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Seven Dukes of Sin #3
Duke of Pryde: Seven Dukes of Sin, Book 3
A marriage of convenience forces a powerful duke to choose between his ferocious pride and love that melts his icy heart.
Reputation is everything in the ton. And no one's is more pristine than Constantine Buccleigh, Duke of Pryde's. But when a blackmailer threatens to expose his devastating secret and have him lose everything, he’s forced to marry Miss Modesty Fairchild, a woman far below his station.
A budding archeologist, Modesty would rather dig in the dirt than host a gala. But a deathbed promise has left her the guardian of an orphaned baby. She’ll do anything to protect her little ward…even marry the heartless duke who made the most offensive proposal in the history of womenkind.
Lonely in Pryde’s elegant Mayfair home, she despises the cold, unyielding duke who expects her to become his perfect duchess. She loathes his arrogance. He resents her defiance. But as dance lessons and etiquette tutorials force them together, Modesty refuses to shrink beneath his iron control. And with every act of rebellion, she shatters his carefully crafted armor, revealing the lonely, broken man beneath.
Glimpsing the tender heart beneath her husband’s haughty exterior, Modesty dreams of a loving future.
But a villain in the shadows plots Pryde’s downfall. And as the Seven Dukes of Sin hunt for clues, the blackmailer raises the stakes.
Faced with a dreadful choice, will Constantine sacrifice his pride and his title for the wife and child he has come to treasure?
Read by the award-winning narrator, Audie finalist, and Earphones for excellence in narration winner, Shane East, and Justine Eyre, a classically trained actor and narrator has been honored to receive a coveted Audie Award and multiple AudioFile Earphones Awards.
Reputation is everything in the ton. And no one's is more pristine than Constantine Buccleigh, Duke of Pryde's. But when a blackmailer threatens to expose his devastating secret and have him lose everything, he’s forced to marry Miss Modesty Fairchild, a woman far below his station.
A budding archeologist, Modesty would rather dig in the dirt than host a gala. But a deathbed promise has left her the guardian of an orphaned baby. She’ll do anything to protect her little ward…even marry the heartless duke who made the most offensive proposal in the history of womenkind.
Lonely in Pryde’s elegant Mayfair home, she despises the cold, unyielding duke who expects her to become his perfect duchess. She loathes his arrogance. He resents her defiance. But as dance lessons and etiquette tutorials force them together, Modesty refuses to shrink beneath his iron control. And with every act of rebellion, she shatters his carefully crafted armor, revealing the lonely, broken man beneath.
Glimpsing the tender heart beneath her husband’s haughty exterior, Modesty dreams of a loving future.
But a villain in the shadows plots Pryde’s downfall. And as the Seven Dukes of Sin hunt for clues, the blackmailer raises the stakes.
Faced with a dreadful choice, will Constantine sacrifice his pride and his title for the wife and child he has come to treasure?
Read by the award-winning narrator, Audie finalist, and Earphones for excellence in narration winner, Shane East, and Justine Eyre, a classically trained actor and narrator has been honored to receive a coveted Audie Award and multiple AudioFile Earphones Awards.
Audible Audio
Published June 30, 2025
635 people are currently reading
340 people want to read
About the author
Mariah Stone
67 books753 followersWhen time travel romance writer Mariah Stone isn't busy writing strong modern women falling back through time into the arms of hot Vikings, Highlanders, and pirates, she chases after her toddler and spends romantic nights on North Sea with her husband. Mariah speaks six languages, loves Outlander, sushi and Thai food, and runs a local writer's group. Subscribe to Mariah's newsletter for a free time travel book today!
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 287 reviews
April 7, 2025
I enjoy this series so much!
This is the third entry to the Seven Dukes of Sin, and in this one we get to know Constantine
Buccleigh, Duke of Pryde and Miss Modesty Fairchild. They are brought together by an orphaned child and a will that has the possibility of blowing up Pryde's life. Modesty is going to do everything she can to protect the sweet little boy, even if that means tying herself to an arrogant cad like Constantine.
When he pressures her into a marriage of convenience for the best of the baby, Modesty believes he is the child's father. Constantine may not correct her assumption, but he could only wish for it to be that simple. Hiding an out of wedlock child is something many of the peerage deal with every day, and this is something much more complex.
Now they are in this together, for better or for worse. The time they spend together is fraught with temptation and it could lead both their hearts to ruin.
I really felt for Constantine and his dilemma. He is in a very difficult situation. I loved Modesty and her fierce protection of the little boy left in her charge. Her willingness to take on the ton's gossip and even the scrutiny of the Regent were very brave!
Justine Eyre and Shane East did a wonderful job bringing this audio book to life! They are so enjoyable to listen to. I'm looking forward to Eccess' story coming next.
4 stars
2.5 on the spice scale
*Thank you to Valentine PR and the author for an ALC of this title.*
This is the third entry to the Seven Dukes of Sin, and in this one we get to know Constantine
Buccleigh, Duke of Pryde and Miss Modesty Fairchild. They are brought together by an orphaned child and a will that has the possibility of blowing up Pryde's life. Modesty is going to do everything she can to protect the sweet little boy, even if that means tying herself to an arrogant cad like Constantine.
When he pressures her into a marriage of convenience for the best of the baby, Modesty believes he is the child's father. Constantine may not correct her assumption, but he could only wish for it to be that simple. Hiding an out of wedlock child is something many of the peerage deal with every day, and this is something much more complex.
Now they are in this together, for better or for worse. The time they spend together is fraught with temptation and it could lead both their hearts to ruin.
I really felt for Constantine and his dilemma. He is in a very difficult situation. I loved Modesty and her fierce protection of the little boy left in her charge. Her willingness to take on the ton's gossip and even the scrutiny of the Regent were very brave!
Justine Eyre and Shane East did a wonderful job bringing this audio book to life! They are so enjoyable to listen to. I'm looking forward to Eccess' story coming next.
4 stars
2.5 on the spice scale
*Thank you to Valentine PR and the author for an ALC of this title.*
February 15, 2025
Duke of Pryde is the first book I’ve read by Mariah Stone and I absolutely devoured it. Historical romance is not my go-to read (it’s something I dip into every once in a while), but I will definitely read more in this series because I loved this book.
Going into this I hadn’t paid much attention to what it was about. I’m a sucker for a beautiful cover and the micro-tropes drew me in. I’ve always been fascinated by the Seven deadly sins, and pride is supposed to be the deadliest of them all. It can cloud a persons judgement and ability to follow one’s moral code. Duke of Pryde executes this stunningly.
Constantine Buccleigh, Duke of Pryde is faced with some hard decisions when a blackmail letter turns up at his door. He’s a man that prides himself in appearing to be perfect, but the scandal threatening to be exposed means his place in Mayfair is at risk.
Modestly Fairchild is a woman brought up on the respect of doing the right thing, even if it means putting her own dreams on hold. Her place in society is beneath the likes of a Duke, but when an orphaned child is placed in her care she puts her own wants aside to do what’s best for the child.
A marriage of convenience is agreed upon but will the Dukes pride be their downfall?
✅ Marriage of Convenience
✅ A mystery to solve
✅ London, Mayfair
✅ uppercase society
✅ Scandal
✅ Pride deadly sin
✅Set in the past
✅ Regency
✅ Slow burn
✅ Spicy scenes
Reading for RARE
ARC, however I’ll download on KU once it is released on the 25th February.
Going into this I hadn’t paid much attention to what it was about. I’m a sucker for a beautiful cover and the micro-tropes drew me in. I’ve always been fascinated by the Seven deadly sins, and pride is supposed to be the deadliest of them all. It can cloud a persons judgement and ability to follow one’s moral code. Duke of Pryde executes this stunningly.
