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The Rockliffe Dynasty #3
The Marquess Returns: The Rockliffe Dynasty Book 3
A brooding marquess …
When Nicholas Prescott, the Marquess of Rockliffe, fled England under shocking circumstances, he never expected to return two years later as a widower. Consumed by misery, he struggles to manage his marquessate and even more so to handle his ailing, aloof daughter—until the perfect governess appears on the side of the road near his estate. True, she has no experience, but her skill at eliciting his daughter’s smile makes her well worth the exorbitant salary he offers to secure her services.
A governess by chance …
Recently left without wages or a home, Phoebe Windham finds her life spiraling in dire directions. Therefore, the surprise opportunity to take a governess position couldn’t come along at a better time. If only her scandalous past didn’t lurk in the shadows, threatening the new beginning she desperately needs. To further complicate matters, her employer is the Marquess of the man for whom she’s spent years harboring a private and futile attraction.
A passion that cannot be denied …
Phoebe’s position in the marquess’s household must stay strictly professional, of course. However, each encounter with the irascible Lord Rockliffe fans the flames of her long-suppressed desire. As for Nicholas, he never imagined that a dourly dressed, self-willed, changeable-eyed governess could be so … tempting.
Love and marriage between them are unquestionably impossible. Yet, little by little, the barriers around their hearts crumble away, allowing glimpses of a future where they find lasting happiness in each other’s arms.
As long as meddling family members and tragic secrets don’t tear them apart.
The Marquess Returns is a steamy regency romance with a guaranteed happily ever after. It is book 3 in The Rockliffe Dynasty series but can also be enjoyed as a standalone.
When Nicholas Prescott, the Marquess of Rockliffe, fled England under shocking circumstances, he never expected to return two years later as a widower. Consumed by misery, he struggles to manage his marquessate and even more so to handle his ailing, aloof daughter—until the perfect governess appears on the side of the road near his estate. True, she has no experience, but her skill at eliciting his daughter’s smile makes her well worth the exorbitant salary he offers to secure her services.
A governess by chance …
Recently left without wages or a home, Phoebe Windham finds her life spiraling in dire directions. Therefore, the surprise opportunity to take a governess position couldn’t come along at a better time. If only her scandalous past didn’t lurk in the shadows, threatening the new beginning she desperately needs. To further complicate matters, her employer is the Marquess of the man for whom she’s spent years harboring a private and futile attraction.
A passion that cannot be denied …
Phoebe’s position in the marquess’s household must stay strictly professional, of course. However, each encounter with the irascible Lord Rockliffe fans the flames of her long-suppressed desire. As for Nicholas, he never imagined that a dourly dressed, self-willed, changeable-eyed governess could be so … tempting.
Love and marriage between them are unquestionably impossible. Yet, little by little, the barriers around their hearts crumble away, allowing glimpses of a future where they find lasting happiness in each other’s arms.
As long as meddling family members and tragic secrets don’t tear them apart.
The Marquess Returns is a steamy regency romance with a guaranteed happily ever after. It is book 3 in The Rockliffe Dynasty series but can also be enjoyed as a standalone.
322 pages, Kindle Edition
Published October 3, 2024
30 people are currently reading
25 people want to read
About the author
Jane Maguire
9 books169 followersJane Maguire is a Canadian author whose lifelong passions for history, writing, and love stories inevitably led her to begin penning historical romance novels. While her love of historical fiction spans all eras, she focuses her writing on high society in the regency period. She enjoys crafting stories with lots of angst, which makes giving her characters their happily ever afters all the more satisfying.
When she isn't at her computer writing and researching, you can find her vacationing in the Rocky Mountains, playing classical music on the piano, or simply curling up with a cup of tea and a good book. She lives with her husband, two kids, and a very floofy cat.
When she isn't at her computer writing and researching, you can find her vacationing in the Rocky Mountains, playing classical music on the piano, or simply curling up with a cup of tea and a good book. She lives with her husband, two kids, and a very floofy cat.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 30 reviews
October 6, 2024
I had never read this author before March, 2024 but I saw her in an author takeover on one of my steamy FB groups as her books looked interesting. Now this is my 6th book by her. Jane herself said she wasn't super steamy but fairly steamy. As much as I like super steamy, as long as they are a good writer, then if they aren't as steamy, that is fine with me. I have really enjoyed her books and really liked book 1 and 2 from this series so was really looking forward to this book 3.
So sometimes I think I need to reiterate this. I know my reviews tend to be “one note” but I don’t read book descriptions anymore, even with a new author. That way I am totally surprised on all aspects of the story. I don't want any hints or spoilers of what may happen in the story which book descriptions will sometime give away and that is why I don’t say much either. When I used to read book descriptions sometimes it would give something away like “When her husband is unjustly executed for treason…” or “She is sent to wed her reclusive betrothed, sight unseen”. I don’t want to know that before I read it. I feel I’m not as invested knowing what is upcoming and about to happen. I like that I have no idea what the book is about before I even start reading it. I know most all the authors I read anyway and having read tons of their books, I know I will get a good read.
I really loved Nicholas and Phoebe. I loved this story and their story. I feel Jane got great depth in these characters. You could feel Phoebe's sorrow and you could feel Nicholas shame and anger. So good when you can feel what they are feeling. I also love when authors do a bonus epilogue. I like that bow tied at the end of story and those tend to give you exactly what you needed. Overall a really great read. I think this was my favorite of the 3 and they were all good.
