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The Rake Review: Season 2 #1
My January Duke
An outrageous demand.
When bailiffs interrupt her disgraced father’s funeral, Olivia Price doesn’t think her life can get any worse. . . until her obnoxious(ly) handsome neighbor, Devlin Hamilton, Duke of Dalkeith arrives — and claims Olivia as payment for her father’s outstanding debt.
One scandal too many.
Beautiful, headstrong Olivia has been a thorn in Devlin’s side for years, so when fate puts her at his mercy, he can’t resist stepping in. He’ll sate the passion that burns between them, but keep his heart intact.
A battle of wits and wills.
But as Dev tries his wicked best to seduce her, Livvy’s equally determined to resist temptation. She’s loved Devlin in secret for years; how can she convince the jaded, cynical duke to give her not just his body . . . but his heart and soul as well?
When bailiffs interrupt her disgraced father’s funeral, Olivia Price doesn’t think her life can get any worse. . . until her obnoxious(ly) handsome neighbor, Devlin Hamilton, Duke of Dalkeith arrives — and claims Olivia as payment for her father’s outstanding debt.
One scandal too many.
Beautiful, headstrong Olivia has been a thorn in Devlin’s side for years, so when fate puts her at his mercy, he can’t resist stepping in. He’ll sate the passion that burns between them, but keep his heart intact.
A battle of wits and wills.
But as Dev tries his wicked best to seduce her, Livvy’s equally determined to resist temptation. She’s loved Devlin in secret for years; how can she convince the jaded, cynical duke to give her not just his body . . . but his heart and soul as well?
152 pages, Kindle Edition
First published January 1, 2026
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 91 reviews
January 3, 2026
This sweet and spicy novella was just what I needed. A light, simple romance; no angst, friend’s brother, they’ve secretly loved each other for years, filled with sweetness and desire, chemistry and smokin hot steam. I just loved Dev and he’s a worthy addition to my Mr Oh My shelf.
A very enjoyable way to spend an hour and it proved to me again how much I love the way KB writes chemistry, connection, and spice.
He crossed his legs and watched her closely. “There is one small problem, however. I know how good we could be together. I want to worship you with my body, exactly as the wedding vows say.” He paused, noting the rapid rise and fall of her chest as her breathing became erratic. “But I only want that if you want it too.”
###
His brows rose, and a smile lurked at the corner of his lips. “You’re worried? Don’t be. You’ll fit me just right, Liv. I promise.”
Oh, God. The certainty in his tone, the dark promise in his gaze, made her stomach somersault all over again.
###
His eyes held hers and her heart squeezed at the utter devotion in his expression. “Everything I have is yours, Liv. I’m yours. I always have been.”
A very enjoyable way to spend an hour and it proved to me again how much I love the way KB writes chemistry, connection, and spice.
He crossed his legs and watched her closely. “There is one small problem, however. I know how good we could be together. I want to worship you with my body, exactly as the wedding vows say.” He paused, noting the rapid rise and fall of her chest as her breathing became erratic. “But I only want that if you want it too.”
###
His brows rose, and a smile lurked at the corner of his lips. “You’re worried? Don’t be. You’ll fit me just right, Liv. I promise.”
Oh, God. The certainty in his tone, the dark promise in his gaze, made her stomach somersault all over again.
###
His eyes held hers and her heart squeezed at the utter devotion in his expression. “Everything I have is yours, Liv. I’m yours. I always have been.”
January 8, 2026
Read: 1/7/26
Setting: 1822 England
Trope: second chances novella
This was a cute novella!
plot: Olivia's crooked father just died with mounting debts. None of this is Livvy's problem, she has employment in London. Unfortunately, getting there is a problem with no money. Her lecherous uncle won't be giving her any money after she stabbed him. Coming to the rescue is Devlin, her best friend's brother, a man that Livvy is in love with. Turns out her father owed him money and he wants her as payment. She leaves with him because she doesn't have much alternative.
Devlin offers her a proposal. He wants to marry Livvy and make her his Duchess 😯. His excuse is because he wants her in his bed. Devlin proposes that Livvy stay the month of January. His home is private and nobody knows she's there. She can have a holiday away from the tabloids about her father. Devlin won't touch her unless she agrees to it. At the end of the month, they either marry or she continues on to London, with nobody the wiser.
It turns out Devlin has been in love with Livvy for 6 years. He didn't marry her after he returned because of his PTSD. Though, once he hears her uncle talk of other men, something snaps in Devlin. He knows this is his last chance to marry the woman he loves.
Conclusion: This was a pretty good novella! I liked watching these two finally come together. It was entertaining enough
Setting: 1822 England
Trope: second chances novella
This was a cute novella!
plot: Olivia's crooked father just died with mounting debts. None of this is Livvy's problem, she has employment in London. Unfortunately, getting there is a problem with no money. Her lecherous uncle won't be giving her any money after she stabbed him. Coming to the rescue is Devlin, her best friend's brother, a man that Livvy is in love with. Turns out her father owed him money and he wants her as payment. She leaves with him because she doesn't have much alternative.