Constantine Buccleigh, Duke of Pryde is faced with some hard decisions when a blackmail letter turns up at his door. He’s a man that prides himself in appearing to be perfect, but the scandal threatening to be exposed means his place in Mayfair is at risk.
Modestly Fairchild is a woman brought up on the respect of doing the right thing, even if it means putting her own dreams on hold. Her place in society is beneath the likes of a Duke, but when an orphaned child is placed in her care she puts her own wants aside to do what’s best for the child.
A marriage of convenience is agreed upon but will the Dukes pride be their downfall?
✅ Marriage of Convenience
✅ A mystery to solve
✅ London, Mayfair
✅ uppercase society
✅ Scandal
✅ Pride deadly sin
✅Set in the past
✅ Regency
✅ Slow burn
✅ Spicy scenes
Reading for RARE
ARC, however I’ll download on KU once it is released on the 25th February.
March 8, 2025
This is book 3 in the Seven Dukes of Sins series!
I am so addicted to this series! They each have their own storyline but it's so much fun reading them in order.
Constantine Buccleigh is the Duke of Pryde and he is being blackmailed. He does not know who it is but he has a lot to lose if they are found out.
When he meets the beautiful Miss. Modesty he proses a marriage of convenience. As they come to know each other they begin to like each other.
There is tension and the unknown as the story progresses. This is such a wonderful and well written storyline. With great attention to details and I love details!
And the gorgeously handsome other Dukes come together to help Pryde! They are all sinfully delicious and are like brothers with each other. This story has steamy love scenes. It also has a beautiful in so many ways happily ever!
I enjoy reading Historical Romance books and I do not expect them to be extremely historically accurate. This series is such a must read!
I am so addicted to this series! They each have their own storyline but it's so much fun reading them in order.
Constantine Buccleigh is the Duke of Pryde and he is being blackmailed. He does not know who it is but he has a lot to lose if they are found out.
When he meets the beautiful Miss. Modesty he proses a marriage of convenience. As they come to know each other they begin to like each other.
There is tension and the unknown as the story progresses. This is such a wonderful and well written storyline. With great attention to details and I love details!
And the gorgeously handsome other Dukes come together to help Pryde! They are all sinfully delicious and are like brothers with each other. This story has steamy love scenes. It also has a beautiful in so many ways happily ever!
I enjoy reading Historical Romance books and I do not expect them to be extremely historically accurate. This series is such a must read!
April 21, 2025
• Marriage of Convenience
• Historical romance with spice
• Fish out of water
• Unexpected Guardianship
• He washes her
• Found family
• My wife
🎧Audiobook review🎧
Third person
Dual Narration
Narrated by Shane East and Justine Eyre
This book is the 3rd book in the Seven Dukes of Sin series. Following Constantine and Modesty, this is a perfect example of opposites attract. Which made this marriage of convenience very interesting! Constantine was used to the way his world ran while Modesty had a lot she had to adjust to and navigate.
After reading Duke of Luhst, my intro into Mariah's Seven Dukes of Sin series, I have been hooked on this series and Mariah's writing ever since. I ran to read the first book in the series right after finishing the second book! The wonderful thing about this series is it can absolutely be read as standalones. But together you meet each of the Dukes. I was so excited for Constantine book and Mariah did not disappoint! Especially narrated by Shane East and Justine Eyre. These did such a wonderful job bringing both of these characters to life. Honestly, this whole series has been INCREDIBLE narrated by them! I hope that Mariah continues to have them perform this series. They're a wonderful duo and have done each a great job with each of her characters in this series!
This book was full of the perfect amount of angst and emotions following the loss of Augustine's mother and how they were going to navigate live together raising him!
One of my favorite things about this series is the way Mariah incorporates their names into their personalities. Its unbelievably creative and so spot on!
I cant wait for the next book in this series! 🎉
• Historical romance with spice
• Fish out of water
• Unexpected Guardianship
• He washes her
• Found family
• My wife
🎧Audiobook review🎧
Third person
Dual Narration
Narrated by Shane East and Justine Eyre
This book is the 3rd book in the Seven Dukes of Sin series. Following Constantine and Modesty, this is a perfect example of opposites attract. Which made this marriage of convenience very interesting! Constantine was used to the way his world ran while Modesty had a lot she had to adjust to and navigate.
After reading Duke of Luhst, my intro into Mariah's Seven Dukes of Sin series, I have been hooked on this series and Mariah's writing ever since. I ran to read the first book in the series right after finishing the second book! The wonderful thing about this series is it can absolutely be read as standalones. But together you meet each of the Dukes. I was so excited for Constantine book and Mariah did not disappoint! Especially narrated by Shane East and Justine Eyre. These did such a wonderful job bringing both of these characters to life. Honestly, this whole series has been INCREDIBLE narrated by them! I hope that Mariah continues to have them perform this series. They're a wonderful duo and have done each a great job with each of her characters in this series!
This book was full of the perfect amount of angst and emotions following the loss of Augustine's mother and how they were going to navigate live together raising him!
One of my favorite things about this series is the way Mariah incorporates their names into their personalities. Its unbelievably creative and so spot on!
I cant wait for the next book in this series! 🎉
April 4, 2025
Duke of Pryde is book 3 in the Seven Dukes of Sin series by Mariah Stone, this is a spin on the seven deadly sins so the heroes are the dukes of (Rath, Pryde, Luhst, etc). This is a marriage of convenience, historical romance!
Modesty is a budding archaeologist and Constantine is a Duke who wants to keep his pristine reputation. But Modesty, the vicar’s daughter, shakes things up for him when she shows up on his doorstep with a baby she’s the guardian of saying the baby is his (with another woman). Constantine ends up offering up a marriage of convenience quickly to keep his reputation from being tarnished (for his own reasons).
So I like a class difference romance and this definitely has that. The whole series being a spin on the seven deadly sins makes for some funny/punny character names. I liked the mentions of Modesty (and the other heroines of the series) having scientific pursuits/passions. But I wasn’t super in love with this one. Early on into their marriage, he sends the baby away in the night and upsets her (because he doesn’t want his reputation rocked in any way), and he just never really got on my good side. 😅 Now the audiobook was fantastic, this is narrated by Shane East and historical romance narration queen, Justine Eyre! I loveeee historical romances so much, so while this wasn’t a new favorite, it made for a quick listen!
I received an audio ALC, all thoughts in this review are my own.
Modesty is a budding archaeologist and Constantine is a Duke who wants to keep his pristine reputation. But Modesty, the vicar’s daughter, shakes things up for him when she shows up on his doorstep with a baby she’s the guardian of saying the baby is his (with another woman). Constantine ends up offering up a marriage of convenience quickly to keep his reputation from being tarnished (for his own reasons).
So I like a class difference romance and this definitely has that. The whole series being a spin on the seven deadly sins makes for some funny/punny character names. I liked the mentions of Modesty (and the other heroines of the series) having scientific pursuits/passions. But I wasn’t super in love with this one. Early on into their marriage, he sends the baby away in the night and upsets her (because he doesn’t want his reputation rocked in any way), and he just never really got on my good side. 😅 Now the audiobook was fantastic, this is narrated by Shane East and historical romance narration queen, Justine Eyre! I loveeee historical romances so much, so while this wasn’t a new favorite, it made for a quick listen!
I received an audio ALC, all thoughts in this review are my own.
April 16, 2025
This is the third book in the Seven Dukes of Sin series but my first book by Mariah Stone. I do wish I had read the others first. There were parts of the book that I felt overwhelmed by all the characters and their backstorys.
