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Spy Society #1
Courting the Duchess
He vanished without a word. Only now that he has returned, her heart isn’t ready to forgive—or forget.
Eight years ago, Sterling St. John, Duke of Morton, vanished mere hours after marrying his innocent young bride. Alaina was left humiliated, heartbroken…and untouched. London buzzed with gossip, but she endured it all and emerged transformed.
Now a sharp-tongued beauty and the fearless founder of a scandalously progressive ladies’ reading Society, Alaina has no intention of welcoming her wayward husband home. She’s determined to show him he’s neither needed nor wanted.
But Sterling isn’t the same man either. Hardened by years of secrets and haunted by decisions he cannot reveal, he knows protecting the wife he never wished to leave means keeping her in the dark.
Yet the fiery woman she’s become tries his sanity and ignites his passion; he never expected the woman she became to tempt him past all reason.
It isn’t long before both realize that there’s still something there, that they were meant to be together. But when the truth comes to light, will love be enough to bridge the years—and the secrets—that lie between them?
This series is part of Dragonblade's Flame line, so this is a scorching-hot read with open-door steam.
Read in Kindle Unlimited!
Spy Society
Book 1 - Courting the Duchess
Book 2 - Seducing the Spy
Book 3 - Marrying the Marquess
Eight years ago, Sterling St. John, Duke of Morton, vanished mere hours after marrying his innocent young bride. Alaina was left humiliated, heartbroken…and untouched. London buzzed with gossip, but she endured it all and emerged transformed.
Now a sharp-tongued beauty and the fearless founder of a scandalously progressive ladies’ reading Society, Alaina has no intention of welcoming her wayward husband home. She’s determined to show him he’s neither needed nor wanted.
But Sterling isn’t the same man either. Hardened by years of secrets and haunted by decisions he cannot reveal, he knows protecting the wife he never wished to leave means keeping her in the dark.
Yet the fiery woman she’s become tries his sanity and ignites his passion; he never expected the woman she became to tempt him past all reason.
It isn’t long before both realize that there’s still something there, that they were meant to be together. But when the truth comes to light, will love be enough to bridge the years—and the secrets—that lie between them?
This series is part of Dragonblade's Flame line, so this is a scorching-hot read with open-door steam.
Read in Kindle Unlimited!
Spy Society
Book 1 - Courting the Duchess
Book 2 - Seducing the Spy
Book 3 - Marrying the Marquess
272 pages, Kindle Edition
Published May 18, 2025
50 people are currently reading
64 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 36 reviews
June 2, 2025
3.5 Stars
One Liner: A fluffy romance read
Eight years ago, Sterling St. John, Duke of Morton, vanished a few hours after his wedding. Since then, Alaina faced the London gossip and society with her head high. She founded the progressive ladies’ reading Society and lived an independent life. When Sterling returned home, Alaina had no intention of accepting him back into her life.
But Sterling has secrets of his own and is on a mission he cannot reveal. Protecting his wife means he has to keep her in the dark. However, even as they realize that they may still have something together, the secrets have to be exposed and the truth revealed.
Will this bring them together or tear them apart?
The story comes in Alaina and Sterling’s third-person POVs.
My Thoughts:
Well, this was an interesting premise and had a solid start. Though the narration was a bit slow, the book began with a bang after the prologue.
The initial bickering and conflict were interesting and gave us both sides of the story. The MMC made many mistakes, though he seemed to acknowledge them all and was determined to try and save his marriage.
I could see the FMC’s side, of course. She had it worse in many ways, and it did make sense for her to hold on to her grudge. It was her armor and served her well so far, so why let it down without a fight?
I appreciate that the spicy scenes started after 60%. That gave them enough time to get used to each other’s presence again.
However, once the main reconciliation was done, we don’t ‘see’ them growing together. The story simply summarizes this. It rather dilutes the chemistry since the whole thing still feels more like lust than love or companionship. At least a couple of scenes with dinner or ball dances would have helped. Also, it needed less of an inner monologue and more of ‘showing’.
Then came the unwanted third-act breakup. Honestly, we didn’t need that here. Instead, the whole thing should have been handled with a bit more maturity on both sides. For someone described as mature, the FMC doesn’t display it much when she could have. Yeah, she has a huge reason not to trust the MMC, but this section could have been better.
There’s an epilogue, which gives us the required HEA. NGL, a couple of side characters were quite interesting. Maybe they are from another series? If so, I might check out their stories.
To summarize, Courting the Duchess is the first book in the series and works as a standalone. It had its moments despite the flaws. I did partly binge on it, so there is enough entertainment if you can bear with some dramatics.
I’m curious enough to want to read the next book.
Thank you, NetGalley and Dragonblade Publishing, for the eARC. This review is voluntary and contains my honest opinion about the book.
#NetGalley #CourtingtheDuchess
One Liner: A fluffy romance read
Eight years ago, Sterling St. John, Duke of Morton, vanished a few hours after his wedding. Since then, Alaina faced the London gossip and society with her head high. She founded the progressive ladies’ reading Society and lived an independent life. When Sterling returned home, Alaina had no intention of accepting him back into her life.
But Sterling has secrets of his own and is on a mission he cannot reveal. Protecting his wife means he has to keep her in the dark. However, even as they realize that they may still have something together, the secrets have to be exposed and the truth revealed.
Will this bring them together or tear them apart?
The story comes in Alaina and Sterling’s third-person POVs.
My Thoughts:
Well, this was an interesting premise and had a solid start. Though the narration was a bit slow, the book began with a bang after the prologue.
