Curves for the Betrothed Duke

Busty Bodice Club #5

by Robyn DeHart

She traded places with his bride. Now he intends to keep her.

Imogen Harrington has always done what was expected of her… until the day she steals a duke at the altar.

When her dearest friend is about to be forced into a loveless marriage—and Imogen must wed to fulfill her father’s dying wish—she takes matters into her own hands. With a veil hiding her identity, she walks down the aisle and binds herself to Tristan Somerset, Duke of Winfield, before he ever realizes he’s married the wrong woman.

Tristan is not a man accustomed to surprises. Especially not ones that leave him legally wed to a woman who deceived him before the vows were even spoken. But annulment would mean scandal—and Tristan does not allow scandal to touch his name. Instead, he decides to keep his unexpected duchess.

As they travel abroad, Tristan quickly discovers that the impulsive, unconventional Imogen is nothing like the bride he intended to marry… and far more tempting than she has any right to be. Imogen, for her part, never meant to want the man she tricked into marriage, but the longer she remains at his side and his bed, the more she longs for his heart.

What began as a marriage of convenience is about to become something far more complicated…

She may have stolen his wedding… But Tristan is determined to take everything else.

***
Perfect for fans of:

Marriage of Convenience
Bride Swap
Accidental Marriage
Grumpy Duke
Sunshine Heroine
Forced Proximity
Opposites Attract
Only One Bed
Curvy Heroine
Possessive Hero
Travel Romance
High Heat Historical
I Shouldn’t Want You

If you love Bridgerton banter, steamy scandals, and dukes who never stand a chance against determined heroines, step into the Busty Bodice Club…where curves are celebrated, sisters are unstoppable, and every grumpy hero meets his match.

Genres: Historical Romance, Historical, Novella, Marriage Of Convenience

120 pages, Kindle Edition

Published May 12, 2026

About the author

National Bestselling author, Robyn DeHart’s novels have appeared in the top bestselling romance and historical romance lists. Her books have been translated into nearly a dozen languages. Her historical romantic adventure series, The Legend Hunters, were not only bestsellers, but also award-winners, snagging a Reader’s Crown and a Reviewer’s Choice award. She had three releases in 2013 and 2014 will see four more, all set in the popular historical romance Regency and Victorian eras.

Known for her “strong dialogue and characters that leap off the page” (RT Bookclub) and her “sizzling romance” (Publishers Weekly), her books have been featured in USA Today and the Chicago Tribune. A popular writing instructor, she has given speeches at writing conferences in Los Angeles, DC, New York, Dallas, Nashville and Toronto, among many others.

When not writing, you can find Robyn hanging out with her family, husband (The Professor) a university professor of Political Science and their two ridiculously beautiful and smart daughters, Busybee and Babybee as well as two spoiled-rotten cats. They live in the hill country of Texas where it’s hot eight months of the year, but those big blue skies make it worth it.

You can find Robyn online in a variety of places.
Sign up for Robyn’s newsletter www.robyndehart.com/newsletter/
Robyn’s website www.robyndehart.com
Robyn on Twitter twitter.com/RobynDeHart
Robyn on Facebook www.facebook.com/pages/Robyn-DeHart-H...
Robyn on Goodreads www.goodreads.com/author/show/288853....

What others say about Robyn’s books.
“Robyn DeHart’s vibrant characters sweep the reader into a clever and sensual romp that is not to be missed.” – Julia London, NYT Bestselling Author
“Robyn DeHart proves that falling in love is the greatest adventure of all.” – Teresa Medeiros, NYT Bestselling Author
“Sizzling romance…DeHart makes the romance believable and enticing.” - Publishers Weekly
“DeHart is a genuine treasure.” – Booklist
“Robyn DeHart has become one of my favorite authors…where she shines is in creating character…. DeHart’s romances are tender and adventurous, and funny enough you may laugh your nethers off.” – FreshFiction
“One of the best historical romance authors writing today.” - Shana Galen, National Bestselling Author

Reviews

[Nicole · Rating 5 out of 5]

I've only read 4 books from Robyn Dehart this is now my 5th and wowsers this book was amazing! I will be looking into more of her books.

A marriage that starts out with deception but ends in love.

Imogen only wanted to take the place of her best friend so her best friend could marry the love of her life and so that she herself could honor her father's last wish by not only marrying but traveling as well however what she didn't expect was to fall in love with her husband. And for him to accept her for who she is.