Devlin offers her a proposal. He wants to marry Livvy and make her his Duchess 😯. His excuse is because he wants her in his bed. Devlin proposes that Livvy stay the month of January. His home is private and nobody knows she's there. She can have a holiday away from the tabloids about her father. Devlin won't touch her unless she agrees to it. At the end of the month, they either marry or she continues on to London, with nobody the wiser.
It turns out Devlin has been in love with Livvy for 6 years. He didn't marry her after he returned because of his PTSD. Though, once he hears her uncle talk of other men, something snaps in Devlin. He knows this is his last chance to marry the woman he loves.
Conclusion: This was a pretty good novella! I liked watching these two finally come together. It was entertaining enough
March 20, 2026
Nice short novella read.
Couple brought together years after they had fallen in love with each other.
Both not knowing the other’s feelings.
He has trauma from the war at Waterloo.
She is ruined, due to her father owing money to a lot of people.
So he decided to rescue her the day of her father funeral.
They eventually admit they love each other.
Couple brought together years after they had fallen in love with each other.
Both not knowing the other’s feelings.
He has trauma from the war at Waterloo.
She is ruined, due to her father owing money to a lot of people.
So he decided to rescue her the day of her father funeral.
They eventually admit they love each other.
January 4, 2026
This is my 19th books by Kate Bateman. I really love her writing. Sex is hotly written. This is a series I read in 2025 where a different author wrote a story for each month. They are doing it again this year. Kate's is the first, January.
I liked this story. I liked Olivia and Devlin. A few times I felt like I was missing something. They discussed things that I believe were written in another book but I read 400 books in 2025 so not sure. Because of that it felt a bit disoriented a few times. Like I should know what they are referring to but couldn't quite recall. Overall though it was a good read.
I liked this story. I liked Olivia and Devlin. A few times I felt like I was missing something. They discussed things that I believe were written in another book but I read 400 books in 2025 so not sure. Because of that it felt a bit disoriented a few times. Like I should know what they are referring to but couldn't quite recall. Overall though it was a good read.
March 26, 2026
Book would have been way better if it were full length. We’ve got 6 years of mutual pining, best friends brother, financially ruined heroine, scarred soldier- too much to go over in like 200 pages.
March 13, 2026
A rather light and quick read, considering the hero
To be quite honest, that particular plot point, despite being a heavy one, only serves as a surface level source of tension/conflict within the story. It's revealed around the third of the book, and is very quickly "cured" by the heroine.
It's kind of a wasted opportunity to add more complexity to the MMC's personality. Devlin seemed to just… exist in the background of the heroine's adventures.
That's another thing, the story really lacked the hero's point of view. I'm not a stickler for having dual POVs, but here we really don't know much about Dev's feelings or what motivates him. Perhaps because of that, the romance seems a little one sided (in spite of both characters being in love with each other since teenagehood), which ok, is a requirement for an (un)requited love trope, but eh...
Other than that, it was a fun story.
Not as strong of an opening to a season as the Jilted in January was two years ago, but still an enjoyable read.
3,5 (rounded up to 4)/5 stars ⭐
To be quite honest, that particular plot point, despite being a heavy one, only serves as a surface level source of tension/conflict within the story. It's revealed around the third of the book, and is very quickly "cured" by the heroine.
It's kind of a wasted opportunity to add more complexity to the MMC's personality. Devlin seemed to just… exist in the background of the heroine's adventures.
That's another thing, the story really lacked the hero's point of view. I'm not a stickler for having dual POVs, but here we really don't know much about Dev's feelings or what motivates him. Perhaps because of that, the romance seems a little one sided (in spite of both characters being in love with each other since teenagehood), which ok, is a requirement for an (un)requited love trope, but eh...
Other than that, it was a fun story.
Not as strong of an opening to a season as the Jilted in January was two years ago, but still an enjoyable read.
3,5 (rounded up to 4)/5 stars ⭐
January 27, 2026
What a fun novella! A bite size story full of spice, education and delightfully regal!
A book that has gotten me head over heels for this author and very much looking forward to reading more of her in the future!
Will be recommending to everyone in the future!!💕
A book that has gotten me head over heels for this author and very much looking forward to reading more of her in the future!
Will be recommending to everyone in the future!!💕
January 9, 2026
No Epilogue. So disappointing!
I’m going to start off with my issue of him being in love with her since before he went off to war but for the 6+ years he’s been back he takes up a lot of whores and only stops when he decides to finally pursue the h. But he’s been in love with her the whole time. :| Seriously!? I don’t care what his “reason” was. There’s seriously no excuse that could actually justify it. Back then he could’ve easily had and passed STIs from his history. He also could’ve just confided in her upon his return based on their history and that could’ve been the issue to resolve but no. I just couldn’t get past that.