The initial bickering and conflict were interesting and gave us both sides of the story. The MMC made many mistakes, though he seemed to acknowledge them all and was determined to try and save his marriage.
I could see the FMC’s side, of course. She had it worse in many ways, and it did make sense for her to hold on to her grudge. It was her armor and served her well so far, so why let it down without a fight?
I appreciate that the spicy scenes started after 60%. That gave them enough time to get used to each other’s presence again.
However, once the main reconciliation was done, we don’t ‘see’ them growing together. The story simply summarizes this. It rather dilutes the chemistry since the whole thing still feels more like lust than love or companionship. At least a couple of scenes with dinner or ball dances would have helped. Also, it needed less of an inner monologue and more of ‘showing’.
Then came the unwanted third-act breakup. Honestly, we didn’t need that here. Instead, the whole thing should have been handled with a bit more maturity on both sides. For someone described as mature, the FMC doesn’t display it much when she could have. Yeah, she has a huge reason not to trust the MMC, but this section could have been better.
There’s an epilogue, which gives us the required HEA. NGL, a couple of side characters were quite interesting. Maybe they are from another series? If so, I might check out their stories.
To summarize, Courting the Duchess is the first book in the series and works as a standalone. It had its moments despite the flaws. I did partly binge on it, so there is enough entertainment if you can bear with some dramatics.
I’m curious enough to want to read the next book.
Thank you, NetGalley and Dragonblade Publishing, for the eARC. This review is voluntary and contains my honest opinion about the book.
#NetGalley #CourtingtheDuchess
July 13, 2025
This book clinches Kelsey Swanson as a forever favorite author of mine. And this story is "the one to beat" by her!
Usually, second chance romances aren't my jam, but a marriage in trouble second chance?? The outside world ceases to exist - do not disturb me! I was not prepared for how fast I became invested in this story. I admit that I picked a side right away and said to myself "Ok Kelsey, prove to me how and why I should forgive him." Kelsey picked up that gauntlet and accepted my challenge and slowly revealed to me the answers.
There was no quick fix, in fact, it felt so hopeless at times. Their issues couldn't be fixed with words; it took some deep self-reflection. They each had to look inside themselves and come to terms with many things before they were in a place to even think about saving their marriage. I appreciated all of the internal conflict and discussion within their own minds. I felt that this is how I would react if it had happened to me.
Kelsey Swanson possesses a remarkable talent for delving into the minds of her characters, creating an emotional connection that feels truly authentic. Her storytelling compels readers to pause and reflect on their own feelings and experiences, as each character navigates their unique challenges. This depth of emotion allows you to genuinely feel what her characters are experiencing, making the journey toward resolution not just engaging but also deeply relatable. The angst and romantic tension are beautifully balanced, leading to a satisfying happily ever after that feels earned and heartfelt. Furthermore, Swanson’s characters undergo significant transformation, showcasing growth that inspires readers to strive for their own best selves. Her writing is not only well-crafted but also resonates on a personal level, making it a true pleasure to read. For anyone seeking a moving and uplifting narrative, I highly recommend Kelsey Swanson’s work for its ability to inspire, romanticize, and empower.
I was honored to receive an early copy from NetGalley and Kelsey Swanson (Thank You!) All thoughts and opinions are my own.
Usually, second chance romances aren't my jam, but a marriage in trouble second chance?? The outside world ceases to exist - do not disturb me! I was not prepared for how fast I became invested in this story. I admit that I picked a side right away and said to myself "Ok Kelsey, prove to me how and why I should forgive him." Kelsey picked up that gauntlet and accepted my challenge and slowly revealed to me the answers.
There was no quick fix, in fact, it felt so hopeless at times. Their issues couldn't be fixed with words; it took some deep self-reflection. They each had to look inside themselves and come to terms with many things before they were in a place to even think about saving their marriage. I appreciated all of the internal conflict and discussion within their own minds. I felt that this is how I would react if it had happened to me.
Kelsey Swanson possesses a remarkable talent for delving into the minds of her characters, creating an emotional connection that feels truly authentic. Her storytelling compels readers to pause and reflect on their own feelings and experiences, as each character navigates their unique challenges. This depth of emotion allows you to genuinely feel what her characters are experiencing, making the journey toward resolution not just engaging but also deeply relatable. The angst and romantic tension are beautifully balanced, leading to a satisfying happily ever after that feels earned and heartfelt. Furthermore, Swanson’s characters undergo significant transformation, showcasing growth that inspires readers to strive for their own best selves. Her writing is not only well-crafted but also resonates on a personal level, making it a true pleasure to read. For anyone seeking a moving and uplifting narrative, I highly recommend Kelsey Swanson’s work for its ability to inspire, romanticize, and empower.
I was honored to receive an early copy from NetGalley and Kelsey Swanson (Thank You!) All thoughts and opinions are my own.
May 25, 2025
A little slow
But good nonetheless. I would read this author again. I found the premise of the story to be a little unbelievable. He was to leave for a year but he was gone eight. He left the night of their wedding with no consummation. He never wrote her because he was playing the part of an indolent playboy.peer living.on.the continent. He was a spy. The tales of his amorous pursuits was legendary. Yet he says it was fake and he always wanted only her. There were lots of issues between them and her anger at him was perfectly warranted. He.tried to change her too which I thought was weird. After all he was gone eight years. Leave her alone. He wasn't a bad man but they did get on my nerves. The episode was sweet and short.
