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The Chances #12
Don’t Fancy Your Chance
Lord Alexander Chance has a reputation he doesn’t deserve—and one he’s trying to avoid.
That’s the trouble with allowing your friends to bed widows in your name; it keeps scandal from their doors, but it marks you out as the biggest rogue in Society.
Alexander never minded, but now he’s got Lady Marjorie Dalton, prim and proper and hater of liars, in his sights, and all of a sudden, this rakish reputation is not helping his seduction techniques. It’s hindering him.
Lady Marjorie Dalton can hardly believe the scoundrel of Society is attempting to seduce her, and she is absolutely, definitely, positively not going to fall for it.
Even when Alexander opens up and is vulnerable about his past.
Even when he reveals he cannot offer marriage yet with no income, but that he wants to.
Even when they get trapped at an inn during a storm and she asks him to ravish—wait a moment.
Lady Marjorie had never fancied Alexander’s chances, but her walls are crumbling and only a terrible scandal can force them apart.
When it does, will Alexander be brave enough to face Society…or lose his love forever?
That’s the trouble with allowing your friends to bed widows in your name; it keeps scandal from their doors, but it marks you out as the biggest rogue in Society.
Alexander never minded, but now he’s got Lady Marjorie Dalton, prim and proper and hater of liars, in his sights, and all of a sudden, this rakish reputation is not helping his seduction techniques. It’s hindering him.
Lady Marjorie Dalton can hardly believe the scoundrel of Society is attempting to seduce her, and she is absolutely, definitely, positively not going to fall for it.
Even when Alexander opens up and is vulnerable about his past.
Even when he reveals he cannot offer marriage yet with no income, but that he wants to.
Even when they get trapped at an inn during a storm and she asks him to ravish—wait a moment.
Lady Marjorie had never fancied Alexander’s chances, but her walls are crumbling and only a terrible scandal can force them apart.
When it does, will Alexander be brave enough to face Society…or lose his love forever?
298 pages, Kindle Edition
Published May 1, 2026
About the author
Emily E.K. Murdoch
148 books286 followersEmily E.K. Murdoch is also known as Emily Murdoch.
Emily Murdoch is a medieval historian and writer. Throughout her career so far she has examined a codex and transcribed medieval sermons at the Bodleian Library in Oxford, designed part of an exhibition for the Yorkshire Museum, worked as a researcher for a BBC documentary presented by Ian Hislop, and worked at Polesden Lacey with the National Trust. She has a degree in History and English, and a Masters in Medieval Studies, both from the University of York. Emily is currently working on a new four part Regency novella series, two of which are now published.
You can follow her on twitter and instagram @emilyekmurdoch, find her on facebook at www.facebook.com/theemilyekmurdoch, and read her blog at www.emilyekmurdoch.com
Emily Murdoch is a medieval historian and writer. Throughout her career so far she has examined a codex and transcribed medieval sermons at the Bodleian Library in Oxford, designed part of an exhibition for the Yorkshire Museum, worked as a researcher for a BBC documentary presented by Ian Hislop, and worked at Polesden Lacey with the National Trust. She has a degree in History and English, and a Masters in Medieval Studies, both from the University of York. Emily is currently working on a new four part Regency novella series, two of which are now published.
You can follow her on twitter and instagram @emilyekmurdoch, find her on facebook at www.facebook.com/theemilyekmurdoch, and read her blog at www.emilyekmurdoch.com
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Displaying 1 - 23 of 23 reviews
May 4, 2026
Don’t Fancy Your Chance is the twelfth book in The Chance series. If you haven't read the others, I strongly recommend doing so from the beginning. Each one is a delightful and entertaining story about the Chance Family. Each book focuses on one member of this is extremely large and independent family. While the family is quirky, they can apparently can do no wrong in society.
This book is about Lord Alexander Chance. He is the third son, with no income, and above all has a tarnished reputation. But all is not as it seems. He meets Lady Marjorie Dalton and is smitten with her when she rebuffs his attempts to charm her. Little does he know, she is the sister to his cousin Samuel's new wife. In a way, they are related. Which is a stumbling block for Marjorie.
The one thing Marjorie cannot stand is a liar. She is very outspoken about this. Her parents lied to her about her sister. It is something she cannot get past. Alexander's reputation precedes him. She makes it clear she is not interested until he claims he is not interested in her dowry. He then becomes the one thing she must have.