Tristan is a man of duty after all he is a Duke and a Duke has duties he must follow such as marrying a woman who doesn't give temptation and doesn't make him feel things.. he had the perfect bride picked out who was dull who didn't stir his blood who didn't turn his world upside down.. but the bride he got on his wedding day however isn't the bride he chose.. and even though she isn't, she is the one who brings meaning to not only his life but home.

Despite the fact that their marriage starting out as a lie and deception, and even pretending to love each other to society.. love ignites instantly.

This story had laughter, love and kittens!

I can't wait to dive into more from this author and into the next book from the busty bodice club series.

[Mephala · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was a story with an almost unbelievable premise, that for the first few chapters really tested one’s suspension of disbelief.

But after that whirlwind opening, Curves for the Betrothed Duke was an amazing and moving love story.

The quality of the author's writing style, especially while crafting dialogues is fantastic.

My first thought when I finished this novella (in one sitting, no less!) was how well it portrayed the instant connection and growing relationship between the main couple by mostly showing them… talking. Tristan and Imogen’s conversations were not only feeling incredibly natural, they were entertaining and exciting to follow.

I wouldn't even call those scenes bantering, they were more tension filled, with both Imogen and Tristan challenging each other, while slowly getting to know one another.

The fact that most of the plot takes place within a very short period of time, with small time jumps in the end, allows the story to feel less rushed and more contained; it makes the romance shine through even more.

I adored the way Robyn DeHart handled the first intimate scene between Tristan and Imogen; it was incredibly soft and romantic, sensual and sexy, but still managed to show the hero's matter of fact, yet caring personality.

Imogen is probably my favorite of the Harrington sisters; I loved her resolve, but also a certain quiet sadness she carried within her. The way she expressed understanding that as a sixth daughter she was mostly invisible, never expecting to be given anything grand and just for her, while secretly dreaming of it, was so deeply sad, yet that quiet resignation made her that more likable.

Even more so, for her being upfront about her insecurities, that Tristan managed to soothe so expertly.

The kittens scenes were pure fluff that I absolutely loved!

Still, I think my favourite two scenes were the pregnancy announcement, where Tristan adorably fretted over them not being able to travel to Italy and Greece, and the epilogue, where in an incredibly moving moment Imogen finally understood and accepted she deserves her husband's care, love and devotion.

Curves for the Betrothed Duke was truly a wonderful story; romantic and swoony, with characters with great chemistry. It’s definitely my second favourite book in the series, I wholeheartedly recommend reading it!

5/5 stars ⭐

[Bonnie · Rating 4 out of 5]

Thanks to Booksprout for a copy of this ebook and this is my freely given opinion.

This is book 5 of the Busty Bodice Club, a series about a group of curvaceous sisters each each given tasks by their deceased father to do in order to gain their inheritance. This story by Robyn DeHart is about Imogen, who enters the scene as a bride walking down the aisle towards the groom, Tristan Somerset, the Duke of Winfield.

Except she is not the bride he had planned.

Imogen is taking the place of her best friend, the intended bride, in order to allow her friend to pursue her own love match with a man not approved by her father. Imogen figures the switch is worth it, because statistically, she is not likely to marry for love anyways, and this allows her friend to be happy and Imogen can use the situation to work towards her father's stated task for her.

What she did not expect was that the groom, Tristan, would want to keep his unexpected bride. Tristan is a man who appears to like to have control, maintain appearances, and abhors scandal, and he is not willing to allow the change in bride, change his plans or ruin his reputation. Imogen will be his wife in every sense and expectation.

What neither one of them expected was that it would grow to become a love match.

This is a rather short and cute story of a backwards relationship where marriage occured first, but as the couple lives together, discover that they not only get along better than expected, especially in bed, but despite their unexpected beginnings, they grow shortly to love each other.

4 stars out of 5

[Margaret · Rating 5 out of 5]

Imogene Harrington has a solution to help her friend and fulfill her father's letter to get her inheritance. When her friend falls in love with someone else, Imogene gives her a way out. She'll marry the Duke of Winfield in her place. At first he's unsettled, but he soon accepts that this bride maybe the one he really needs. Descriptive sex. This is one satisfying, hot series.