But good nonetheless. I would read this author again. I found the premise of the story to be a little unbelievable. He was to leave for a year but he was gone eight. He left the night of their wedding with no consummation. He never wrote her because he was playing the part of an indolent playboy.peer living.on.the continent. He was a spy. The tales of his amorous pursuits was legendary. Yet he says it was fake and he always wanted only her. There were lots of issues between them and her anger at him was perfectly warranted. He.tried to change her too which I thought was weird. After all he was gone eight years. Leave her alone. He wasn't a bad man but they did get on my nerves. The episode was sweet and short.
May 20, 2025
Kelsey Swanson is a new author for me. This is only my 2nd book by her. I really liked The Viscount's Second Chance from her Later in Life series so was looking forward to reading more by her. As I have mentioned before in my reviews I don’t read book descriptions anymore so had no idea what was going to happen.
I have to say I loved Sterling and Alaina’s story. I loved the twists and unknowns. I love how strong she was. I loved how the story played out. Their chemistry was great and the sex scenes were so damn good. Kelsey got such great depth in these characters. I just loved it. Definitely looking forward to the next two books in this series.
I have to say I loved Sterling and Alaina’s story. I loved the twists and unknowns. I love how strong she was. I loved how the story played out. Their chemistry was great and the sex scenes were so damn good. Kelsey got such great depth in these characters. I just loved it. Definitely looking forward to the next two books in this series.
May 11, 2025
Courting the Duchess
by Kelsey Swanson
The story presented in "Courting the Duchess" did not resonate with me as I had anticipated based on the blurb. While the story holds promise, I found the pacing and structure to be lacking in certain areas. Additionally, I appreciate a strong presence of dialogue in literature, and this story seemed to rely excessively on the characters’ internal monologues rather than their interactions with one another. Toward the conclusion, the couple did achieve a connection, but unfortunately, they were separated by a plot development that I found to be quite frustrating.
The backdrop of the story involves Sterling St. John, Duke of Morton, who mysteriously vanished just hours after marrying his innocent young bride. Alaina was left enduring humiliation and heartbreak while remaining untouched. Although London buzzed with gossip, she navigated the situation with resilience and ultimately emerged transformed. Conversely, Sterling has also changed; he is burdened by years of untold secrets and deep regrets. He believes that by keeping his wife in the dark, he is protecting her from the truth.
While this book possesses potential, it ultimately did not meet my expectations.
by Kelsey Swanson
The story presented in "Courting the Duchess" did not resonate with me as I had anticipated based on the blurb. While the story holds promise, I found the pacing and structure to be lacking in certain areas. Additionally, I appreciate a strong presence of dialogue in literature, and this story seemed to rely excessively on the characters’ internal monologues rather than their interactions with one another. Toward the conclusion, the couple did achieve a connection, but unfortunately, they were separated by a plot development that I found to be quite frustrating.
The backdrop of the story involves Sterling St. John, Duke of Morton, who mysteriously vanished just hours after marrying his innocent young bride. Alaina was left enduring humiliation and heartbreak while remaining untouched. Although London buzzed with gossip, she navigated the situation with resilience and ultimately emerged transformed. Conversely, Sterling has also changed; he is burdened by years of untold secrets and deep regrets. He believes that by keeping his wife in the dark, he is protecting her from the truth.
While this book possesses potential, it ultimately did not meet my expectations.
May 22, 2025
So quickly, this author's writing was great. The steamy bits, amazing. I liked Alaina a lot she did not sit in misery (which honestly I might have) or cause a ruckus to get back at him (which I most likely would have) instead, she found things she was passionate about and dedicated herself. I do think this was a tad on the inner dialogue side, I prefer more speaking to one another. But Sterling, she is a better woman than me. He returns and is like I am Duke you will listen to me and do what I say which includes bed room sport and she is just supposed to submit? Every step of the way I was trying to figure out why he made every bad choice he made. He could have even left her a letter. You left for 8 years, told no one what was happening and on your wedding night and she is supposed to just be okay with that? And then when HE had the AUDACITY to get angry with her at the 85%, I mean... just nope. I would never forgive him. He gets angry and is so self righteous. I still don't get his anger. I reread that part cause I was like what the hell did a I miss why would he be angry?
I am totally gonna read the next in this series, I hope I like the MMC more in the next one. 3.5 overall
I am totally gonna read the next in this series, I hope I like the MMC more in the next one. 3.5 overall
May 12, 2025
Courting the Duchess is the first book in the Spy Series.
I have to say I was very impressed by this book. This is not your typical book with lots of conversation or bantering back and forth. Of course there is conversation, but not as much as what you might enjoy in other books. I like to read conversations. For me they are often full of insight about the characters. In other books I admit to scrolling by the lengthy descriptiveness, which can often feel like filler.
This book, however, has long emotion filled information which is wonderfully written. While reading it you feel the characters emotions as the writer perfectly describes everything happening around and to them, which then leaves the conversation to be unnecessary. I loved the writing style as well as the characters. There is plenty of angst to be found in this story, but it is not always stated by the characters. It is in the writing, which is lovely, and fantastic. I cannot wait to read the next book in the series.
I received an ARC from NetGalley for an unbiased review.
I have to say I was very impressed by this book. This is not your typical book with lots of conversation or bantering back and forth. Of course there is conversation, but not as much as what you might enjoy in other books. I like to read conversations. For me they are often full of insight about the characters. In other books I admit to scrolling by the lengthy descriptiveness, which can often feel like filler.
This book, however, has long emotion filled information which is wonderfully written. While reading it you feel the characters emotions as the writer perfectly describes everything happening around and to them, which then leaves the conversation to be unnecessary. I loved the writing style as well as the characters. There is plenty of angst to be found in this story, but it is not always stated by the characters. It is in the writing, which is lovely, and fantastic. I cannot wait to read the next book in the series.