Constantine and Modesty are a fantastic
pairing. She's the poor daughter of a vicar
and he's a duke who has always had
everything. The only thing he had to work for was his father's love and acceptance. He may seem cold and aloof, but deep down, he wants to be loved. She spends her time with charitable endeavors and doesn't know how to be the perfect duchess. So, swoon worthy!
I loved this story and absolutely enjoyed the audiobook version.The narration was perfect! These two narrators were amazing together and just right for historical romance. Shane East and Justine Eyre always do a fantastic job! They're two of my very favorite narrators.
The seven deadly sins premise of this series is so great. I'm intrigued by all of these dukes and can't wait to read the rest of the series.
I received a complimentary copy of this audiobook. Opinions expressed in this review are my own.
Constantine and Modesty are a fantastic
pairing. She's the poor daughter of a vicar
and he's a duke who has always had
everything. The only thing he had to work for was his father's love and acceptance. He may seem cold and aloof, but deep down, he wants to be loved. She spends her time with charitable endeavors and doesn't know how to be the perfect duchess. So, swoon worthy!
I loved this story and absolutely enjoyed the audiobook version.The narration was perfect! These two narrators were amazing together and just right for historical romance. Shane East and Justine Eyre always do a fantastic job! They're two of my very favorite narrators.
The seven deadly sins premise of this series is so great. I'm intrigued by all of these dukes and can't wait to read the rest of the series.
I received a complimentary copy of this audiobook. Opinions expressed in this review are my own.
February 16, 2025
This is the second book I've read in the Seven Dukes of Sin series and it totally swept me off my feet. It has all the elements that kept me turning pages including swoon-worthy romance, rich character dynamics, and challenging life lessons.
Constantine Buccleigh, Duke of Pryde, is facing a crisis when a blackmail letter drops onto his doorstep along with an orphaned baby and his beautiful guardian, Modesty Fairchild. It’s a tale of scandal that threatens to knock him off his pedestal in Mayfair, and an unconventional marriage of convenience that disrupts his sense of self. For someone who is all about maintaining the appearance of perfection, this is a nightmare for the Duke.
Constantine is prideful and swimming in all that aristocratic indifference. But what really grabbed my attention was his vulnerability that he held in check. Watching him doubt his decisions and learn a thing or two about selflessness and humility was a beautiful and heartbreaking sight.
Modesty has been raised to prioritize principles over extravagance. She is a strong woman who wears her morals like a badge of honor, even if it means postponing her own dreams. Life takes a twist when an orphaned child suddenly requires her care. Modesty’s heart is in the right place, but it certainly complicates things when she finds herself entangled with a duke who is not all what he seems.
Let’s not forget the friendships in this tale. Camaraderie and loyalty are important among the seven dukes! The bonds that are formed between characters are beautifully crafted, proving that true friends are worth their weight in gold.
Ms. Stone captures the essence of the human spirit struggling with pride and the pursuit of authenticity and happiness, all wrapped in a delightful romantic package. I look forward to book 4 in the series.
If you’re looking for a read that tugs at your heartstrings and showcases the real struggles of loyalty and love, I highly recommend picking this one up. Trust me, you won’t regret it!
Thank you to Ms. Stone for giving me the opportunity to read this book with no expectation of a positive review.
For more of my reviews, visit The Eclectic Review.
Constantine Buccleigh, Duke of Pryde, is facing a crisis when a blackmail letter drops onto his doorstep along with an orphaned baby and his beautiful guardian, Modesty Fairchild. It’s a tale of scandal that threatens to knock him off his pedestal in Mayfair, and an unconventional marriage of convenience that disrupts his sense of self. For someone who is all about maintaining the appearance of perfection, this is a nightmare for the Duke.
Constantine is prideful and swimming in all that aristocratic indifference. But what really grabbed my attention was his vulnerability that he held in check. Watching him doubt his decisions and learn a thing or two about selflessness and humility was a beautiful and heartbreaking sight.
Modesty has been raised to prioritize principles over extravagance. She is a strong woman who wears her morals like a badge of honor, even if it means postponing her own dreams. Life takes a twist when an orphaned child suddenly requires her care. Modesty’s heart is in the right place, but it certainly complicates things when she finds herself entangled with a duke who is not all what he seems.
Let’s not forget the friendships in this tale. Camaraderie and loyalty are important among the seven dukes! The bonds that are formed between characters are beautifully crafted, proving that true friends are worth their weight in gold.
Ms. Stone captures the essence of the human spirit struggling with pride and the pursuit of authenticity and happiness, all wrapped in a delightful romantic package. I look forward to book 4 in the series.
If you’re looking for a read that tugs at your heartstrings and showcases the real struggles of loyalty and love, I highly recommend picking this one up. Trust me, you won’t regret it!
Thank you to Ms. Stone for giving me the opportunity to read this book with no expectation of a positive review.
For more of my reviews, visit The Eclectic Review.
March 8, 2025
I love a good marriage of convenience and this one didn’t disappoint. Mariah Stone has pretty much become an auto-read author for me. I love that these books each are about a different couple and each have their own unique stories. This one has blackmail, secrets, and of course spice. If you are looking for an easy to read historical romance, then definitely check this one out!
April 15, 2025
⭐⭐⭐⭐
🌶️🌶️.5
Duke of Pryde is the 3rd book in the Seven Dukes of Sin series, but it was my first time reading Mariah Stone. I have seen this series everywhere lately, and I was excited to try a new historical romance author.
Constantine Buccleigh is the Duke of Pryde, and he is currently being blackmailed. Someone is threatening to expose a big secret that could destroy his reputation and standing. He receives a letter from Modesty Fairchild, who claims to have his baby. He thinks she may be a part of the scheme and wants nothing to do with the baby since it is not his child. Modesty promised the dying mother she would be the child’s guardian and protect him. Later, Constantine realizes he needs to take on the child as his ward, for reasons, and talks Modesty into a marriage of convenience.
Constantine and Modesty have a rough start, but they definitely have chemistry. I enjoyed the slow burn between them and how hard Constantine falls for her. Modesty was such a strong and smart heroine. She worked hard to become a duchess, and I loved how devoted she was to the baby.
I’m interested in continuing with the series, especially for Duke of Eccess.
🎧 Audiobook Review 🎧
This audiobook was narrated by Shane East and Justine Eyre. Shane always delivers a sexy and sophisticated performance. I love his accent and could listen to him all day. Justine Eyre never fails to deliver with historical romance narration.
Thank you to Blush Audio Promotions for providing the ARC.
🌶️🌶️.5
Duke of Pryde is the 3rd book in the Seven Dukes of Sin series, but it was my first time reading Mariah Stone. I have seen this series everywhere lately, and I was excited to try a new historical romance author.
Constantine Buccleigh is the Duke of Pryde, and he is currently being blackmailed. Someone is threatening to expose a big secret that could destroy his reputation and standing. He receives a letter from Modesty Fairchild, who claims to have his baby. He thinks she may be a part of the scheme and wants nothing to do with the baby since it is not his child. Modesty promised the dying mother she would be the child’s guardian and protect him. Later, Constantine realizes he needs to take on the child as his ward, for reasons, and talks Modesty into a marriage of convenience.
Constantine and Modesty have a rough start, but they definitely have chemistry. I enjoyed the slow burn between them and how hard Constantine falls for her. Modesty was such a strong and smart heroine. She worked hard to become a duchess, and I loved how devoted she was to the baby.
I’m interested in continuing with the series, especially for Duke of Eccess.
🎧 Audiobook Review 🎧
This audiobook was narrated by Shane East and Justine Eyre. Shane always delivers a sexy and sophisticated performance. I love his accent and could listen to him all day. Justine Eyre never fails to deliver with historical romance narration.
Thank you to Blush Audio Promotions for providing the ARC.
