Duke of Enveigh

Seven Dukes of Sin #5

by Mariah Stone

He wants revenge. She wants freedom. Neither expected to want each other.

Archibald, Duke of Enveigh, is England’s most elegant predator. When his former friend the Duke of Eccess stole the woman Archibald wanted, he vowed revenge. The perfect weapon? Octavius’s innocent sister. Seduce her, ruin her, walk away.

Lady Mercy Everard has spent twenty years in French exile, studying stars and vowing never to marry for anything less than love. Now she’s thrust into London’s season as the talk of the ton: the Duke of Eccess’s long-lost sister, perfect prey for fortune hunters.

But Mercy isn’t like other debutantes. She sees through his practiced charm to the wounded man beneath. And she’s not afraid of him. When she challenges him to prove he’s more than another rake playing games, their secret alliance begins: he’ll teach her to survive the ton’s dangers.

As stolen moments in moonlit gardens turn into whispered confessions, Archibald realizes his fatal miscalculation—he’s falling for his mark.

When their forbidden attraction threatens to consume them both, only one choice remains: a desperate flight to Gretna Green with all of London in pursuit. But can a man who destroys everything he touches learn to love without destroying the woman who might save his soul?

Sometimes the deadliest sin is the one that redeems us.

Genres: Historical Romance

318 pages, Kindle Edition

Published October 27, 2026

About the author

When 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!

Reviews

[Lady of Regency · Rating 5 out of 5]

I honestly don’t know which shelf to put this book on. I love it and hate it at the same time. Do you know what I mean? 😂🙈

Somehow, this author keeps getting better and better at writing her Dukes. Even though, with this one, I would have loved to separate his head from the rest of his body. 😂

The most important question is: Is Archibald a manipulator? He was an idiot for betting on her in the first place. An even bigger idiot for not expecting HER to charm him. Does he want to control everyone and everything? Or is he simply trying to find himself and his place in life? Somehow, she became a star in his universe. And that, my friends, is romantic.

I admired her every time she refused to keep her mouth shut. 😂 I mean, how could she? When she’s right, she has every right to speak her mind!

Thankfully, his jealousy didn’t end up destroying him.

I love how the author didn’t just choose fitting names for her Dukes, but for each and every Lady as well. If you don’t want to miss out on a five-star read, you NEED to read this one!

Archie and Mercy are absolutely fantastic together. They complement each other perfectly, just like the others do. I honestly didn’t feel like anything was missing. We got love, arguments, an escape to Gretna Green, betrayal, more love, and finally, the realization of what truly matters.

And now, I’m looking forward to the day when Thorne Blackmore finally gets his own story. 🖤

[Meredith · Rating 3.75 out of 5]

This was exactly what I look for in a historical romance - a fast paced read full of bluestockings and lies and a third act breakup that you KNOW will end well. I finished it so quickly.

I was a little thrown off by the Black Dagger Brotherhood-esque names of the Dukes as the seven deadly sins, but their brotherhood truly forms the backbone of the story. Even though I chaos-read it and jumped in at book 5, I can appreciate the found family of it all. And this is easily an interconnected standalone.

I really like the Duchesses, a group of lady loves who have all reformed their rakes, with a devotion to science and a strong sisterhood.

Definitely interested in going back to read the earlier entries!

Thanks so much to the author and to Hambright PR for the review copy. All opinions are honest and offered voluntarily.

[Marcy G · Rating 4.75 out of 5]

Change Can Happen When Finding LOVE 🥰
Duke Of Enveigh : Seven Dukes Of Sin Book 5 ; Mariah Stone Really Hits All The Emotions With This Story Keeping You There From The Beginning To The End ! Back And Forth ! Happy And Sad ! Believing And Disappointed ! One Minute Hopeful ! Next Doubtful ! The Two Had Such Sadness In There Lives ! Wishing For Them To Find It In Each Other ! Oh My ! Secrets ! Wagers ! Revenge ! Obligations ! Brotherhood ! Choices ! The Duke And The Lady And The Lady Will Touch Your Heart ❤️ So Fast You Won’t Put It Down !
Archibald the Duke Of Enveigh Was Exiled From The Brotherhood Which Meant Everything To Him ! They Had All Been Rakes And Weren’t Exactly The Best Of People ! Four Were Married Now And Changed ! it Was Something He Wanted ! Could He Find It And Forget About Revenge ?
Lady Mercy Everard Was The Sister To Octavius The Duke Eccess ! She Was Separated From Her Brother For 20 Years Living With There Mother In France ! Living Now With Him and His Wife Temperance And His 3 Wards ! Finally Getting The Family She Missed ! The King Had Other Plans For Her ! A Marriage Approved By Him ! She Only Wanted To Marry For LOVE ❤️! Her Passion For Astronomy Meant Everything To Her !
Mercy And Archibald Met At The Ball. He Knew She Was Octavius Sister ! This Was His Chance For Revenge I Charming Her Would Be Easy , That Is What He Did Best ! She Wasn’t Going To Fall For His Tricks ! Both Playing The Game Well ! Catches Them By Surprise ! The Brotherhood And No One Knows His Secrets ! Like Her With Her Secrets In Astrology ! Can There Secrets Bring Them Together ? Can He Go Through With His Revenge ? What Would Octavivus Do If He Found Out About Them ? Can He Change ? Can She Find LOVE ❤️ ?
A Great Read ! Captivating ! A LOVE STORY 🥰.