I received an ARC from NetGalley for an unbiased review.
June 16, 2025
4.5 ⭐️ I loved this book and especially enjoyed Alaina. She’s confident and unashamed in who she is. She suffered a lot of heartache to become who we meet in the story. When Sterling comes home there is what seems to be an insurmountable wall of pain and resentment between them. She was such a fighter when it came to holding onto what she established in his absence and even he couldn’t help but admire her for it. The battle of wills was very entertaining. I laughed so much at the the pea dinner scene. When they finally overcome the barriers in their relationship the chemistry is off the charts. I also enjoyed the cameo appearance of familiar characters from the author’s other books as well as brief introductions to characters in the upcoming books. I can’t wait to read the next book in the series.
May 23, 2025
Enjoyed the spunk and feistiness of the heroine and the sincerity and patience of the hero. Thoroughly enjoyed the welcome home dinner she prepared for the duke! There is pain and joy, hilarity and sorrow, friendship, trust, loyalty but most of all, love. Thoroughly enjoyable read!
I received an ARC of this book and leaving my review voluntarily.
I received an ARC of this book and leaving my review voluntarily.
May 30, 2025
Love the premise, did not love the execution. There are paragraphs and paragraphs of internal dialogue. Dialogue between characters is my jam so I got bored quickly.
August 11, 2025
Sterling St. John, the Duke of Morton, left his bride on their wedding night. After eight years, nine months and thirteen days, Aliana's husband returns. Left alone all these years to fend for herself in Society, she's marked out her life and doesn't need a husband. Thinking she's still his sweet young bride, Sterling is in for a rude awakening. He'll have to seriously woo his wife, but it may take revealing his secrets to win her back. A little seduction doesn't hurt either.
I found this book engaging and wasn't disappointed in the story. A good trope of a strong independent woman and a man smart enough to sometimes let her win
Explicit sex.
I voluntarily read and reviewed a copy of this book from NetGalley.
I found this book engaging and wasn't disappointed in the story. A good trope of a strong independent woman and a man smart enough to sometimes let her win
Explicit sex.
I voluntarily read and reviewed a copy of this book from NetGalley.
May 18, 2025
The premise of the book had me really intrigued hence why I picked it up. However, as the story develops, I feel like sterling who is our MMC can’t really decide if he wants to be nice or not. He doesn’t seem to understand that he left his wife for 10 years almost and basically wants her to just snap back as soon as he gets back. He keeps going back-and-forth between being“modern” and then back to having her try to be in her social norms
As for the FMC, I feel like she messes with him and that’s fair. Homeboy left her for eight years without telling her why comes back wants everything to be OK and doesn’t even explain to her why.
The book could’ve been so much better, but I feel like a lot of it was just spent with the characters talking in their own hands instead of talking to each other and whenever they did talk to each other, it was just very teenage type bickering, which wasn’t for me
Thank you to netgalley for providing me ARC
May 20, 2025
On the whole, I liked the plot of the first installment of the new series, it's something different from your average historical romance novel. The story revolves around an already married couple who, after many years apart, have to get to know each other and come together, overcoming many hurdles such as hurt feelings, lies, secrets, prejudices, distrust and rumors to find their happy ending. The plot is well written but with a lot more emotional insights than conversations, some verbal sparring from Alaina and groveling from Sterling.
The characters are likable, both have their flaws and good sides, however Alaina's bitterness and hostility was sometimes too much for me. Their pent-up emotions, the tension and the sizzling chemistry between them was palpable throughout the book.
Almost a decade ago, young Alaina, daughter of the Earl of Brendt, married the sought-after Sterling St John, Duke of Morton, and looked forward to a happy future together. But then Sterling disappeared on her wedding night, leaving her alone, unprotected and exposed to social ridicule and scorn.
Sterling was recruited and trained as a spy as a young man at university. However, before his mission to the continent began, Sterling was determined to marry Alaina, even though he was aware that he would have to leave her immediately afterwards without giving her a reason. The mission lasted much longer than expected and when Sterling returns home after many years, his reception by Alaina is anything what he expected. His wife has matured into a strong, confident woman who wants nothing to do with him and won't forgive him either, and Sterling has his hands full wooing her anew...
If you like historical romance novels with complicated relationships, emotional depth and some spice, this book is for you!
I received a free ARC of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own and left voluntarily.
The characters are likable, both have their flaws and good sides, however Alaina's bitterness and hostility was sometimes too much for me. Their pent-up emotions, the tension and the sizzling chemistry between them was palpable throughout the book.
Almost a decade ago, young Alaina, daughter of the Earl of Brendt, married the sought-after Sterling St John, Duke of Morton, and looked forward to a happy future together. But then Sterling disappeared on her wedding night, leaving her alone, unprotected and exposed to social ridicule and scorn.
Sterling was recruited and trained as a spy as a young man at university. However, before his mission to the continent began, Sterling was determined to marry Alaina, even though he was aware that he would have to leave her immediately afterwards without giving her a reason. The mission lasted much longer than expected and when Sterling returns home after many years, his reception by Alaina is anything what he expected. His wife has matured into a strong, confident woman who wants nothing to do with him and won't forgive him either, and Sterling has his hands full wooing her anew...
If you like historical romance novels with complicated relationships, emotional depth and some spice, this book is for you!
I received a free ARC of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own and left voluntarily.