February 26, 2025
4.5 ⭐️
Constantine, Duke of Pryde, is being blackmailed. But by who, he can’t quite figure out. Is it an old enemy? Someone from his past? Is it the virginal vicar’s daughter who comes to him with a baby in her arms, claiming it’s his? Worried his true secret will be revealed, he proposes a marriage of (in)convenience to Modesty to keep the babe close and her even closer. Because despite his distaste for her station in life, he’s intrigued by her in a way no other woman has captivated him. Modesty, who has never done anything truly for herself, feels guilt over her friend’s death and to honor the pact she made with the baby’s mother on her deathbed, she reluctantly agrees to the marriage.
Constantine & Modesty
This book does a really good job of this enemies to lovers things in the beginning because you can really understand how much Modesty detests Constantine despite her growing attraction. I appreciate when enemies to lovers feels the right balance of “I legit dislike this person” and “but I still want to jump their bones” and this book nails that. Constantine was an absolute jerk at the start of this and I was so looking forward to this foolish pompous man getting humbled. I know we’re supposed to be on his side (and I totally am) but we all know he needed to get wrecked to become the true hero he is. So although I was screaming at this idiot throughout 75% of this book, I was also rooting for his a** so hard.
There was just the right amount of thrills and mystery as Constantine tried to uncover his blackmailer and the last quarter of the book had me on the edge of my seat. I really liked how the story concluded and the twists and turns along the way. The growth for Constantine was huge, and while I wish Modesty had a bit more of her character explored her selfless wishes for Augustus always made her such a lovable character. I’m super excited for more of the Dukes of Sin! Particularly our big guy Excess who just needs the perfect governess who he won’t seduce (but obvi will fall in love and seduce anyway because this is a romance people)! Mariah Stone is creating such a wonderful found family in this world ❤️
Thank you to the author for an eARC of this book! All opinions expressed are my own.
Constantine, Duke of Pryde, is being blackmailed. But by who, he can’t quite figure out. Is it an old enemy? Someone from his past? Is it the virginal vicar’s daughter who comes to him with a baby in her arms, claiming it’s his? Worried his true secret will be revealed, he proposes a marriage of (in)convenience to Modesty to keep the babe close and her even closer. Because despite his distaste for her station in life, he’s intrigued by her in a way no other woman has captivated him. Modesty, who has never done anything truly for herself, feels guilt over her friend’s death and to honor the pact she made with the baby’s mother on her deathbed, she reluctantly agrees to the marriage.
Constantine & Modesty
This book does a really good job of this enemies to lovers things in the beginning because you can really understand how much Modesty detests Constantine despite her growing attraction. I appreciate when enemies to lovers feels the right balance of “I legit dislike this person” and “but I still want to jump their bones” and this book nails that. Constantine was an absolute jerk at the start of this and I was so looking forward to this foolish pompous man getting humbled. I know we’re supposed to be on his side (and I totally am) but we all know he needed to get wrecked to become the true hero he is. So although I was screaming at this idiot throughout 75% of this book, I was also rooting for his a** so hard.
There was just the right amount of thrills and mystery as Constantine tried to uncover his blackmailer and the last quarter of the book had me on the edge of my seat. I really liked how the story concluded and the twists and turns along the way. The growth for Constantine was huge, and while I wish Modesty had a bit more of her character explored her selfless wishes for Augustus always made her such a lovable character. I’m super excited for more of the Dukes of Sin! Particularly our big guy Excess who just needs the perfect governess who he won’t seduce (but obvi will fall in love and seduce anyway because this is a romance people)! Mariah Stone is creating such a wonderful found family in this world ❤️
Thank you to the author for an eARC of this book! All opinions expressed are my own.
April 4, 2025
a really fun historical romance
I loved how this romance was historically placed without being overly overdone. Or was amazing. Modesty and Constatine. They are just amazing together … thing Ana Huangs seven deadly sin billionaires but make it historical. And the play on named obsessed. Reading the back list soon.
I loved how this romance was historically placed without being overly overdone. Or was amazing. Modesty and Constatine. They are just amazing together … thing Ana Huangs seven deadly sin billionaires but make it historical. And the play on named obsessed. Reading the back list soon.
February 15, 2025
Will he make the right decision?
This is book 3 of the Seven Dukes Of Sin series of which I’m thoroughly enjoying and have absolutely loved each book.
This story centres around Constantine Buccleigh, The Duke of Pryde and Modesty Fairchild, a budding archeologist who is far below his station.
Circumstances beyond his control have Constantine offering his hand in marriage to her and Modesty accepting.
To start, their relationship is tenuous even though there is an initial attraction on both sides.
Eventually their feelings begin to shift and both let down their guards.
Constantine holds far too many secrets though and the person that threatens him is growing bolder by the day.
Will Constantine put aside his pride and reveal all his dark secrets to his beautiful new bride?
Or will he break her heart and lose her forever?
With danger coming from different fronts will he be able to salvage his livelihood and also win the Duchess’s heart?
Fantastic storyline and characters that I fell in love with.
I love that the seven Dukes, plus those that have partners are in every story and I’m looking forward to reading the next Dukes struggles and meeting his love match.
This is book 3 of the Seven Dukes Of Sin series of which I’m thoroughly enjoying and have absolutely loved each book.
This story centres around Constantine Buccleigh, The Duke of Pryde and Modesty Fairchild, a budding archeologist who is far below his station.
Circumstances beyond his control have Constantine offering his hand in marriage to her and Modesty accepting.
To start, their relationship is tenuous even though there is an initial attraction on both sides.
Eventually their feelings begin to shift and both let down their guards.
Constantine holds far too many secrets though and the person that threatens him is growing bolder by the day.
Will Constantine put aside his pride and reveal all his dark secrets to his beautiful new bride?
Or will he break her heart and lose her forever?
With danger coming from different fronts will he be able to salvage his livelihood and also win the Duchess’s heart?
Fantastic storyline and characters that I fell in love with.
I love that the seven Dukes, plus those that have partners are in every story and I’m looking forward to reading the next Dukes struggles and meeting his love match.
March 3, 2025
Thanks to BookSprout for a copy of this ebook and this is my freely given opinion.
Well, this story definitely leans into the proverb "Pride goes before destruction, a haughty spirit before a fall." This is the third book of the Dukes of Sin series, and the story of Constantine, Duke of Pryde. Constantine is certainly prideful, and very aware of his demeanor, status, esteem, and place in Society. But he wears his pride as so much armour. As his story unfolds, cracks break open in that armour as Pryde finds all that he thinks he holds dear, including his very identity threatened. But as those cracks appear, they expose his deep-seated vulnerabilities, and in coming to know what is really behind that haughty exterior, he becomes a person that others can connect with more.
Pryde's pristine reputation and his very identity is threatened when a blackmailer finds his deepest secrets and threatens to expose them. In order to control the situation, and protect his dukedom, Pryde finds himself forced to marry Modesty, a woman deeply connected to one of his secrets, but as the daughter of a country vicar, far below him in status.
But as Pryde works hard to save his reputation and image from the blackmailer's threats, he finds himself growing to care for Modesty and his growing family, and discovering that perhaps there is more to value in life than pride and image. However, he is constantly torn between his years-held pride and beliefs, and his newly discovered desire for more, and his growing relationship is threatened when he frequently fails to make the right choices.
I did enjoy the cracking of Pryde's armor, and showing the flawed man beneath. He was unlikeable in his haughtiness before, but that wall of prideful haughtiness appears to be have been built up over the years to hide his own lack of confidence and sense of deservedness because of other family issues. That vulnerability when he finally was willing to let go of his facade made this relationship with Modesty more believable and appealing.