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

[Lana Birky · Rating 5 out of 5]

Archibald, Duke of Enveigh - Handsome, intelligent, and fueled almost entirely by spite, Archibald decides the best way to punish his rival is to seduce the man's innocent sister. Reader, it does not go according to plan.

Lady Mercy Everard - Smart, independent, and refreshingly unimpressed by ducal nonsense, Mercy sees straight through Archibald's charm and refuses to play the role he's assigned her.

Archibald's revenge scheme seems simple; use Mercy to get even with her brother. Unfortunately for him, Mercy is cleverer than his plan. What starts as manipulation slowly becomes friendship, trust, and a romance neither of them expected. Watching Archibald realize he's falling for the very woman he intended to use was equal parts entertaining and satisfying. The chemistry sparkles, the banter is sharp, and the emotional payoff delivers.

I thoroughly enjoyed this redemption romance. Mercy is intelligent and easy to root for, while Archibald's journey from revenge-seeking duke to lovestruck fool was a joy to watch unfold. If you enjoy intelligent heroines, reformed rakes, emotional redemption arcs, and a healthy dose of Regency scandal, this book belongs on your TBR. Because nothing says true love quite like accidentally falling for the woman you were supposed to be ruining.

Mariah Stone writes emotionally rich stories, compelling redemption arcs, memorable characters, and swoon-worthy HEAs. I voluntarily read and reviewed an Advanced Reader's Copy of this book; all thoughts and opinions are my own. 

[Terri McCarrell · Rating 4 out of 5]

Third person POV, regency romance. One of a series of interconnected standalones. This was my first read of hers, so I landed directly in the middle of this series. I think the book can easily be read alone, but it has now made me look for others in her series that sound like they have great stories.
I did get hung up a little on all the Dukes with names that play on the seven deadly sins. I know this is clearly the premise to her series, so I can’t have too much beef with it, but I did find all the silly names annoying in the actual context of the story.
Both of the MCs were compelling and I enjoyed their character arcs. I would have loved a deeper view into their minds, like first person POV, but one can’t be too picky, and if you love third person POV, you will go all in on this one!
Thank you to the author and Hambright PR for the opportunity to read and review in advance.

[Brenda · Rating 5 out of 5]

A tragic love story of a French girl and an English Duke who grew to love each other. They were destined for heartbreak and reconciliation along the way
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

[Bonnie · Rating 4.25 out of 5]

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

This is book 5 of the Dukes of Sin series and picks up shortly from the end of the last book, after the bonds of friendship were broken between Archibald, the duke of Enveigh, and Octavius, the duke of Eccess after what Archibald feels is an unforgiveable betrayal of their friendship, when Octavius falls in love with his present wife, Temperance, and marries her, after Archibald had placed a claim on her, despite no feelings on either the part of either one of them, for each other. Shortly after they have a showdown, and as Enveigh leaves his friends behind in his ire, he meets his fate.... Lady Mercy, the long lost sister of Eccess has returned after being whisked away as a baby and hidden by their mother when she fled England and an unhappy marriage.

This is the story of Archibald and Mercy, as Archibald falls into a spiral of envy, and bitterness, and is encouraged to seek his revenge against Octavius, by a fellow duke, who makes a wager with him to publicly ruin Lady Mercy. Mercy has been introduced to Society and seeking to make a suitable marriage, as part of her promise to the Prince Regent, proving her loyalty. A secret she kept hidden though is her education and knowledge about astronomy, a passion she shared with her mother, and their French host and protector, but if she were to acknowledge it, it could be held by the Prince as proof of her acting treasonously on behalf of the French, and ruin her and her family. Archibald discovers her secret and her desire to publish and claim a discovery of a recurrent comet, with the Royal Society, and have it named for her mother. Archibald manipulates the situation to force Mercy to work with him to gain her wish.

Despite being warned of his rakish history and that he is not to be trusted, Mercy finds that she has a greater connection to Archibald than any of the other eligible men she has been introduced to, and likewise, he starts to develop feelings for Mercy at odds with his plans and desire for revenge.

Love blooms despite the lies, manipulation, and intrigue, and in the end Enveigh must decide if his grudges, pride, and desire for revenge are more important than the love that he has developed for Mercy, and his newfound desire to win her love and make her happy.

The grudge and bitterness between Enveigh against Eccess, and the others is a bit overblown at times, but an enjoyable story, and the astronomy woven through was very interesting. The backstory of Enveigh's family and his guilt over his brother added some interesting depth to his character as well. The Duke of Vannity was an interesting addition, plays an interesting counterpoint to the other Dukes - a villain that will recur in future stories?