May 17, 2025
I voluntarily read and reviewed this advanced copy from NetGalley. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
I don't often reach for marriage in trouble romances, but I can always be coerced when the groom beats feet before the wedding night. It makes me curious and anxious for the inevitable return. That's how Sterling treats his new bride and waits 8 years for his reunion. I couldn't imagine being away from my husband for nearly a decade. They were separated longer than they were actually together and technically she can annul their marriage since it wasn't consummated. I understood Alaina's anger towards her husband, but their early bedroom scenes were so cringy. She acted like she was physically repulsed by his naked body and I got secondhand embarrassment as a reader. I should be cheering from the sidelines, not hiding my face in shame at your bedroom antics.
I'm glad our couple eventually rebuilt their trust together, but our heroine was incredibly immature. Even at 26, she acted like a petulant child. I understood that most Victorian women weren't given expectations about their wedding night, but it was pathetic the way she acted. The poor communication and obstinacy made me want to scream. I did like Sterling as a character and he thankfully made up for his young wife's shortcomings. Who knew a hero with a name as goofy as Sterling could help save a book such as this? I certainly didn't.
Courting the Duchess had a rough start, but we eventually got there in the end. I don't believe I'll continue with the Spy Society series. I love discovering new Dragonblade publications and they deserve an opportunity to be read. This author isn't for me and I'm looking forward to trying a new one next month. Courting the Duchess may have ended in disaster, but you can't say I didn't try!
I don't often reach for marriage in trouble romances, but I can always be coerced when the groom beats feet before the wedding night. It makes me curious and anxious for the inevitable return. That's how Sterling treats his new bride and waits 8 years for his reunion. I couldn't imagine being away from my husband for nearly a decade. They were separated longer than they were actually together and technically she can annul their marriage since it wasn't consummated. I understood Alaina's anger towards her husband, but their early bedroom scenes were so cringy. She acted like she was physically repulsed by his naked body and I got secondhand embarrassment as a reader. I should be cheering from the sidelines, not hiding my face in shame at your bedroom antics.
I'm glad our couple eventually rebuilt their trust together, but our heroine was incredibly immature. Even at 26, she acted like a petulant child. I understood that most Victorian women weren't given expectations about their wedding night, but it was pathetic the way she acted. The poor communication and obstinacy made me want to scream. I did like Sterling as a character and he thankfully made up for his young wife's shortcomings. Who knew a hero with a name as goofy as Sterling could help save a book such as this? I certainly didn't.
Courting the Duchess had a rough start, but we eventually got there in the end. I don't believe I'll continue with the Spy Society series. I love discovering new Dragonblade publications and they deserve an opportunity to be read. This author isn't for me and I'm looking forward to trying a new one next month. Courting the Duchess may have ended in disaster, but you can't say I didn't try!
May 30, 2025
Courting the Duchess is the first title in the Spy Society series, and caught my interest early on and held it as more was revealed about Alaina’s and Sterling’s past… and present. I love the start of a series, and I will be following this one.
Imagine your new husband vanishing on your wedding night. No word for years, then he’s suddenly back home, intending to pick up where they left off. No. Just no. For during those years when Alaina was left on her own to face down the opinions of the ton, she changed, she took charge of her life, and she’s not about to let Sterling back in despite his story that isn’t all that convincing.
Sterling never expected the assignment that would take him away from his new bride so abruptly… but, as a spy, he went, and he did what was required of him. He’d thought maybe a year, but it turned into far, far longer than he’d hoped. Now, upon his return, he barely recognized his wife, but he certainly felt her disdain, her distance, her anger. He’s determined to win Alaina back, yet with the secrets he can never tell her, that is going to be an uphill battle unlike any he’s taken on before.
Courting the Duchess by Kelsey Swanson is a well-written, believable, tension-filled, and emotion-filled romance between two people who are slowly falling for each other once again. Their journey to a happy ending will not be easy, but it will be worth the risks they both must take. I enjoyed this couple and this world, and I’ll continue the series to see what comes next.
*I received an e-ARC of this novel from the publisher via NetGalley, and I sincerely thank the author or publishing house for their trust. It is my choice to leave a review giving my personal opinion about this book.*
Imagine your new husband vanishing on your wedding night. No word for years, then he’s suddenly back home, intending to pick up where they left off. No. Just no. For during those years when Alaina was left on her own to face down the opinions of the ton, she changed, she took charge of her life, and she’s not about to let Sterling back in despite his story that isn’t all that convincing.
Sterling never expected the assignment that would take him away from his new bride so abruptly… but, as a spy, he went, and he did what was required of him. He’d thought maybe a year, but it turned into far, far longer than he’d hoped. Now, upon his return, he barely recognized his wife, but he certainly felt her disdain, her distance, her anger. He’s determined to win Alaina back, yet with the secrets he can never tell her, that is going to be an uphill battle unlike any he’s taken on before.
Courting the Duchess by Kelsey Swanson is a well-written, believable, tension-filled, and emotion-filled romance between two people who are slowly falling for each other once again. Their journey to a happy ending will not be easy, but it will be worth the risks they both must take. I enjoyed this couple and this world, and I’ll continue the series to see what comes next.
*I received an e-ARC of this novel from the publisher via NetGalley, and I sincerely thank the author or publishing house for their trust. It is my choice to leave a review giving my personal opinion about this book.*
May 13, 2025
Alaina was the diamond, Sterling a young duke. They fell in love, married and on their wedding night he left.
Now, eight years later, he’s back.
She’s no longer naive nor biddable – abandonment, humiliation and reinventing yourself change a woman. She no longer knows her husband, nor does she care to find out.
He’s drained by playing pretend while gathering secrets for the Crown, and aching to finally claim the woman he’s loved from afar for what seems an eternity.