So sometimes I think I need to reiterate this. I know my reviews tend to be “one note” but I don’t read book descriptions anymore, even with a new author. That way I am totally surprised on all aspects of the story. I don't want any hints or spoilers of what may happen in the story which book descriptions will sometime give away and that is why I don’t say much either. When I used to read book descriptions sometimes it would give something away like “When her husband is unjustly executed for treason…” or “She is sent to wed her reclusive betrothed, sight unseen”. I don’t want to know that before I read it. I feel I’m not as invested knowing what is upcoming and about to happen. I like that I have no idea what the book is about before I even start reading it. I know most all the authors I read anyway and having read tons of their books, I know I will get a good read.
I really loved Nicholas and Phoebe. I loved this story and their story. I feel Jane got great depth in these characters. You could feel Phoebe's sorrow and you could feel Nicholas shame and anger. So good when you can feel what they are feeling. I also love when authors do a bonus epilogue. I like that bow tied at the end of story and those tend to give you exactly what you needed. Overall a really great read. I think this was my favorite of the 3 and they were all good.
September 27, 2024
“If only he could see how the admission filled her heart, how every word he spoke was what she dreamed of, too.”
I’ve been waiting for Nicholas’ return since ‘A Study in Desire’ and it was well 👏🏻 worth 👏🏻 the 👏🏻 wait 👏🏻 so let’s get into it:
I’ll admit, I am not usually one for the alpha male BUT if anyone could turn me on to them, apparently, it’s one Jane Maguire. Yes, he’s broody, there’s some self loathing masked by false bravado but despite his sinfully good looks and fancy title, he lacks the holier-than-thou air and arrogance that usually turns me off this character type.
On the other hand, we have Phoebe who is as down on her luck as she can be. If I may paraphrase Charlotte Lucas here, she has no money, no prospects and she’s frightened. She decides to literally run from her problems {a reaction we can all relate to} and a chance encounter with Nicholas’ daughter, Emily, changes her fortunes, as least temporarily.
Thrown into one another’s path {and under the same roof} there is some angst and sparks early on. These spicy moments are note perfect for two characters just coming together. Next, we are hit with more than one “we really shouldn’t” scenes which are literal cat nip to me and I can’t get enough of them.
Each of our MCs has a secret from their past that they’re keeping from one another and while I won’t spoil the twists, I will reiterate something I mentioned in a past review, which is that I love and appreciate the maturity Jane brings to her characters. Her stories are proof that you can have engaging stories with passion, conflict and drama, without the infamous third art miscommunication breakup that can become tired.
Thank you to Jane for an advanced copy of ‘The Marquess Returns’ to be published 10/3. Jane & I are mutually connected on social media and I received this eARC for free in exchange for an honest review. Neither circumstance affected my review. All opinions are my own.
I’ve been waiting for Nicholas’ return since ‘A Study in Desire’ and it was well 👏🏻 worth 👏🏻 the 👏🏻 wait 👏🏻 so let’s get into it:
I’ll admit, I am not usually one for the alpha male BUT if anyone could turn me on to them, apparently, it’s one Jane Maguire. Yes, he’s broody, there’s some self loathing masked by false bravado but despite his sinfully good looks and fancy title, he lacks the holier-than-thou air and arrogance that usually turns me off this character type.
On the other hand, we have Phoebe who is as down on her luck as she can be. If I may paraphrase Charlotte Lucas here, she has no money, no prospects and she’s frightened. She decides to literally run from her problems {a reaction we can all relate to} and a chance encounter with Nicholas’ daughter, Emily, changes her fortunes, as least temporarily.
Thrown into one another’s path {and under the same roof} there is some angst and sparks early on. These spicy moments are note perfect for two characters just coming together. Next, we are hit with more than one “we really shouldn’t” scenes which are literal cat nip to me and I can’t get enough of them.
Each of our MCs has a secret from their past that they’re keeping from one another and while I won’t spoil the twists, I will reiterate something I mentioned in a past review, which is that I love and appreciate the maturity Jane brings to her characters. Her stories are proof that you can have engaging stories with passion, conflict and drama, without the infamous third art miscommunication breakup that can become tired.
Thank you to Jane for an advanced copy of ‘The Marquess Returns’ to be published 10/3. Jane & I are mutually connected on social media and I received this eARC for free in exchange for an honest review. Neither circumstance affected my review. All opinions are my own.
October 3, 2024
Thanks to BookSprout for a copy of this book and this is my freely given opinion.
This is book 3 of the Rockcliffe Dynasty and can be read as a stand alone story, but it likely is enhanced from reading the previous two books because they give some hint as to the history of the marquess, and the rather complex relationships with his family, and the other members of the family do show up here and impact his story.
Nicholas Presscott, the Marquess of Rockcliffe has been talked about, but out of the picture in this series, He is a widower and there is drama alluded to about his marriage, and he has been travelling, but in this story has returned to Britain with his young daughter. They have a fraught and broken relationship, and Nicholas, fighting his own gloom and misery, while trying to manage his responsibilities as Marquess, no longer knows how to reach his 12 year old daughter. She is not only weakened and recovering from illness, but has lost her mother, and there was family drama between her father and mother to begin with, with her caught in the middle.
Nicholas, on returning to Britain, whisked himself and his young daughter away to the country estate, not taking any time to arrange a proper governess for his daughter. When his daughter appeared to develop a sudden and unexpected attachment to a local woman, Phoebe Windham, when they came across each other, he makes the instantaneous and rather rash decision to hire her to be a governess and companion to his daughter.