Maybe there’s some recorded history I’ve missed on every era ever. But in my experience, contrary to every romance author’s belief, “rakes” just aren’t the norm. My degree is in Construction Management. I was one girl out of about 200 guys per my class alone and of those, less than a quarter were man whores. And believe me, they all gossiped like ninny’s when it came to s*x. 2 of those man whores (slept with at least a different girl a week) were good friends, one was even my roommate for a year. I’m just so tired of reading about all of these “rakes” like it’s the standard for 18 to 30 year old men when it’s just not the case in the real world. I’m not saying all of those guys were virgins, but at least most only slept with the girls they were dating.
Beyond that, this story was well written except for the fact that it just ended when he finally admitted his love to her. Couldn’t even get another chapter on what came next. It just ended. Their story wasn’t complete. I’m so disappointed there isn’t an epilogue. This is a happy for now story, not a happy ever after without one. And seeing that the next story is about a couple already married in this book, I don’t think we’ll ever get it. So yeah, I’m really disappointed in this one. Could’ve been a lot better and still be a short story.
I’m going to start off with my issue of him being in love with her since before he went off to war but for the 6+ years he’s been back he takes up a lot of whores and only stops when he decides to finally pursue the h. But he’s been in love with her the whole time. :| Seriously!? I don’t care what his “reason” was. There’s seriously no excuse that could actually justify it. Back then he could’ve easily had and passed STIs from his history. He also could’ve just confided in her upon his return based on their history and that could’ve been the issue to resolve but no. I just couldn’t get past that.
Maybe there’s some recorded history I’ve missed on every era ever. But in my experience, contrary to every romance author’s belief, “rakes” just aren’t the norm. My degree is in Construction Management. I was one girl out of about 200 guys per my class alone and of those, less than a quarter were man whores. And believe me, they all gossiped like ninny’s when it came to s*x. 2 of those man whores (slept with at least a different girl a week) were good friends, one was even my roommate for a year. I’m just so tired of reading about all of these “rakes” like it’s the standard for 18 to 30 year old men when it’s just not the case in the real world. I’m not saying all of those guys were virgins, but at least most only slept with the girls they were dating.
Beyond that, this story was well written except for the fact that it just ended when he finally admitted his love to her. Couldn’t even get another chapter on what came next. It just ended. Their story wasn’t complete. I’m so disappointed there isn’t an epilogue. This is a happy for now story, not a happy ever after without one. And seeing that the next story is about a couple already married in this book, I don’t think we’ll ever get it. So yeah, I’m really disappointed in this one. Could’ve been a lot better and still be a short story.
June 22, 2026
Olivia Price is accosted by her paternal uncle at her father's funeral, so when childhood friend / long-time love Devlin Hamilton, Duke of Dalkeith, shows up to claim a debt and ends up claiming her—she goes along with it. He then offers her an opened proposal: stay with him a month and/or make sex with him and/or consider becoming his duchess. Because it turns out that Dev has loved Olivia the entire time, too, but has been worried about the after effects of his time in the army.
1. I hadn't realized that this was a "I have loved you for YEARS" book but Bateman does seem to really like that trope so I'm the one in greasepaint here, looking a clown.
2. Because I wasn't in the mood for this set of tropes, this ended up coming across as supremely treacly and/or annoying. I wasn't charmed by the reveal that Dev had estranged himself from Olivia for years; the handling of Dev's methodology for distracting himself from thunder / fireworks was kind of sleazy ("I fuck," he announces in the middle of a triggering event, resulting in the sex of True Love I guess); and I continue to be annoyed by the reliance on "love" established many years ago that has not necessarily been touched by time or internal growth or changing circumstances.
3. I do acknowledge this one at least gave us a little more conversation between the leads (more so than The Phantom of Drury Lane), but only just.
4. Dev also offers several lectures on various topics (wassailing; weather tracking) which came across as weirdly defensive and dry?
1. I hadn't realized that this was a "I have loved you for YEARS" book but Bateman does seem to really like that trope so I'm the one in greasepaint here, looking a clown.
2. Because I wasn't in the mood for this set of tropes, this ended up coming across as supremely treacly and/or annoying. I wasn't charmed by the reveal that Dev had estranged himself from Olivia for years; the handling of Dev's methodology for distracting himself from thunder / fireworks was kind of sleazy ("I fuck," he announces in the middle of a triggering event, resulting in the sex of True Love I guess); and I continue to be annoyed by the reliance on "love" established many years ago that has not necessarily been touched by time or internal growth or changing circumstances.
3. I do acknowledge this one at least gave us a little more conversation between the leads (more so than The Phantom of Drury Lane), but only just.