He wasn’t expecting a warm welcome, but frostbite?
This story had an interesting premise, but I had a hard time staying engaged. There’s a lot of fighting and very little loving, even though there’s some real nice steam. I didn’t feel the romance, couldn’t find the chemistry, and the ending felt rushed.
She makes a big deal of being all grown up, yet when it comes to her husband she’s a vindictive brat resurrecting her grudge at every opportunity. And he’s a good guy who made a lot of bad decisions – and then a few more, but at least he’s trying. He’s patient, persistent and his grovelling isn’t up to snuff, yet I still felt a little sorry for him.
For me a story like this doesn’t need a third act break-up. It needs something major, some serious emotional growth, something more than just fighting until one party caves.
I guess, it just didn’t work for me.
Now, eight years later, he’s back.
She’s no longer naive nor biddable – abandonment, humiliation and reinventing yourself change a woman. She no longer knows her husband, nor does she care to find out.
He’s drained by playing pretend while gathering secrets for the Crown, and aching to finally claim the woman he’s loved from afar for what seems an eternity.
He wasn’t expecting a warm welcome, but frostbite?
This story had an interesting premise, but I had a hard time staying engaged. There’s a lot of fighting and very little loving, even though there’s some real nice steam. I didn’t feel the romance, couldn’t find the chemistry, and the ending felt rushed.
She makes a big deal of being all grown up, yet when it comes to her husband she’s a vindictive brat resurrecting her grudge at every opportunity. And he’s a good guy who made a lot of bad decisions – and then a few more, but at least he’s trying. He’s patient, persistent and his grovelling isn’t up to snuff, yet I still felt a little sorry for him.
For me a story like this doesn’t need a third act break-up. It needs something major, some serious emotional growth, something more than just fighting until one party caves.
I guess, it just didn’t work for me.
December 26, 2025
Tropes: 2nd chance romance; MMC is a spy
Steam level: 3
2.75 squeaked up. Another series I've ended up reading out of order. I read the ARC for the 3rd book a bit ago, and thought it was pretty good, so I decided to check this out a couple of weeks ago. I'm just getting a chance for my review.
I was a bit cautious going in, I'll admit, because of the 2nd chance trope, which isn't one of my faves. For it to work for me, there needs to be a very legit excuse for the MC's to be separated & the plot has to be more than Big Misunderstandings. The couple needs to spend quality time together to work it out and they need to be involved in a decent subplot with engaging secondary characters. The secondary characters here are fine but unfortunately 1.there's pretty vague justification for what the MMC was doing for a full 8 years (too long of a separation imo) and why he never reached out to his wife and 2.the plot is mostly internal monologues punctuated by bickering and a silly 3rd act breakup. Where's the love?
As mentioned, I did like the 3rd book in this series, which dares to be a bit unique. If you're a big fan of the 2nd chance trope, you might like this, but if you're more on the jaded side like I am this isn't the book I'd recommend starting with.
Steam level: 3
2.75 squeaked up. Another series I've ended up reading out of order. I read the ARC for the 3rd book a bit ago, and thought it was pretty good, so I decided to check this out a couple of weeks ago. I'm just getting a chance for my review.
I was a bit cautious going in, I'll admit, because of the 2nd chance trope, which isn't one of my faves. For it to work for me, there needs to be a very legit excuse for the MC's to be separated & the plot has to be more than Big Misunderstandings. The couple needs to spend quality time together to work it out and they need to be involved in a decent subplot with engaging secondary characters. The secondary characters here are fine but unfortunately 1.there's pretty vague justification for what the MMC was doing for a full 8 years (too long of a separation imo) and why he never reached out to his wife and 2.the plot is mostly internal monologues punctuated by bickering and a silly 3rd act breakup. Where's the love?
As mentioned, I did like the 3rd book in this series, which dares to be a bit unique. If you're a big fan of the 2nd chance trope, you might like this, but if you're more on the jaded side like I am this isn't the book I'd recommend starting with.
August 24, 2025
Sterling St. John, the Duke of Morton, disappeared hours after his wedding, leaving young Alaina to face scandal and heartbreak alone. Eight years later, he's back—and so is the fire that always burned between them. But Alaina isn’t the naive girl he left behind. She's now a whip-smart, independent woman leading a bold ladies’ reading society, and she has no intention of letting him back into her life—or her heart.
This book delivers everything you want in a historical romance: a tortured hero with secrets, a strong heroine who’s grown through pain, and chemistry so electric it practically smokes off the page. The emotional tension is matched only by the heat (and yes, this Flame line earns its name—prepare for open-door steam that doesn't hold back).
If you're a fan of second chances, slow-burn tension that erupts into passion, and strong-willed heroines who refuse to be doormats, this one will hit all the right notes. A deliciously angsty and rewarding romance with just enough scandal to keep things delightfully wicked.
I received a complimentary copy from NetGalley and Dragonblade Publishing and am voluntarily leaving my review.
This book delivers everything you want in a historical romance: a tortured hero with secrets, a strong heroine who’s grown through pain, and chemistry so electric it practically smokes off the page. The emotional tension is matched only by the heat (and yes, this Flame line earns its name—prepare for open-door steam that doesn't hold back).
If you're a fan of second chances, slow-burn tension that erupts into passion, and strong-willed heroines who refuse to be doormats, this one will hit all the right notes. A deliciously angsty and rewarding romance with just enough scandal to keep things delightfully wicked.
I received a complimentary copy from NetGalley and Dragonblade Publishing and am voluntarily leaving my review.