Phoebe Windham is a scorned and fallen woman, in the eyes of her family. She is a widow with a scandalous past and secret, and at the end of her rope when she is offered a chance at some funds and a position by the Marquess.
The both of them have pasts that are traumatic, giving them both secrets and emotional scars. This is a second chance for the both of them, as well as a family. For Nicholas, it is also a chance to redress and reconnect with his family, and shows a continued growth of his mother to move beyond the manipulative matriarch she has been in the past with her other children. Phoebe gets a chance at having the family she has always wanted, a sharp contrast with the family she has, who has mistreated and treated her so poorly, and to also correct a terrible wrong in her past as well.
This was a very emotionally wrenching story, between the hurts of the past in both Nicholas, Phoebe, and his daughter's past. But that made their coming together as lovers, and as a family that much more satisfying. It was also a satisfying part of the story to see that the Dowager, perhaps actually learning from her own mistakes, has become less overbearing, and manipulative, and willing to help one of her children in his own chosen path, rather than enforce her will upon him. This was a historical romance with plenty of steam, but also an emotional story with a lot of depth as well.
4.25 stars out of 5
I would love to see some kind of future epilogue of the Rockcliffe clan coming together, and perhaps a bit further healing of the past within the family.... and/or perhaps a bit of an "in your face" of Phoebe's less than charitable family as well.
Oh yes, and a shout out has to be made for the cat, Marigold. Loved Marigold!
This is book 3 of the Rockcliffe Dynasty and can be read as a stand alone story, but it likely is enhanced from reading the previous two books because they give some hint as to the history of the marquess, and the rather complex relationships with his family, and the other members of the family do show up here and impact his story.
Nicholas Presscott, the Marquess of Rockcliffe has been talked about, but out of the picture in this series, He is a widower and there is drama alluded to about his marriage, and he has been travelling, but in this story has returned to Britain with his young daughter. They have a fraught and broken relationship, and Nicholas, fighting his own gloom and misery, while trying to manage his responsibilities as Marquess, no longer knows how to reach his 12 year old daughter. She is not only weakened and recovering from illness, but has lost her mother, and there was family drama between her father and mother to begin with, with her caught in the middle.
Nicholas, on returning to Britain, whisked himself and his young daughter away to the country estate, not taking any time to arrange a proper governess for his daughter. When his daughter appeared to develop a sudden and unexpected attachment to a local woman, Phoebe Windham, when they came across each other, he makes the instantaneous and rather rash decision to hire her to be a governess and companion to his daughter.
Phoebe Windham is a scorned and fallen woman, in the eyes of her family. She is a widow with a scandalous past and secret, and at the end of her rope when she is offered a chance at some funds and a position by the Marquess.
The both of them have pasts that are traumatic, giving them both secrets and emotional scars. This is a second chance for the both of them, as well as a family. For Nicholas, it is also a chance to redress and reconnect with his family, and shows a continued growth of his mother to move beyond the manipulative matriarch she has been in the past with her other children. Phoebe gets a chance at having the family she has always wanted, a sharp contrast with the family she has, who has mistreated and treated her so poorly, and to also correct a terrible wrong in her past as well.
This was a very emotionally wrenching story, between the hurts of the past in both Nicholas, Phoebe, and his daughter's past. But that made their coming together as lovers, and as a family that much more satisfying. It was also a satisfying part of the story to see that the Dowager, perhaps actually learning from her own mistakes, has become less overbearing, and manipulative, and willing to help one of her children in his own chosen path, rather than enforce her will upon him. This was a historical romance with plenty of steam, but also an emotional story with a lot of depth as well.
4.25 stars out of 5
I would love to see some kind of future epilogue of the Rockcliffe clan coming together, and perhaps a bit further healing of the past within the family.... and/or perhaps a bit of an "in your face" of Phoebe's less than charitable family as well.
Oh yes, and a shout out has to be made for the cat, Marigold. Loved Marigold!
October 5, 2024
Such a good story! Eight years ago, Phoebe’s cousin dared her to swim in the neighboring Marquess’s lake. However when they arrived, Phoebe saw that the Marquess, who was supposed to be out of residence, was indeed in residence and emerging naked from swimming in the lake. Fast forward and Phoebe is back living with her aunt and uncle after the woman to whom she had been a companion died. Unfortunately, not only did the bequest she was promised not arrive, but Sir Ambrose Windham, her deceased father’s drunken cousin, proposed marriage again….and Aunt Harriett was insisting that Phoebe accept. Running from an intolerable situation, Phoebe stumbled across, and befriended, a young lady resting against a tree. Meanwhile, the Marquess of Rockliffe’s daughter was missing, and when Nicholas finally found her, she was sitting with her back against a tree, had a cat on her lap and was talking to Phoebe. To say things were strained between father and daughter was an understatement. Recognizing the rapport between Phoebe and his distressed and ailing daughter, Rockliffe offered Phoebe a governess job. Phoebe was a twenty-six year old fallen woman whose family constantly reminded her of her sins and she felt that she was not qualified for the position. Rockliffe insisted. Things were starting to gel until the Dowager Marchiness arrived with Lady Burville, her choice for her son’s second wife, in tow. Needless to say, neither Rockliffe, Phoebe nor Emily were thrilled. When the attraction between Phoebe and Rockliffe became obvious things got dicey. Add to that the arrival of Ambrose declaring that Phoebe was his betrothed, ignoring the many times that she refused him. When Ambrose lets part of a secret slip, a very distraught Phoebe returns to Rockliffe and bares her soul. But, there is still more drama and trauma before they reach their happy ending. I found myself thinking ‘with family like that, who needs enemies’ quite often as I read this tale. There is so much heartache and sadness woven into Phoebe, Emily and Rockcliffe’s lives, that letting go and moving forward appears to be a Herculean feat. You will find lies, deceit, manipulation, strong emotions, a few surprises and retaliation before miracles occur and happiness reigns. This story will grab you by the throat, squeeze your heart, steal your breath and leave you smiling from ear to ear. Loved it!.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
October 2, 2024
A Beautiful Love Story
I really enjoyed this touching boss-employee, class disparity romance about two people who still suffer the consequences of their past actions but give each other acceptance, support and love they need. The plot is emotional and very well written, with likeable main characters, some twists, surprises and passionate love scenes. The dynamic between the Prescott family members was also palpable.