This romance takes several twists and turns while Alexander and Marjorie find their way together. This is another fabulous story about the Chances. Each character is unique and wonderful in their own right. The somehow find the perfect match as they stumble to the altar. It is great fun watching them overcome their issues. I am looking forward to the rest of the series.
I received an ARC from NetGalley for an unbiased review.
This book is about Lord Alexander Chance. He is the third son, with no income, and above all has a tarnished reputation. But all is not as it seems. He meets Lady Marjorie Dalton and is smitten with her when she rebuffs his attempts to charm her. Little does he know, she is the sister to his cousin Samuel's new wife. In a way, they are related. Which is a stumbling block for Marjorie.
The one thing Marjorie cannot stand is a liar. She is very outspoken about this. Her parents lied to her about her sister. It is something she cannot get past. Alexander's reputation precedes him. She makes it clear she is not interested until he claims he is not interested in her dowry. He then becomes the one thing she must have.
This romance takes several twists and turns while Alexander and Marjorie find their way together. This is another fabulous story about the Chances. Each character is unique and wonderful in their own right. The somehow find the perfect match as they stumble to the altar. It is great fun watching them overcome their issues. I am looking forward to the rest of the series.
I received an ARC from NetGalley for an unbiased review.
May 19, 2026
So I didn't particularly like either MC. Both did things I didn't love in their introduction; Alexander with his internal thoughts and Marjorie with a bit of cruelty towards her friend. His family is so wonderful. I love the chance family, honestly his sister kind of stole the show. His mother was also top notch in this volume. I love her. This book does continue to make me not really love his dad... He is bad at communicating with Alexander which makes Alexander not good at communicating either. I do think the third act break up made sense again.
4/6 stars. I can't wait for the next one.
4/6 stars. I can't wait for the next one.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Apr 29, 2026. Thanks NetGalley for the ARC, but unfortunately, DNF after ch 13 (65%). Normally, this would’ve been a DNF much sooner (after ch 5), but bc I haven’t read from this author before, I wanted to give the book a chance. (Long rant incoming…)
Based on the description and the first few chapters, I expected the main conflict to be the rumours around Alexander and Marjorie’s hesitation to trust him. I expected to watch him slowly win her trust while they got to know each other. The way the story actually unfolded, my expectations were not met at all, and I’m left very disappointed.
I was also confused about the first impression we get of Alexander in his POV. When he first sees the FMC, he considers playing her and her friend against each other, and on the same page, says that he doesn’t have much experience with women… so why would you think to do such a shitty thing? One thing is clear: he has a very big ego, despite his (self-proclaimed) lack of experience. More evidence of this ego later on.
The entire premise that the MC let his friends use his name in their escapades, creating a trail of rumours about him and ruining his reputation, is absurd. Even more ridiculous: When he finally asks them to stop, they try to say no! Garbage friends. But I was willing to suspend my disbelief if the rest of the story was good (obviously, it wasn’t).
It was very off-putting to see Alexander pester Marjorie so much, all in one chapter, and basically refuse to take no for an answer, until she gives him a proper set-down later at the library. He claims to be so charming with women, but as soon as one ignored him, he became a creep… Gross.
And then, when he finally stops accosting her, she’s offended by the lack of attention. Girl, you can’t have it both ways! I admired her at first, how she was firm in not falling for his charms until he got to know her, even though she was attracted to him, and when she claimed to know her worth. But as soon as an opportunity presents itself, within minutes, she abandons all sense and lets him kiss her. That first kiss (in ch 5) was too soon, unearned, and I didn’t care for it. I wanted to stop reading right there.
In the first few chapters, she also talked a lot about never trusting a liar, but then says yes to him courting her just because he kissed her. Her wishy-washy-ness was annoying to read. And why an FMC who is constantly blushing/getting flushed at every thought? Why do writers keep making this a thing?
And this whole “she’s not like other girls” is cliché and not fun. But turns out she IS like the other girls—the ones she spoke poorly about, who fall all over Alexander bc he said some pretty words. Bc that’s exactly what she did.
Before, when I said the main conflict wasn’t what I expected: The main conflict ended up being Alexander’s ego and him refusing to marry anyone until he had an income bc he didn’t want a dowry. This isn’t a bad thing to want, but he literally said he won’t marry Marjorie until he could figure it out, and if he never did, I guess he’d never marry her?? Dumb. A problem of his own making that would be easy to resolve if he weren’t so stubborn—this is not a compelling conflict.
