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Captivating Kisses #8
A Promising Kiss
A kiss is just a kiss—or is it?
Three families—the Worthingtons, Alingtons, and Fultons. Ten cousins named for Roman and Byzantine rulers and their spouses. And ten occasions when a kiss which will change everything for the couple involved.
Welcome to the new Regency world created by best-selling author Alexa Aston in Captivating Kisses!
A lighthearted duke with a hidden agenda. A young woman on the verge of making her come-out. A group of women known as damaged doves who might stand between the pair’s future happiness . . .
Lady Verina Fulton is looking forward to making her come-out into Polite Society. Her extended family is close-knit, and she values the bonds of family above all else. She is eager to find a husband who will share her same values. Before the Season begins, she accepts an invitation to visit her cousin, the new Lady Merriman. It is through Lord Merriman that Verina meets the Duke of Reddington.
Matthew Keaton became the Duke of Reddington at the tender age of twelve. His first act as a duke is to remove his mother from the madhouse where she had been wrongfully confined by her husband. Matthew is fiercely independent and uses his ducal wealth and power to rescue other women who have been unjustly placed in asylums.
During Verina’s stay at Merrifield, she and Matthew grow close. They share a promising kiss, and both go into the Season wondering if their kiss will lead to a more permanent relationship. Verina is torn between her desire for a traditional marriage and her growing admiration for the duke’s unconventional heroism, even as Matthew struggles to balance saving damaged doves with the rising attraction he feels for Lady Verina.
Will Verina and Matthew reconcile their differences and build a future together, or will their contrasting paths lead them to separate destinies?
Find the answer in bestselling author Alexa Aston’s A Promising Kiss, the eighth book in Captivating Kisses.
Each book in Captivating Kisses is a standalone story that can be enjoyed out of order.
Series
Book #1: An Unexpected Kiss
Book #2: An Impulsive Kiss
Book #3: An Innocent Kiss
Book #4: An Unforeseen Kiss
Book #5: An Enchanting Kiss
Book #6: An Urgent Kiss
Book #7: An Unforgettable Kiss
Book #8: A Promising Kiss
Book #9: A Possessive Kiss
Book #10: An Irresistible Kiss
Read in Kindle Unlimited!
Three families—the Worthingtons, Alingtons, and Fultons. Ten cousins named for Roman and Byzantine rulers and their spouses. And ten occasions when a kiss which will change everything for the couple involved.
Welcome to the new Regency world created by best-selling author Alexa Aston in Captivating Kisses!
A lighthearted duke with a hidden agenda. A young woman on the verge of making her come-out. A group of women known as damaged doves who might stand between the pair’s future happiness . . .
Lady Verina Fulton is looking forward to making her come-out into Polite Society. Her extended family is close-knit, and she values the bonds of family above all else. She is eager to find a husband who will share her same values. Before the Season begins, she accepts an invitation to visit her cousin, the new Lady Merriman. It is through Lord Merriman that Verina meets the Duke of Reddington.
Matthew Keaton became the Duke of Reddington at the tender age of twelve. His first act as a duke is to remove his mother from the madhouse where she had been wrongfully confined by her husband. Matthew is fiercely independent and uses his ducal wealth and power to rescue other women who have been unjustly placed in asylums.
During Verina’s stay at Merrifield, she and Matthew grow close. They share a promising kiss, and both go into the Season wondering if their kiss will lead to a more permanent relationship. Verina is torn between her desire for a traditional marriage and her growing admiration for the duke’s unconventional heroism, even as Matthew struggles to balance saving damaged doves with the rising attraction he feels for Lady Verina.
Will Verina and Matthew reconcile their differences and build a future together, or will their contrasting paths lead them to separate destinies?
Find the answer in bestselling author Alexa Aston’s A Promising Kiss, the eighth book in Captivating Kisses.
Each book in Captivating Kisses is a standalone story that can be enjoyed out of order.
Series
Book #1: An Unexpected Kiss
Book #2: An Impulsive Kiss
Book #3: An Innocent Kiss
Book #4: An Unforeseen Kiss
Book #5: An Enchanting Kiss
Book #6: An Urgent Kiss
Book #7: An Unforgettable Kiss
Book #8: A Promising Kiss
Book #9: A Possessive Kiss
Book #10: An Irresistible Kiss
Read in Kindle Unlimited!
256 pages, Kindle Edition
Published June 5, 2026
About the author
Alexa Aston
151 books498 followersAward-winning and USA Today bestselling author Alexa Aston lives with her husband in a Dallas suburb, where she eats her fair share of dark chocolate and plots out stories while she walks every morning. She enjoys travel, sports, and time with her family.
Her historical romances bring to life loveable rogues and dashing knights, while her contemporary romances are light and flirty and sometimes contain a bit of suspense.