May 16, 2025
3.5 Stars
Eight years ago, Sterling St. John, Duke of Morton, vanished mere hours after marrying his innocent young bride. Alaina was left humiliated, heartbroken and untouched. London buzzed with gossip, but she endured it all and emerged transformed. Now a sharp-tongued beauty and the fearless founder of a scandalously progressive ladies’ reading Society, Alaina has no intention of welcoming her wayward husband home. But Sterling isn’t the same man either. Hardened by years of secrets and haunted by decisions he cannot reveal, he knows protecting the wife he never wished to leave means keeping her in the dark.
A new author to me & whilst I enjoyed the book I didn’t love it. It was well written it flowed well, the story was interesting & the characters were well portrayed but the big but for me was that I found the chemistry between Sterling & Alaina lacking, I think it was Alaina’s immaturity & how she couldn’t let go of her grievances that tarred the book for me
I voluntarily read and reviewed a special copy of this book; all thoughts and opinions are my own
Eight years ago, Sterling St. John, Duke of Morton, vanished mere hours after marrying his innocent young bride. Alaina was left humiliated, heartbroken and untouched. London buzzed with gossip, but she endured it all and emerged transformed. Now a sharp-tongued beauty and the fearless founder of a scandalously progressive ladies’ reading Society, Alaina has no intention of welcoming her wayward husband home. But Sterling isn’t the same man either. Hardened by years of secrets and haunted by decisions he cannot reveal, he knows protecting the wife he never wished to leave means keeping her in the dark.
A new author to me & whilst I enjoyed the book I didn’t love it. It was well written it flowed well, the story was interesting & the characters were well portrayed but the big but for me was that I found the chemistry between Sterling & Alaina lacking, I think it was Alaina’s immaturity & how she couldn’t let go of her grievances that tarred the book for me
I voluntarily read and reviewed a special copy of this book; all thoughts and opinions are my own
May 23, 2025
The Duke Who Vanished and the Duchess He Left Behind
What kind of man disappears on his wedding night—and stays gone for nearly a decade? And how can a marriage survive such heartbreak? When Sterling finally returns, he expects forgiveness from the woman he abandoned. But Alaina is no longer the naive bride he left behind. She has endured the shame, the gossip, the ache of betrayal—and emerged stronger for it. She’s not the same woman. And he’s not the same man.
Sterling has secrets. He won’t tell her why he left, but he wants to reclaim what they once had. Alaina, however, refuses to pretend the past didn’t happen. She won’t make it easy for him—and why should she?
What follows is a story of second chances—one that asks how much love can endure, and what it really means to forgive. At times heartbreaking and beautifully poignant, this book brought me to tears more than once. I couldn’t stop turning the pages.
This was my first book by this author, and it won’t be my last. Would I recommend it? Absolutely.
What kind of man disappears on his wedding night—and stays gone for nearly a decade? And how can a marriage survive such heartbreak? When Sterling finally returns, he expects forgiveness from the woman he abandoned. But Alaina is no longer the naive bride he left behind. She has endured the shame, the gossip, the ache of betrayal—and emerged stronger for it. She’s not the same woman. And he’s not the same man.
Sterling has secrets. He won’t tell her why he left, but he wants to reclaim what they once had. Alaina, however, refuses to pretend the past didn’t happen. She won’t make it easy for him—and why should she?
What follows is a story of second chances—one that asks how much love can endure, and what it really means to forgive. At times heartbreaking and beautifully poignant, this book brought me to tears more than once. I couldn’t stop turning the pages.
This was my first book by this author, and it won’t be my last. Would I recommend it? Absolutely.
May 18, 2025
When I read the blurb of this book, I was the excited - eating popcorn meme style excited. Excellent!! Second chance, he leaves her immediately after the wedding for 8 YEARS ---what??? Oh, sis, there's gonna be some epic levels of GROVELLING, I can feel it - rubs hands together vigorously.
If my husband left me without a trace for 8 years I'd want an EXPLANATION. Yes, an apology too. But really, an explanation. You can't expect me to go back to living normally with him until I get answers. Then we can figure out how our marriage is going to be going forward.
The explanation didn't come until very late in the book. Alaina is a better woman than me.
Make no mistake: the writing is superb. The sex is incredibly hot. But I'd need more talking and conversing and the truth about what he was doing for 8 long years with no contact.
Thank you to Dragonblade for the copy of this book. Opinions are my own.
If my husband left me without a trace for 8 years I'd want an EXPLANATION. Yes, an apology too. But really, an explanation. You can't expect me to go back to living normally with him until I get answers. Then we can figure out how our marriage is going to be going forward.
The explanation didn't come until very late in the book. Alaina is a better woman than me.
Make no mistake: the writing is superb. The sex is incredibly hot. But I'd need more talking and conversing and the truth about what he was doing for 8 long years with no contact.
Thank you to Dragonblade for the copy of this book. Opinions are my own.
May 11, 2025
Wow! Finally a second chance romance (my less favorite trope) that I really, really enjoyed. Maybe because it seemed they were starting anew like they didn’t know each other at all and all the book is based on the angst of the reunion (I love angst!). I loved Alaina and the way she reacted to Sterling’s reappearance: I think I would have done the same or worse! But I also loved Sterling, because he really was very young when he left her and didn’t really know what he was doing and what his choice would cost him. And even if he makes tons of mistakes, he’s genuinely in love and tries to atone for them in all possible ways. Gorgeously written and an intriguing start for this series. I’d love to have more mystery and spy stuff in the following books, but the next male lead is really promising…
May 20, 2025
Slow burn romance.