Also, the MCs allude to sex a lot in their conversations, which wouldn’t have been done in that time. This and other instances of anachronisms kept pulling me out of the story. Speaking of which, another thing that bugged me: Aren’t reticules very small bags? How is Maude stuffing several books into hers when it already contains books?
There was a lot of telling instead of showing when it came to how their feelings progressed. I couldn’t believe they cared about each other beyond physical attraction. It felt like the story started one way, then after the first kiss, the author changed her mind, and the story became something else with a contrived romance.
Also, it made no sense that Alexander didn’t tell her the truth (about his friends using his name) immediately when she made it clear she wasn’t interested in him initially because of his reputation.
Other complaints:
- Very irked by the use of single quotes every time anyone repeats something in the moment. You don’t need single quotes when one character repeats another in the same scene!
- In chapter 3, there’s a list of almost lies Marjorie has told. This one is incorrect: “I did not stay above two hours!” She had stayed three. - Three is above two hours. If she had said something like “I didn’t stay two hours,” but stayed three, that would have made more sense as a roundabout lie.
Based on the description and the first few chapters, I expected the main conflict to be the rumours around Alexander and Marjorie’s hesitation to trust him. I expected to watch him slowly win her trust while they got to know each other. The way the story actually unfolded, my expectations were not met at all, and I’m left very disappointed.
I was also confused about the first impression we get of Alexander in his POV. When he first sees the FMC, he considers playing her and her friend against each other, and on the same page, says that he doesn’t have much experience with women… so why would you think to do such a shitty thing? One thing is clear: he has a very big ego, despite his (self-proclaimed) lack of experience. More evidence of this ego later on.
The entire premise that the MC let his friends use his name in their escapades, creating a trail of rumours about him and ruining his reputation, is absurd. Even more ridiculous: When he finally asks them to stop, they try to say no! Garbage friends. But I was willing to suspend my disbelief if the rest of the story was good (obviously, it wasn’t).
It was very off-putting to see Alexander pester Marjorie so much, all in one chapter, and basically refuse to take no for an answer, until she gives him a proper set-down later at the library. He claims to be so charming with women, but as soon as one ignored him, he became a creep… Gross.
And then, when he finally stops accosting her, she’s offended by the lack of attention. Girl, you can’t have it both ways! I admired her at first, how she was firm in not falling for his charms until he got to know her, even though she was attracted to him, and when she claimed to know her worth. But as soon as an opportunity presents itself, within minutes, she abandons all sense and lets him kiss her. That first kiss (in ch 5) was too soon, unearned, and I didn’t care for it. I wanted to stop reading right there.
In the first few chapters, she also talked a lot about never trusting a liar, but then says yes to him courting her just because he kissed her. Her wishy-washy-ness was annoying to read. And why an FMC who is constantly blushing/getting flushed at every thought? Why do writers keep making this a thing?
And this whole “she’s not like other girls” is cliché and not fun. But turns out she IS like the other girls—the ones she spoke poorly about, who fall all over Alexander bc he said some pretty words. Bc that’s exactly what she did.
Before, when I said the main conflict wasn’t what I expected: The main conflict ended up being Alexander’s ego and him refusing to marry anyone until he had an income bc he didn’t want a dowry. This isn’t a bad thing to want, but he literally said he won’t marry Marjorie until he could figure it out, and if he never did, I guess he’d never marry her?? Dumb. A problem of his own making that would be easy to resolve if he weren’t so stubborn—this is not a compelling conflict.
Also, the MCs allude to sex a lot in their conversations, which wouldn’t have been done in that time. This and other instances of anachronisms kept pulling me out of the story. Speaking of which, another thing that bugged me: Aren’t reticules very small bags? How is Maude stuffing several books into hers when it already contains books?
There was a lot of telling instead of showing when it came to how their feelings progressed. I couldn’t believe they cared about each other beyond physical attraction. It felt like the story started one way, then after the first kiss, the author changed her mind, and the story became something else with a contrived romance.
Also, it made no sense that Alexander didn’t tell her the truth (about his friends using his name) immediately when she made it clear she wasn’t interested in him initially because of his reputation.
Other complaints:
- Very irked by the use of single quotes every time anyone repeats something in the moment. You don’t need single quotes when one character repeats another in the same scene!
- In chapter 3, there’s a list of almost lies Marjorie has told. This one is incorrect: “I did not stay above two hours!” She had stayed three. - Three is above two hours. If she had said something like “I didn’t stay two hours,” but stayed three, that would have made more sense as a roundabout lie.