4.25 stars out of 5

[Debbie Steed · Rating 5 out of 5]

I have loved this series so much! Archibald and Mercy’s story is another fantastic addition to this series. Once I started reading this I didn’t want to put it down. I have really enjoyed this series and all the characters in the books. The close relationship between all of the dukes and their journeys to find their true love has been a joy to read. The dukes are like brothers and have sworn an allegiance to each other. They follow a set of principles that they drew up together and live by them.

The Dukes of Sin was a tight brotherhood of men before the Archibald, Duke of Enveigh left because the Duke of Excess married Temperance, the woman Archibald thought was his. There were very harsh words said by Archibald to Octavius, the Duke of Excess when Archibald walked away that Octavius would not even look at Archibald now. He was still livid about Archibald’s accusations that Octavius had broken the sacred rules of the brotherhood, which Octavius denied and the other dukes stood by him.

Now Lady Mercy, Octavius’s younger sister has returned from France after their mother died. She grew up in France after her mother ran away with her as a baby to get away from her husband. She left Octavius with his father. The two siblings are now getting to know each other and Mercy is having her first season with the ton.

Archibald wants vengeance on Octavius. Another duke places a bet with him that will destroy Octavius. Archibald accepts the bet but it involves Mercy and Octavius is very protective of her so Archibald has to think of ways to get access to her.
Both have secrets that could change their lives if they were to be discovered and both are lacking in self esteem.
As they spend secret time with each other they find the other gives them the confidence they lack on their own but Archibald’s revenge must be got or he will have to try to make amends with Octavius. Mercy is also trying to honour her mother with her scientific knowledge but being a woman is problematic for the recognition that Mercy wants her mother to have. Will Archibald realise before it’s too late that what he was looking for was right in front of him all along?

When the biggest secret is revealed it could mean the end for Archibald and Mercy. I wasn’t expecting the plot twist but it was a shock to me when it happened.

This book has everything in it. The connections between characters in this story are amazing and the story kept me up late into the night. I can’t wait for the next book!

I received a special copy from Bookfunnel. I’m voluntarily leaving this honest review.

[Dorothy · Rating 4 out of 5]

What a fun read! If you love Regency romance with plenty of twists, sharp banter, and a rake whose plans go spectacularly wrong, add this one to your TBR!

Archibald Orme, Duke of Enveigh, had me laughing one minute and wanting to shake some sense into him the next. His plan might have seemed brilliant on paper, but watching it unravel as feelings got involved was a whole other story. Sir, what exactly did you think was going to happen?

Mercy Everard was such a refreshing heroine. She’s clever and sharp tongued. She is determined to get what she wants without sacrificing her ambitions for anyone. I loved that Mercy wasn’t easily swayed by Archibald’s charm and had her own reasons for entering their bargain.

Between the bargain, the twists, and the banter, this was such an entertaining read. Watching Archibald discover that the heart doesn’t follow a plan was delicious, especially when he was the one who thought he had everything under control.

If you love Regency romance with a clever, fiercely independent heroine, a duke whose plans go spectacularly wrong, and banter that keeps things entertaining, this one deserves a spot on your TBR!

[Danielle's · Rating 5 out of 5]

Another sinful romance with scandal, beauty and entertaining banter. I really enjoyed the Duke of envy. Having the Duke of Vanity as a reject deadly sin really tickled me.

Archibald has fallen on desperate times. He’s walking a tight rope where he could loose everything at any moment. When Vanity offers him a wager, he puts his most prized possession on the line and agrees to do something hideous.

Mercy is protected by her brother (a previous deadly sin Duke) but she has dreams. She wants to use her knowledge to advance in the world.

Archibald is willing to help Mercy get what she wants but will the Prince of trust be more than either of them can afford?

[Alexandra G · Rating 5 out of 5]

Villain redemption with a twist! You see, he’s not a villain, just a wounded wolf cut loose from his pack – and he choses the despicable out to numb his pain. Guilt & grief will do it every time.
Dear Archie is definitely a fixer-upper, and I do love a good project!

Mercy & Archibald
She an astronomer, barely reunited with her ducal brother after growing up in exile, and under royal pressure to find a husband.
He a 2nd son duke, hiding his poverty and ailing mother, bitter over losing a wife (and her fortune) to his former best friend – her brother.
A wager to ruin her before she reaches the altar. Revenge and a quick fortune? Should be easy enough for a seasoned rake... Except, it isn’t - until he finds her weak spot. A comet she wants to claim, but no way to do so without exposing her new-found family to the Regent’s wrath. Good thing his dearly departed brother left him with knowledge and connections!

Mercy is lamb with claws; soft, kind, eager to please with a sharp mind, and unafraid to speak it.
While Archie’s in it for all the wrong reasons, his connection to her quickly turns frighteningly real. She picks up all the broken pieces he so desperately tried to hide, and puts him back together. Why? Because he’s a good man who marvels at her brilliance and goes above and beyond to secure her dream.
I loved seeing this man come undone when she unintentionally slips behind his mask. There’s a moment at the cemetery that nearly brought me to tears – and what happens after; so moving!
And the other way ‘round as well; I so understand why she fell for him!