I liked this second-chance trope. I liked the characters, particularly Sterling, the hero. Alaina, the heroine, is feisty and strong-willed; I took some time to appreciate her. Her animosity towards her husband is intense. I found this aspect of the plot a bit too long. It took time to melt her hardened heart. I have a weakness for the hero. He knows the damage his past choices and his past behaviour have caused. We sensed his regrets and his pain for all the years lost. He will do everything possible to initiate a reconciliation in their relationship and rekindle the spark of love. He would manage it with clumsiness and persistence. Their happy ending will not be without a hitch and some steamy scenes.
I received a complimentary copy of this book, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
I liked this second-chance trope. I liked the characters, particularly Sterling, the hero. Alaina, the heroine, is feisty and strong-willed; I took some time to appreciate her. Her animosity towards her husband is intense. I found this aspect of the plot a bit too long. It took time to melt her hardened heart. I have a weakness for the hero. He knows the damage his past choices and his past behaviour have caused. We sensed his regrets and his pain for all the years lost. He will do everything possible to initiate a reconciliation in their relationship and rekindle the spark of love. He would manage it with clumsiness and persistence. Their happy ending will not be without a hitch and some steamy scenes.
I received a complimentary copy of this book, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
May 19, 2025
Oh my word, what kind of idiot man thinks he can abandon his teenage bride on their wedding night and disappear for eight long years, with no explanation, and still expects her to fall into his arms in gratitude on his unexpected return? I felt all of Alaina's hurt, anger, disappointment, and frustration both on her husband's desertion and when he returned, expecting to take up their marriage where they left off. The Duke of Morton is surprised to discover how his wife had survived the years without him, but old habits die hard, and it takes some compromising for him to start winning her over. Despite the heartache and pain, the novel does come to a good conclusion. I received a copy of this book through Dragonblade Publishing and NetGalley, and this is my honest and voluntary review.
May 25, 2025
He could have talked to her or left her a letter...
But for some reason, Sterling, a young duke met, married, did not bed and left his young wife, Alaina. They are both young and handsome, of the ton and then Sterling sneaks off in the night on a lengthy spy assignment. He could have said something, like an adult, but nope, he sneaks out without a word and is gone for eight years and then expects his marriage to just pick up where he left them, completely unprepared that his wife grew up while he was spying. Maybe so did, did he, but for a spy, he lacks foresight and common sense and a basic understanding of human emotions. Just saying.
Spicy and I did like that Alaina made him work for it for a little bit.
But for some reason, Sterling, a young duke met, married, did not bed and left his young wife, Alaina. They are both young and handsome, of the ton and then Sterling sneaks off in the night on a lengthy spy assignment. He could have said something, like an adult, but nope, he sneaks out without a word and is gone for eight years and then expects his marriage to just pick up where he left them, completely unprepared that his wife grew up while he was spying. Maybe so did, did he, but for a spy, he lacks foresight and common sense and a basic understanding of human emotions. Just saying.
Spicy and I did like that Alaina made him work for it for a little bit.
May 11, 2025
I am confused, I read a previous book by Kelsey and absolutely loved it. I probably gushed over it. This book was a different story. While I loved the story itself and thought it was going to be so intriguing and interesting, it fell flat for me. I think the reason is that there is not enough dialog. It was all telling me and inner dialogue. I know some people like that so if that is your jam, this book is for you. I also really loved the fact that Alaina stood up for herself, went on with her life and made the best of the bad situation. You go girl! Like I said, the story is good and I definitely want to know about the next book about another spy who seems a bit sketchy.
May 20, 2025
Who would forgive their new husband if he left before the wedding night and didn't return for eight years? Oh! And didn't have an exceptional reason for being gone! Well Sterling thought Alaina would being that he made a decision to marry just as he was being placed on assignment. To his surprise,.Alaina wasn't gullible enough just accept his casual return. Good plot with great characters and it does well in holding the readers attention. There isn't enough actual interaction between the two as it's more centered around their thoughts and emotions. This makes the story interesting and I would have made it a 5+ if there had been more dialogue between the two.
September 21, 2025
This was just a fun historical romance.
Alaina and Sterling were married eight years ago, but Sterling leaves within hours of the wedding. Alaina, forced to face the ton and grow into her role, ends up becoming a force to be reckoned with. So when Sterling finally decides to come home, why would she want anything to do with him? Especially if he is expecting the woman he left behind.
The push and pull between the characters as they have to come to terms with how each other has changed and if/how they are going to continue with the farce of their marriage, or make a go of it.
Alaina and Sterling were married eight years ago, but Sterling leaves within hours of the wedding. Alaina, forced to face the ton and grow into her role, ends up becoming a force to be reckoned with. So when Sterling finally decides to come home, why would she want anything to do with him? Especially if he is expecting the woman he left behind.
The push and pull between the characters as they have to come to terms with how each other has changed and if/how they are going to continue with the farce of their marriage, or make a go of it.
December 29, 2025
Bro, where was the dialogue!?! Where?!!! There would be a small interaction with the mcs in which there would be a bit of talk between the two then after there would be 50 pages of inner monologue. And you expect me too believe that the mmc was celibate for 8 years while being a spy!?! I did like that the fmc made him work for it and gave him a hard time, but 8 years !?! (Another stuff your kindle day book)
May 14, 2025
The abandoned bride deserves revenge for being left for 8 years! Alaina has endured much alone during all that time. When her husband returns, his attitude is ridiculous. I love how feisty she is and how she stands her ground. The supporting cast of characters were fun and added to the story. I received an advance copy of this story.
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