is the word I would use to best describe this book. A book led by two charismatic characters with a love story that simply could not be stopped— no matter how hard each tried! And boy did they try!
Verity and Magnus.
Magnus and Verity.
Whew! What an iconic pair. What a gorgeous slow burn, reluctant romance!
If anyone ever needs an example for what bantering between a romantic pair should look like, Verity and Magnus have it down pat. They have it down iron clad. Their bantering was truly the best verbal sparring. They were like a pair of cowboys about to duel at high noon, except with boat loads of intense sexual and emotional chemistry. Fireworks, friends, fireworks! Enemies to lovers done properly, bantering done properly, chemistry that never once plateaus done properly!!!
I really missed reading historical romances, it’s been hmm…close to two months I think, so this book truly came at the most perfect time. I needed a good one too, a truly good one, and this hit all the marks. If I have a singular qualm is that I felt the book had a bit of a slow start, I didn’t immediately engage with it, but my goodness, once Magnus and Verity shared a scene I was all in (even as they were clamoring to get away from each other as much as they could)! Just all in.
I lamented how quickly I went through this one, but I simply couldn’t stop.
If you want a love story that brings onto the page a fiery passion along with bellies full of laughs, be sure to pick up It Had to Be a Duke. 4.5✨
Thank you NetGalley and Avon for providing me an e-arc in exchange for an honest review.
Charmed!
I am positively charmed by this delightful romance. It has so much heart, so much swooning, and so much laughter! If I wasn’t in the midst of a fainting spell over how intense the leads’ chemistry hit me, I was doubled over in whole body laughing. Gosh, I could not stop just grinning throughout this read! Charming is the word I would use to best describe this book. A book led by two charismatic characters with a love story that simply could not be stopped— no matter how hard each tried! And boy did they try!
Verity and Magnus.
Magnus and Verity.
Whew! What an iconic pair. What a gorgeous slow burn, reluctant romance!
If anyone ever needs an example for what bantering between a romantic pair should look like, Verity and Magnus have it down pat. They have it down iron clad. Their bantering was truly the best verbal sparring. They were like a pair of cowboys about to duel at high noon, except with boat loads of intense sexual and emotional chemistry. Fireworks, friends, fireworks! Enemies to lovers done properly, bantering done properly, chemistry that never once plateaus done properly!!!
I really missed reading historical romances, it’s been hmm…close to two months I think, so this book truly came at the most perfect time. I needed a good one too, a truly good one, and this hit all the marks. If I have a singular qualm is that I felt the book had a bit of a slow start, I didn’t immediately engage with it, but my goodness, once Magnus and Verity shared a scene I was all in (even as they were clamoring to get away from each other as much as they could)! Just all in.
I lamented how quickly I went through this one, but I simply couldn’t stop.
If you want a love story that brings onto the page a fiery passion along with bellies full of laughs, be sure to pick up It Had to Be a Duke. 4.5✨
Thank you NetGalley and Avon for providing me an e-arc in exchange for an honest review.
November 17, 2023
Review originally posted on Overflowing Shelf
CW: Panic attacks; bullying; confinement; child abuse; gun violence; references to drowning; child death
I don’t even know, man. This book left me so…confused? I think I liked it in the end, but I also really struggled with it? I feel like a giant shrug emoji when it comes to my feelings on it.
This review may be a bit rambly, so bear with me.
I really, really struggled with the first half of this book as things just weren’t clicking for me. I didn’t buy their intense hatred of each other in the beginning. We know Magnus hates her family because of some scheme that Verity’s father was allegedly the ringleader of that ruined Marcus’s father. But we don’t get the full details until way later, so it’s hard to understand WHY that hatred ran so deep.
The setup for them having to fake an engagement felt a bit flimsy? I wasn’t buying why they had to stay engaged for only a week. There was also clear scheming and matchmaking from his grandmother, but neither seemed to notice.
