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Two guarded hearts. One undeniable pull. Can love break through their carefully built walls?

She is bursting with feelings and prone to laughing or crying. He is regularly gripped with strong sentiments he keeps behind a mask of reserve. Very naturally, they both go to great lengths to hide these deficiencies from one another.

Serenity Nicolet, fourth daughter of the Duke of Pelham, girds herself to face her season. She sat last year out as her twin, Patience, went forward. She’d hoped an extra year would bring progress in regulating her wildly swinging emotions—a sunset, a sunrise, even a dead bee in the garden, can all set her off. It is unlikely that any gentleman will wish for a weeping bride.

Sadly, she did not get far with her efforts.

Roland Garner, Marquess of Thorpe, and eldest son of the Duke of Mariton, was haunted all his childhood by his sentimentality, and the younger brother who delighted in pointing it out. He’s older now, though, and has successfully donned a mask of reserve and disinterest, as if nary a breeze ruffles his feathers. The ton has no idea what lurks underneath that cool exterior and he plans to keep it that way.

Lord Charles, the marquess’ younger brother, is perennially dissatisfied with his position in life. He ought to have been born first, he’d make a better duke. As it is, he soothes himself by competing with Thorpe on any and all fronts. When he spots his brother’s interest in Lady Serenity, the game is on.

Two people who are always teetering on the edge of strong emotions and a brother determined to get between them could have little hope of success. One would imagine.

Tropes and ✔️ Hidden Feelings / Masked Emotions
✔️ Emotional Heroine
✔️ Stoic, Reserved Hero
✔️ Seasoned Debutante
✔️ Sibling Rivalry
✔️ Slow Burn Romance
✔️ Touch of Melodrama
✔️ Protective Older Brother
✔️ Wounded Hearts Healing

Read in Kindle Unlimited!

This series is part of Dragonblade's Sweet Dreams line, so this is a sweet, wholesome Historical Romance where passion beyond the bedroom door is left to the reader’s imagination.

A Series of Senseless Complications
Book 1: Lady Ferocity
Book 2: Lady Graceless
Book 3: Lady Impatience
Book 4: Lady Dramatic
Book 5: Lady Liar
Book 6: Lady Suspicious
Book 7: Lady Fearful

246 pages, Kindle Edition

Published July 4, 2025

84 people are currently reading
22 people want to read

About the author

Kate Archer

32 books23 followers

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Displaying 1 - 27 of 27 reviews
Profile Image for Margaret.
3,211 reviews33 followers
August 15, 2025
The Duke of Pelham, father of seven daughters, jokingly admits, he is ready to have his fourth daughter, Serenity, out of the house. Smitten at first sight, Roland, Marquess of Thorpe, is in pursuit of the lady. Soon they are walking their dogs together in the square. Unfortunately, his brother Charles resents that fact he isn't the heir and is constantly causing trouble. Serenity and Thorpe are both hiding their true nature of being sentimental and sensitive. Perfect for each other. The Duke of Pelham, his daughters and staff are extremely eccentric. Continuous humor and hilarious situations.
A clean romance.
I voluntarily read and reviewed a copy of this book from NetGalley.
Profile Image for Sofia Lazaridou.
2,864 reviews136 followers
June 26, 2025
The lucky dude managed to get rid of a fourth daughter!

If you are new to the series, the sentence above might seem odd to you, but this is the premise of the series. The duke has a lot of daughters and he wants to see all of them who are of age get married. While the book can be read as stand-alone there are some reccurning themes such as the duke's sister trying to force a butler on them, Mrs Right trying to get her own kind of revenge on the suitors that "have wronged" one of the sisters and he youngest sister being very vengeful in her own written form, so I would recommend reading the series from the beginning. The books are fun and lighthearted so it shouldn't be a burden.

What popped into my mind a lot during this reading is that I want the duke by the end of the series to have found a lady for himself because anyone who has read the series, knows that he will be very lonely. While the books in the series are published every few months, there is a year's difference between the time each book takes place and Valor will be old enough to get her own story soon. I would love to see the duke get his happy ending as well. And speaking of Valor, that little lady is a constant source of amusement and in this book we see her more than ever. I hope that will go on for the upcoming books as well.