[Barbara · Rating 5 out of 5]

Imogene Harrington needs to marry - according to the letter her late father left her, he wants her to travel abroad, but only as a married woman. The first thing she needs to do is find a husband, and it just so happens her dearest friend has one she doesn’t want - Eliza’s running away with her true love and Imogene offers to take her place at the alter. It seems like that wouldn’t work, but somehow, it does and Tristan Somerset, Duke of Winfield, makes the best of the situation and accepts his unexpected bride. It turns out they are made for each other, who knew? This was a delightful story, with two very different people who bring out the best in each other. I was rooting for Imogene, what a situation to be put in, but she pulled it off, and Tristan figured out that he got a much better deal than he bargained for. This was a wonderful addition to the Busty Bodice Club series, I enjoyed it immensely.

[Fanosse23 · Rating 5 out of 5]

Curves for the Betrothed Duke by Robyn DeHart is a sparkling, mischief-filled addition to the Busty Bodice Club series, and I adored every scandalous page! This time, another bold Harrington sister takes center stage, determined in her own delightfully unconventional way to fulfill her late father’s inheritance challenge. When her best friend Eliza falls for someone other than her intended, our heroine hatches a daring, borderline outrageous plan to rescue her—cue the bride swap of the century.

From the moment Imogen slips on the veil and strolls down the aisle to marry Tristan Somerset, Duke of Winfield—blissfully unaware he’s getting the wrong bride—you know you’re in for a deliciously twisty ride. Tristan, rigidly proper and allergic to surprises, suddenly finds himself bound to a woman whose very existence is a rebellion against his carefully managed world. Annulment would mean scandal, and scandal is simply not on the Duke’s daily agenda. So he does the only thing a respectable man can do: he keeps her.

What follows is pure romantic chaos. Tristan wanted a quiet, compliant duchess who checks off all the social boxes; instead, he’s married to Imogen—curvy, warmhearted, and entirely too irresistible. She flips his tidy life upside down, and watching his icy control melt into adoration is half the fun. The chemistry crackles, the banter sparkles, and the entire ride is as audacious as its heroine.

If you love your historical romances with humor, heat, and a heroine who gleefully rewrites the rules, this book will make your heart—and maybe your fan—flutter. By the end, I was grinning like someone who just got away with a delicious secret. Five curvy, bodice-busting stars!

I voluntarily read and reviewed a free Advanced Reader’s Copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.

[Debbie Steed · Rating 4 out of 5]

This author is new to me and I really enjoyed her novella.
The fifth book in the Busty Bodice Club was a fun read. It involves a bit of deception and a lot of self reflection and personal growth.

Imogen Harrington has been tasked by her deceased father to travel to different countries but she has to take a husband with her to be safe in his protection. She is the sixth of eight girls in her family so never had anything new for herself. Her best friend Eliza was betrothed to Tristan Somerset, the Duke of Winfield but was in love with another man. Imogen has a plan for both young women to get what they want.

Tristan’s life was bland and ordinary. He is very stoic and never shows emotion. His expected wife Eliza was also bland and would be a good duchess, causing him no problems or scandal. But on his wedding day, after the vows have been said and Tristan lifts the veil of his bride he gets a surprise. Imogen is his new wife.

The two have some navigating to do with their new life together but both of them change their opinions and grow emotionally and closer to each other as they get to know each other better. In the end they both maybe didn’t get what they were expecting, but both got what they needed.

This was a fast paced book but it didn’t feel rushed. I would have loved it if it was a longer story with a few more characters but the plot concentrated on the couple and their relationship which I really enjoyed reading. There was sadly no epilogue to this book which I always love to have in a book as I feel that it completes the story. This was the only reason I gave this book 4 stars.

I will be reading more from this author.I am glad that I have found another great author to read their books in the near future.

I received a special copy from the author. I’m voluntarily leaving this review.

[EstelaReadsRomance · Rating 5 out of 5]

Robyn DeHart is back writing historicals again, y’all… that in itself should sound the gong in celebration. Aaaand she wrote such a beautiful story. A cozy, heartfelt romance packed with chemistry, tenderness, and all the swoon worthy tingly-feels. Low angst, high chemistry… Tristan and Imogen completely stole my heart. And heck yeah I ugly cried af!!

Imogen is feeding two birds with one scone. She agrees to take her best friend’s place as a bride so her friend can run off and elope… while also fulfilling the strange inheritance condition her father left her - travel as a married woman. The problem? Tristan has absolutely NO idea there’s been a bride swap until after the vows are said and the veil is lifted. Oops!! Not his intended bride… but they are legally married. And as a man whose mission is to not have scandal touch his family, he has no choice but go with it.