Now, the pacing was wild, leaving the book feeling disjointed and lopsided. The first half of the book took place over a week, but in reality, we only saw 3 or 4 separate days of that week play out. That made everything in their early relationship feel very sudden and rushed. And then the second half of the book took place over the course of a few months, which I felt worked better as it let their relationship develop and grow over time. There were also many weird and abrupt time jumps throughout the book where I kept finding myself going, “Oh, that was fast,” or “Oh, so like three have gone by now, okay.”
Shockingly, my feelings on the romance are complicated. I love the trope of lying that you’re engaged to a Duke you don’t know, and then falling in love. But I’m not sure this was necessarily the best-executed version of that.
Now, this is also an enemies-to-lovers book. But…the animosity didn’t make sense to me until about 60% into the book. There’s a scene that reminds me of the “I LOATHE YOU” scene in front of the fountain from Princess Diaries 2, where my feelings started to turn in a very positive direction. After that scene, I began to LOVE the romance and was really buying it.
From around 60% to 90%, I was jiving with the romance, having a grand old time reading it. I loved Verity being forced to escort Magnus with Miss Snow on outings. I loved the feelings they were having towards each other, but her hurting a bit because she thinks he’ll do his duty and forgo love to marry the heiress. BUT. Then Verity learns something related to Magnus and blows it a bit out of proportion, in my opinion, which soured me a bit on the ending. He does a grand gesture to win her back (very entertaining), but I thought she at least needed to apologize for her actions.
This book also didn’t have an epilogue, which confused me so much as it felt like it ended abruptly. I would have liked an epilogue to wrap up Magnus and Verity’s story since we didn’t really get to see them having their happily ever after, as their reunion and resolution to the drama all got wrapped up quickly in the final chapter.
Plotwise, things took some weird turns a few times.
First, I was not expecting so much trauma behind what causes Verity’s panic attacks and fear of closets and being trapped inside. While I appreciated how her panic attacks were handled, I was a little blindsided by what started them, as it felt way more serious for a book that feels pretty light-hearted overall.
Second, when Verity’s father shows up in London, things go in a wild, but very fun, direction. I was not expecting such high-stakes drama connected to the big scheme that caused the schism between Magnus and Verity’s families. Still, I really enjoyed watching that play out, even if it was very unexpected.
When it comes to the main characters, I think I liked both Magnus and Verity. Verity’s name is very tongue-in-cheek, which fits well with the tone of this book. She’s a bit impulsive, that’s for sure, as she doesn’t always think things all the way through before acting. She’s not afraid to speak her mind, which I loved. I could also empathize with her. She feels like the odd one out amongst her family and sisters, and she’s internalized that. Her biggest fear is abandonment, which I could relate to. I also thought the depiction of her panic attacks felt very real.
Magnus was very much a stern, stuffy Duke, determined to do his duty for his family to make his mother happy. (As an aside, I kept wanting to call him Marcus the entire time I was reading, so there is that). He’s very good at holding a grudge and driven by revenge, which makes sense as he wanted to hurt those who hurt his family. But I was a bit confused as to why Magnus needed to sacrifice everything so his brother could get everything promised to him? What about your feelings, Magnus, and what you deserve? That was a bit of a head-scratcher for me. He keeps his feelings buttoned up inside, but once he unleashes them, it’s game over as he’s all in.
I’m so glad that Verity and the girl Magnus wanted to marry, Miss Snow, ended up having a friendship. It would be so easy for Verity to hate her, but I adored that Verity immediately liked her. Their friendship felt incredibly genuine, and I’m happy Lorret didn’t pit them against each other.
Despite all these mixed feelings, I ended up liking the book in the end. I think. I’m still not sure. I think the writing and style of this book were entertaining, and parts of the romance worked really well for me. But it did drag in the beginning, and I had some issues with the relationship conflict towards the end. Do I recommend you read this? I think so, but I would get it out of the library over buying it.
I am excited for the premise of the next book as we see Lorret setting that up in the final pages. I’ll be checking that one out as it looks like it will have one of my favorite tropes that we don’t get enough of in historical romance, and I’m excited about it!