4. Dev also offers several lectures on various topics (wassailing; weather tracking) which came across as weirdly defensive and dry?
January 23, 2026
Content warnings: mental health, PTSD, mentions of war, blood, attempted sexual assault
This was a very charming novella and I loved how it connected to the Her Majesty's Rebels series. I do feel like the ending was a little bit rushed and the start perhaps a little more dragged out than was necessary. But on the whole? I had a lovely time with this.
This was a very charming novella and I loved how it connected to the Her Majesty's Rebels series. I do feel like the ending was a little bit rushed and the start perhaps a little more dragged out than was necessary. But on the whole? I had a lovely time with this.
January 1, 2026
When bailiffs interrupt her disgraced father’s funeral, Olivia Price doesn’t think her life can get any worse until her obnoxious uncle makes a pass at her & then her handsome neighbour, Devlin Hamilton, Duke of Dalkeith arrives — and claims her as payment for her father’s outstanding debt.
Beautiful, headstrong Olivia has been a thorn in Devlin’s side for years, so when fate puts her at his mercy, he can’t resist stepping in. But as Dev tries his wicked best to seduce her, Olivia’s equally determined to resist temptation.
The Rake Review is back with a second series & it gets off with a bang. I loved both Devlin & Olivia, their chemistry sizzled but they’d known each other for years & had had feelings for each other too but had never voiced how they felt. Devlin has had his demons since Waterloo & Olivia has had to become independent from her father. I loved their journey to a HEA, who would have thought things would come to a head in a thunderstorm!
I voluntarily read and reviewed a special copy of this book; all thoughts and opinions are my own
Beautiful, headstrong Olivia has been a thorn in Devlin’s side for years, so when fate puts her at his mercy, he can’t resist stepping in. But as Dev tries his wicked best to seduce her, Olivia’s equally determined to resist temptation.
The Rake Review is back with a second series & it gets off with a bang. I loved both Devlin & Olivia, their chemistry sizzled but they’d known each other for years & had had feelings for each other too but had never voiced how they felt. Devlin has had his demons since Waterloo & Olivia has had to become independent from her father. I loved their journey to a HEA, who would have thought things would come to a head in a thunderstorm!
I voluntarily read and reviewed a special copy of this book; all thoughts and opinions are my own
January 5, 2026
4.5 ⭐️
Finally some good fucking food!!
Can always count on Kate Bateman to bring the passion, emotion and development and she did just that in this novella!
Olivia was such a force! I absolutely loved her from the first line. She’s stubborn, funny and she does what she wants!
Dev was exactly the kind of match she needs. These two have loved each other for years and it’s so evident in the way they both conduct themselves even when we don’t get dev’s pov until 50% through (it’s worth the wait). He’s charming, rakish but has a huge heart and (thank god) doesn’t come across as slimy!!!
Great pacing, great writing and honestly the read that I’ve been wanting this January!
Finally some good fucking food!!
Can always count on Kate Bateman to bring the passion, emotion and development and she did just that in this novella!
Olivia was such a force! I absolutely loved her from the first line. She’s stubborn, funny and she does what she wants!
Dev was exactly the kind of match she needs. These two have loved each other for years and it’s so evident in the way they both conduct themselves even when we don’t get dev’s pov until 50% through (it’s worth the wait). He’s charming, rakish but has a huge heart and (thank god) doesn’t come across as slimy!!!
Great pacing, great writing and honestly the read that I’ve been wanting this January!
January 25, 2026
I was very happy to learn the Brazen Belle was coming back with a second season of new Rakes to slander in her column, or is it nudge into matrimonial bliss?!
This month Devlin Hamilton was the man to note. He comes to Olivia's aid, after her father passed, leaving her with major debts. But, he doesn't offer her money, instead he offers himself and the prospect of marriage to him. Olivia can't quite believe he would do something so honorable. Yet, she stays at his country estate and old embers once again flame into love.
Devlin had been in war and experiences what we call PTSD now. Loud noises and thunderstorms cause him to relive the memories in terror. Once he allows Olivia to see all of him, even when he's at his worst, he comes to realize that his love for her out shadows all fears.
I can't wait to read the other 11 rakes this year!
This month Devlin Hamilton was the man to note. He comes to Olivia's aid, after her father passed, leaving her with major debts. But, he doesn't offer her money, instead he offers himself and the prospect of marriage to him. Olivia can't quite believe he would do something so honorable. Yet, she stays at his country estate and old embers once again flame into love.
Devlin had been in war and experiences what we call PTSD now. Loud noises and thunderstorms cause him to relive the memories in terror. Once he allows Olivia to see all of him, even when he's at his worst, he comes to realize that his love for her out shadows all fears.
I can't wait to read the other 11 rakes this year!