4 stars out of 5
Well, this story definitely leans into the proverb "Pride goes before destruction, a haughty spirit before a fall." This is the third book of the Dukes of Sin series, and the story of Constantine, Duke of Pryde. Constantine is certainly prideful, and very aware of his demeanor, status, esteem, and place in Society. But he wears his pride as so much armour. As his story unfolds, cracks break open in that armour as Pryde finds all that he thinks he holds dear, including his very identity threatened. But as those cracks appear, they expose his deep-seated vulnerabilities, and in coming to know what is really behind that haughty exterior, he becomes a person that others can connect with more.
Pryde's pristine reputation and his very identity is threatened when a blackmailer finds his deepest secrets and threatens to expose them. In order to control the situation, and protect his dukedom, Pryde finds himself forced to marry Modesty, a woman deeply connected to one of his secrets, but as the daughter of a country vicar, far below him in status.
But as Pryde works hard to save his reputation and image from the blackmailer's threats, he finds himself growing to care for Modesty and his growing family, and discovering that perhaps there is more to value in life than pride and image. However, he is constantly torn between his years-held pride and beliefs, and his newly discovered desire for more, and his growing relationship is threatened when he frequently fails to make the right choices.
I did enjoy the cracking of Pryde's armor, and showing the flawed man beneath. He was unlikeable in his haughtiness before, but that wall of prideful haughtiness appears to be have been built up over the years to hide his own lack of confidence and sense of deservedness because of other family issues. That vulnerability when he finally was willing to let go of his facade made this relationship with Modesty more believable and appealing.
4 stars out of 5
April 10, 2025
I’m in love with this series and probably Mariah as well. This was probably, out of the 3 books, the most dramatic of them all. The secrets! The Drama! The danger! Loved it all!
The Duke of Pryde lives up to his name, it’s been beaten into him his own life. But now that both his parents are gone and he is the perfect Duke, all of it could come crumbling down around him. In order to further hide his secrets Pryde decides it’s time to marry.
Modesty is the humble daughter of a vicar and she is everything Pryde is not. It’s probably why he falls for her so quickly. He easily convinces her to marry him but it takes much longer for him to capture her heart.
I love this series! I can’t wait for the next one! Oh and the narrators for these books are my favorites!
Oh Mariah! Which Duke is next? I’m guessing Excess and the trope would be a governess and the Duke?!
The Duke of Pryde lives up to his name, it’s been beaten into him his own life. But now that both his parents are gone and he is the perfect Duke, all of it could come crumbling down around him. In order to further hide his secrets Pryde decides it’s time to marry.
Modesty is the humble daughter of a vicar and she is everything Pryde is not. It’s probably why he falls for her so quickly. He easily convinces her to marry him but it takes much longer for him to capture her heart.
I love this series! I can’t wait for the next one! Oh and the narrators for these books are my favorites!
Oh Mariah! Which Duke is next? I’m guessing Excess and the trope would be a governess and the Duke?!
February 17, 2025
An advanced reader’s copy of this book was offered to me by Grey's Promotions on behalf of Mariah Stone. My hereby review is spoiler-free and completely honest.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️.5
While Mariah Stone is a new to me author, she’s not a newcomer in the job at all, she has been writing historical romances since 2019 and in the lapse of roughly 6 years she has built an extended and varied bibliography with Higlanders, Vikings and English dukes and nobles as heroes and heroines of her many series.
“Duke of Pryde” is her latest book which will come out very soon. It is the third book of her “Seven Dukes of Sin” series which is guided, as you might guess, by the seven deadly sins. Since this is my first book of hers that I read I won’t be able to talk about the development of her writing but I can tell you this, I have adored this book despite that the main plot is about keeping secrets and I hate the miscommunication trope, usually.
Constantine, the Duke of Pryde, has lots of secrets that he has mostly inherited from both his parents. But above all he has inherited an iron will of being always proper, and never let scandal taint his name or worse, his title. One day a young woman knocks on his door claiming that the baby she’s carrying in her arms is his. Knowing himself he’s sure that the young woman is lying. But in less than two days he receives a letter from an anonymous source trying to blackmail him for having a baby out of wedlock and letting the mother die in chilbirth. In that moment he finds the woman who’s looking after the baby and to save himself from scandal, he asks her to marry him for the sake of the baby.
Modesty is the young daughter of a poor vicar whose life is dedicated to helping others. That’s why when a pregnant woman claiming that her husband is dead and she has nowhere to go, they take her in. The baby is born and the poor mother on her deathbed confesses that the baby is the heir of the Duke of Pryde. Modesty swears to protect and look after that child no matter what, that’s why when the Duke comes back to her proposing marriage, she says yes. For the baby’s sake.
What none of them could imagine is that the moment they said “I do” their destines would be only one, together with the little one, forever. But before that there’s a long way of secrets to keep, rumors to navigate and the massive pride that was instilled on Constantine must disappear. How? Read this book to know.
Once I started reading this book I could not put it down. I fell instantly in love with both Modesty and Constantine, and I was on their side from the first word. It’s true that secrets and ‘on dits’ have a lot of weight in this book and miscommunication especially on Constantine’s part, was key to the development of the story, but they felt so human, so full of dreams and fears, strengths and weaknesses that the lack of total honesty with one another didn’t feel unreasonable. They’re truly honest about who they are to one another but not who they represent to the rest of the world and that’s why it works, mostly because the origins of those secrets lie in fears and uncertainties. Pryde’s pride comes from pain and I could not but understand where he stood. Once again love is thicker than blood, stronger that lies and harder than pride so, of course Modesty will love Constantine no matter what and he will love her in return, because she’s the one who deserves it all, she deserves everything.
Of course there’s so much more to them and to their story and my only recommendation is that you read this book and get to know them. The pages will fly in your hands and you will finish it before you know it! It won’t disappoint you, trust me.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️.5
While Mariah Stone is a new to me author, she’s not a newcomer in the job at all, she has been writing historical romances since 2019 and in the lapse of roughly 6 years she has built an extended and varied bibliography with Higlanders, Vikings and English dukes and nobles as heroes and heroines of her many series.
“Duke of Pryde” is her latest book which will come out very soon. It is the third book of her “Seven Dukes of Sin” series which is guided, as you might guess, by the seven deadly sins. Since this is my first book of hers that I read I won’t be able to talk about the development of her writing but I can tell you this, I have adored this book despite that the main plot is about keeping secrets and I hate the miscommunication trope, usually.
Constantine, the Duke of Pryde, has lots of secrets that he has mostly inherited from both his parents. But above all he has inherited an iron will of being always proper, and never let scandal taint his name or worse, his title. One day a young woman knocks on his door claiming that the baby she’s carrying in her arms is his. Knowing himself he’s sure that the young woman is lying. But in less than two days he receives a letter from an anonymous source trying to blackmail him for having a baby out of wedlock and letting the mother die in chilbirth. In that moment he finds the woman who’s looking after the baby and to save himself from scandal, he asks her to marry him for the sake of the baby.
Modesty is the young daughter of a poor vicar whose life is dedicated to helping others. That’s why when a pregnant woman claiming that her husband is dead and she has nowhere to go, they take her in. The baby is born and the poor mother on her deathbed confesses that the baby is the heir of the Duke of Pryde. Modesty swears to protect and look after that child no matter what, that’s why when the Duke comes back to her proposing marriage, she says yes. For the baby’s sake.
What none of them could imagine is that the moment they said “I do” their destines would be only one, together with the little one, forever. But before that there’s a long way of secrets to keep, rumors to navigate and the massive pride that was instilled on Constantine must disappear. How? Read this book to know.