Thank you to Avon/Netgalley for the ARC. All thoughts, ideas, and opinions expressed in this review are my own.
CW: Panic attacks; bullying; confinement; child abuse; gun violence; references to drowning; child death
I don’t even know, man. This book left me so…confused? I think I liked it in the end, but I also really struggled with it? I feel like a giant shrug emoji when it comes to my feelings on it.
This review may be a bit rambly, so bear with me.
I really, really struggled with the first half of this book as things just weren’t clicking for me. I didn’t buy their intense hatred of each other in the beginning. We know Magnus hates her family because of some scheme that Verity’s father was allegedly the ringleader of that ruined Marcus’s father. But we don’t get the full details until way later, so it’s hard to understand WHY that hatred ran so deep.
The setup for them having to fake an engagement felt a bit flimsy? I wasn’t buying why they had to stay engaged for only a week. There was also clear scheming and matchmaking from his grandmother, but neither seemed to notice.
Now, the pacing was wild, leaving the book feeling disjointed and lopsided. The first half of the book took place over a week, but in reality, we only saw 3 or 4 separate days of that week play out. That made everything in their early relationship feel very sudden and rushed. And then the second half of the book took place over the course of a few months, which I felt worked better as it let their relationship develop and grow over time. There were also many weird and abrupt time jumps throughout the book where I kept finding myself going, “Oh, that was fast,” or “Oh, so like three have gone by now, okay.”
Shockingly, my feelings on the romance are complicated. I love the trope of lying that you’re engaged to a Duke you don’t know, and then falling in love. But I’m not sure this was necessarily the best-executed version of that.
Now, this is also an enemies-to-lovers book. But…the animosity didn’t make sense to me until about 60% into the book. There’s a scene that reminds me of the “I LOATHE YOU” scene in front of the fountain from Princess Diaries 2, where my feelings started to turn in a very positive direction. After that scene, I began to LOVE the romance and was really buying it.
From around 60% to 90%, I was jiving with the romance, having a grand old time reading it. I loved Verity being forced to escort Magnus with Miss Snow on outings. I loved the feelings they were having towards each other, but her hurting a bit because she thinks he’ll do his duty and forgo love to marry the heiress. BUT. Then Verity learns something related to Magnus and blows it a bit out of proportion, in my opinion, which soured me a bit on the ending. He does a grand gesture to win her back (very entertaining), but I thought she at least needed to apologize for her actions.
This book also didn’t have an epilogue, which confused me so much as it felt like it ended abruptly. I would have liked an epilogue to wrap up Magnus and Verity’s story since we didn’t really get to see them having their happily ever after, as their reunion and resolution to the drama all got wrapped up quickly in the final chapter.
Plotwise, things took some weird turns a few times.
First, I was not expecting so much trauma behind what causes Verity’s panic attacks and fear of closets and being trapped inside. While I appreciated how her panic attacks were handled, I was a little blindsided by what started them, as it felt way more serious for a book that feels pretty light-hearted overall.
Second, when Verity’s father shows up in London, things go in a wild, but very fun, direction. I was not expecting such high-stakes drama connected to the big scheme that caused the schism between Magnus and Verity’s families. Still, I really enjoyed watching that play out, even if it was very unexpected.
When it comes to the main characters, I think I liked both Magnus and Verity. Verity’s name is very tongue-in-cheek, which fits well with the tone of this book. She’s a bit impulsive, that’s for sure, as she doesn’t always think things all the way through before acting. She’s not afraid to speak her mind, which I loved. I could also empathize with her. She feels like the odd one out amongst her family and sisters, and she’s internalized that. Her biggest fear is abandonment, which I could relate to. I also thought the depiction of her panic attacks felt very real.
Magnus was very much a stern, stuffy Duke, determined to do his duty for his family to make his mother happy. (As an aside, I kept wanting to call him Marcus the entire time I was reading, so there is that). He’s very good at holding a grudge and driven by revenge, which makes sense as he wanted to hurt those who hurt his family. But I was a bit confused as to why Magnus needed to sacrifice everything so his brother could get everything promised to him? What about your feelings, Magnus, and what you deserve? That was a bit of a head-scratcher for me. He keeps his feelings buttoned up inside, but once he unleashes them, it’s game over as he’s all in.