January 3, 2026
My January Duke by Kate Bateman
I loved it! After reading all of the season 1 of The Rake Review books I’ve be so looking forward to the next season and this book did not disappoint! I started it at and read till after midnight just to finish. It also drew me into the secondary characters where now I can go read their stories. Excited for each months installment!
I loved it! After reading all of the season 1 of The Rake Review books I’ve be so looking forward to the next season and this book did not disappoint! I started it at and read till after midnight just to finish. It also drew me into the secondary characters where now I can go read their stories. Excited for each months installment!
January 17, 2026
This was a fun novella!
I always take time for a Kate Bateman book and this one had a lot of great elements for a novella. I think this would have rated higher for me if a full novel and the author had more time to flesh some parts of the story out. I would have also liked more of the hero's POV.
Reading Challenge 2026
January, M
I always take time for a Kate Bateman book and this one had a lot of great elements for a novella. I think this would have rated higher for me if a full novel and the author had more time to flesh some parts of the story out. I would have also liked more of the hero's POV.
Reading Challenge 2026
January, M
February 10, 2026
A short, spicy, page-turner novella featuring a sweet FMC and an equally sweet MMC with some war ptsd. Beautiful hea and really great writing. This is my first by Kate Bateman and I will be coming back for more!
February 12, 2026
I loved this book. Especially for how short it was. I felt like she did a good job of letting you know the characters without needing 400 pages to do so. I only wish there was a final chapter for their wedding or a peek into their future.
February 8, 2026
A fun and great read! Thanks to Kate Bateman for a free copy during a Derek Craven day giveaway.
July 19, 2026
DNF @ 40% - he seems like an asshole
January 11, 2026
Bateman remains incredibly reliable for me. I enjoyed this, although the details are a bit blurred since I read this over a week ago. I do remember wishing more of it had been in Devlin's POV and that I wish it had been longer. But otherwise, a nice start to the year with this one.
January 12, 2026
My January Duke by Kate Bateman is a captivating start to the new season of the Rake Review, and it was everything I had hoped for as a longtime fan of the original books. From the very first page, Bateman delivers all the hallmarks that make the series irresistible: the mysterious Brazen Bell stirring up mischief with her scandalous column, a dash of angst, a swoon-worthy rake, a fierce and intelligent heroine, witty banter, buried secrets, and a romance brimming with tension and heart.
Olivia Price’s life is in shambles after the death of her father leaves her penniless and vulnerable to the predatory advances of her uncle. Just when her situation seems unbearable, Devlin Hamilton, the Duke of Dalkeith—and the man who once broke her heart—appears to claim her as payment for her father’s debts. Forced to choose between her loathsome uncle and Devlin, Olivia reluctantly trusts the man who left her behind, setting the stage for a deliciously angsty reunion.
Bateman masterfully explores the haunted bond between Olivia and Devlin. Their shared past simmers with unspoken pain and unfulfilled love; Devlin, hardened by war and haunted by trauma, struggles to reveal the man he has become. When he rescues Olivia, old emotions ignite, and every charged moment between them crackles with intensity. A dramatic thunderstorm finally forces them to confront their history, their mistakes, and the undeniable pull of their hearts.
I adored Olivia and Devlin together—imperfect yet complementary, their witty exchanges and battle of wills made the romance utterly engaging. The emotional payoffs are beautifully written, and Bateman’s prose shines with heartfelt, unforgettable lines. One that left me swooning: “Everything I have is yours, Liv. I’m yours. I always have been.”
My January Duke is a sweeping tale of love, redemption, and second chances that lingers long after the last page. Kate Bateman has set the stage for another thrilling season of the Rake Review series, and I can’t wait to see whose story will steal our hearts next.
A heartfelt, romantic, and utterly satisfying start to the new season—fans of historical romance won’t want to miss it.
Olivia Price’s life is in shambles after the death of her father leaves her penniless and vulnerable to the predatory advances of her uncle. Just when her situation seems unbearable, Devlin Hamilton, the Duke of Dalkeith—and the man who once broke her heart—appears to claim her as payment for her father’s debts. Forced to choose between her loathsome uncle and Devlin, Olivia reluctantly trusts the man who left her behind, setting the stage for a deliciously angsty reunion.
Bateman masterfully explores the haunted bond between Olivia and Devlin. Their shared past simmers with unspoken pain and unfulfilled love; Devlin, hardened by war and haunted by trauma, struggles to reveal the man he has become. When he rescues Olivia, old emotions ignite, and every charged moment between them crackles with intensity. A dramatic thunderstorm finally forces them to confront their history, their mistakes, and the undeniable pull of their hearts.
I adored Olivia and Devlin together—imperfect yet complementary, their witty exchanges and battle of wills made the romance utterly engaging. The emotional payoffs are beautifully written, and Bateman’s prose shines with heartfelt, unforgettable lines. One that left me swooning: “Everything I have is yours, Liv. I’m yours. I always have been.”