May 3, 2026
Don’t Fancy Your Chance, the twelfth installment in the Chance series is a captivating return to the scandalous, charming world of the Chance family—always a delight to read. This time, the spotlight turns to Lord Alexander “Zander” Chance, the third son of a duke, who possesses no income, a tarnished reputation, and a heart he keeps carefully guarded. Though the gossip paints him as a rake, much of his infamy stems from his friends’ antics, leaving him to bear the weight of a ruined name he never fully earned. Watching Zander wrestle with the consequences of that false reputation, all while quietly yearning for something genuine, makes him an unexpectedly endearing and layered hero.
Enter Lady Marjorie Dalton—poised, principled, and unwilling to bend to society’s less savory whims. Her sharp judgment and steadfast adherence to the rules make her the perfect foil for Zander’s so-called scandalous nature. Yet as Marjorie spends more time in his company, her careful defenses begin to falter. I adored her journey: she starts wary and skeptical, but slowly and decisively, she peels back the layers of the man behind the rumors.
The chemistry between Marjorie and Alexander is irresistible. Their banter is witty and sparkling, their stolen glances simmer with tension, and when they finally allow themselves to be vulnerable, their emotional connection feels authentic and deeply earned. Their time at the inn during the storm is an absolute highlight—full of romance, humor, and the perfect amount of charged anticipation. As always, the rest of the Chance family adds lively antics that enhance the warmth and charm of the story.
This book is a wonderful mix of redemption, scandal, and heartfelt romance. The rocky path Alexander and Marjorie must navigate makes their eventual union all the more satisfying, and when love triumphs, it feels both inevitable and well deserved. Fans of the series will be thrilled, and newcomers will quickly understand why the Chance family is so hard to resist. This is a story that lingers long after the last page, leaving you smiling and ready to revisit the world of the Chances all over again.
Thank you to NetGalley and Dragonblade Publishing for this free advanced copy - this is my honest and voluntary review; all opinions are my own.
Enter Lady Marjorie Dalton—poised, principled, and unwilling to bend to society’s less savory whims. Her sharp judgment and steadfast adherence to the rules make her the perfect foil for Zander’s so-called scandalous nature. Yet as Marjorie spends more time in his company, her careful defenses begin to falter. I adored her journey: she starts wary and skeptical, but slowly and decisively, she peels back the layers of the man behind the rumors.
The chemistry between Marjorie and Alexander is irresistible. Their banter is witty and sparkling, their stolen glances simmer with tension, and when they finally allow themselves to be vulnerable, their emotional connection feels authentic and deeply earned. Their time at the inn during the storm is an absolute highlight—full of romance, humor, and the perfect amount of charged anticipation. As always, the rest of the Chance family adds lively antics that enhance the warmth and charm of the story.
This book is a wonderful mix of redemption, scandal, and heartfelt romance. The rocky path Alexander and Marjorie must navigate makes their eventual union all the more satisfying, and when love triumphs, it feels both inevitable and well deserved. Fans of the series will be thrilled, and newcomers will quickly understand why the Chance family is so hard to resist. This is a story that lingers long after the last page, leaving you smiling and ready to revisit the world of the Chances all over again.
Thank you to NetGalley and Dragonblade Publishing for this free advanced copy - this is my honest and voluntary review; all opinions are my own.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
She hates liars. His entire reputation is a lie...
Not the smoothest of starts for a proud but sheltered marquess’s daughter and the suave but aimless 3rd son of a duke.
After what happened with her older sister (see Take a Chance on You), Marjorie’s feels betrayed by her parents and their deceitfulness. Her dowry may be impressive, but her leash has also become very short, and her life predictable and mind-numbingly dull. Which doesn’t mean she’s about to let a devastatingly dashing feckless rake ruin her – especially one who doesn’t remember they’re already acquainted – or is she?
Born as the carefree baby into the prestigious Chance family, Alexander is living the dream. Or so everyone believes... In truth, he feels useless with no property, no income and no occupation. Oh, letting his friends enhance his prowess seamed like a grand idea at 20, but at 25 the scheme has lost its appeal. Especially now that he’s finally found a prickly woman worth fighting for.
It was a fairly predictable story, but it was also lighthearted, funny, touching and colourful.
The reforming-the-fake-rake plot was very diverting. I really enjoyed the enemies-to-lovers vibe of a man with virtually no experience wooing a woman who wants nothing to do with him. Not that she’s immune to his charms, but she’s understandably wary.