I’m so glad that Verity and the girl Magnus wanted to marry, Miss Snow, ended up having a friendship. It would be so easy for Verity to hate her, but I adored that Verity immediately liked her. Their friendship felt incredibly genuine, and I’m happy Lorret didn’t pit them against each other.
Despite all these mixed feelings, I ended up liking the book in the end. I think. I’m still not sure. I think the writing and style of this book were entertaining, and parts of the romance worked really well for me. But it did drag in the beginning, and I had some issues with the relationship conflict towards the end. Do I recommend you read this? I think so, but I would get it out of the library over buying it.
I am excited for the premise of the next book as we see Lorret setting that up in the final pages. I’ll be checking that one out as it looks like it will have one of my favorite tropes that we don’t get enough of in historical romance, and I’m excited about it!
Thank you to Avon/Netgalley for the ARC. All thoughts, ideas, and opinions expressed in this review are my own.
January 8, 2024
Book #1 in The Liars Club series. Fake engagement + enemies-to-lovers tropes.
Our heroine Miss Verity Hartley tells a big fib when put on the spot by her arch nemesis.. that she’s engaged to none other than a DUKE.. to Magnus Warring, the Duke of Longhurst. Unbeknownst to Verity, Magnus hears of the lie and sets out to put a stop to it before it ruins his chances of marrying an heiress. He’s desperately in need of money to replenish the estate’s finances after his father’s big loss to a swindler. To Magmus, his family and the ton.. one of the swindlers was Verity Hartley’s father, although he was never charged with the crime. I really enjoyed this regency HEA, the first book in a series that I plan on continuing. There’s a lot going on in the storyline.. a new friendship blossoms between Verity and the heiress, Miss Anna Snow.. there’s funny moments, a steamy romance, and several mysteries to solve.. who is Anna’s secret penpal “Mr. Blossom,” and who else was involved in the scheme causing the late Duke of Longhurst’s financial loss and early death?
This kept my attention peaked with various events taking off in different directions.. reading it in a day. I definitely recommend it! ❥ 4.5 stars — Pub. 11/28/23
Our heroine Miss Verity Hartley tells a big fib when put on the spot by her arch nemesis.. that she’s engaged to none other than a DUKE.. to Magnus Warring, the Duke of Longhurst. Unbeknownst to Verity, Magnus hears of the lie and sets out to put a stop to it before it ruins his chances of marrying an heiress. He’s desperately in need of money to replenish the estate’s finances after his father’s big loss to a swindler. To Magmus, his family and the ton.. one of the swindlers was Verity Hartley’s father, although he was never charged with the crime. I really enjoyed this regency HEA, the first book in a series that I plan on continuing. There’s a lot going on in the storyline.. a new friendship blossoms between Verity and the heiress, Miss Anna Snow.. there’s funny moments, a steamy romance, and several mysteries to solve.. who is Anna’s secret penpal “Mr. Blossom,” and who else was involved in the scheme causing the late Duke of Longhurst’s financial loss and early death?
This kept my attention peaked with various events taking off in different directions.. reading it in a day. I definitely recommend it! ❥ 4.5 stars — Pub. 11/28/23
November 16, 2023
Loved this one! This was my first book by this author, and it took me a while to get into it because I struggle to get past the first chapter. The reason is that the first chapter is very much a romcom vibe with a lot of over the top, selling this antics and shenanigans going on, and that is generally not my favorite kind of book I prefer things to have more serious tone, angst depth. However, once you get past the first chapter, this the book does settle into a somewhat more serious intones story with really great characters, great character development, and some fun moments. The intimacy scenes are pretty spicy and well done. While I could use just a little bit less of the silly romcom Hijinx, I expect that they are some favorite parts for other readers. Nevertheless, all in all, this was very enjoyable, and I am now reading the backlog for this author.