Archie gets tangled in his own web, messes up big time (with a nice shove from the true villain), and that’s where the complex brotherhood dynamics really shone. Except for Eccess, none of them is black or white, and he wasn’t abandoned – but he needs a truckload of growth to see it.
And this story delivered! Raw, riveting & romantic with the exact pinch of heartache. A sinuous plot that got me so darn invested that their HEA made my heart sing!
Simply gorgeous!

[Janet · Rating 5 out of 5]

Archibald, Duke of Enveigh, has owed revenge on his former friend the Duke of Eccess who stole the woman Archibald wanted. The perfect weapon? Octavius’s innocent sister. Seduce her, ruin her, walk away. Lady Mercy Everard has spent twenty years in French exile, studying stars and vowing never to marry for anything less than love. Now she’s thrust into London’s season as the talk of the ton. But Mercy isn’t like other debutantes. She sees through Archibald’s practiced charm to the wounded man beneath. As stolen moments in moonlit gardens turn into whispered confessions, Archibald realizes his fatal miscalculation—he’s falling for his mark.
The fifth book in the series & it could be read on its own but this close knit group are a delight & as with all series I have to read from the beginning. I loved Archibald, yes he needed to be redeemed but as his backstory was revealed so his reasons became apparent. I also loved Mercy, intelligent, feisty & determined to marry for love but pragmatic enough to realise you don’t always get what you want. I loved how Archibald fell & how he proved his love, I love it when a rake is brought to his knees. A lovely romance which I found hard to put down.
I voluntarily read and reviewed a special copy of this book; all thoughts and opinions are my own

[Milly Dashwood · Rating 4.25 out of 5]

Calling all grovel lovers! 👀

Mariah Stone’s Duke of Enveigh pulled me in with a captivating, twisting plot and a hero we meet at his absolute lowest.

💚 Green with envy as he looks at his comfortably situated friends, Archibald is struggling to save his mother and his estate. The green imagery is motif throughout, a clever nod to the central sin of his story.

In a desperate attempt to salvage his future, he enters a wager that ties his salvation to Mercy’s ruin, and naturally, he falls… hard. His regret, and even his active attempts to stop what he has set in motion, cannot erase the looming shame.

Stone makes a brave choice here. Watching Mercy’s trust alongside Archibald’s guilt is sometimes painful, but that tension keeps the story moving and turning. I appreciated her willingness to show a hero at his worst, then make us witness the work of his redemption. And yes, that means a grovel worth showing up for.

There’s an old-school historical romance flavor to this deeply imperfect hero and the consequences of his choices, and I was definitely caught up in watching him find his way out.

This was my first book in the series, and now I’m curious about the others. Pairing the heroes’ deadly sins with the heroines’ virtues is such a clever concept. What an introduction! 🔥♥️

Thank you to Mariah Stone for the opportunity to read this ARC!

[Jordan Fiest · Rating 5 out of 5]

Duke of Enveigh is book five of the Seven Dukes of Sin Series.

Entering this story, I knew we were in for a wild ride. We left the last book with Enveigh and Eccess at odds, and now we get to see how deep this fall out has gone. Does Archibald make the best decisions? No, but you can see why he does and the reasoning is solid. He just wants to protect his mother and is willing to do anything, even hurt someone he could grow to care deeply about. I loved the transformation of Archibald and seeing how he put aside his anger and hatred for those he loved and cared deeply about. Mercy is just trying to fit into this new society and tries her hardest to be someone she isn't. I loved how Archibald encouraged her and made her feel comfortable in her own skin and knowing she could be something amazing if someone just gave her the chance. Beautiful read!

[Laurie Barnes · Rating 5 out of 5]

Archibald and Mercy's story was a treat. Lady Mercy, who must hide being a trained astronomer, wants to submit a paper on a newly discovered comet so it can be named after her mother. Archibald, recently exiled from his notorious group of friends, The Seven Dukes of Sin, that her brother is a part of, makes a wager with another "friend wanna be" to get back at her brother for his betrayal (book 4). He must ruin Mercy in exchange for land and title, which will allow him to take better care of his mother. He falls for her in the process.
#HPRDukeofEnveigh
#MariahStone
#HambrightPR

[Elizabeth · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was my first in the series and by this author as well. They can definitely be read as standalones as I had no issues diving right in and understanding who lol the characters were. I only read regency/historical romance on occasion so it a different change of pace for me. It was a fun read though and I really enjoyed it!

Thank you to the author and Hambright PR for the advanced copy.

[Princess TJ · Rating 5 out of 5]

Experience All the Emotions and a Happily Ever After! This story is mind blowing!! It is a page turner that I will return to again and again! Archibald is out for revenge, and Lady Everand wants to find love …. What could possibly go wrong? How could EVERYTHING go so wrong and end up so right? Another great story by Mariah Stone, don't miss this one!

[Brooke Chambers · Rating 4 out of 5]

Thank you HambrightPR and Mariah Stone for the ARC!
If you love classic romance with twists and turns and a love story that has character arcs that truly develop you will love this.
I’ll now have to go back and read the first 5 books in this series, but I’m not complaining.
🌶️
❤️❤️❤️

[Emma Lee · Rating 4 out of 5]

I enjoyed this. I loved the characters love it when the guy falls hard. Not one for the keeping lies but it didn’t go on too long once he fell!!! Can’t wait to see how the last two fall.