My only issue with this book is that with a very important aspect, we were told instead of shown. And that aspect has to do with our MMC. Roland is supposed to be the male version of Serenity, but that wasn't so obvious in the story as I would have liked. A little scene where he shows his feelings in an intimate moment with Serenity would have been great for this story. Have him be as open and vulnerable as he is supposed to be. But just in front of his lady. Still, I loved this book and it was a joy to read. 100% I would recommend it.
134 reviews
September 15, 2025
So often books are all about opposites attract, but this wasn't the case here. Serenity and Thorpe are both extremely sensitive people. Serenity's thing with bees was a bit weird, but I guess it worked with the "overly sensitive" part of her character.

I was not a fan of Mrs. Right's vengeance this time. She listed all the ways she has jumped the gun, but then says "water under the bridge" and proceeds. I don't get how she second guessed her own decision to act realizing she might be jumping to conclusions, but did it anyway. It'd be nice for her own character growth is she slowed her roll and waited for more info.
447 reviews12 followers
August 28, 2025
Book 4 already in the Senseless Complications series! Another daughter of the quirky duke of Pelham makes her debut in London’s season. This time it’s Serenity’s turn to find a husband. Serenity is the one who always cries a lot about almost everything, from things like a dead bee or an animal that might be injured to a beautiful sunset or snowflake. You might think that there can’t be a man who would want a wife that cries so much, but again Kate Archer has created a hero who is the perfect fit. This time it’s Roland (aka Thorpe), the eldest son of the Duke of Mariton. And he is a man that is ruled by his feelings, easily cries as well, but he’s learned to hide them and now comes across as reserved and aloof. But he’s actually a sweet man, clever, and so kind. I liked that he wasn’t easily fooled and that he acted with empathy, like in his interactions with Valor.
Serenity’s aunt, lady Marchfield aka lady Misery again tries to put a butler in her brother ‘s household, and again Mrs. Right shoos him away. This time, though, she has taken her mischief to another level which gets her a visit from the bishop!
There’s also another dog; Havoc is Roland’s Mastiff - I like the name a lot! - and the hero, Roland, again has a trusted employee that is more a friend than a servant: his butler Quinn. Quinn doesn’t play a big time in this story but he is a smart man and a loyal friend.
Some jokes I felt were getting old; like the duke requesting nonexistent dishes at the inn they were staying, just to have some ‘fun’. But I have to say, I start to appreciate the Duke of Pelham a bit. He always seemed incredibly silly which could be annoying, but I liked that it was shown that he was also a clever man and not easily fooled. I am thinking of the incident with the letter, and him encouraging Roland to propose to Serenity. So I liked that.
I also liked that the housekeeper, Mrs. Right, finally had her comeuppance, although in the end her actions end with “it’s all water under the bridge”.
Although the book had the same bones as the previous books, I liked this one a bit more: I like it when people are smart, and there was more cleverness and a little bit less silliness in this book. Even the ‘villain’ wasn’t an absolute villain, just a very jealous and envious man.
When you are looking for a fun, light read without drama but with lovable, sweet characters and a happily ever after, this book is the one for you.
This is book 4 in the Senseless Complications series but can be read as a standalone.
This series is part of Dragonblade's Sweet Dreams line, so this is a sweet, wholesome, clean Historical Romance, which I love.
Thank you Netgalley, Dragonblade Publishing and Kate Archer for providing an advanced copy of this book. I voluntarily read and reviewed it; all thoughts and opinions are my own.
Profile Image for Charmaine Fernando.
425 reviews7 followers
June 19, 2025
This is another fun read from Kate Archer that had me LOL several times. Lady Serenity Nicolet, the daughter of the Duke of Pelham, is up this time, seeking a potential husband and trying to control her emotions all at once. She cries at many things; overcome with emotions at a beautiful sunset, the setting sun, dead bees, etc. Her twin Lady Patience is now wed the love of her life and Lady Serenity is hoping the same for herself.

Upon arriving in London, she decides to go for a stroll with her three-legged dog and the housekeeper, and they are caught in a light drizzle. Instead of running into the house as quickly as she can, she remains outside, turning her face up to the sky and enjoying the light drizzle on her face. Lord Roland Garner, the Marquess of Thorpe, and eldest son of the Duke of Mariton is looking out the window at the same time and catches a glimpse of Lady Serenity turning her face up to the sky, laughing in enjoyment of the drizzle! He is instantly besotted and cannot wait to meet her.

Roland is a sentimental and sensitive man who must endure the teasing of his younger brother Charles who is the very opposite of his brother. He is in love with himself and feels he should have been the duke's heir and is very bitter about it. He constantly tries to one up Roland and ridicules him at every chance he can get, determined to paint him in the worst possible light.