Stay in touch with Alexa at:
Website: https://alexaaston.com/
Newsletter Sign-Up: https://dashboard.mailerlite.com/form...
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/authoralexaa...
Twitter: https://twitter.com/AlexaAston
BookBub Follow: https://www.bookbub.com/authors/alexa...
Amazon Author Page: https://www.amazon.com/author/alexaaston
BingeBooks Author Page: https://bingebooks.com/profile/AlexaA...
Goodreads Author Page: https://www.goodreads.com/author/show...
Her historical romances bring to life loveable rogues and dashing knights, while her contemporary romances are light and flirty and sometimes contain a bit of suspense.
Stay in touch with Alexa at:
Website: https://alexaaston.com/
Newsletter Sign-Up: https://dashboard.mailerlite.com/form...
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/authoralexaa...
Twitter: https://twitter.com/AlexaAston
BookBub Follow: https://www.bookbub.com/authors/alexa...
Amazon Author Page: https://www.amazon.com/author/alexaaston
BingeBooks Author Page: https://bingebooks.com/profile/AlexaA...
Goodreads Author Page: https://www.goodreads.com/author/show...
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Displaying 1 - 29 of 29 reviews
August 12, 2026
The plot hooked me right away. Mathew taking charge to hunt down his mother would make any mother proud of her son. This objective worked well with the plot. The story started in an appropriate place. Allowing the readers to become familiar with Mathew and how he became the Duke of Redington. The mother’s part of the story was very sad I thought.
Mathew’s motivation through the story was a very valid and realistic quest. I felt that the quest and story is very appropriate for the genre. I feel that it made the book even more interesting. Needless to say to say that Mathew and The Duchess, Mathew’s mother are my favorite characters. Verna had a number of family members to track.
I don’t know how I did it, but I was able to remember who was married to whom and who were related. I would have
Liked for her character to have been older than seventeen. Maybe twenty- four or older. There are somethings in the book that a more seasoned or mature woman would experience in doing. Reading about a young teen in intimate relations quickly turns today’s readers off.
Besides this issue the book was good. I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Mathew’s motivation through the story was a very valid and realistic quest. I felt that the quest and story is very appropriate for the genre. I feel that it made the book even more interesting. Needless to say to say that Mathew and The Duchess, Mathew’s mother are my favorite characters. Verna had a number of family members to track.
I don’t know how I did it, but I was able to remember who was married to whom and who were related. I would have
Liked for her character to have been older than seventeen. Maybe twenty- four or older. There are somethings in the book that a more seasoned or mature woman would experience in doing. Reading about a young teen in intimate relations quickly turns today’s readers off.
Besides this issue the book was good. I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
June 17, 2026
A wonderful, tragic story behind this historical romance. This is a true hero in every sense of the word. Can the woman he has fallen for cope with his work, and can she be trusted to keep his secrets?. Our heroine comes from a conventional, happy family . She finds herself faced with previously unknown horror. Will our hero be able to give her the normal family life she wants?.
This is part of a series that concerns a large family but you can easily read each book on it's own.
I have loved each book in the series and can't wait to read the next one.
Great fun.
This is part of a series that concerns a large family but you can easily read each book on it's own.
I have loved each book in the series and can't wait to read the next one.
Great fun.
June 6, 2026
A Promising Kiss by Alexa Aston, Number 8 in the Promising Kisses series, is headlined by another cousin, this time, Verina, who is about to have her first season. In the meantime, she and her sister, Justina, are visiting their cousin, Tia, and her husband, Hugo. A relatively close neighbor is Matthew Keaton, who had had a harrowing childhood. At twelve, at the end of his last year at Harrow, no one, as usual, had come for him. He arranged to be taken to the mail coach where he could get close to home; close enough to walk, if necessary. Upon his arrival he saw his father, drunk, with several of his friends, also drunk, attempt balance on a wall around the veranda. His father lost his balance and fell, breaking his neck in the process. Needless to say, all the hangers-on disappeared almost immediately. After calling the constable, his first act was to suss out where his mother had been taken, two years earlier. The asylum was near his home so he and his butler and housekeeper visited the place. At twelve he was able to wield the power of a duke and he retrieved his mother who was in a sorry state. It set him a goal for his lifetime.
Verina liked Matthew immediately but shortly he offended her with an ill-timed joke. It put a wall between them. Both good characters, Verina eventually rose to the occasion and made an effort to help him in his most recent pursuit, gaining herself a lifetime friend. Verina, as part of a large extended family, didn’t need love. She thought it unlikely, but she did want to chose a husband, who was kind, liked her, and would love their children. Matthew had not thought to marry yet, but meeting Verina changed his mind. It was a bit of a rocky journey, but eventually it all worked out. An entertaining read.