Imogen and Tristan don’t count on the attraction they feel towards one another. He finds unexpected contentment in his curvilicious wife … and she gets the acceptance and the feeling of being seen from her handsome husband. Their ease in getting to know one another had me kicking my feet!

Honestly, the premise of this story is so wonderfully simple… it’s about two people falling in love. But their conversations and the getting to know you process is just so magically delicious. They were just so raw and honest with each other. And all the little everyday things that Tristan did for Imogen added up to heartfelt grand gestures.

Oh and their spicy scenes are hawt af AND adorable! I love it when couples laugh during the sexy bits.

Y’all… excuse me while I sit here crossing all crossable parts that Robyn DeHart gives us MORE historical romances. We desperately need stories like this. Bravo. Absolute book hangover material.

[Cathy Geha · Rating 5 out of 5]

Curves for the Betrothed Duke by Robyn DeHart
Busty Bodice Club

~ Smiling as I remember the surprise under Tristan’s bride’s wedding veil ~ What a wonderful story ~

What I liked:
* Imogen Harrington: sixth of eight sisters and seventh of nine children, curvy, made to feel less by her mother, intelligent, honest, mature, good friend, finds much more than she expected in Tristan
* Tristan Somerset, Duke of Winfield: ready to settle down, conforms to society’s expectations, doesn’t believe in love, good friend, forthright, finds more than he was expecting in his new bride
* The mature honest communication between Imogen and Tristan
* That the nine-year age gap between Tristan and Imogen never seemed too much due to Imogen’s mature outlook on life
* The conversation in the coach on the way from the wedding to the marriage breakfast
* The wedding night and the awakening of Imogen and seeds planted for a potentially warm and loving marriage
* Watching the growth of the relationship between Tristan and Imogen and knowing that though they had not courted as most do, they were perfect for and with one another and would have a happy life together
* That Imogen was able to fulfill the quest her father set for her and that Tristan was willing to help her do so
* Flynn Cavendish: Tristan’s good friend, witty, wise, wonder if he has a book of his own
* Reading a new-to-me author, loving the story she wrote, and knowing that I will look for her books in the future

What I didn’t like:
* I can’t think of anything…

Thank you to the author for the ARC – This is my honest review.
5 Stars

[Jennifer · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a great, quick read and a wonderful addition to the Busty Bodice Club series!

The FMC is Imogen Harrington (daughter number six this time) and she’s determined to fulfill her late father’s challenge to obtain her inheritance. He tasks her to travel abroad, but as a married woman. Being the sixth daughter, she never had grand aspirations of falling in love, so she is happy to obtain a somewhat available one even by means of trickery. When her best friend falls in honest to God true love with someone besides her intended, Imogen steps in as an imposter-in-a-veil during a legally binding wedding. But she was not expecting to fall in love with her husband.

The MMC is the Duke of Winfield, Tristan Somerset. He had chosen the ideal bride: dull, unlikely to be the cause of any distraction or unrest, submissive, and all but an accessory. However, the bride he married, is perhaps the exact opposite of everything his carefully managed world requires. He is nothing if not proper, and knows an annulment would cause explanation, and explanation would invite scandal. He was not expecting to have his loins stirred, his heart tendered or his life upended by one of Reuben’s own nymphs come to life. He loves everything about Imogen, much to his great surprise.

This is a sweet book, with a curvy heroine who receives worshipful devotion simply by bravely being her true self. And a Duke who thought that having a perfectly curated life was something he wanted, but found that he didn’t know what he truly needed to be fulfilled. This was a pleasure to read!

[Marion Löw · Rating 5 out of 5]

An Enjoyable Read

I thoroughly enjoyed this unconventional historical marriage of convenience romance novella. The story centers on a reserved duke and a strong, curvy heroine who commits marital fraud by taking her best friend’s place in an arranged marriage. The plot is very well written, full of sizzling tension, instant attraction, emotion, humor, and steamy moments. I really liked the main characters, who were a perfect match for each other.

Lady Imogen, the sixth Harrington sister, decides to help her best friend, who is being forced into an arranged marriage with Tristan Somerset, Duke of Winfield, even though she is in love with another man. So Imogen secretly takes her place at the wedding, thereby also partially fulfilling her late father’s wish for her to travel abroad, but only with the protection of a husband only. Surprisingly, the groom reacts differently than expected and insists on continuing the marriage. Tristan had deliberately chosen a wife who would not touch him emotionally and would not bring chaos into his organized life. Yet he is surprised to find that he is instantly drawn to his new, courageous bluestocking wife, who
throws his meticulous plans into disarray…

All in all, an entertaining short story with very likable characters, instalus, heart, humor, and heat—one I’m happy to recommend!