The book can be read on its own, although there are some references to the earlier books and their protagonists appear in this story.
After years of absence, the widowed and reclusive Nicholas Prescott, Marquess of Rockliffe, returns to his country estate with his ailing daughter Emily. Ever since Emily had to elope with her mother and her mother’s lover, witnessing their deaths and falling seriously ill herself, the relationship between Nicholas and the now reserved Emily has been very strained. When she runs away as soon as they arrive at Beaumont and Nicholas finds Emily shortly afterwards with a unknown woman who has obviously managed to get through to her, Nicholas offers the woman a position as Emily's governess.
After her scandal in the past, Phoebe Windham worked for years as a companion to her relative, but when she dies and Phoebe refuses to marry her hated cousin, she suddenly finds herself homeless and penniless. The offer from the Marquess, whom she admired from afar years ago, is all the more welcome and she gladly accepts it.
Nicholas and Phoebe soon feel strongly attracted to each other and begin a illicit liaison, but their insecurities, secrets of the past, class differences and Nicholas' mother, who wants to set him up with another woman, stand in the way of their happiness...
I received a free ARC of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own and left voluntarily.
I really enjoyed this touching boss-employee, class disparity romance about two people who still suffer the consequences of their past actions but give each other acceptance, support and love they need. The plot is emotional and very well written, with likeable main characters, some twists, surprises and passionate love scenes. The dynamic between the Prescott family members was also palpable.
The book can be read on its own, although there are some references to the earlier books and their protagonists appear in this story.
After years of absence, the widowed and reclusive Nicholas Prescott, Marquess of Rockliffe, returns to his country estate with his ailing daughter Emily. Ever since Emily had to elope with her mother and her mother’s lover, witnessing their deaths and falling seriously ill herself, the relationship between Nicholas and the now reserved Emily has been very strained. When she runs away as soon as they arrive at Beaumont and Nicholas finds Emily shortly afterwards with a unknown woman who has obviously managed to get through to her, Nicholas offers the woman a position as Emily's governess.
After her scandal in the past, Phoebe Windham worked for years as a companion to her relative, but when she dies and Phoebe refuses to marry her hated cousin, she suddenly finds herself homeless and penniless. The offer from the Marquess, whom she admired from afar years ago, is all the more welcome and she gladly accepts it.
Nicholas and Phoebe soon feel strongly attracted to each other and begin a illicit liaison, but their insecurities, secrets of the past, class differences and Nicholas' mother, who wants to set him up with another woman, stand in the way of their happiness...
I received a free ARC of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own and left voluntarily.
September 16, 2024
The Marquess Returns is a Regency romance by Jane Maguire. It is the third book of The Rockliffe Dynasty, although it is also a standalone book.
I really loved this story, if for nothing else, to me this was like putting Pride & Prejudice and Jane Eyre together, and then adding in a few spicy scenes that is most definitely not in those two classic books.
Nicholas Prescott is the marquess mentioned in the title. He is now a widower with a twelve year old daughter, but before that his life was ready to erupt into a scandal. Back in England, Nicholas just wants peace and he wants his daughter to heal. The girl has never been the same since the death of her mother overseas.
Phoebe Windham is no stranger to scandal, although her family had managed to mitigate most of the scandal in the eyes of society, their actions and attitude towards her has left Phoebe hurt and confused. Her family will do anything to get her out of the way. With nowhere to go, Phoebe has luck on her side when she encounters Preston, and he decides that she will be the perfect governess for his daughter.
Phoebe and Preston are complex and flawed characters, but both of them are inherently good people that had terrible things happen to them. In fact, they are beautiful and likable characters who I only want to hug and hope that they are given the best story. While there is great chemistry between them, romance isn't the only thing between them. There is also friendship and it is through this friendship that we get to know more about the couple.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I really loved this story, if for nothing else, to me this was like putting Pride & Prejudice and Jane Eyre together, and then adding in a few spicy scenes that is most definitely not in those two classic books.
Nicholas Prescott is the marquess mentioned in the title. He is now a widower with a twelve year old daughter, but before that his life was ready to erupt into a scandal. Back in England, Nicholas just wants peace and he wants his daughter to heal. The girl has never been the same since the death of her mother overseas.
Phoebe Windham is no stranger to scandal, although her family had managed to mitigate most of the scandal in the eyes of society, their actions and attitude towards her has left Phoebe hurt and confused. Her family will do anything to get her out of the way. With nowhere to go, Phoebe has luck on her side when she encounters Preston, and he decides that she will be the perfect governess for his daughter.