Roland’s butler sees the good man Roland is and tells him to be more forthcoming with his emotions as the perfect lady will find him when he does. When he does eventually meet Serenity, the attraction is almost instantaneous, and a connection is formed.

There is a new butler for the Nicolet family, courtesy of Lady Misery (Lady Marchfield, the duke's sister), who brings an interesting development this time round that involves the bishop coming to see if Mrs. Right has indeed sold herself to the devil!

All in a fun, enjoyable read that I would recommend if you were looking for some light reading. I received an ARC from the publishers and NetGalley and submit my honest review voluntarily.
Profile Image for Masala LaVita.
53 reviews
July 19, 2025
TL;DR
Lady Dramatic, the fourth book in the Senseless Complications series, is a charming historical romance that outshines Book 3 with its humor, lovable characters, and lighthearted HEA vibe. It works well as a standalone despite some recurring series themes, though the romance buildup could use more depth, and certain elements feel a bit repetitive. It’s a fun, easy read worth picking up for fans of the genre.

Main Review
Lady Dramatic is the fourth chapter in the Senseless Complications series, and I’m happy to report it’s a step up from Book 3. Having read the earlier books, I can say this one holds its own as a standalone. The story delivers the series’ trademark blend of witty humor, endearing characters, and a satisfying HEA, but it also sprinkles in some fresh moments that kept me turning the pages.
The book brings back several recurring themes that will feel like old friends—or perhaps mildly irritating houseguests—to series readers. There’s the Duke’s meddlesome sister, still trying to foist an unwanted butler on the household, and Mrs. Right, who’s once again plotting her peculiar brand of revenge against suitors who’ve “wronged” the sisters. The youngest sister, Valor also returns with her mischievous streak writing vengeful letters and the duke stirring up trouble by requesting nonexistent dishes at an inn just for kicks. And, of course, the “fact or fib” game makes a cameo, adding a playful touch. This time around, though, I appreciated the lighter touch—Mrs. Wendover barely shows up, and Mrs. Right’s cruelty is dialed back, giving the story room to shine with some genuinely clever moments.
That said, not all the repetition works in its favor. Mrs. Right, for one, is starting to wear out her welcome. Her vengeful shtick against the butlers feels tired, and I’d love to see her pack her bags for a quiet countryside inn, leaving space for a new character to shake things up. Imagine a sharp-tongued butler or a feisty lady stepping in, sparking a fun enemies-to-lovers subplot with the Duke—that’s the kind of twist this series could use. Speaking of the Duke, he’s still a gem. His character hasn’t evolved much, but there’s something about his playful charm and quiet kindness that’s winning me over more with each book.
The plot does hit a couple of snags. Take Roland and Serenity, the main couple—they’ve supposedly lived two doors down from each other pretty much all their lives but never crossed paths until now. Really? It’s a stretch that feels more convenient than believable. And while their romance is sweet enough, it lacks the slow-burn buildup I crave in a good love story. The book spends more time showcasing their quirks and the surrounding shenanigans than diving into how they fall for each other, which left me wishing for a bit more emotional depth.
Still, Lady Dramatic is a delightful, light read that doesn’t overstay its welcome. It’s packed with humor, romance, and characters you can’t help but root for, making it perfect for a cozy afternoon escape. If you’re into historical romance with a dash of wit and a guaranteed HEA, this one’s for you—whether you’re new to the series or a seasoned fan. It’s not perfect, but it’s fun, and sometimes that’s all you need.

P.S. Thank you NetGalley and DragonBlade publishing for ARC. All opinions are my own.
4,179 reviews22 followers
September 26, 2025
This Regency romance delivers not just swoon-worthy moments but a deeply heartfelt exploration of emotional vulnerability.

Lady Serenity Nicolet is a breath of fresh air in a ballroom full of practiced smiles and calculated courtships. Her emotions are not a flaw—they're a force of nature. Watching her navigate society's expectations while wrestling with her own intense feelings is both endearing and relatable. Her anxiety over being "too much" is something many modern readers will quietly nod along with.

Enter Roland Garner, Marquess of Thorpe—a man who’s buried his own emotional turmoil under a cool, composed mask. He’s the kind of hero who doesn’t sweep in with grand declarations, but whose quiet, longing glances say everything. The emotional resonance between Serenity and Thorpe builds slowly but intensely, with beautifully drawn moments of connection that feel earned and real.