[NelleRenn · Rating 4 out of 5]

I really get up set when people seek revenge on an innocent party to get back at a person they are related to. Archibald’s jealousy and his determination to get revenge on Mercy's brother were traits that made me dislike him at the beginning. He has no thought for how it might affect her. Luckily, she isn’t the typical debutant as she was raised mostly in France and had to struggle, which made her more independent and resilient. I enjoyed the read after I saw some changes in Archibald.

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

[Ellianna · Rating 4 out of 5]

Review of ARC

I’ve been waiting for this particular entry in the Dukes of Sins series with more excitement than the ones that came before due to the excellent buildup from the previous book in the series, the Duke of Eccess- while the duel between him and our new MMC, Archibald, the Duke of Enveigh, resulted in a draw, their tenuous friendship was nevertheless shattered, and would remain so for the foreseeable future. Enveigh could not move past his resentment of Eccess being given so much- the love of Temperance, the woman Enveigh claimed (though didn’t necessarily love), a found family in their three wards, and a long-lost sister, Mercy, returning after being lost to him for two decades.
It’s through Mercy that Enveigh decides to take revenge on Eccess, though his actions are largely spurred on by the Duke of Vannity, a new character who has his own vendetta against Enveigh for perceived wrongs done to him during their school days- and given his name, you can safely assume that he will be the main antagonist of the story, as we already have our “Seven Dukes of Sin” (all conveniently named in a way that resembles their worst traits, while the women- all gifted in various fields of study- are named after their most admirable. It is a theme that extends the length of the series, and you can either laugh at the ridiculous implausibly of it, or sit back and enjoy the stories. I chose the later…though I will admit that the name “Diligence” pushed the envelope a bit). Thankfully, his appearances throughout the story are relatively constrained (as are the Prince Regent’s, who continues to pop up in this series to cause drama), and we can focus on the romance between Enveigh and Mercy.
I’m grateful to say that this is where the story excels- we knew from his interactions with Temperance that Enveigh has the capacity to care for others, and it absolutely comes through here, especially in regards to his grief-stricken mother whose mind is trapped in a reality where her son Edmund, who died while taking care of business on Archibald’s behalf, is still alive, forcing Archibald to take on the guise of his older brother in order to keep her calm. Her room alone is the only one on the estate that retains its former glory, as Enveigh has had to sell all he could to pay for her care, and his grandiose lifestyle is nothing but smoke and mirrors to keep up appearances.
A false life is a lonely life, which is one of the reasons why Mercy- who he’d hoped to ruin out of spite for her brother, as well as win a ten thousand-pound wager with the loathsome Vannity- is able to break through his vindictive shield. She is the embodiment of love and literal starlight, a woman raised in exile in France with only her mother Seraphina and Seraphina’s “protector” to guide her (until Seraphina passes away and he sees her in a lascivious new light, prompting Mercy’s journey home to England). She is also a scholar of the stars, and it is her dream to name an upcoming comet after her mother, who studied the stars with her. Unfortunately, women at the time were rarely if ever allowed to publish their findings, so when Enveigh discovers her secret during a failed seduction attempt and subsequently volunteers to help her in an effort to try again, desperation outweighs reluctance and Mercy’s reliance on him allows Enveigh to get close to her, despite her brother demanding that she keeps her distance.
The forced proximity (admittedly one of my favorite tropes) gives way to a friendship between the two, and this friendship eventually gives way to love, the one thing Mercy truly wants for herself, to the extent that she would rather not marry at all than marry without love (a bold statement for a woman to make back then, especially when the Prince Regent is intent on her marrying to prove her loyalty to England). Enveigh finds himself falling for her in spite of himself, yet is haunted by the realization that she may not be able to forgive him once he tells her the truth about the gamble with Vannity (I admit that when the truth does eventually come out, as truths are always wont to do, it came from a very unexpected source).
I’m honestly not sure what I loved about this story more- Enveigh’s redemption arc, or the two of them falling in love despite his wishes and her reservations. But when they do, it’s a beautiful thing, and I found myself wishing that the story could’ve gone on for longer. At least we have two more books in the series, which they’ll most certainly be featured in, given that all of the former main characters have made appearances throughout. I’m glad of it- the world needs more mercy (not to mention, Mercy).

[Amy Carducci · Rating 4 out of 5]

What happens when a duke sets out to ruin a woman for revenge, only to fall hopelessly in love with her?

Duke of Enveigh is the fifth installment in Mariah Stone's Seven Dukes of Sin series, inspired by the seven deadly sins. This time, envy takes center stage, and Archibald Orme has plenty of it!

I'll admit, I wasn't Archie's biggest fan in the beginning. His intentions toward Lady Mercy Everard are anything but honorable. What starts as a calculated scheme of revenge, however, slowly develops into a genuine friendship built on trust, undeniable chemistry, and ultimately love.