His reputation is the main villain. His family, Marjorie and society at large hold him accountable, and he’s so bloody tangled in his own web. He feels so foolish and guilty I almost felt sorry for the poor bloke. I did, however, admire how honourable he was, and adamant about not becoming a fortune hunter – and Marjorie getting frustrated at that was ever so entertaining!
This story also felt like a mini-vacation to Bath, and I loved it!
With this series I know I’m always in for a good time, mischief and a nice splash of steam. By now – book 12 – I also feel like I’m part of the family, and I’m definitely sticking around for more!
Not the smoothest of starts for a proud but sheltered marquess’s daughter and the suave but aimless 3rd son of a duke.
After what happened with her older sister (see Take a Chance on You), Marjorie’s feels betrayed by her parents and their deceitfulness. Her dowry may be impressive, but her leash has also become very short, and her life predictable and mind-numbingly dull. Which doesn’t mean she’s about to let a devastatingly dashing feckless rake ruin her – especially one who doesn’t remember they’re already acquainted – or is she?
Born as the carefree baby into the prestigious Chance family, Alexander is living the dream. Or so everyone believes... In truth, he feels useless with no property, no income and no occupation. Oh, letting his friends enhance his prowess seamed like a grand idea at 20, but at 25 the scheme has lost its appeal. Especially now that he’s finally found a prickly woman worth fighting for.
It was a fairly predictable story, but it was also lighthearted, funny, touching and colourful.
The reforming-the-fake-rake plot was very diverting. I really enjoyed the enemies-to-lovers vibe of a man with virtually no experience wooing a woman who wants nothing to do with him. Not that she’s immune to his charms, but she’s understandably wary.
His reputation is the main villain. His family, Marjorie and society at large hold him accountable, and he’s so bloody tangled in his own web. He feels so foolish and guilty I almost felt sorry for the poor bloke. I did, however, admire how honourable he was, and adamant about not becoming a fortune hunter – and Marjorie getting frustrated at that was ever so entertaining!
This story also felt like a mini-vacation to Bath, and I loved it!
With this series I know I’m always in for a good time, mischief and a nice splash of steam. By now – book 12 – I also feel like I’m part of the family, and I’m definitely sticking around for more!
Want to Read
April 29, 2026Don’t Fancy Your Chance by Don’t Fancy Your Chance is everything I love in a historical romance—and then some. Emily E.K. Murdoch delivers a story that sparkles with wit, emotional depth, and irresistible tension from start to finish.
Lord Alexander Chance is a wonderfully complex hero. His rakish reputation—earned through self-sacrifice rather than selfishness—adds such a refreshing twist to the usual “scoundrel” trope. Watching him navigate the consequences of that reputation while quietly longing for something real makes him incredibly compelling. And Lady Marjorie Dalton? Absolutely perfect. Her strong principles, sharp judgment, and slow unraveling in the face of genuine vulnerability create a heroine who feels both grounded and deeply relatable.
The chemistry between Alexander and Marjorie is electric. Their banter is sharp, their emotional connection believable, and the pacing of their relationship feels just right—especially as guarded skepticism turns into reluctant trust, and then into something much deeper. The forced proximity element at the inn during the storm is handled with just the right mix of tension, humor, and romantic heat.
What truly elevates this story is its emotional core. Themes of reputation, honesty, and redemption are woven seamlessly into the romance, making the stakes feel real and meaningful. The scandal that threatens to tear them apart adds a satisfying layer of drama without ever feeling overdone.
Murdoch’s writing is engaging and polished, with vivid scenes and a strong sense of atmosphere. Fans of the series will be delighted, and newcomers will find this a fantastic entry point.
A beautifully written, emotionally rich romance with unforgettable characters—this one is an absolute must-read.
Lord Alexander Chance is a wonderfully complex hero. His rakish reputation—earned through self-sacrifice rather than selfishness—adds such a refreshing twist to the usual “scoundrel” trope. Watching him navigate the consequences of that reputation while quietly longing for something real makes him incredibly compelling. And Lady Marjorie Dalton? Absolutely perfect. Her strong principles, sharp judgment, and slow unraveling in the face of genuine vulnerability create a heroine who feels both grounded and deeply relatable.
The chemistry between Alexander and Marjorie is electric. Their banter is sharp, their emotional connection believable, and the pacing of their relationship feels just right—especially as guarded skepticism turns into reluctant trust, and then into something much deeper. The forced proximity element at the inn during the storm is handled with just the right mix of tension, humor, and romantic heat.