I received a free ARC of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own and left voluntarily.

[Lana Birky · Rating 5 out of 5]

Imogen doesn’t just bend the rules, she folds them into a paper airplane & throws them straight at a duke’s head. One veil, one switcheroo, & she steps in for her friend, saves her from a loveless match. Everyone, including the duke, are surprised that a different bride had married Tristan Somerset, a man who has never once in his life been unprepared for anything......until now. The duke's reaction is peak “I am calm, I am composed, I am absolutely losing my mind internally.” But scandal is his kryptonite, so instead of undoing the marriage, he decides to keep his surprise duchess.

And then the real fun begins. Because Imogen is not the quiet, obedient bride he expected; she’s a firecracker with curves, courage, & a heart he absolutely did not plan to fall for. This book is everything I love about historical romance: a messy beginning, a handsome duke, a heroine who refuses to apologize for wanting more, & a marriage of convenience that becomes anything but. It's a charming, funny, heart‑squeezing romance where one impulsive decision turns into the best mistake either of them ever made. I voluntarily read and reviewed an Advanced Reader's Copy of this book; all thoughts and opinions are my own.

[Alexandra G · Rating 3 out of 5]

He had his perfectly bland marriage all planned out... and then she turned his life upside down.
To save her dearest friend from heartbreak – and coincidentally move along her father’s dying wish for her to see the world, but as a married woman – Imogen steps in as bride. Something Tristan, her new husband, only discovers once the deed is done – and he’s none too pleased. Gone are his plans for a courteous and carefully planned loveless marriage of convenience, and instead he finds himself wed – and tempted beyond reason – to the Rubenesque beauty of his dreams. A woman he can’t seem to resist or refuse. Anything.

I enjoyed this novella; it was an easy and very romantic read, but just a tad too sedate for my liking.
It started on a high: I loved brave and determined Imogen, even while she was shaking in her slippers. Those first moment in the carriage: excellent! The wedding breakfast was a treat; his best friend’s teasing, how she wasn’t cowed by her formidable husband and even unintentionally made him fall right then and there. Their wedding night was magical! His tenderness and care, how honest and vulnerable he was when faced with her insecurities. Just beautiful – and yummylicious!
Afterwards the plot kind of sizzled out into marital bliss – which was absolutely lovely – but I was expecting her family, or at least some of them, to barge in and liven things up, and I was disappointed when they didn’t.

That said, Tristan is a dreamboat husband! You can shackle me to one of him any day! Tall, dark and handsome, attentive, devoted, the king of small gestures, and the way a messed-up plan befuddles him is just adorable.

⭐⭐⭐✨

[Nanna · Rating 5 out of 5]

I love this series so much and this book is a wonderful addition. It has tons of humor, emotion, secrets and passion too. When Imogen best friend Eliza come to her in tears cause she was being forced to wed the Duke Tristan when her heart belongs to another. Imogen sees a way to help them both, her later father told her to see the world but only after she wed. The sixth daughter of eight and not shaped like an English rose which society perfers.she is a large curvy woman, how was she to find a husband ? If she takes Eliza place at the her wedding she will be married and also save her friend. Oh my she really didn't think this thur. She knew this would cause a scandal but nevet dreamed the duke would keep her !! Tristan picked a wife that would forfill his duty to have a son but one that would not interfere with his life, a quiet dutiful one even if he found her dull. How in the world then did he just marry the wrong woman! One that is anything but dull,quit or boring. Let the rest of the story begin and what a story it is. Wow, so much fun. Don't miss this book or this series both are wonderful. I received an ARC from the author and wish to thank her. This is my honest opinion an am freely giving it.

[Rose Seals · Rating 5 out of 5]

Fun, Funny, well written story in this series. Full of drama, humor, emotions, romance, happiness, surprises, scandal, family, friends, intrigue, secrets, suspense, love and mystery. Imogen Harrington is the daughter of an Earl who has passed leaving her the task to marry and see the world. Her friend is to marry the Duke but is in love with another so Imogen decides to help her by marrying the Duke herself giving her friend a chance to get away. She thinks the Duke, Tristan Somerset will not go thru with the marriage but surprises her by doing so. She is not any where close to what her friend looks like but Tristan likes her shape and her outlook on life. Tristan need to marry and doesn't want any scandal attached to his name so he makes a fast decision and marries her. Thinking they can work out the problems this marriage will make for both of them, he lets her know that this will be a real marriage. She is very comfortable with her body and he is very aware of it. As they work on the marriage they fine that it will be great for both. Love comes to them. The storyline is great and the characters are perfect. Fantastic story. Would recommend to all .