Mercy is a lamb with claws! She's soft, kind, and compassionate, but she's also incredibly intelligent and isn't afraid to speak her mind. I loved how she could see past Archie's carefully constructed mask to recognize the man underneath. The loving son, the grieving brother, and the good man who has been hiding behind years of pain and resentment.

Watching Archie's transformation was my favorite part of this story. He begins with all the wrong intentions, but Mercy gradually breaks down his defenses. And Archie doesn't just fall for her beauty. He recognizes her brilliant mind, admires her passion for astronomy, and goes above and beyond to help make her dreams possible.

There's a particularly emotional cemetery scene that nearly brought me to tears. It reveals so much about Archie and the grief he's carried, making his journey toward redemption even more meaningful.

Of course, his original deception doesn't simply disappear. Archie keeps his intentions hidden, and when the truth threatens their relationship, the heartbreak feels inevitable. The secrets, betrayal, angst, and intrigue build toward an emotional climax.

I also enjoyed the friendship and loyalty among the dukes, which adds another layer of depth to this series.

The pacing was good, the chemistry between Archie and Mercy was excellent, and I appreciated that their relationship developed beyond physical attraction into something meaningful.

Ultimately, this is a story about a man consumed by envy who discovers that love is worth far more than revenge. I went from disliking Archie to genuinely loving him by the end!

A satisfying historical romance filled with redemption, emotional vulnerability, and a heroine who sees the goodness in a man determined to hide it.

ARC provided by Hambright PR in exchange for an honest review.

[Dani · Rating 4 out of 5]

Wow, I really enjoyed this one.

I loved the main characters, their interactions with each other, and I enjoyed seeing characters we got to know in previous books in the series.

Archibald the Duke of Enveigh is angry and full of revenge. He has been at odds with his best friend Octavious the Duke of Excess and with that comes his removal from the Brotherhood - the group they founded and had all been part of since their youth.

Out of spite he plans on charming, seducing, and ruining Excesses sister, Lady Mercy.

Lady Mercy is the long lost sister of the Duke of Excess and she is trying hard to do everything right, be what she needs to be, keep her brother happy. She doesn't want to lose what she just got, a family.

She is smart, educated, and head strong.

She is very attracted to the Duke of Enveigh. He is charming, attractive, and she is drawn to him. He is the only person she feels she can be herself around.
The only man she could see herself with.
She is ready to go all in with him, even almost getting caught in the gardens with him but her feelings change once her friends start telling her all about his past conquests.

She is determined to not fall for his charms and tells him to his face just that, even though it breaks her heart to walk away...

I really liked Mercy. She was so strong, stood up to others for what she wanted and didn't want - even though she had feelings for Archibald, she didn't fold when things got really scary and tough.

I liked Archibald, the was a lot of good in him but I didn't like how he could be very manipulative for his own selfish purposes.

He did have redeeming qualities. He had a big heart, he really cared, and he did right his wrongs. Once you find out Archibald's past, what he was going through - you have a better understanding as to why he was so determined and ruthless when he laid out his plans in the beginning.

I loved how they really helped each other overcome their personal fears and trauma's. Archibald encouraged Mercy to not hide her true self in fear of losing her brother, to be honest with others, to stand up for herself even if it was against him.

I loved how Mercy's love allowed him to drop the walls he had built, to let go of his demons, and to finally take his mask down and be his true self.


Everything about these two, they were just perfect for one another. I loved their love story.

I received an ARC from the author. All opinions expressed are my own and voluntarily provided.

[Nanna · Rating 5 out of 5]

Wow, what a series this is, and each book is better than the last if that's possible. To get the most from the series, it should be read in order. Each book has a lead in to the next one. This is a book of revenge, loss, a wager wrong from the start added to the only friends one had, now gone over a woman. Archibald and Octavius were best friends, and both part of the dukes of sin allegiance made up of seven Dukes and rules they set up for each to follow. When Octavius take the woman, Temperance knowing that Archibald wants her it brecks one of the rules. But the other dukes sided against him and kicked him out. Now Octavius has everything, and Archibald has nothing but debts, a sick mother and an empty house as he has sold everything of value to try and help his mother. When Lord Vannity who was turned away from joining the dukes, comes to him with a wager, Archibald filled with his loss and anger agrees. He will compromise Mercy and Vannity will give him an estate which makes enough money to support his mother. If he loses, he must give his brothers ring. The only thing he has left from him. Many have tried to buy it, and he will never part with it. Archibald has seduced many women, so he didn’t see any problem till he meets Mercy and starts spending time with her. She is different than every other woman he knows. Sweet, smart has a lonely history and he falls hard. She knows he used to be her brother's best friend and knows sneaking around to see him is wrong, but she is drawn to him like no other man. Wow, what a read, what will happen when the wager is found out? What will the prince do when he learns she lied to him and will old friends kill each other or work together to save the person both love? So many twists and turns, misunderstandings, loss, pain, passion and love. Grab a copy and get started, be sure and get both endings. I was very surprised by what we learned at the very end. For those who have read the whole series, it is shocking. I received an ARC from the author and wish to thank her. This is my long but honest opinion and am freely giving it. I can’t wait for the next book.