What truly elevates this story is its emotional core. Themes of reputation, honesty, and redemption are woven seamlessly into the romance, making the stakes feel real and meaningful. The scandal that threatens to tear them apart adds a satisfying layer of drama without ever feeling overdone.
Murdoch’s writing is engaging and polished, with vivid scenes and a strong sense of atmosphere. Fans of the series will be delighted, and newcomers will find this a fantastic entry point.
A beautifully written, emotionally rich romance with unforgettable characters—this one is an absolute must-read.
August 31, 2026
I really enjoyed Alexander and Marjorie’s story. Alexander has this terrible reputation as Society’s biggest rogue, even though a lot of it isn’t actually his doing. I loved that underneath all the charm and confidence, he was actually a much more vulnerable and thoughtful man.
Marjorie was a great match for him. She’s proper, sensible, and definitely not impressed by Alexander’s reputation. Their banter and growing attraction were some of my favorite parts, especially watching her slowly realize that there was more to him than the rumors suggested.
I also really liked the emotional side of their relationship. Alexander admitting that he wants to marry Marjorie but doesn’t have the money to do so yet made him feel much more genuine. Their relationship wasn’t just about attraction—they actually had feelings and trust developing between them.
The storm, the inn, and the scandal added plenty of drama, while still keeping the story fun and romantic. There were definitely some moments that made me smile.
Overall, this was a sweet and entertaining historical romance with good chemistry, a misunderstood hero, and a heroine who doesn’t fall for his charm too easily. A fun read if you enjoy witty banter, scandal, and a romance where the hero has to prove he’s more than his reputation.
I received a complimentary copy from NetGalley and Dragonblade Publishing and am voluntarily leaving my review.
Marjorie was a great match for him. She’s proper, sensible, and definitely not impressed by Alexander’s reputation. Their banter and growing attraction were some of my favorite parts, especially watching her slowly realize that there was more to him than the rumors suggested.
I also really liked the emotional side of their relationship. Alexander admitting that he wants to marry Marjorie but doesn’t have the money to do so yet made him feel much more genuine. Their relationship wasn’t just about attraction—they actually had feelings and trust developing between them.
The storm, the inn, and the scandal added plenty of drama, while still keeping the story fun and romantic. There were definitely some moments that made me smile.
Overall, this was a sweet and entertaining historical romance with good chemistry, a misunderstood hero, and a heroine who doesn’t fall for his charm too easily. A fun read if you enjoy witty banter, scandal, and a romance where the hero has to prove he’s more than his reputation.
I received a complimentary copy from NetGalley and Dragonblade Publishing and am voluntarily leaving my review.
May 1, 2026
I voluntarily read and reviewed this advanced copy via NetGalley. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
I'm a big fan of Murdoch's writing and will happily read whatever book she publishes. Don't Fancy Your Chance is the 12th installation in this generational romance series that focuses on alleged lothario Alexander and his new cousin by marriage, Lady Marjorie. Her sister, Rose, was the charming actress who was featured in the last book and wed Samuel. I really enjoyed that book and it ranked higher than this one. I wanted more from these two as Zander was known by his charisma but kept stammering around Marjorie. I suppose that makes sense as he can't use his artifice, but it bummed me out. He held onto his secret too long as he let his friends use his names in their bedhopping to create a reputation with the ladies. Seems pretty slimy to me as it backfired almost immediately. Despite my disdain for the main couple, it got me hyped for his sister Maudie's sister. We're the same age and currently plagued with marriage woes. She seems cool as hell and I hope she'll have a dynamite partner to match. I would say we'll both succeed in matters of the heart but Don't Fancy Your Chance!
I'm a big fan of Murdoch's writing and will happily read whatever book she publishes. Don't Fancy Your Chance is the 12th installation in this generational romance series that focuses on alleged lothario Alexander and his new cousin by marriage, Lady Marjorie. Her sister, Rose, was the charming actress who was featured in the last book and wed Samuel. I really enjoyed that book and it ranked higher than this one. I wanted more from these two as Zander was known by his charisma but kept stammering around Marjorie. I suppose that makes sense as he can't use his artifice, but it bummed me out. He held onto his secret too long as he let his friends use his names in their bedhopping to create a reputation with the ladies. Seems pretty slimy to me as it backfired almost immediately. Despite my disdain for the main couple, it got me hyped for his sister Maudie's sister. We're the same age and currently plagued with marriage woes. She seems cool as hell and I hope she'll have a dynamite partner to match. I would say we'll both succeed in matters of the heart but Don't Fancy Your Chance!