My January Duke is a sweeping tale of love, redemption, and second chances that lingers long after the last page. Kate Bateman has set the stage for another thrilling season of the Rake Review series, and I can’t wait to see whose story will steal our hearts next.
A heartfelt, romantic, and utterly satisfying start to the new season—fans of historical romance won’t want to miss it.
January 3, 2026
I highly recommend this book if you are looking for a quick and enjoyable read.
When Olivia Price’s father dies with a huge debt, he leaves her in the care of her horrible uncle. Until Devlin Hamilton, Duke of Dalkeith rides in and claims her as payment for her father’s debt to the duke.
Olivia is friends with Devlin’s sister, Dorothea “Daisy” nee Hamilton, now the Duchess of Cranford. Olivia always felt she was a thorn in Delvin’s side, until he tries to seduce her and offers her a surprise proposal. Olivia and Devlin have an easy connection where they communicate well and have fun (think ice skating and a Twelfth Night masquerade ball). With Delvin’s attention, Olivia gains confidence to makes her own bold and brazen move to help Devlin with a secret that is haunting him.
This story is a quick and enjoyable read. There are steamy scenes, but they are well- written and hot. I thoroughly enjoyed the start of The Rake Review – Season 2 Series. There are only a couple mentions of The Brazen Belle, a newspaper gossip columnist who writes the “The Rake Review” in this book but it fits in the series well.
If you are a fan of Kate’s books, you will find characters from Her Majesty’s Rebels series make appearances in this story. You do not have to have read these other books in either series to appreciate this book.
Since the ladies from King & Co. (from Her Majesty’s Rebels series) entertained me so much, I now must add those three books to my 2026 TBR shelf. 2026 looks like it will be another wonderful year for new (& old) books!!
When Olivia Price’s father dies with a huge debt, he leaves her in the care of her horrible uncle. Until Devlin Hamilton, Duke of Dalkeith rides in and claims her as payment for her father’s debt to the duke.
Olivia is friends with Devlin’s sister, Dorothea “Daisy” nee Hamilton, now the Duchess of Cranford. Olivia always felt she was a thorn in Delvin’s side, until he tries to seduce her and offers her a surprise proposal. Olivia and Devlin have an easy connection where they communicate well and have fun (think ice skating and a Twelfth Night masquerade ball). With Delvin’s attention, Olivia gains confidence to makes her own bold and brazen move to help Devlin with a secret that is haunting him.
This story is a quick and enjoyable read. There are steamy scenes, but they are well- written and hot. I thoroughly enjoyed the start of The Rake Review – Season 2 Series. There are only a couple mentions of The Brazen Belle, a newspaper gossip columnist who writes the “The Rake Review” in this book but it fits in the series well.
If you are a fan of Kate’s books, you will find characters from Her Majesty’s Rebels series make appearances in this story. You do not have to have read these other books in either series to appreciate this book.
Since the ladies from King & Co. (from Her Majesty’s Rebels series) entertained me so much, I now must add those three books to my 2026 TBR shelf. 2026 looks like it will be another wonderful year for new (& old) books!!
January 6, 2026
Hero: Devlin Hamilton, Duke of Dalkeith - A brooding Waterloo survivor with scars he hides behind wicked charm. He’s spent years pretending Olivia doesn’t get under his skin… until fate hands her to him and he realizes resisting her is the one battle he’s destined to lose.
Heroine: Olivia (Liv, Livvy) Price - Headstrong, proud, and determined to stand on her own after her father’s disgrace. She’s been sparring with Devlin since girlhood, but when he claims her to save her from ruin, she discovers the man beneath the duke’s armor is far more dangerous to her heart.
Plot (No Spoilers): When Olivia’s world collapses at her father’s funeral, Devlin steps in with a shocking declaration - she will come with him as payment for her father’s debt. What begins as obligation quickly becomes a battle of wills, and long-buried attraction. Their history simmers beneath every exchange, years of unspoken feelings finally breaking through as Devlin’s trauma and Olivia’s fierce independence collide. As danger, desire, and old wounds circle them both, the tension builds toward a stormy, unforgettable turning point that changes everything.
Conclusion: A brooding duke, a resilient heroine, and a thunderstorm that refuses to be subtle, this one delivers exactly the kind of Regency drama readers crave. Devlin and Olivia are beautifully crafted, flawed, fiery, and impossible not to root for - their journey is handled with both tenderness and spark. A wonderfully told story from an author who continues to deliver compelling characters and heartfelt romance.
Heroine: Olivia (Liv, Livvy) Price - Headstrong, proud, and determined to stand on her own after her father’s disgrace. She’s been sparring with Devlin since girlhood, but when he claims her to save her from ruin, she discovers the man beneath the duke’s armor is far more dangerous to her heart.