Phoebe and Preston are complex and flawed characters, but both of them are inherently good people that had terrible things happen to them. In fact, they are beautiful and likable characters who I only want to hug and hope that they are given the best story. While there is great chemistry between them, romance isn't the only thing between them. There is also friendship and it is through this friendship that we get to know more about the couple.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
October 2, 2024
How to make a magnificent mosaic out of a broken past’s shards...
~ Phoebe & Nicholas ~
Two MCs both dragging their own millstone of shame, guilt and hurt. She’s a baronet’s daughter fallen from grace, cast out by her relatives and hounded by her father’s vile drunk of an heir. He’s a widower, an illusive and brooding marquess with a title tainted by scandal and a daughter he loves above all else, but somehow cant’ reach.
She’s unaware of his past, only remembers the godlike creature she fell for many years ago when she saw him swimming in his own lake. She’s lived through her own mistakes, lost more than she cares to remember but remains compassionate and caring, determined to reunite father and daughter - even if it means sacrificing her own happiness.
He’s a tougher nut to crack. Convinced he’s unfit to be a husband or even a father, his natural instinct is to run and hide, but that’s impossible when his new governess is so very tempting, her ginger cat is trying to take command of his home, and his controlling mother is determined to see him married again.
It’s a story with lots of contrast and a couple that clearly chooses each other from the start. They fight their attraction at first - hurdles aplenty - but all resistance is futile. I particularly enjoyed the slow unveiling of both MCs full and uncensored pasts, the brutal honesty of it all, the understanding and the loyalty. Beautifully completed with chemistry for miles, heartbreaking tenderness, delectable steam, lakeside picnics, rainstorm rendezvous, a duel, a pesky hidden rock, lots of healing, burned bridges to mend and a new-found family with a few surprise additions - this was a fascinating read! A moving tale full of heart I really enjoyed and happily recommend to those looking for something different!
~ Phoebe & Nicholas ~
Two MCs both dragging their own millstone of shame, guilt and hurt. She’s a baronet’s daughter fallen from grace, cast out by her relatives and hounded by her father’s vile drunk of an heir. He’s a widower, an illusive and brooding marquess with a title tainted by scandal and a daughter he loves above all else, but somehow cant’ reach.
She’s unaware of his past, only remembers the godlike creature she fell for many years ago when she saw him swimming in his own lake. She’s lived through her own mistakes, lost more than she cares to remember but remains compassionate and caring, determined to reunite father and daughter - even if it means sacrificing her own happiness.
He’s a tougher nut to crack. Convinced he’s unfit to be a husband or even a father, his natural instinct is to run and hide, but that’s impossible when his new governess is so very tempting, her ginger cat is trying to take command of his home, and his controlling mother is determined to see him married again.
It’s a story with lots of contrast and a couple that clearly chooses each other from the start. They fight their attraction at first - hurdles aplenty - but all resistance is futile. I particularly enjoyed the slow unveiling of both MCs full and uncensored pasts, the brutal honesty of it all, the understanding and the loyalty. Beautifully completed with chemistry for miles, heartbreaking tenderness, delectable steam, lakeside picnics, rainstorm rendezvous, a duel, a pesky hidden rock, lots of healing, burned bridges to mend and a new-found family with a few surprise additions - this was a fascinating read! A moving tale full of heart I really enjoyed and happily recommend to those looking for something different!
September 26, 2024
Class difference, governess/employer, and a meddling grandmother, oh my!
I loved the first two books in this series and have been eagerly awaiting this one. The twists and tropes this story followed surprised me, just as the first two did, and it lived up to the hype.
The Dowager Marchioness of Rockcliffe, Nicholas’s mother, returns as the manipulating villain she played in the other sibling’s books. We see rare hints of her backing down, though, showing a minor growth arc that says every once in a while, you can teach an old dog new tricks.
Nicholas’s wife has died after running away from him, and his daughter is traumatized. While neither can find the right words to mend their relationship, Phoebe is able to soothe both of them, and Nicholas promptly hires her as a governess.
Then, as he fights his attraction to her, his mother’s meddlesome ways and Ton scandal continually throw up barriers they must conquer along their path to love.
Another complex, non-traditional family love story that’s extremely well done by this author.
Perhaps she’ll gift us with a “legacy” series, as I’m dying to see how Benjamin does as the heir.
I loved the first two books in this series and have been eagerly awaiting this one. The twists and tropes this story followed surprised me, just as the first two did, and it lived up to the hype.
The Dowager Marchioness of Rockcliffe, Nicholas’s mother, returns as the manipulating villain she played in the other sibling’s books. We see rare hints of her backing down, though, showing a minor growth arc that says every once in a while, you can teach an old dog new tricks.
Nicholas’s wife has died after running away from him, and his daughter is traumatized. While neither can find the right words to mend their relationship, Phoebe is able to soothe both of them, and Nicholas promptly hires her as a governess.
Then, as he fights his attraction to her, his mother’s meddlesome ways and Ton scandal continually throw up barriers they must conquer along their path to love.
Another complex, non-traditional family love story that’s extremely well done by this author.
Perhaps she’ll gift us with a “legacy” series, as I’m dying to see how Benjamin does as the heir.