Once I started reading this book I could not put it down. I fell instantly in love with both Modesty and Constantine, and I was on their side from the first word. It’s true that secrets and ‘on dits’ have a lot of weight in this book and miscommunication especially on Constantine’s part, was key to the development of the story, but they felt so human, so full of dreams and fears, strengths and weaknesses that the lack of total honesty with one another didn’t feel unreasonable. They’re truly honest about who they are to one another but not who they represent to the rest of the world and that’s why it works, mostly because the origins of those secrets lie in fears and uncertainties. Pryde’s pride comes from pain and I could not but understand where he stood. Once again love is thicker than blood, stronger that lies and harder than pride so, of course Modesty will love Constantine no matter what and he will love her in return, because she’s the one who deserves it all, she deserves everything.
Of course there’s so much more to them and to their story and my only recommendation is that you read this book and get to know them. The pages will fly in your hands and you will finish it before you know it! It won’t disappoint you, trust me.
February 16, 2025
Thank you so so much to the author for sharing an ARC of this book with me !!!
“Miss Fairchild, if you do not concede to give me the baby, I have no choice but to ask you to be my wife”
“Was there a beating heart in this man of stone?”
“She was …
His. His to protect. His to cherish. His to crave. He may not deserve her, but she was his wife”
I am absolutely head over heels in love with the Seven Dukes of Sin !!! Every book is another obsessions. Every book is another enchanting and thrilling love story to fall far. This time around we do have enemies to lovers and marriage of convenience but when the “my wife” trope hits … all hell breaks loose!!!! There’s nothing I love more than reading a story from a regency setting written by this author. She always manages to make me feel all sorts of feelings but mostly hot and bothered (iykyk) from the very beginning until the very end. And Constantine … oh boy, I did need to read his story!!! He is possessive in a way both of his previous friends were but detained in a way only his pride could explain. But when he decides to stop caring … that’s when magic happens !!! And Modesty … I love her !!! I love the fact that every single one of our FMCs has a name that can counterbalance the duke they will marry (Patience, Chastity and Modesty for Rath, Luhst and Pryde) … the author is so ingenious !!! Anyway, I’m digressing. Did I mentioned that I loved this book? I’ll say it again. I LOVED IT. I am absolutely obsessed with it!! And, as for the previous ones, I can’t wait for the other dukes to have their time !!!!
“So innocent … so pure. Mine. Mine alone”
“I’d rather suffer a thousand wounds myself than cause you a moment’s pain”
“Miss Fairchild, if you do not concede to give me the baby, I have no choice but to ask you to be my wife”
“Was there a beating heart in this man of stone?”
“She was …
His. His to protect. His to cherish. His to crave. He may not deserve her, but she was his wife”
I am absolutely head over heels in love with the Seven Dukes of Sin !!! Every book is another obsessions. Every book is another enchanting and thrilling love story to fall far. This time around we do have enemies to lovers and marriage of convenience but when the “my wife” trope hits … all hell breaks loose!!!! There’s nothing I love more than reading a story from a regency setting written by this author. She always manages to make me feel all sorts of feelings but mostly hot and bothered (iykyk) from the very beginning until the very end. And Constantine … oh boy, I did need to read his story!!! He is possessive in a way both of his previous friends were but detained in a way only his pride could explain. But when he decides to stop caring … that’s when magic happens !!! And Modesty … I love her !!! I love the fact that every single one of our FMCs has a name that can counterbalance the duke they will marry (Patience, Chastity and Modesty for Rath, Luhst and Pryde) … the author is so ingenious !!! Anyway, I’m digressing. Did I mentioned that I loved this book? I’ll say it again. I LOVED IT. I am absolutely obsessed with it!! And, as for the previous ones, I can’t wait for the other dukes to have their time !!!!
“So innocent … so pure. Mine. Mine alone”
“I’d rather suffer a thousand wounds myself than cause you a moment’s pain”
April 27, 2025
Duke of Pryde, the third book in Mariah Stone's Seven Dukes of Sin series, is another fabulous addition to this series, with Constantine and Modesty quickly becoming my favorite couple among the other compelling characters we've met so far in previous books. I'm still quite partial to Lucien and Chastity from Book 2, but Constantine and Modesty's story is beautifully written and well-plotted, both characters undergoing growth and maturation as the story progresses. At times, it is a bit angsty, but Constantine is such a good man, despite his pride and shortcomings, that it's impossible not to root for him and Modesty to get their happy ending.
Perhaps my only less-than-stellar comment is the epilogue was a bit too long, in my opinion .
Nevertheless, the author does a remarkable job of showing the depth of the connection between the seven dukes, who rally for each other, their bonds strong and deep. Their presence as found family adds another dimension to these books, and I am looking forward to reading the love stories for the remaining four dukes. I particularly appreciate how loyal Dorian, the Duke of Rath, and Lucien, the Duke of Luhst, are to Constantine, just as he has always been to them during their own trials. They are truly thick as thieves!
4.75 stars rounded up to 5
I received an Advanced Reader Copy from Booksprout for free, and I am leaving my review voluntarily.
Perhaps my only less-than-stellar comment is the epilogue was a bit too long, in my opinion .
Nevertheless, the author does a remarkable job of showing the depth of the connection between the seven dukes, who rally for each other, their bonds strong and deep. Their presence as found family adds another dimension to these books, and I am looking forward to reading the love stories for the remaining four dukes. I particularly appreciate how loyal Dorian, the Duke of Rath, and Lucien, the Duke of Luhst, are to Constantine, just as he has always been to them during their own trials. They are truly thick as thieves!
4.75 stars rounded up to 5
I received an Advanced Reader Copy from Booksprout for free, and I am leaving my review voluntarily.
February 18, 2025
3.5 Stars
Constantine Buccleigh, Duke of Pryde's has a pristine reputation but when a blackmailer threatens to expose his devastating secret and have him lose everything, he’s forced to marry Miss Modesty Fairchild, a woman far below his station. A budding archaeologist, Modesty would rather dig in the dirt than host a gala. But a deathbed promise has left her the guardian of Augustine, an orphaned baby. She’ll do anything to protect her little ward. But a villain in the shadows plots Pryde’s downfall. And as the Seven Dukes of Sin hunt for clues, the blackmailer raises the stakes.
The third book in the series & a well written romance but sadly the premise of the big secret was false & so I’ll review as a romance & ignore everything to do with actual English law. I really liked both Constantine & Modesty & enjoyed their journey to a HEA, he hides behind a façade but gradually lets it slip as he falls for Modesty & also grows to love Augustine. Whilst there was chemistry, for me it didn’t sizzle & I couldn’t quite believe they’d fallen in love. I did love the bond between the seven Dukes & how they had each others’ backs. Not my favourite book by the author but still enjoyable.
I voluntarily read and reviewed a special copy of this book; all thoughts and opinions are my own
Constantine Buccleigh, Duke of Pryde's has a pristine reputation but when a blackmailer threatens to expose his devastating secret and have him lose everything, he’s forced to marry Miss Modesty Fairchild, a woman far below his station. A budding archaeologist, Modesty would rather dig in the dirt than host a gala. But a deathbed promise has left her the guardian of Augustine, an orphaned baby. She’ll do anything to protect her little ward. But a villain in the shadows plots Pryde’s downfall. And as the Seven Dukes of Sin hunt for clues, the blackmailer raises the stakes.
The third book in the series & a well written romance but sadly the premise of the big secret was false & so I’ll review as a romance & ignore everything to do with actual English law. I really liked both Constantine & Modesty & enjoyed their journey to a HEA, he hides behind a façade but gradually lets it slip as he falls for Modesty & also grows to love Augustine. Whilst there was chemistry, for me it didn’t sizzle & I couldn’t quite believe they’d fallen in love. I did love the bond between the seven Dukes & how they had each others’ backs. Not my favourite book by the author but still enjoyable.