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Emily Pennington · Rating 5 out of 5]

👰 An Unexpected Situation . . .

This was not what Imogen Harrington had imagined for her wedding day. She has traded places with Eliza, the bride-to-be who did not want to marry Tristan Somerset, Duke of Winfield. Their plan would leave Eliza able to marry the man she really loved. So the wedding dress was hastily altered, the seams let out to better fit Imogen's rounder body. Her long veil should cover most of her and hopefully the groom would not notice any difference.

Imogen kept wanting to rip off the veil and confess that this was all fake... but the scandal that would follow would taint her reputation. Although that didn't really bother her, her best friend Eliza would end up having to marry this man she did not love and endure a life she did not want. Also, marrying the Duke would allow Imogen to satisfy her father's dying request that she travel abroad as a married woman. If the plan worked, she was sure Tristan would not risk annulment that would bring shame and scandal into his life. But will they both be unhappy in their unwanted situation? Or could they possibly find themselves falling in love with each other as he truly sees her, listens to her, and puts her needs first? 👰 ❤️

[Kelli Matthews | SighingOurPleasure · Rating 5 out of 5]

4.5/5

The setup is delightfully absurd. Imogen Harrington takes her best friend's place as the bride, marrying Tristan Somerset, Duke of Winfield — and Tristan doesn't realize he's wed the wrong woman until the "you may kiss the bride" moment, in front of everyone. He's wound tight and terrified of scandal, which is exactly why he decides to keep her.

Imogen and Tristan are both bold, vibrant characters whose motivations and decisions make sense. Their banter is sharp, they match each other in wit, and Tristan is smitten embarrassingly fast for a man who thought he had everything under control. The wedding night is hot and completely in character for both of them. Spicy scenes that belong to the characters, and only these characters, are the best.

It's a novella, so things move fast and a few threads stay loose; that's not a flaw. DeHart delivers what good novellas should: a real arc, real stakes, and two characters worth wanting more time with. At the end, you will, in fact, want more time with them.

This is book five of the Busty Bodice Club. This was my first read and it easily stands alone.
Thank you to the author for the advance copy to review.

[Janet · Rating 5 out of 5]

When Imogen Harrington’s dearest friend Eliza is about to be forced into a loveless marriage—and Imogen must wed to fulfil her father’s dying wish—she takes matters into her own hands. With a veil hiding her identity, she walks down the aisle and binds herself to Tristan Somerset, Duke of Winfield, before he ever realizes he’s married the wrong woman. Tristan is not a man accustomed to surprises. Especially not ones that leave him legally wed to a woman who deceived him before the vows were even spoken. But annulment would mean scandal so he decides to keep his unexpected duchess.
Another lovely addition to this very good series. The Harrington siblings are delightful. I loved Imogen who turns Tristan’s world on its end. He wanted a quiet wife who didn’t make waves instead he’s tied to Imogen, curvy, warm hearted & caring. Before long he’s falling over himself to make her happy. A fun entertaining romance & I loved their journey to a HEA, which I devoured in a sitting
I voluntarily read and reviewed a special copy of this book; all thoughts and opinions are my own

[Jayne Butcher · Rating 5 out of 5]

Oh what a delightfully refreshing story! Imogen Harrington was the sixth daughter out of eight. She was curvy, intelligent, forthright and loyal. Her best friend Eliza was being forced into an arranged marriage with Tristan Somerset, the Duke of Winfield. Many ladies would be thrilled to become a duchess, but Eliza was desperately in love with someone else. So, on the morning of the wedding, Imogen walked down the aisle and Eliza rode off to Gretna Green. Imagine Tristan’s surprise, and fury, when he raised the veil to kiss his bride and found Imogen’s composed face instead of Eliza’s. What follows is an uplifting tale wherein a methodical and emotionally moderate duke finds that he is capable of happiness and love. Their wedding night is steamy, reverent and eye opening, leaving both with the suspicion that fate may have handed them something special. This story is filled with gentle nudges and adorable exchanges that will leave you with a sigh and a smile.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Marilyn · Rating 5 out of 5]