[Valentina Khimich · Rating 5 out of 5]

Revenge, betrayal, complicated relationships, and a romance that develops in the most unexpected way. Duke of Enveigh had so much more emotional depth than I initially expected, and I really enjoyed how Mariah Stone brought these characters and their complicated pasts together.
Archibald is not exactly the easiest character to love. He is stubborn, proud, consumed by resentment, and makes some truly questionable decisions. But what I appreciated about his character was that there was so much more beneath all that anger. His actions aren’t always justified, and I certainly didn’t agree with everything he did, but understanding where his bitterness came from made his journey so much more interesting.
And then we have Mercy. Oh, how I loved Mercy!
Intelligent, independent, passionate about astronomy, and absolutely unwilling to let anyone dictate her future. I especially appreciated that she wasn’t written as someone who needed a man to give her purpose. She already had dreams, ambitions, and a mind of her own. And she wasn’t afraid to use it!
What really stood out to me was the relationship between these two. Their chemistry was wonderful, but it was the emotional development that made their story worth reading. The tension, the banter, the vulnerability slowly finding its way through years of resentment… I loved watching their relationship evolve into something neither of them anticipated.
I also enjoyed how the author explored the complicated relationships within the brotherhood. There is a lot of history, pride, and unresolved hurt between these characters, and it adds another layer to the story without taking too much attention away from the romance.
The pacing kept me interested, the emotional moments felt meaningful, and I appreciated that forgiveness wasn’t presented as something simple or effortless.
Duke of Enveigh is a lovely reminder that sometimes the greatest challenge isn’t falling in love, but allowing yourself to let go of the past long enough to accept it.
A wonderful addition to the series, with a strong heroine, a deeply flawed hero, and plenty of emotional depth.

[Jayne Butcher · Rating 5 out of 5]

And another one of the Seven Dukes of Sin finds his love match. Archibald Orme, the Duke of Enveigh, had a falling out with his close friend, the Duke of Eccess, which in turn left him on the outs with the rest of the Dukes. In the previous book, Enveigh had proposed to Temperance but she chose Eccess, which broke one of the rules to which all the Dukes had pledged. Hurt and furious, Enveigh wanted revenge. Ten years ago, when the Seven Dukes of Sin were forming, the Duke of Vannity wanted to be included. The Duke of Eccess thwarted him. Now Vannity wanted Eccess to feel what it was like to lose something he wished for, so he made a wager with the Duke of Enveigh….ruin Mercy, Eccess’ sister, before she married and Vannity would give him ten thousand pounds. Fail, and Enveigh would have to give Vannity his prized emerald signet ring which had belonged to his late older brother. Meanwhile, because she had been raised in Napoleon’s most esteemed astronomer Gustav Lenoire’s household, the Regent feared that she was a spy, and decreed that Mercy must marry a nobleman approved by both her brother and himself by the end of the season in order to prove her loyalty to the Crown. Unfortunately, Mercy wanted to marry for love. And so the fun begins. Enveigh tries to seduce Mercy, and she resists him until her offers to help her get a paper she wrote about an upcoming comet published. Clandestine meetings and emotional revelations follow, resulting in unexpected feelings and a trip to Scotland. However, Vannity rears his ugly head and disaster strikes. This story has a lot going on, including financial distress, familial complications, royal paranoia, desires for revenge, scientific discoveries, ah-ha moments, surprises, and steamy encounters. It is well written, masterfully told and riveting. In the end, love prevails, the Seven Dukes of Sin are back together and there is a tee-up for Ireverence’s tale.

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

[Tiffany P · Rating 3.5 out of 5]

This story has a slow start with lots of extraneous details that don’t involve the main couple interacting. The main hero, the Duke of Enveigh, had such a negative perception based on previous books and the nature of envy, but he really had so much in life that attributed to his hurt and envy that stemmed from feeling undeserving. He was a complex character, for sure. I thought the character showed aspects that deserved empathy instead of the ridicule and the shunning from his friends. It all seemed extreme from the Brotherhood, but on the flip side, I was disgusted by his methods of vengeance even if the root cause was to protect his mother. His love for her was admirable. I found it naive that he was so easily drawn into the plot of the Duke of Vannity, the villain, who clearly wasn’t a friend to him. The heroine, Mercy, was wise beyond her years after living in France for her whole life. She was put in an impossible situation that didn’t allow her to be herself freely while in England. She kept secrets from everyone because of this. She felt comfortable with Enveigh but let everyone else’s judgments and opinions affect her initially. The other women in her life giving their warnings after they fell in love with one of the flawed dukes was a bit hypocritical to me. Mercy was treated like she had no opinions or knowledge of her own.

I gathered all of this before I made it halfway through the book. I find myself frustrated with extraneous scenes, details, and people instead of enjoying romance and connection between the main characters. I can see that the H is torn between revenge, helping his mother, and his growing feelings; and the h is torn between her secrets and how she really feels about the H. Ima having a had time finishing this book. However, I cannot stand to leave a book unfinished so I know I will eventually and edit this review accordingly if something happens that drastically changes my viewpoints.