Plot (No Spoilers): When Olivia’s world collapses at her father’s funeral, Devlin steps in with a shocking declaration - she will come with him as payment for her father’s debt. What begins as obligation quickly becomes a battle of wills, and long-buried attraction. Their history simmers beneath every exchange, years of unspoken feelings finally breaking through as Devlin’s trauma and Olivia’s fierce independence collide. As danger, desire, and old wounds circle them both, the tension builds toward a stormy, unforgettable turning point that changes everything.
Conclusion: A brooding duke, a resilient heroine, and a thunderstorm that refuses to be subtle, this one delivers exactly the kind of Regency drama readers crave. Devlin and Olivia are beautifully crafted, flawed, fiery, and impossible not to root for - their journey is handled with both tenderness and spark. A wonderfully told story from an author who continues to deliver compelling characters and heartfelt romance.
May 14, 2026
Tropes: second chance romance; MMC traumatized by war
Steam level: 3
Part of a series, and works ok as a standalone, although there are references to characters in other series by the author.
3.5 stars rounded up because I generally like this author's smooth prose, attention to historical detail, and portrayal of steam between MC's. The open door scenes here are sweetly spicy, and if you're just looking for a "turn off your brain" novella you could do worse.
But, knowing this author's abilities, this really needed to be a full-length novel. The biggest issue for me is that much of the story is from the MFC's POV, and while she's fine, her backstory isn't as compelling as MMC's. We know that MMC has PTSD and he's been indifferent toward MFC for six years because he's hiding it, but that issue is fairly glossed over by the end. We know that he's been having lots of sex over those six years as a release of tension (which I found a bit ooky, especially if he was really pining for MFC all along) and he watches the weather like a hawk because thunder spooks him. But I really wanted to know more about him as a human being. He buys MFC a great wardrobe, feeds her, houses her, flirts etc but he kind of seems like a stock hero.
The other issue was lack of an epilogue. Closure, please.
If you've read other series by this author, you'll appreciate the references and appearances by those characters. There's no real angst, mostly fun banter.
Overall: sweet but a bit too short.
Steam level: 3
Part of a series, and works ok as a standalone, although there are references to characters in other series by the author.
3.5 stars rounded up because I generally like this author's smooth prose, attention to historical detail, and portrayal of steam between MC's. The open door scenes here are sweetly spicy, and if you're just looking for a "turn off your brain" novella you could do worse.
But, knowing this author's abilities, this really needed to be a full-length novel. The biggest issue for me is that much of the story is from the MFC's POV, and while she's fine, her backstory isn't as compelling as MMC's. We know that MMC has PTSD and he's been indifferent toward MFC for six years because he's hiding it, but that issue is fairly glossed over by the end. We know that he's been having lots of sex over those six years as a release of tension (which I found a bit ooky, especially if he was really pining for MFC all along) and he watches the weather like a hawk because thunder spooks him. But I really wanted to know more about him as a human being. He buys MFC a great wardrobe, feeds her, houses her, flirts etc but he kind of seems like a stock hero.
The other issue was lack of an epilogue. Closure, please.
If you've read other series by this author, you'll appreciate the references and appearances by those characters. There's no real angst, mostly fun banter.
Overall: sweet but a bit too short.
June 29, 2026
This was a very entertaining read from Kate! I love that this is a spinoff of sorts to the Her Majesty's Rebels series, with Devlin being Daisy's older brother. I loved seeing the ladies from that series with their adoring, reformed husbands.
Olivia really has been put in a bad spot by her disgraceful, now deceased father, who departed the earth heavily in debt to countless people. And Olivia's lecherous uncle does nothing to make her situation any better. Luckily Olivia can take care of herself, and just as she was needing to do just that, Devlin shows up to save the day, and her.
It was quite obvious that they both secretly loved each other so I was so perplexed as to why Devlin would have seemingly backed away from Olivia once he returned from the war and became quite a prolific rake. How much that had to have hurt Olivia. And as much as I understand his reasoning, once all is revealed, I still cannot fathom how someone can proclaim to be madly in love with someone and still go out and carouse around with so many mistresses and prostitutes. It must be a man thing.
I loved the ending and really wish the story had be longer! Hopefully we'll get updates on Devlin and Olivia in the future, as well as the other couples in the Her Majesty's Rebels series!
Olivia really has been put in a bad spot by her disgraceful, now deceased father, who departed the earth heavily in debt to countless people. And Olivia's lecherous uncle does nothing to make her situation any better. Luckily Olivia can take care of herself, and just as she was needing to do just that, Devlin shows up to save the day, and her.
It was quite obvious that they both secretly loved each other so I was so perplexed as to why Devlin would have seemingly backed away from Olivia once he returned from the war and became quite a prolific rake. How much that had to have hurt Olivia. And as much as I understand his reasoning, once all is revealed, I still cannot fathom how someone can proclaim to be madly in love with someone and still go out and carouse around with so many mistresses and prostitutes. It must be a man thing.