I was invited to read A Promising Kiss by Dragonblade. All thoughts and opinions are mine. #Netgalley #Dragonblade #AlexaAston #APromisingKiss
Verina liked Matthew immediately but shortly he offended her with an ill-timed joke. It put a wall between them. Both good characters, Verina eventually rose to the occasion and made an effort to help him in his most recent pursuit, gaining herself a lifetime friend. Verina, as part of a large extended family, didn’t need love. She thought it unlikely, but she did want to chose a husband, who was kind, liked her, and would love their children. Matthew had not thought to marry yet, but meeting Verina changed his mind. It was a bit of a rocky journey, but eventually it all worked out. An entertaining read.
I was invited to read A Promising Kiss by Dragonblade. All thoughts and opinions are mine. #Netgalley #Dragonblade #AlexaAston #APromisingKiss
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
What happens when a man’s mission and a woman’s dreams collide...
Verina is young but wise, and dedicated to the welfare of those around her, regardless of their class or standing. It’s also no secret she’s been looking forward to her debut, and that she longs for a reliable family man husband.
If Matthew was any more of a green flag, you might lose him in a meadow. He’s a dutiful duke, a caring son and an honourable, compassionate, private man who’s made it his life’s mission to save as many wrongfully committed women from asylums a he can.
They meet in the country when Verina and her sister are staying with their cousin Tia, and Matthew coincidentally turns out to be their neighbour and Tia’s husband’s best friend.
It’s not love at first sight, but there’s an instant kinship. A sweet bucolic romance set against the horrid backdrop of women being locked-up against their will – and Matthew and his mother go to great lengths to restore their dignity and give them a boost into a good life.
I really loved that when Verina stumbled upon his secret, she went straight to the source and point-blank asked him. When the need arises, she takes it in stride and sees it through – no hysterics, no drama, just action. I find that infinitely admirable in such a young woman, and yes, it’s written in such a way it’s perfectly believable for her character.
It was so refreshing to read a man who doesn’t fear his feelings; Matthew is cautious but confident in his choice. He isn’t pushy, but he won’t let her slip through his fingers either.
This story wasn’t in a rush; it allows Verina & Matthew to slowly grow close with a few bumps and an intense kiss, but no third act break-up. It’s very light on the steam, but heavy on the family bonds and friendship that drive this series – and as usual it’s wonderfully heartwarming to see the newcomers being adopted into their close-knit family circle.
All in all a beautifully relaxing read with an nice edge!
Verina is young but wise, and dedicated to the welfare of those around her, regardless of their class or standing. It’s also no secret she’s been looking forward to her debut, and that she longs for a reliable family man husband.
If Matthew was any more of a green flag, you might lose him in a meadow. He’s a dutiful duke, a caring son and an honourable, compassionate, private man who’s made it his life’s mission to save as many wrongfully committed women from asylums a he can.
They meet in the country when Verina and her sister are staying with their cousin Tia, and Matthew coincidentally turns out to be their neighbour and Tia’s husband’s best friend.
It’s not love at first sight, but there’s an instant kinship. A sweet bucolic romance set against the horrid backdrop of women being locked-up against their will – and Matthew and his mother go to great lengths to restore their dignity and give them a boost into a good life.
I really loved that when Verina stumbled upon his secret, she went straight to the source and point-blank asked him. When the need arises, she takes it in stride and sees it through – no hysterics, no drama, just action. I find that infinitely admirable in such a young woman, and yes, it’s written in such a way it’s perfectly believable for her character.
It was so refreshing to read a man who doesn’t fear his feelings; Matthew is cautious but confident in his choice. He isn’t pushy, but he won’t let her slip through his fingers either.
This story wasn’t in a rush; it allows Verina & Matthew to slowly grow close with a few bumps and an intense kiss, but no third act break-up. It’s very light on the steam, but heavy on the family bonds and friendship that drive this series – and as usual it’s wonderfully heartwarming to see the newcomers being adopted into their close-knit family circle.
All in all a beautifully relaxing read with an nice edge!
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Three families—the Worthingtons, Alingtons, and Fultons & ten cousins named for Roman and Byzantine rulers & ten occasions when a kiss which will change everything for the couple involved.
The eighth book in the series & it’s the Fulton branch of the family to have their HEAs. Lady Verina Fulton is looking forward to making her come-out into Polite Society. Before the Season begins, she & her sister Justina accept an invitation to visit their cousin, the new Lady Merriman. It is through Lord Merriman that Verina meets the Duke of Reddington. Matthew Keaton became the Duke of Reddington at the tender age of twelve. His first act as a duke is to remove his mother from the asylum where she had been wrongfully confined by her husband. During Verina’s stay at Merrifield, she and Matthew grow close. They share a promising kiss, and both go into the Season wondering if their kiss will lead to a more permanent relationship.