October 1, 2024
Extremely well written, full of drama, love, sadness, romance, family issues, villains, action, intrigue, twists and turns. Phoebe is a young woman who lives with her Uncle and Aunt at the vicarage. When she lost her parents years ago but after a difficult time , she was sent to her Aunt's home away from their family but has to return after her other Aunt's death. It's there she meets Emily, the daughter of Nicholas. She offers her help and then gets a job of companion to her. A slightly better choice then marring another man. Along with her comes Marigold, who Emily likes but Nicholas doesn't. As time goes on Nicholas and Emily start to have feelings for each other. Has some very steamy scenes for them. Add in a duel, an interfering mother, secrets and a rotten villain and you have a great read, has everything you need to enjoy. Would recommend to everyone.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
October 6, 2024
The Dowager Duchess of Rockwell strikes again! And yet I can’t hate her, even if she’s a terrible, interfering harpy. I almost felt sorry for her (haha, joking!), because her scheme didn’t work this time.
Jokes aside, this book is wonderful, gorgeously written and angsty, but not excessively so. And it works as a standalone, even if you’ll be tempted to read the entire series to see what the Dowager was up to in the previous books. I loved both characters, but I ADORED Nicholas, because he’s my favorite type of character, a brooding, bruised man who longs to find some joy in life. Poor man, he was so miserable before meeting Phoebe! Phoebe is wonderful, strong and confident, even if she’s suffered too. I loved that she didn’t allowed herself to be trampled over by anyone even if her “family” repeatedly tried to. Their chemistry is palpable and their love scenes very hot. Maguire has certainly grown as a writer and her books have become an auto-buy for me!
Jokes aside, this book is wonderful, gorgeously written and angsty, but not excessively so. And it works as a standalone, even if you’ll be tempted to read the entire series to see what the Dowager was up to in the previous books. I loved both characters, but I ADORED Nicholas, because he’s my favorite type of character, a brooding, bruised man who longs to find some joy in life. Poor man, he was so miserable before meeting Phoebe! Phoebe is wonderful, strong and confident, even if she’s suffered too. I loved that she didn’t allowed herself to be trampled over by anyone even if her “family” repeatedly tried to. Their chemistry is palpable and their love scenes very hot. Maguire has certainly grown as a writer and her books have become an auto-buy for me!
October 27, 2024
This is the third book in Jane Maguire's Rockliffe Dynasty series, and this one might be my favourite of the three. Nicholas is a widower who has just returned to England with his daughter Emily, with who he has a strained relationship. Emily encounters Phoebe, who is fleeing from her family and their attempts to force her into a marriage with the heir of her father's baronetcy. When Nicholas sees that Emily likes Phoebe, he employs her as Emily's governess. Almost immediately, sparks fly between them. Phoebe had first seen Nicholas eight years before when she was 18 and was immediately attracted to him. Her life had taken some dramatic turns since then and she feared that her past would eventually catch up with her. Most of the book is taken up with the repercussions of these revelations, but ends with a HEA. I cannot tell you how much I love this book - go read it!.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
October 2, 2024
Phoebe had seen the Marquess from afar, but she knew that he was hopelessly out of her reach. Years later, he unexpectedly crossed her path once again. At this point, he was a widower with a young daughter named Emily. Phoebe and Emily seemed to share a connection, so he immediately offered her a position as governess because Emily had been having adjustment issues.
Nicholas and Phoebe's relationship started out with major insta-lust but they soon started feeling deeper emotions. Both characters had to fight some serious obstacles--both past and present--before they could achieve the happy ending that they deserved. A cat named Marigold was frequently on hand to provide some comic relief. This was an all-around entertaining story.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Nicholas and Phoebe's relationship started out with major insta-lust but they soon started feeling deeper emotions. Both characters had to fight some serious obstacles--both past and present--before they could achieve the happy ending that they deserved. A cat named Marigold was frequently on hand to provide some comic relief. This was an all-around entertaining story.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
October 5, 2024
The third book in the Rockliffe Dynasty features Nicholas Preston, the widowed Marquess of Rockliffe, and Phoebe Windham, the orphaned daughter of a baronet. Both have suffered the consequences of scandal. When Phoebe, who is cast out by her family, meets Emily, Nicholas’s daughter, she is able to do what he has not been able to do since his wife died, communicate with Emily. When she joins their household as Emily’s governess, things begin to change for all of them. This is an intensely emotional well-written story with relatable characters. Both Nicholas and Phoebe carry the guilt and pain of their pasts. Both have relatives who meddle and make matters more difficult to deal with. This is a story filled with drama, grief, compassion, twists, turns, surprises, a villain who gets his comeuppance, and romance. There are secrets, discovery, love, and a splashy happy ending.
December 17, 2024
This one starts as your typical governess romance with the Marquess of Rockliffe hiring Phoebe to care for his sullen daughter Emily. She’s formed a connection with the girl and tries to bring father and daughter closer together, but there’s some underlying scandal that she’s not privy to. Nicholas feels more like himself and less like a lord when he’s with Phoebe, so naturally, they start a dalliance. But then Nicolas’s interfering mother shows up, Phoebe’s drunkard cousin believes himself to be her betrothed, and then we get so many more twists and turns. I loved that these two were able to open and honest with each other about their pasts and find a way to work through them through direct communication.
October 2, 2024
The Marquess Returns is an absolute treasure – swinging between a delightfully romantic regency romance novel, and a more serious touchstone of a found family drama. I loved Maguire’s writing.