I loved the ending and really wish the story had be longer! Hopefully we'll get updates on Devlin and Olivia in the future, as well as the other couples in the Her Majesty's Rebels series!
January 5, 2026
"You've already ruined me. I don't want anyone else. Not for my first time. Not for any time. And if you think I'm going to leave you here suffering when there's a far more pleasurable alternative, then you really are an idiot."
4 stars
This was a great introduction to a new season of The Rake Review series! I love Kate's writing as it's so easy to follow along and pulls you effortlessly into the story. For me, there wasn't anything particularly new or exciting in this story, but I enjoyed it all the same. Both Dev and Olivia have been secretly pining after each other for years, but Dev pulled away after he returned from war because he felt that Olivia deserved better. I was a little annoyed by the lack of communication between them (mainly on Dev's part), but the ending was sweet if a little predictable. I cannot wait to continue this series🖤
Tropes: second chance romance, he kidnaps her in order to
January 3, 2026
My January Duke by Kate Bateman (The Rake Review: Season 2, Book 1) is a novella under 200 pages, The novel is a historical romance with a cast of characters from prior books. Although, this book is a standalone!
Olivia Price’s father has died and while in many ways it is a relief, having to deal with her uncle and the bill collectors will be hard. Until Devlin Hamilton, Duke of Dalkeith, rides to the rescue. He brings her to his home until she knows what and where she is going to go. Devlin would love her to stay but knows that he is unable in some ways to be what she wants or needs. The war took away his sleep and the nightmares now are a primary aspect of his life.
The novel includes his and her friends coming for a house party and a surety that they will marry despite his offering her his support no matter what she chooses. While My January Duke by Kate Bateman is a fast read, it is also a good read.
Olivia Price’s father has died and while in many ways it is a relief, having to deal with her uncle and the bill collectors will be hard. Until Devlin Hamilton, Duke of Dalkeith, rides to the rescue. He brings her to his home until she knows what and where she is going to go. Devlin would love her to stay but knows that he is unable in some ways to be what she wants or needs. The war took away his sleep and the nightmares now are a primary aspect of his life.
The novel includes his and her friends coming for a house party and a surety that they will marry despite his offering her his support no matter what she chooses. While My January Duke by Kate Bateman is a fast read, it is also a good read.
January 3, 2026
What a fabulous start to Rake Review season two, Dev and Olivia have known each other for what feels like forever and Olivia has loved him for over six years, she hoped that Dev would court her once he came back from the war. However her hopes were dashed when Dev took great pains to avoid her at all social and non social gatherings. Dev is wary of marriage with good reason, after all he is a Duke and ladies and debs are constantly throwing themselves at him. Everything changes when Olivia's world is turned upside down when her father's death embroiled her in scandal. Penniless and destitute she runs from her horrible uncle literally into a Duke upon a black horse. Will this particular Duke be her saviour or her downfall.
January 5, 2026
We have Olivia Price who has just buried her worthless father and hopefully his debts!
Olivia has a very lecherous uncle who wants to take advantage of her soiled reputation and wed her! How very disgusting! He won’t take No for an answer and Olivia has a very defiant way to handle him!
Her night in shining armor is Devlin Hamilton, Duke of Dalkeith also the brother of her best friend! Dev arrives as a night in shining armor with a plan!
But Dev has secrets ones that he has held onto for 6 years!
But Olivia needs help and if Dev wants any chance at a HEA he’s going to have to reveal all parts of himself including the war torn ones! Bravo very well done! This story also shades a glimpse into the other couples current state!
Olivia has a very lecherous uncle who wants to take advantage of her soiled reputation and wed her! How very disgusting! He won’t take No for an answer and Olivia has a very defiant way to handle him!
Her night in shining armor is Devlin Hamilton, Duke of Dalkeith also the brother of her best friend! Dev arrives as a night in shining armor with a plan!
But Dev has secrets ones that he has held onto for 6 years!
But Olivia needs help and if Dev wants any chance at a HEA he’s going to have to reveal all parts of himself including the war torn ones! Bravo very well done! This story also shades a glimpse into the other couples current state!
January 6, 2026
I love that the Brazen Belle is back and she's causing ruckus again with her column. This kick off to season 2 was full of good times, daring adventures and so much passion between Dev and Livvy it was unreal. I started to become disappointed as the entire first part (over 50%) was all told from Livvy's point of view and I love the dual POV so that we get inside his head too. But then at the start of twelfth night when his friends come over and we finally get to hear his POV. It made me swoon just a bit more for this tortured rake. I wish the book came with more pictures than just the front covers and back art, as I would have loved to see the dress she wore to the masquerade ball. It sounds absolutely breathtaking.
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