Of course, no good love story comes without obstacles—and Lord Charles, the meddling younger brother with a chip on his shoulder the size of an estate, adds just the right amount of friction and drama. His attempts to sabotage the growing affection between Thorpe and Serenity had me alternately gritting my teeth and flipping pages faster.

This book is a quiet triumph—more about what isn’t said than what is. The prose is elegant, with flashes of dry humor and aching sweetness. If you're a fan of introspective characters, emotional slow burns, and Regency tales with heart, you will find much to love here.

I received a complimentary copy from NetGalley and Dragonblade Publishing and am voluntarily leaving my review.
Profile Image for Pat Robinson.
858 reviews10 followers
June 23, 2025
What we have here is two kindred souls unwilling to expose themselves because of the ton “rules”! That is why I love the Duke of Pelham’s attitude and silliness . He makes a mockery of all of them, including his sister, Lady ‘Misery’. The family chaos continues with Serenity up for the Marriage Mart and her fears of her emotions going off are well founded .On the other side is Thorpe, a Duke -to-be, who has issues of his own, not the least of these is a younger brother who is so selfish and self oriented, you want to scream! The shenanigans he pulls and the response from Serenity and the family are somewhat hilarious I loved how Thorpe handled his brother, and Serenity’s youngest sister, Lady Valor. That is a man that knows how to handle people! Mrs. Right’s situation with the new butler was laugh out loud hilarious. The climax was very fitting and nothing like I anticipated. I adored the last chapter and wish more authors did that sneak peek into the future. The characters of this series just melt my heart and I can’t wait to see what Verity comes up with! I loved how she drove Thorpe’s younger brother mad- so funny! I loved this book and this series! Great work!

I received this story for free and these are my own opinions
Profile Image for Colleen.
1,122 reviews26 followers
July 2, 2025
Lady Dramatic is the fourth book in A Series of Senseless Complications series! This can be a stand-alone read, but the series is fantastic and worth starting at the beginning.

The Duke of Pelham is happy to be taking Lady Serenity for her come out season. Serenity is the emotional of the family. Okay they are all emotional, but Serenity takes it to a level that makes them worry that she will not be able to keep this from escaping everyone's notice.

Roland the eldest son of the Duke of Mariton is an emotional man/ But he has mastered keeping this a secret. Now, it is time for him to find a bride. It appears his jealous younger brother Charles has also declared he will marry but beat his older brother to the alter.

This is a hilarious story of the quirkiest people possible. Their pets are also flawed and add to the entertainment level. Each addition to the series is better than the previous. It is a fast-paced entertaining afternoon read. I am looking forward to the rest of the series.

I received an ARC from NetGalley for an unbiased review.
1,412 reviews11 followers
June 26, 2025
Another Fun, Romantic, Page-Turning Read!

Another chaotic but engaging read as the Duke of Pelham latest daughter Serenity meets her one true love. As with all this series, nothing ever run smoothly and the secondary characters have you hooting with laughter.

Serenity is a sensitive soul and finds the perfect match in the Marquess of Thorpe, both kindred spirits but true love never runs smoothly as they both find out when his younger brother tries to interfere.

A heart-warming witty read with lots of loveable characters!

I voluntarily read and reviewed this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
Profile Image for Nancy.
1,378 reviews28 followers
June 27, 2025
Thank you NetGalley. Poor Serenity it is her turn to look for a husband. She has decided she is going to control her feelings at least until she finds a husband. Roland is being teased by his brother that he can't control his feelings. His brother has the problem of being unhappy that he wasn't born first and it affects his whole personality. Roland has the advantage of living two doors down from Serenity and has seen her outside enjoying the snow and he was really taken with her watching her. His brother was only interested because his brother was. Finally the thing with the dogs makes an end to the competition.
702 reviews
July 5, 2025
It's Serenity's turn to marry in this series about an unorthodox family. Serenity is the most emotional of the sisters. Her heart is on her sleeve and in the quick tears she always sheds. Enter Roland, a cinnamon roll if ever there was one. He not only approves of Serenity's tears but shares them. Although as a duke, he must hide them. I love this series not only because of the antics of each sister but also the secondary characters Ike the housekeeper, the high in step aunt and all the extras who bring joy, depth and humor to each story. I fully recommend this entire series to anyone who wants both historical romance, fun and lightheadedness.
201 reviews4 followers
July 7, 2025
So worth the wait!