I think this would be classed as a second chance romance, with Nicholas Prescott on the search for someone to help him care for his wayward daughter. Enter the potential governess Phoebe Windham whose had a tendre for Nicholas going back years. As his new governess settles into his home, the attraction between the two of them grows, as well as other complications [a difficult cat, suitors and a dowager all on the war path].
A lovely romance novel that I would definitely recommend.
I think this would be classed as a second chance romance, with Nicholas Prescott on the search for someone to help him care for his wayward daughter. Enter the potential governess Phoebe Windham whose had a tendre for Nicholas going back years. As his new governess settles into his home, the attraction between the two of them grows, as well as other complications [a difficult cat, suitors and a dowager all on the war path].
A lovely romance novel that I would definitely recommend.
October 3, 2024
I would have run too if I was Phoebe with her awful relatives trying to force her to marry her drunken cousin whose wife passed away, which I wonder if he had anything to do with that. She encounters Nicholas’ sad daughter Emily and is the only one who can make her smile so he offers he the temporary post of governess. But I would surprised despite the naughty picture book Phoebe takes from his library that he would seduce her knowing it could affect her being able to stay and help Emily. They both have secrets and he assumes he can’t offer his name, but her horrible cousin could ruin everything. I laughed about Phoebe’s cat, all the trouble it got into, and how fixated it was on Nicholas.
November 19, 2024
Second chance at love, parenthood, security
After two years abroad, Nicholas, Marquess of Rockliffe returns to England, a widower and father of a recalcitrant daughter. Phoebe, homeless and without the means to earn a living, gets the opportunity to take a governess position for Nicholas’ daughter, the man for whom she nursed a crush for years. With no experience at all, she manages through patience and dedication to thaw the little girl.
Time for a new beginning, were it not for a blackmailer, who threatens her new life.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
After two years abroad, Nicholas, Marquess of Rockliffe returns to England, a widower and father of a recalcitrant daughter. Phoebe, homeless and without the means to earn a living, gets the opportunity to take a governess position for Nicholas’ daughter, the man for whom she nursed a crush for years. With no experience at all, she manages through patience and dedication to thaw the little girl.
Time for a new beginning, were it not for a blackmailer, who threatens her new life.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
September 7, 2024
A Satisfying Story!
This was such a satisfying story to read, one in which Phoebe and Nicholas were able to eventually find their long awaited happy ever after in both life and love.
He has a young and estranged daughter so when he literally bumps into Phoebe, she seems to be the perfect lady to be his daughter's governess.
It was a beautifully written and very easy to read romantic story which I enjoyed so very much and so I am happy to post my voluntary review having just finished reading an early edition of this book.
This was such a satisfying story to read, one in which Phoebe and Nicholas were able to eventually find their long awaited happy ever after in both life and love.
He has a young and estranged daughter so when he literally bumps into Phoebe, she seems to be the perfect lady to be his daughter's governess.
It was a beautifully written and very easy to read romantic story which I enjoyed so very much and so I am happy to post my voluntary review having just finished reading an early edition of this book.
September 17, 2024
Nicholas and Phoebe are just amazing together. They have been hurt by their pasts and now meet over a common goal of healing Nicholas's grieving daughter Emily.
But their path to love os fraught with some unpleasant characters. Their support, love, and passion shine through the words. Thank God they were adults and behaved as such to fulfill their mutual goals and fight for happiness.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
But their path to love os fraught with some unpleasant characters. Their support, love, and passion shine through the words. Thank God they were adults and behaved as such to fulfill their mutual goals and fight for happiness.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
October 4, 2024
This was a story of two people who had struggles from the past that made them feel unworthy of love. They ended up being exactly what the other needed. Of course, they had people that tried to keep them apart, but they still got their HEA. I liked the way they both accepted the other for who they were without any judgment. The characters were entertaining and well written.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
October 2, 2024
Oh my! Phoebe is a deep character who wants a full life. Her family doesn't support her or understand her. Nicholas has many responsibilities as a Marquess and holds his secrets to himself. Loved how the book looks at how others influence what we believe about ourselves and how we need to let that go to live to our true self. Excellent story!
October 4, 2024
This is the love story of Nicholas and Phoebe. Nicholas is a widower with a young daughter that has issues. Phoebe and Emily have a special connection that brings Phoebe and Nicholas together. This is a different story line but it is an excellent story. You will not be disappointed.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
October 5, 2024
This is a very emotional and interesting love story. It has so many dramatic issues and plot twists and turns that the characters have endured and went through that kept me highly engaged and entertained. I enjoyed that a surprising romance begins despite many obstacles, and the passionate love is beautiful. I was very happy with how everything turned out so happily. I highly recommend reading!
October 9, 2024
A great read
This was for me the best in the series so far. I really enjoyed it, Nicholas and Phoebe, both hurting but finding a connection and emotions long hidden coming through. Emily and Marigold the cat were great secondary characters. Without spoiling, I would have liked more about Phoebe's search from her past. It all happened in a rush. Other than that a lovely story.
This was for me the best in the series so far. I really enjoyed it, Nicholas and Phoebe, both hurting but finding a connection and emotions long hidden coming through. Emily and Marigold the cat were great secondary characters. Without spoiling, I would have liked more about Phoebe's search from her past. It all happened in a rush. Other than that a lovely story.
October 20, 2024
What a disappointment this book was. It was poorly written and a dud. Steaminess that felt forced and had no foundation in real intimacy between two people, as if the author thought she needed to meet a quota of sex scenes to make her story good. Parts that I think were supposed to lend humor to the story but did not. The only good thing about this book was the cat, Marigold.