I voluntarily read and reviewed a special copy of this book; all thoughts and opinions are my own
February 26, 2025
Twenty fifth read for February was an ARC the Duke of Pryde by
⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ .5
Thank you, Greys Promotion & Mariah, for the chance to review an ARC of this beautifully written historical romance.
The character development throughout was well-executed, evoking a range of emotions in me. If you’re a fan of the Bridgerton series, you’ll thoroughly enjoy this book!
Tropes:
Set in 1800s
Class difference
Blackmail
Opposites attract
Enemies to lovers
Marriage of convenience
Secrets
Politics
Book Overview:
Reputation is everything in the ton. And no one's is more pristine than Constantine Buccleigh, Duke of Pryde's. But when a blackmailer threatens to expose his devastating secret and have him lose everything, he’s forced to marry Miss Modesty Fairchild, a woman far below his station.
A budding archeologist, Modesty would rather dig in the dirt than host a gala. But a deathbed promise has left her the guardian of an orphaned baby. She’ll do anything to protect her little ward…even marry the heartless duke who made the most offensive proposal in the history of womenkind.
Lonely in Pryde’s elegant Mayfair home, she despises the cold, unyielding duke who expects her to become his perfect duchess. She loathes his arrogance. He resents her defiance. But as dance lessons and etiquette tutorials force them together, Modesty refuses to shrink beneath his iron control. And with every act of rebellion, she shatters his carefully crafted armor, revealing the lonely, broken man beneath.
Glimpsing the tender heart beneath her husband’s haughty exterior, Modesty dreams of a loving future.
But a villain in the shadows plots Pryde’s downfall. And as the Seven Dukes of Sin hunt for clues, the blackmailer raises the stakes.
Faced with a dreadful choice, will Constantine sacrifice his pride and his title for the wife and child he has come to treasure?
#bookstagram #booktok #bookrecommendations #bookreview #kindle #books #kindleunlimited #audible #HistoricalRomance #RegencyRomance
⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ .5
Thank you, Greys Promotion & Mariah, for the chance to review an ARC of this beautifully written historical romance.
The character development throughout was well-executed, evoking a range of emotions in me. If you’re a fan of the Bridgerton series, you’ll thoroughly enjoy this book!
Tropes:
Set in 1800s
Class difference
Blackmail
Opposites attract
Enemies to lovers
Marriage of convenience
Secrets
Politics
Book Overview:
Reputation is everything in the ton. And no one's is more pristine than Constantine Buccleigh, Duke of Pryde's. But when a blackmailer threatens to expose his devastating secret and have him lose everything, he’s forced to marry Miss Modesty Fairchild, a woman far below his station.
A budding archeologist, Modesty would rather dig in the dirt than host a gala. But a deathbed promise has left her the guardian of an orphaned baby. She’ll do anything to protect her little ward…even marry the heartless duke who made the most offensive proposal in the history of womenkind.
Lonely in Pryde’s elegant Mayfair home, she despises the cold, unyielding duke who expects her to become his perfect duchess. She loathes his arrogance. He resents her defiance. But as dance lessons and etiquette tutorials force them together, Modesty refuses to shrink beneath his iron control. And with every act of rebellion, she shatters his carefully crafted armor, revealing the lonely, broken man beneath.
Glimpsing the tender heart beneath her husband’s haughty exterior, Modesty dreams of a loving future.
But a villain in the shadows plots Pryde’s downfall. And as the Seven Dukes of Sin hunt for clues, the blackmailer raises the stakes.
Faced with a dreadful choice, will Constantine sacrifice his pride and his title for the wife and child he has come to treasure?
#bookstagram #booktok #bookrecommendations #bookreview #kindle #books #kindleunlimited #audible #HistoricalRomance #RegencyRomance
February 26, 2025
Mariah Stone is a new author for me and this is only my 9th book by her. I read her Dukes and Secrets series and couldn't put them down. I don't read book descriptions anymore so I have no idea what I'm reading when I start a book. Makes for a more interesting read, I think. :) I added book 2 in this series to my favorite books read list for Jan, 2025.
Well this book didn’t disappoint either. I loved Modesty and Pryde. I loved this story. I loved their personalities. I do have to truthfully say, that I read so many books, I tend to just read and move on. I am so bad about remembering the personalities of minor characters within a story and then they end up with their own story and I don’t remember much of them. I guess it’s good that most of the series I read could be stand-alone stories. I tried to remember things about Duke of Eccess because I know his is the next book but it’s not coming out until next February and I would have read probably 300 books by then. So I seriously doubt I would remember anyway. 😊 With that being said, I really loved this couple. Sex was hot, they were hot...just so good. I couldn’t put this book down. I am adding it to my favorite books read list for Feb, 2025.
Well this book didn’t disappoint either. I loved Modesty and Pryde. I loved this story. I loved their personalities. I do have to truthfully say, that I read so many books, I tend to just read and move on. I am so bad about remembering the personalities of minor characters within a story and then they end up with their own story and I don’t remember much of them. I guess it’s good that most of the series I read could be stand-alone stories. I tried to remember things about Duke of Eccess because I know his is the next book but it’s not coming out until next February and I would have read probably 300 books by then. So I seriously doubt I would remember anyway. 😊 With that being said, I really loved this couple. Sex was hot, they were hot...just so good. I couldn’t put this book down. I am adding it to my favorite books read list for Feb, 2025.
February 28, 2025
Mariah Stone - Duke of Pryde // ARC review
Constantine, Duke of Pryde, has a secret no one can know about for if they did it would ruin his future and strip him of everything he is. When someone begins to blackmail him, he digs deep to find out who. First on his list is Modesty who wants him to take care of his assumed bastard son. The boy isn’t Pryde’s but can still ruin everything he’s worked for. To provent a disaster he weds Modesty and becomes the child’s ward. Constantine and Modesty attempts a tentative relationship, but the blackmailer keeps threatening him. Soon he’s running out of time before everyone will know his big secret and hate him.
Duke of Pryde is the third book in Mariah’s Duke of Sins series that each follow one of the seven dukes of sins. Pryde’s book pics up right where Duke of Luhst left off. I was excited to see the continuation of the blackmailing which played a big part of the book. I liked the mystery aspect and hunting the culprit, but sometimes I felt it got too much attention. The story dragged a bit sometimes.
Constantine and Modesty had a rough start on their relationship. Their marriage of convenience was hateful at first, but with burning embers of attraction. I felt it went from hate to love a bit quickly, but I thought they had some great moments together. Especially the auction scene was cute. Constantine tried to live up to Modesty’s expectations, but knew he never could with his big secret. Yet he loved her the best he could and felt awful for disappointing her. He had a big heart, but didn’t show it to many, which made him more loveable.
Modesty on the other hand tried to be the perfect daughter and friend. She cared immensely for others and refused to see the bad in anyone, maybe with the exception of her husband. Still she opened her heart. What I really enjoy about the heroines in this series are how clever they are! Patience from book one is a botanist, Chastity from book two studies medicine and Modesty loves archaeology. Even though it doesn’t play a big part of the story, I love it. The quiz scene where she gets to show of her bright head was fun. She didn’t want to let anyone, especially a man, control her future or her likings and I rooted for that.
I also enjoyed the friendship between all the duchesses as well as the support from the other dukes. They might be sinners, but they always had each others backs.
Tropes;
✨ Marriage of convenience
✨ Enemies to lovers
✨ Age gap
⭐️⭐️⭐️💫
Constantine, Duke of Pryde, has a secret no one can know about for if they did it would ruin his future and strip him of everything he is. When someone begins to blackmail him, he digs deep to find out who. First on his list is Modesty who wants him to take care of his assumed bastard son. The boy isn’t Pryde’s but can still ruin everything he’s worked for. To provent a disaster he weds Modesty and becomes the child’s ward. Constantine and Modesty attempts a tentative relationship, but the blackmailer keeps threatening him. Soon he’s running out of time before everyone will know his big secret and hate him.