December 25, 2024
Next time I'm having a panic attack, I just need a man to tell me I'm sooo brave 🫡
November 21, 2023
Verity Hartley, the eldest daughter of Baron and Baroness Hartley, is not a liar by nature, but when she literally falls at the feet of Nell Hunnicutt, her snobbish neighbor who is bragging of her recent season in London and of all the offers of marriage she has come home to consider, Verity blurts out a lie to end all lies when she tells Nell that she is betrothed to the Magnus Warring, the Duke of Longhurst. Which is completely ludicrous, considering the Duke blames her family for the death of his father and the financial ruin of their estate, thanks to a scheme he alleges Verity’s father dreamed up to scam his father. But that doesn’t stop her falsehood from taking flight and landing her in an even bigger lie when the duke demands that she pretend to be engaged to him, but jilt him so he can marry the heiress he has been wooing without seeming dishonorable. She agrees because one, she caused this problem, and two, jilting the arrogant, self-righteous, pompous duke will be her pleasure. Besides, it's not like she would ever fall in love with him or want to marry him in truth, why even the thought of it is beyond ridiculous!
Magnus, the Duke of Longhurst is a man who believes in family, duty, and honor, and for the last seven years, he has worked hard to pull his family out of the financial hole his father dug with his impulsive and reckless investments. He has been offered an investment opportunity that will not only restore his family's fortunes but will also secure a livelihood for his younger brother, something his mother constantly reminds him of, but to invest, he will need money, and so he has set his sites on heiress Anna Snow, the daughter of Phineas Snow, the Button King, an obscenely rich merchant. But when he meets with Mr. Snow to ask for permission to marry Anna, he is turned down, because it turns out he is already betrothed to Miss Verity Hartley, the daughter of the man who ruined his life! He assures Mr. Snow that this is a misunderstanding and promises that it will all be taken care of without a scandal. But to protect his honor, he has no choice but to go along with Verity’s lie, first by proposing (so he isn’t lying – unlike SOME people) and then by demanding she breaks off the engagement after spending time with him in public to convince people that they really are betrothed. Once she dumps him, he will return to London and marry Miss Snow and forget this ever happened. It is a great plan and there is no reason why it won’t work exactly as planned because there is no way he would ever fall in love with her or want to marry her in truth, why even the thought of it is too preposterous to believe!
I enjoyed this story, I thought it was well-written and nicely paced, with wonderful characters and even a bit of a mystery thrown in to provide an interesting dash of intrigue. I loved the interactions between Magnus and Verity, especially their banter! As much as I dislike the trope, I felt the love triangle was handled well and the emotional growth of both Verity and Magnus was particularly well done, I even found myself tearing up a time or two wondering how they would ever be able to have a happily ever after. The story is filled with duty, honor, family, intrigue, secrets, lies, nasty neighbors, steamyish love scenes, surprising revelations, naked clergymen, a mischievous cat, more than one twist, and the promise of HEA. I do wish there had been an epilogue because it did feel like a few things were left hanging, but nothing major. Overall, I thought this was a wonderful start to a new series that I would happily recommend, and will be looking forward to future installments.
4.5 stars, rounded up
*I am voluntarily leaving a review for an eARC that I requested and was provided to me by the publisher. All opinions in this review are my own.*
Magnus, the Duke of Longhurst is a man who believes in family, duty, and honor, and for the last seven years, he has worked hard to pull his family out of the financial hole his father dug with his impulsive and reckless investments. He has been offered an investment opportunity that will not only restore his family's fortunes but will also secure a livelihood for his younger brother, something his mother constantly reminds him of, but to invest, he will need money, and so he has set his sites on heiress Anna Snow, the daughter of Phineas Snow, the Button King, an obscenely rich merchant. But when he meets with Mr. Snow to ask for permission to marry Anna, he is turned down, because it turns out he is already betrothed to Miss Verity Hartley, the daughter of the man who ruined his life! He assures Mr. Snow that this is a misunderstanding and promises that it will all be taken care of without a scandal. But to protect his honor, he has no choice but to go along with Verity’s lie, first by proposing (so he isn’t lying – unlike SOME people) and then by demanding she breaks off the engagement after spending time with him in public to convince people that they really are betrothed. Once she dumps him, he will return to London and marry Miss Snow and forget this ever happened. It is a great plan and there is no reason why it won’t work exactly as planned because there is no way he would ever fall in love with her or want to marry her in truth, why even the thought of it is too preposterous to believe!