September 15, 2024
The things this poor couple has to go through, it’s a lot. It took me a little bit to get into the story. That was okay as this book is just a little bit different from most historical romances. Well written, great characters and steam. I enjoyed this story.
October 5, 2024
His new governess…
When Phoebe is left penniless and virtually homeless, she gets a lifeline in the form of an impromptu offer to be the governess to Nicholas’ daughter. He’s an attractive marquess.
Steamy with a class divide.
When Phoebe is left penniless and virtually homeless, she gets a lifeline in the form of an impromptu offer to be the governess to Nicholas’ daughter. He’s an attractive marquess.
Steamy with a class divide.
October 5, 2024
Enjoyed reading Nicholas and Phoebe's story of a lord in need of a governess and miss running from scandal. Finding a solution of sorts that may very well dolve both their problems of a wayward daughter and a lost child. This is a story of family, loss, love, duels and scandal.
November 23, 2025
Apparently I need to go back and read 1&2 because this was DELICIOUS
I'm not big on age gap romance but I felt this one was done well and the characters were well developed. I enjoyed the twists that occurred!
I'm not big on age gap romance but I felt this one was done well and the characters were well developed. I enjoyed the twists that occurred!
January 1, 2025
Bloody Hell! Goddamn! Or should I say Merde!!
I just cannot continue reading this book. I'm throwing in the towel and making this a DNF at 58%, which is pretty unusual for me. Usually, I feel compelled to finish a book that I've started, and I have very few DNF's. So why stop now when I am more than halfway through? Because I woke up this morning feeling like life is too short to keep trying to plough (no pun intended) through a book that I'm not enjoying!
Here's the quick and dirty of why I didn't want to continue reading this story:
1) The hero is too one-note, or one-dimensional, in my opinion. He's always angry and upset, gnashing his teeth, stomping around (in his shiny black Hoby boots, no doubt) and cursing with "goddamned this" and "goddamned that." For me, it got to be too much and offensive, especially as the cursing was not part of dirty talk or when he and the heroine were tupping. Surely, there must be other ways to show the hero as a cantankerous sort besides having him curse all the time. He wasn't a very likable, engaging and/or endearing main character to me. And it wasn't because he was flawed or tortured because I love me some scarred heroes in historical romances. I just didn't like Nicholas. (And I don't remember cursing being too prevalent or an issue in the previous book in the series with Amelia and Jonathan, which I enjoyed.)
2) Here is a little fun fact, for those interested in the etymology of goddamned. As an adjective, the first known use of goddamned was in 1816 (per Merriam-Webster Dictionary) - which is AFTER when this novel takes place. The story starts in 1798 and then picks up eight years later in 1806. So the author's use of goddamned by Nicholas seems to be a bit anachronistic.
3) I didn't like the heroine much either, and I didn't feel the chemistry or longing between Phoebe and Nicholas. Hard to believe the premise that she would see him once 8 years prior to the start of their story during which time/viewing, she fantasized about him, didn't see him for an extended period and then voilà! she longs desperately for him again as soon as she claps eyes on him. I just could not get into how the plot was unfolding, and it seemed to be asking me to suspend disbelief.
4) As such, I wasn't invested in their love story, and it left me feeling unsettled and disinterested.
Like I said, too many good books to read, not enough time to devote energy to one that has left me feeling like it's a total miss, unfortunately.
I just cannot continue reading this book. I'm throwing in the towel and making this a DNF at 58%, which is pretty unusual for me. Usually, I feel compelled to finish a book that I've started, and I have very few DNF's. So why stop now when I am more than halfway through? Because I woke up this morning feeling like life is too short to keep trying to plough (no pun intended) through a book that I'm not enjoying!
Here's the quick and dirty of why I didn't want to continue reading this story:
1) The hero is too one-note, or one-dimensional, in my opinion. He's always angry and upset, gnashing his teeth, stomping around (in his shiny black Hoby boots, no doubt) and cursing with "goddamned this" and "goddamned that." For me, it got to be too much and offensive, especially as the cursing was not part of dirty talk or when he and the heroine were tupping. Surely, there must be other ways to show the hero as a cantankerous sort besides having him curse all the time. He wasn't a very likable, engaging and/or endearing main character to me. And it wasn't because he was flawed or tortured because I love me some scarred heroes in historical romances. I just didn't like Nicholas. (And I don't remember cursing being too prevalent or an issue in the previous book in the series with Amelia and Jonathan, which I enjoyed.)
2) Here is a little fun fact, for those interested in the etymology of goddamned. As an adjective, the first known use of goddamned was in 1816 (per Merriam-Webster Dictionary) - which is AFTER when this novel takes place. The story starts in 1798 and then picks up eight years later in 1806. So the author's use of goddamned by Nicholas seems to be a bit anachronistic.
3) I didn't like the heroine much either, and I didn't feel the chemistry or longing between Phoebe and Nicholas. Hard to believe the premise that she would see him once 8 years prior to the start of their story during which time/viewing, she fantasized about him, didn't see him for an extended period and then voilà! she longs desperately for him again as soon as she claps eyes on him. I just could not get into how the plot was unfolding, and it seemed to be asking me to suspend disbelief.
4) As such, I wasn't invested in their love story, and it left me feeling unsettled and disinterested.
Like I said, too many good books to read, not enough time to devote energy to one that has left me feeling like it's a total miss, unfortunately.
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