Duke of Pryde is the third book in Mariah’s Duke of Sins series that each follow one of the seven dukes of sins. Pryde’s book pics up right where Duke of Luhst left off. I was excited to see the continuation of the blackmailing which played a big part of the book. I liked the mystery aspect and hunting the culprit, but sometimes I felt it got too much attention. The story dragged a bit sometimes.
Constantine and Modesty had a rough start on their relationship. Their marriage of convenience was hateful at first, but with burning embers of attraction. I felt it went from hate to love a bit quickly, but I thought they had some great moments together. Especially the auction scene was cute. Constantine tried to live up to Modesty’s expectations, but knew he never could with his big secret. Yet he loved her the best he could and felt awful for disappointing her. He had a big heart, but didn’t show it to many, which made him more loveable.
Modesty on the other hand tried to be the perfect daughter and friend. She cared immensely for others and refused to see the bad in anyone, maybe with the exception of her husband. Still she opened her heart. What I really enjoy about the heroines in this series are how clever they are! Patience from book one is a botanist, Chastity from book two studies medicine and Modesty loves archaeology. Even though it doesn’t play a big part of the story, I love it. The quiz scene where she gets to show of her bright head was fun. She didn’t want to let anyone, especially a man, control her future or her likings and I rooted for that.
I also enjoyed the friendship between all the duchesses as well as the support from the other dukes. They might be sinners, but they always had each others backs.
Tropes;
✨ Marriage of convenience
✨ Enemies to lovers
✨ Age gap
⭐️⭐️⭐️💫
February 15, 2025
I'm a total geek with historical romance. This book is so rich in history and regency time period romance. Even the main character is a wannabe archeologist.
As with the duke of sins series this is loaded with mystery and intrigue. I will admit the twist i did not see coming.
I love how this author shows you a man of that period of time and let you see the cracks of the man in real life and his downfall to romance.
She is a master of talent for showing her reader the story of her fc. This one is not your bad arse shes the reverends daughter who was taught to be not seen or heard. She finds herself along the way. She finds her calling is not just digging up ruins but she's taught to be the duchess and a mother. She becomes a mom in a non conventional way. But it's what her character is.
So if you like a very well written time period read this is your romance.
As with the duke of sins series this is loaded with mystery and intrigue. I will admit the twist i did not see coming.
I love how this author shows you a man of that period of time and let you see the cracks of the man in real life and his downfall to romance.
She is a master of talent for showing her reader the story of her fc. This one is not your bad arse shes the reverends daughter who was taught to be not seen or heard. She finds herself along the way. She finds her calling is not just digging up ruins but she's taught to be the duchess and a mother. She becomes a mom in a non conventional way. But it's what her character is.
So if you like a very well written time period read this is your romance.
February 25, 2025
Oh, the Dukes are getting more interesting. This time it’s the Duke of Pryde story and as in the previous books, the Duke’s title gives hints of his sin. Constantine is a character I felt a bit sorry for, brought up to be a Duke, but also was made known it was all a lie. Now as the Duke of Pryde his hidden secret is about to be revealed to the Ton. Trying to prevent that from happening he marries a vicar’s daughter who has guardianship of the true Duke. Unfortunately that doesn’t help the mess he is in, as the Regent is looking for revenge and there is also a blackmailer threatening him. The only saving grace is his new bride is much more to him than a marriage of convenience.
Modesty has lead a fulfilling life helping her father with the parish, working along side the poor. Unfortunately she has always been there for others, but never herself. And when sad circumstances gave her guardianship of a sweet newborn her outlook changes and he is her whole world. Honoring the dead mother’s wish she approaches the baby’s father to do his duty to the child. So he proposes to her.
There so many obstacles to overcome and one is truly rooting them on to find their HEA. Just a warning there is some steamy scenes. I also want to thank the author for this ARC, but that doesn’t reflect in anyway my review. All opinions are mine and mine alone. #DukeofPryde
Modesty has lead a fulfilling life helping her father with the parish, working along side the poor. Unfortunately she has always been there for others, but never herself. And when sad circumstances gave her guardianship of a sweet newborn her outlook changes and he is her whole world. Honoring the dead mother’s wish she approaches the baby’s father to do his duty to the child. So he proposes to her.
There so many obstacles to overcome and one is truly rooting them on to find their HEA. Just a warning there is some steamy scenes. I also want to thank the author for this ARC, but that doesn’t reflect in anyway my review. All opinions are mine and mine alone. #DukeofPryde
March 30, 2025
Marriage of convenience
Enemies to lovers
Historical romance
Found family
Dual Narration - Shane East & Justine Eyre
Narration was done very well. I found it enjoyable
This was a first style of historical romance for me. I found it an enjoyable listen.
Constantine and Modesty story was a delightful listen. I felt captivated and very invested in their story. Despite not having has listened to the previous books in this series it did not take away from the enjoyment of this story. Great plot and character development.
Enemies to lovers
Historical romance
Found family
Dual Narration - Shane East & Justine Eyre
Narration was done very well. I found it enjoyable
This was a first style of historical romance for me. I found it an enjoyable listen.
Constantine and Modesty story was a delightful listen. I felt captivated and very invested in their story. Despite not having has listened to the previous books in this series it did not take away from the enjoyment of this story. Great plot and character development.
February 9, 2025
Love the dynamics between the main characters and how a duke with pride needs an introduction to a little modesty. With the significant human experience like the real struggle to strive for a parent's approval and being the person one truly is. The camaraderie and loyalty of true friendships also shines in this romantic tale,.
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.
February 16, 2025
I am obsessed with the seven dukes, every time I think “oh this book was the best” she comes out with another one. I will just accept they’re all wonderful!
Duke of Pryde, kept you stuck in from the jump ! The betrayal, blackmail all you were hooked.
I also was not expecting the blackmailer until well into cut before you said lol.
I love these stories, I also feel like these dukes need to stop acting like they’re never find love when as of now 3 of their besties have haha,.
Duke of Pryde, kept you stuck in from the jump ! The betrayal, blackmail all you were hooked.
I also was not expecting the blackmailer until well into cut before you said lol.
I love these stories, I also feel like these dukes need to stop acting like they’re never find love when as of now 3 of their besties have haha,.
March 12, 2025
The Duke of Pryde has lived his life with a secret that he is terrified it will get out. He marries Melody, a vicar's daughter, in a marriage of convenience. They fall in love but there is danger and intrigue around them. Someone is blackmailing the duke and threatening his family. He almost loses her but he saves her instead. I highly recommend this book to all historical romance readers.
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.
April 1, 2025
Loved this book so much. The twists and turns, ups and downs. Everything was absolutely perfect. At one point, I was on the edge of my seat wondering what was going to happen next. My emotions were all over the place, and I loved it. The plot was everything k could've asked for and then some.
I'm obsessed with all of these dukes and can't wait to read the rest of the series.
I'm obsessed with all of these dukes and can't wait to read the rest of the series.
July 10, 2025
Sad that there was no teaser at the end with the Duke of Eccess, but cannot recommend this series more if you love historical romance!!! This one had the perfect combination of mystery, family drama, and romance. I particularly enjoy how the female main characters are brains behind their beauty. Love the archaeological facts embedded within this romance novel.
March 5, 2025
I contiune to enjoy this series. This book felt a little rushed though and I feel like I didn't feel a connection with Constantine or Modesty. And I felt like their story was an insta love novella almost that was hastily done. Overall I like the series and it is fun but it doesn't really connect with me.
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