May 22, 2026
Don't Fancy Your Chance is a fun historical romance that matches Lady Marjorie, a sheltered and rule-following lady with Alexander Chance, a lord with a promiscuous reputation. When the two main characters meet, Alexander is shocked when his well-known charms fail to impress Lady Marjorie. As he tries to change her mind, his less-than-proper methods shock Marjorie, but as they spend more time together, their public facades fade to a more vulnerable and real connection. I love when a character lets their guard down, and watching this pair learn to embrace the opposing characteristics of the other was heartwarming and sweet.
I have not read any of the previous titles in the Chance Family series, but after diving into this story, I don't feel like it's necessary to read the previous books to enjoy the ups and downs of this romance.
If you like historical romances with humor and a bit of spice, you'll enjoy this too! Thank you to Emily E K Murdoch, Dragonblade Publishing and NetGalley for the opportunity to read this ARC. All opinions are my own.
I have not read any of the previous titles in the Chance Family series, but after diving into this story, I don't feel like it's necessary to read the previous books to enjoy the ups and downs of this romance.
If you like historical romances with humor and a bit of spice, you'll enjoy this too! Thank you to Emily E K Murdoch, Dragonblade Publishing and NetGalley for the opportunity to read this ARC. All opinions are my own.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
friends to bed widows in your name; it keeps scandal from their doors, but it marks you out as the biggest rogue in Society. Alexander never minded, but now he’s got Lady Marjorie Dalton, prim and proper and hater of liars, in his sights, and all of a sudden, this rakish reputation is hindering him. Lady Marjorie Dalton can hardly believe the scoundrel of Society is attempting to seduce her, and she is absolutely, definitely, positively not going to fall for it.
The twelfth book in this very good series & this is one of my favourites. I really liked Alexander & Marjorie & loved their rocky journey to a HEA. Poor Alexander gets to rue his false reputation & he must work hard to win Marjorie, she hates everything about him but gradually she starts to see the real Alexander. A well paced entertaining romance
I voluntarily read and reviewed a special copy of this book; all thoughts and opinions are my own
The twelfth book in this very good series & this is one of my favourites. I really liked Alexander & Marjorie & loved their rocky journey to a HEA. Poor Alexander gets to rue his false reputation & he must work hard to win Marjorie, she hates everything about him but gradually she starts to see the real Alexander. A well paced entertaining romance
I voluntarily read and reviewed a special copy of this book; all thoughts and opinions are my own
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Another Chance for love, another Chance to mess up! Such is the life of Alexander, the ‘baby’ of the family who wants to be a rebel, but chooses the wrong route to do it. Marjorie hates liars- mainly because she lived with a big one for a third of her live. A big problem for Alexander as he has been living a lie-a big one.I adored this whole story; the banter, the angst, the secrets, the Chance family squabbles- all of it . I loved how the author had no crass language at all( thank you Author!) and the love scenes were so sweet and tastefully done. I laughed at Alexander’s mama and her way to get him out of his room- that was hilarious! And the scene with Marjorie and all of Alexander’s family was so fun to read-probably as fun to write!
An enjoyable story-fun to read and enjoy to the fullest.
I received this story for free and these are my own views.
An enjoyable story-fun to read and enjoy to the fullest.
I received this story for free and these are my own views.
June 18, 2026
I read the last four installments in this series and, unfortunately this was the worst one. The conflict of this but was supposed to be a heroine that despises lies and a hero that is a liar but lacked the conviction to be that. Lady Marjorie reasons to hate lies isn't explored enough and relies on the previous book for it. Alexander is half formed character, I guess the author couldn't decide if was going to be gentleman that pretends to be a rake or just a lying rake, in the end he's neither and the conflict doesn't work. He's actions make no sense and Marjorie's response to them make even less, she was distrustful of him but falls in love anyway even if nothing has changed. By the end of the book I was tired and confused, nevertheless I still believe in the author's potential and wish she had more developmental editing.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Yet another brilliant book this time it is Alexander Chance turn for romance he is a younger son and has always felt a bit overlooked this has lead him to make rash decisions to be noticed by agreeing to allow his two to use his name when they are making conquest of various widows giving him a reputation as a rogue but he meets Majorie and falls in love. Now he finds that he does not feel worthy to offer her marriage this is the story of the trials they go to trying to get to a point that they can marry.