I have to say this book came at just the right time. Its soothing and yet whimsical account of Serenity's love match brought me out of my depression and gladdened my heart. Love this whole family, especially the unflappable, clever and doting duke. Seven sisters, each allowed to be who she naturally is, bring heartwarming and frequent amusement. And the housekeeper and her crew just polish off the fun and depth.
So the wait begins again for the next installment in this favorite series.
6,143 reviews29 followers
July 5, 2025
Too emotional....

These two are way too emotional.
Serenity is anything but. She's definitely on the spectrum. Possibly bipolar? She is ruled by her emotions, laughing and crying. She is very exhausting.

Roland is a lot more interesting. He is seething with emotions but has learned to appear reserved and wound up tight. He is very emotional but at least has learned to hide it.

One of them needs a bit of common sense. Just saying.
123 reviews4 followers
August 17, 2025
This is the second book I have read about the Duke of Pelhams family and it was another classic the antics that the sisters and Mrs Right get up to are great fun and the Duke himself is a star. I can't wait to read Lady Valors story.
Nothing is straightforward for any of the sisters.
I only found this series from reading Lady Impatience but will search out the rest of the family.
Thank you to Netgalley and Dragonblade for my arc copy
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Profile Image for Jill.
527 reviews12 followers
June 19, 2025
The mayhem continues! Serenity's story was sure to be wildly amusing with her sensitivity issues. I greatly enjoyed the emphasis on the bees. The Marquess is the perfect foil for Serenity. Roland tries to hide his sensitivities. Lord Charles adds so much to this story. The Duke of Pelham always adds so much humor to this series. Can't wait for the next installment!
Profile Image for Mindy B (reader_of_the_lost_arcs) .
599 reviews16 followers
July 2, 2025
Serenity and Roland are precious. Absolutely precious. Two adorable people who are so soft hearted and wear their emotions on their sleeves. The entire family including the Duke are the best. Fact or Fib and all. And we are getting closer to my favorite sister Valor and her book.
Thank you to Dragonblade for the copy of this book. Opinions are my own.
Profile Image for Petula.
3,088 reviews87 followers
June 28, 2025
We get another visit to this marvellous eccentric family in this historical romance. If you need cheering up then any of the books in this series will do the trick. There are seven sisters, one mischievous duke and a territorial house keeper. They all serve to entertain us and anyone who is not in the line of fire. I can't wait for the next sister to make her debut.
Great fun.
Profile Image for Mock Turtle.
4 reviews
July 4, 2025
So much fun

I thoroughly enjoyed this instalment of Kate Archer’s series on a duke and his seven daughters. Serenity found her perfect match here. Three more to go, and I’m especially looking forward to Lady Valor’s book.
97 reviews
July 5, 2025
Fun Read

What a lovely lighthearted read this was. Serenity and Roland were perfect for each other. This was the first book of this series that I had read and I thoroughly enjoyed it. I must now go back and read the previous books which I’am really looking forward to.
Profile Image for Cynthia Houser.
1,603 reviews9 followers
July 7, 2025
Lady Dramatic

I thoroughly enjoyed this book! It is just as engaging as the other books in the series. There is nothing better than a book that can make you laugh out loud. The characters in this book/ series are very entertaining.
2,372 reviews6 followers
July 7, 2025
Serenity is daughter number 4 to get her season and find her man. She’s very concerned no man will tolerate her over sensitivities but she finds her man, an heir to a dukedom. Like her other sisters there are complications to overcome before getting to her hea
31 reviews1 follower
July 9, 2025
so beautiful it can make you weep!

My title will make sense once you have read the latest treasure from Kate Archer. This fourth book in the series “Of Senseless Complications” is charming, warm and full of moments of joy, and characters of humor and generosity. Treat yourself.
Profile Image for Sam Atkinson.
647 reviews8 followers
July 14, 2025
Another likeable tale in the ongoing story of the Nicolets. I liked both MCs. Didn’t like the butler part of it this time, I found it off putting. That aside Lady Valor continues to amuse so I’m looking forward to the rest of the series .
219 reviews
July 6, 2025
Another daughter married.

Were they too sensitive for each other? Would they be able to weather lying letters and dog kidnapping? You must read to find out.
171 reviews
July 7, 2025
Love .

I love this series so much like all of kate,s books full of laughter and joy . I cannot wait for the next book . Thank you again for a wonderful book .
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