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

[Ann-Maree · Rating 5 out of 5]

**Duke of Enveigh by Mariah Stone**
**Seven Dukes of Sin - Book 5**
**5 Stars**

I absolutely love this series! Each of the Seven Dukes of Sin has been a great read, and I have really enjoyed getting to know each of these very different dukes.

This time we have Archibald, the Duke of Enveigh, and Lady Mercy Everard, the long-lost sister of the Duke of Eccess.

Now, Archibald is quite despicable at the beginning of this book! His jealousy, his schemes and his determination to get revenge on Mercy's brother were just horrible. He plans to use Mercy to get his revenge, with absolutely no thought for how it might affect her.

But Mercy isn't quite the innocent young lady he expects her to be. Having spent much of her life in France, she has her own ideas about life and marriage, and she certainly isn't afraid to stand up to him.

What I really enjoyed was watching Archibald slowly change. By about two-thirds of the way through the book, I had completely changed my opinion of him and was hoping he would finally get his happy ending with Mercy.

Mercy really does bring out the best in him. Beneath all that arrogance, jealousy and bitterness is a man who has suffered through years of neglect, sorrow and poverty. As we learn more about his past, it becomes easier to understand why he has become the man he is.

Both Archibald and Mercy have had difficult lives, although in very different ways, and I thought they were so well suited to each other. Mercy sees the man beneath the title and all his terrible behaviour, and slowly he begins to see that he deserves love and happiness too.

I found their love story particularly touching, especially watching Archibald go from a man so consumed by revenge to someone willing to change for the woman he loves.

Another wonderful addition to this series and definitely a 5-star read for me!

**With only two dukes left, I wonder whose story we will get next?**

I can't wait to find out!

[Florida Girl Reads · Rating 5 out of 5]

I love Mariah Stone’s stories, especially the way she writes her characters. She is not afraid to make her characters’ unlovable, full of flaws and full of attitude. This is particularly true in The Duke of Enveigh, the 5th book in her Seven Duke of Sins series.
I have read each of the previous books and as I read, I thought that the MMC of each one was the worst kind of man, but Archibald, Duke of Enveigh appears to be unredeemable through out the book. The story starts shortly after the previous book ends with Archibald furiously leaving the brotherhood after a perceived betrayal by Octavius, the Duke of Excess. He is filled with bitterness and seeks perfect revenge. He is presented with a plan that will involve Octavious’ younger sister who has recently reunited with the family after being raised in France. Mercy is brilliant, beautiful and grateful for her new family. She is the perfect combination of kindness, compassion and intelligence. Archibald is a master manipulator who is confident that he will bend Mercy to his will despite her assurances that she will not. I must admit that I did not like Archibald at all and wondered how these two would find a happy ending. I so wanted him to senses and acknowledge the truth about how he felt about captivating woman he discovered while weaving his plan. Mariah left her readers holding their breath until the very end!
Archibald and Mercy’s story is complicated, tender and filled with twists and turns. Both characters have heartbreaks and disappointments that influence their choices, intentions and futures. A revenge story with a villain who may have a heart and the heroine who sees him and meets him as an equal. The Duke of Enveigh is a brilliant entry in the Seven Dukes of Sin series and I look forward to reading her next book!
I received an ARC and am leaving a voluntary review based solely on my personal reading experience.

[Kayla Rodden · Rating 5 out of 5]

“‘Not so easy for a woman, to avoid an insistent man,’ came a whisper behind her, and she recognized the voice of the Duke of Vannity. ‘What a bastard, isn’t he? Trying to take what’s not his… The Duke of Enveigh, the former friend of your brother, is one such individual.’”
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Duke of Enveigh is the fifth book in Mariah Stone’s Seven Dukes of Sin historical romance series. The novel follows a bribe of 10,000 pounds by Duke Vannity upon Archibald (a well-known rake) to ruin Lady Mercy Everard’s virtue in London’s Regency society. Upon becoming unlikely allies, Archibald wars with his need for revenge against Mercy’s brother and the feelings he’s developing towards his mark.
As an avid fan of stories within the realm of London’s Regency era, I may be a bit biased; but, I just adored this novel! It’s always a pleasure to see an FMC refuse to conform to limitations placed on women in historical societies as well as an MMC who encourages rather than chastises her for it!
A little bit of scandal, spice, secrets, violence, dramatic fleeing… all in one incredible story. I can’t wait to acquire the entire series!
London’s social season begins promptly on 27 October 2026 ✨
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“I envy you. You have morals and values. You are smart and beautiful, and clearly so determined. You would be everything I would want in a wife… I am tired of being the way I am. That is why I am helping you… You almost make me believe that I could be better, too.”
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Thanks to Mariah and Hambright PR for granting me this splendid read!
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“Since the day when the Regent declared he wanted her married, never in her wildest dreams did she think she’d be lucky enough to find a husband she loved who accepted her for who she was.”
TROPES:
Brother’s Best Friend
Secret Genius Heroine
London’s Most Wicked Rake
Morally Gray Hero
He Bet He Could Ruin Her
Slow Burn