I loved “Curves for the Betrothed Duke”! Such a well-crafted romance from start to finish. This marriage of convenience, bride swap, forced proximity, opposites attract love story is engaging with wonderful characters. Imogen is finding her place in the world as she considers friendship, her worth, and the possibilities that may be available to her. She takes that devotion to a friendship to a length that brings her to stand beside Tristen, Duke of Winfield, in a wedding ceremony. This unexpected occurrence has Tristan needing to make a quick decision that will impact his live, his Dukedom, and their journey moving forward. Their journey is well-written as they explore their new forced proximity marriage, and I couldn’t put down until the end. “Curves for the Betrothed Duke” is part of the Busty Bodice Club series and highly recommended.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Julia 248 · Rating 5 out of 5]

A very enjoyable novella

Curves for the Betrothed Duke is a great marriage of convenience book. When Imogen, the 6th Harrington sister, takes her best friend’s place in an arranged marriage it is not something she would normally do. However, it helps her friend and means she can complete her father’s last request of her, travel abroad but only if you’re married. The unsuspected groom, Tristan Somerset, Duke of Winfield was only getting married for duty, and when he finds Imogen under his bride’s veil, he doesn’t give her away. I love how they work together on what to tell the wedding guests about the bride switch and how they eventually fall for each other. 💕

While this is the 7th book in the Busty Bodice Club series, it can be read as a standalone. I recommend it as a quick and very enjoyable read. ❤️ I also recommend the other books in the series too.

I received an ARC of this book, and this is my honest review.

[Kelly S. Simmons · Rating 5 out of 5]

This has been such a fun series! Eight daughters all receive challenges from their father upon his death. Imogen's red envelope says to travel abroad, but only as a married woman. Sounds simple, but without a husband or a suitor (ever), it's a definite challenge. Her best friend is to marry a duke but loves someone her parents disapprove of and wants to elope with him. Imogen offers to stand in for her at the wedding. Tristan, the stoic duke has no clue of the switch until he lifts her veil to kiss his new bride. Oops. His stoicism comes in handy at the altar. The close proximity of that initial carriage ride, the sizzling wedding night, and living together wreak havoc on a duke who plans every facet of his life. It's fun to watch them fall together. I can't wait for the next sister's story!
I received an advance copy of this book at no charge. This is my honest and voluntary review.

[Rosie Trzewik · Rating 4 out of 5]

Such a fun series to read, on to the next sister and her task. Her deceased father has given each of his eight daughters a task in order to claim their inheritance. Imogen task is to go out and see some of the world, but only as a married woman. So when her best friend on the eve of her wedding to a man she doesn’t love, Imogen comes up with a plan that will also serve her well with her task.
Tristan is doing his duty as a Duke and is waiting at the altar for his bride to walk down the aisle. Only after the vows are exchanged and it’s time to lift the veil to kiss is new wife does he realize it’s not the woman he was engaged to.
It’s a novella and a fast read, love the way Tristan accepts his fate and with Imogen find their HEA. This was the first I read of this author and I enjoyed her story telling and will definitely read more of her books. Thank you to the author for this ARC. All opinions expressed are truly my own.

[Bridget Love to read Lewis · Rating 5 out of 5]

We have a novella that’s packs a punch. Tristan Somerset, Duke of Winfield is very orderly and methodical! He lets very little surprise him as he is meticulous with even the smallest details!
All thoughts of order and ordinary go completely out the window when he lifts the veil at his wedding!
He finds Lady Imogen Somerset Née Harrington sixth daughter of eight! Overlooked and undervalued by most people including her sisters.
She has done a favor for her best friend Eliza so she could elope with her groom.
Imogen did not think things through and neither did Eliza that she would be married until death parted them. Marriage was forever, but Tristan is very amendable and very much charmed by his wife. They discover more than a passing attraction and are definitely made for each other! I think we need an Epilogue or two though! Bravo
I received an ARC copy from the author for my unbiased review!

[Pamela Blatter · Rating 5 out of 5]

Imogen is one of the brave sisters of the Busty Bodice Club.
She has a letter from her father encouraging her to marry and travel.
But that is not what is guiding her as she is walking down the aisle to her unplanned future.
Her friend is madly in love with another man but she is scheduled to marry Tristan the Duke.
Tristan is ordered and without scandal, he is choosing a bride for her quiet demureness.
But his life is up for grabs when he raises a veil to kiss his new bride and discovers Imogen.
Imogen has saved her friend but can she save herself and make a go of her marriage with her deception.
Sweet short romance with a chemistry and connection between Tristan and Imogen.
Character building and dialogue add to the positive love story.
Enjoyable addition to the series.
I received an ARC but the honest opinion is my own.