I enjoyed this story, I thought it was well-written and nicely paced, with wonderful characters and even a bit of a mystery thrown in to provide an interesting dash of intrigue. I loved the interactions between Magnus and Verity, especially their banter! As much as I dislike the trope, I felt the love triangle was handled well and the emotional growth of both Verity and Magnus was particularly well done, I even found myself tearing up a time or two wondering how they would ever be able to have a happily ever after. The story is filled with duty, honor, family, intrigue, secrets, lies, nasty neighbors, steamyish love scenes, surprising revelations, naked clergymen, a mischievous cat, more than one twist, and the promise of HEA. I do wish there had been an epilogue because it did feel like a few things were left hanging, but nothing major. Overall, I thought this was a wonderful start to a new series that I would happily recommend, and will be looking forward to future installments.
4.5 stars, rounded up
*I am voluntarily leaving a review for an eARC that I requested and was provided to me by the publisher. All opinions in this review are my own.*
April 27, 2025
there's just something about Vivienne Lorret books that speak to me. I find them so, so romantic. this one, in particular, was so amazing. The tension, the angst, the YEARNING, all of it I loved. I adore Vivienne Lorret with all my heart.
(Thank you NetGalley and the publisher for a copy of this book)
(Thank you NetGalley and the publisher for a copy of this book)
December 26, 2024
months later but i feel like I have to increase the rating because I keep going back to it and reading bits and pieces again and again, so i definitely ended up enjoying this more than i thought 😭
22/7
felt like verity needed saving one two many times, plus the ending felt unsatisfying too, the misunderstandings didn't even make much sense, tbh it was okay? just a bit meh overall
22/7
felt like verity needed saving one two many times, plus the ending felt unsatisfying too, the misunderstandings didn't even make much sense, tbh it was okay? just a bit meh overall
October 13, 2023
I liked watching Magnus fall in love but Verity’s melodramatic family and all of her clumsiness to get them to touch was a rough pill for me to swallow. I wish we had a clearer and stronger buildup to their backstories and the convoluted ending dragged out.
I received an arc from NetGalley
I received an arc from NetGalley
June 16, 2025
This was so much fun! Magnus reminded me of Anthony Bridgerton 😅 Trying so hard to be the perfect gentleman, meanwhile harbouring loads of pent-up emotion and desire 👌🏼 I love to see a man suffer a little 😂
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
January 13, 2024
The story was cute, really cute. It was also wordy, really wordy. Kinda like sinking your teeth into a chocolate chip cookie with a low ratio of chocolaty goodness.
Unless I missed something in the blurb, I’d call this a romcom. The label allows for humor (at times too slapstick for me). Also, the latitude for events and motivations to not always make sense. They don’t unless you squint.
Again, in the romcom vein, Verity and Magnus were very Lucy and Ricky Ricardo. I adored how Magnus fought his compulsive attraction to her. Just wish he had half, or even a quarter, the personality Lorret endowed Verity.
All in all, I can’t wait for Honoria’s book.
Unless I missed something in the blurb, I’d call this a romcom. The label allows for humor (at times too slapstick for me). Also, the latitude for events and motivations to not always make sense. They don’t unless you squint.
Again, in the romcom vein, Verity and Magnus were very Lucy and Ricky Ricardo. I adored how Magnus fought his compulsive attraction to her. Just wish he had half, or even a quarter, the personality Lorret endowed Verity.
All in all, I can’t wait for Honoria’s book.
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