I really enjoyed reading this as I have all of the other Chance family stories and look forward to the next
Thanks to Netgalley and Dragonblade publishing for my arc copy
I really enjoyed reading this as I have all of the other Chance family stories and look forward to the next
Thanks to Netgalley and Dragonblade publishing for my arc copy
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
May 7, 2026
This historical romance is part of a series that concerns the Chance family. There is quite a few cousins who all have their own story. Our hero is the youngest son and somewhat at a loss about his place in the world. He has been really silly and reckless with his reputation.
Our heroine is quite the opposite. Since her sister's disgrace she has been sheltered and extra careful.
Boredom can make for unlikely moments.
An amusing story filled with mischief and lovely characters.
Great fun.
Our heroine is quite the opposite. Since her sister's disgrace she has been sheltered and extra careful.
Boredom can make for unlikely moments.
An amusing story filled with mischief and lovely characters.
Great fun.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Scoundrels, Discovering Love: New Future
Another charming Chance family story that took me through a bit of an emotionally traumatic romance.
Alexander is growing up and is on his way to finding love with the spiritedly determined Marjorie who only wants the truth.
I really did like the H and h characters, and I was glad how the ending turned out for both of them.
Mature Level:2/5
Book Rating:3.8 rounded up 4.
Another charming Chance family story that took me through a bit of an emotionally traumatic romance.
Alexander is growing up and is on his way to finding love with the spiritedly determined Marjorie who only wants the truth.
I really did like the H and h characters, and I was glad how the ending turned out for both of them.
Mature Level:2/5
Book Rating:3.8 rounded up 4.
May 2, 2026
When is a rogue, not a rogue? Answer: when he has friends like Lord Alexander Chance’s. Alexander is intrigued when Lady Marjorie won’t give him the time of day. Is his legendary charm failing him? Or has his reputation become something that no debutante can overlook? An enjoyable story with a Lord attempting to get a lady’s favourable opinion.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book from NetGalley. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book from NetGalley. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
May 24, 2026
Thank you NetGalley. Alexander Chance lets his two friends use his name for their affairs to keep their name clean. That is alright until he finds a lady he is interested in and then in wants them to stop using his name. Lady Marjorie does not like liars and she believes the word she hears rather than what Alexander tells her. This goes on for awhile until he makes his friends believe him. they are upset because they will have to use their own names.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Alexander's story reminds me of one of his uncle's stories. He is a third son without money and land. He isn't sure where he fits in. His character is presented beautifully. Marjorie has a very interesting story. Bits of it are revealed when needed. They both have been so concerned with fitting in and being accepted. It is an interesting story of how the come together.
May 1, 2026
I would like to thank Netgalley and Dragonblade Publishing for a free copy of the book in exchange for an honest review.
I loved the fake rake and the proper but bored debutant pairing. I also loved seeing the hero humbled by the girl not falling for his charm.
It was a bit confusing at time to have him not a rake, but also has experience/is the golden boy.
I loved the fake rake and the proper but bored debutant pairing. I also loved seeing the hero humbled by the girl not falling for his charm.
It was a bit confusing at time to have him not a rake, but also has experience/is the golden boy.
May 1, 2026
Alexander falls head over heels for Marjorie when he sees her. However, due to his mostly undeserved reputation as a rake, he doesn't think he's worthy to marry her. Marjorie starts to fall in love with him and must convince him that he's the man she wants. I received an ARC from NetGalley and Dragonblade Publishing for my honest review.
May 6, 2026
Another great addition to the Chance family story. Alexander and Margorie have their story in this time. Alexander has the reputation of a rake, while Margorie wants truth in life. Can't wait for the next story in the Chance family.
I received an ARC from NetGalley and Dragonblade Publishing and leaving a review by my own choice.
I received an ARC from NetGalley and Dragonblade Publishing and leaving a review by my own choice.
May 6, 2026
I don't fancy your chance of not liking this book!
It's wonderful and romantic and heartwarming! Alexander is so much more than he's been in the previous books, and it was fun getting to know him. Marjorie, too, is a great character, and their story is worthy of this series, of which I've read in its entirety. Highly recommend!
It's wonderful and romantic and heartwarming! Alexander is so much more than he's been in the previous books, and it was fun getting to know him. Marjorie, too, is a great character, and their story is worthy of this series, of which I've read in its entirety. Highly recommend!
May 2, 2026
Fantastic
Another absolutely fanatic book by Emily. I love the chance family . Every single chance book is fantastic . Thank you L
Another absolutely fanatic book by Emily. I love the chance family . Every single chance book is fantastic . Thank you L
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