[Theresa25 · Rating 4 out of 5]

Imogen Harrington secretly marries Tristan Somerset, Duke of Winfield, to save her best friend from a loveless marriage. Once the I do’s have been said, and Tristan raises the bride’s veil for the necessary kiss, he realizes he’s married the wrong woman. What’s worse, he can’t do anything about it without causing a scandal, which is one thing he won’t do. So, for better or worse, the marriage stands. When it comes time for Tristan to make Imogen his wife, he is in for a surprise, as he realizes that Imogen might be a good wife for him after all. Especially since she has such nice curves for him to enjoy and he enjoys being in her company and making her happy.

This was a nice story about a couple who shouldn’t match, but ultimately do after they get to know each other. Love eventually hits both of them before they realize it themselves.

[Suzette · Rating 5 out of 5]

This entry in the multi-author series is a wonderful continuation, blending seamlessly with the previous books while also standing strong on its own.

The characters are vibrant and engaging, from the determined heroine to the charming duke. Robyn DeHart does an amazing job giving each character depth, making it easy to root for their romance. The plot is well-paced and captivating, full of emotional moments, witty interactions, and just the right touch of tension to keep me turning the pages.

One of the best aspects of this book is the satisfying, heartwarming ending that leaves the reader smiling. If you enjoy historical romance with excellent characters, an interesting storyline, and a truly happy conclusion, Curves For The Betrothed Duke is a must-read. I can’t wait to see what the next author in the series brings!

[Florida Girl Reads · Rating 5 out of 5]

Tristan Somerset, Duke of Winfield, selected a quiet, manageable, socially approved woman as his duchess. Instead, he unwittingly marries a curvy, unconventional, socially questionable Harrington sister named Imogen! This was an unexpected plot line that loved! Tristan maintains meticulous control over every possible detail of his life and Imogen is rebellion itself wrapped up in a tempting package. Both characters were well written. He is the grump to her sunshine, and they turn out to be perfect for each other! The kittens will melt your heart along with the steamy encounters! I have never read a book by Robyn DeHart but based on this book, I am going to find her previously written historical fiction and try one out!
I received an ARC from the author and am leaving a voluntary review based solely on my personal reading experience.

[Imromanticallyinvolved · Rating 5 out of 5]

First comes marriage, then comes love is one of my favorite plots and Robyn did everything right with this one. I loved the tension in the beginning with Imogen's trepidation as she walks down the aisle and Tristan's ability to keep it together after finding out he was deceived. What would happen after the ceremony kept both me and Imogen on edge.

What DID happen was a delight! Truths were told, stories were aligned, expectations were laid out, and attraction was definitely sparked. Tristan's stoicism paired with Imogen's vibrancy felt like puzzle pieces fitting together rather than points of conflict and I could not wait to watch these two snap into place.

Their story moves quickly from deception to devotion. I loved watching Imogen shake up Tristan's ordinary life, shattering the monotony making his life feel entirely new. Tristan became Imogen's safe space. He shows her unwavering loyalty, loving her just as she is. We all need a Tristan!

Does Tristan's cool composure ever crack? Why yes, yes it does... In the bedroom! He doesn't entirely give up control here but it's definitely to her benefit. Passionate, praising, worshipful are only a few words to describe their intimate scene. Pages and pages!! of showing her that he's not so cold after all!

Curves for the Betrothed Duke was pure comfort in the form of a story. It instantly boosted my mood with a heartwarming, uplifting narrative that I highly recommend!

I was honored to receive an early copy. All thoughts and opinions are my own.

[Kiyowo · Rating 5 out of 5]

“You had no idea what you were passing over, all that time. Half those girls the matchmaking mamas parade around are so malnourished a good November wind would carry them off. Your—” he paused.
Reading this made me laugh out loud 😂😂😂

Historical romance isn’t actually one of my favorite genres, but I enjoyed reading this.
In addition to the romantic relationship, there are plenty of humorous exchanges that made me smile and laugh.
I just wish the epilogue had covered the time after Tristan and Imogen’s child was born, because honestly, I’m curious to see how Tristan behaves now that he’s a father.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.