I’ve loved this series & once again I read it straight through & finished it in the early hours. I loved the way the author highlighted the plight of some ‘unwanted’ women & how easy it was for male family members to ‘get rid’ of them, the asylums were described with enough detail to make you realise how despicable those places were. I absolutely adored Matthew from him facing the asylum director at twelve years old to the honourable, loyal & caring man he became. I really liked Verina she was a delightful mix of shrewdness & naivety, I loved the chemistry between them & loved how their friendship developed & how they fell in love
I voluntarily read and reviewed a special copy of this book; all thoughts and opinions are my own
The eighth book in the series & it’s the Fulton branch of the family to have their HEAs. Lady Verina Fulton is looking forward to making her come-out into Polite Society. Before the Season begins, she & her sister Justina accept an invitation to visit their cousin, the new Lady Merriman. It is through Lord Merriman that Verina meets the Duke of Reddington. Matthew Keaton became the Duke of Reddington at the tender age of twelve. His first act as a duke is to remove his mother from the asylum where she had been wrongfully confined by her husband. During Verina’s stay at Merrifield, she and Matthew grow close. They share a promising kiss, and both go into the Season wondering if their kiss will lead to a more permanent relationship.
I’ve loved this series & once again I read it straight through & finished it in the early hours. I loved the way the author highlighted the plight of some ‘unwanted’ women & how easy it was for male family members to ‘get rid’ of them, the asylums were described with enough detail to make you realise how despicable those places were. I absolutely adored Matthew from him facing the asylum director at twelve years old to the honourable, loyal & caring man he became. I really liked Verina she was a delightful mix of shrewdness & naivety, I loved the chemistry between them & loved how their friendship developed & how they fell in love
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
3.5 ⭐️ rounded up.
I enjoy this series by Alexa Aston - “Captivating kisses” - as it is an extremely low angst escape into the world of historical romance dating and courting.
This latest one is a story of Verina and Matthew, the Duke of Reddington. Matthew came into his title and dedicated his life to saving unfortunate women, who were unjustly committed to asylums by their greedy or ill-meaning relatives. Verina is a girl not yet quite 18, about to make her come-out. They meet and Matthew is instantly captivated. As Matthew gives her an initial impression of being a lighthearted rake, it takes Verina longer to become enchanted with the duke. But once she does, the courtship takes off. They both learn something of the other’s world and help each other.
This is a very sweet story and as usual for the fans of the series it was great to see other characters on page (like Tia and Hugo) or mentioned. Matthew was a solid and admirable MMC. Verina’s character portrayal was the only thing detracting from my full enjoyment here. She was a mix of a not very mature girl in her relationship with Matthew (remember, she is only 17) and yet, she organized community and charity events and consoled with asylum victims with the wisdom of a full grown woman. It is a personal preference but I always wish authors did not make their MCs so young that they are practically children, with references on MMCs having a chance to “shape them”.
Thanks to Dragonblade Publishing and Netgalley for a copy of another installment in this sweet series by Alexa Aston!
I enjoy this series by Alexa Aston - “Captivating kisses” - as it is an extremely low angst escape into the world of historical romance dating and courting.
This latest one is a story of Verina and Matthew, the Duke of Reddington. Matthew came into his title and dedicated his life to saving unfortunate women, who were unjustly committed to asylums by their greedy or ill-meaning relatives. Verina is a girl not yet quite 18, about to make her come-out. They meet and Matthew is instantly captivated. As Matthew gives her an initial impression of being a lighthearted rake, it takes Verina longer to become enchanted with the duke. But once she does, the courtship takes off. They both learn something of the other’s world and help each other.
This is a very sweet story and as usual for the fans of the series it was great to see other characters on page (like Tia and Hugo) or mentioned. Matthew was a solid and admirable MMC. Verina’s character portrayal was the only thing detracting from my full enjoyment here. She was a mix of a not very mature girl in her relationship with Matthew (remember, she is only 17) and yet, she organized community and charity events and consoled with asylum victims with the wisdom of a full grown woman. It is a personal preference but I always wish authors did not make their MCs so young that they are practically children, with references on MMCs having a chance to “shape them”.
Thanks to Dragonblade Publishing and Netgalley for a copy of another installment in this sweet series by Alexa Aston!
August 18, 2026
This is a delightful story about love built over time, which is often rare in historical romances. It is a gorgeous slow burn between two rather different characters. Matthew had a tough start to life with no mother and being regularly forgotten about when at school. He then has almost a secret identity saving women like his mother. Whereas Verina just wants to have a season and have a normal life. She doesn't think she could have a love match, especially not with all the love matches already in her family. I loved reading Verina's slow realisation that while her life with Matthew would not be conventional, it would be wonderful anyway.
Their first meeting was rather funny and did a wonderful job of adding tension.
Big thanks to NetGalley, Dragonblade and Alexa Aston for a copy of this book. This is my honest opinion.
Their first meeting was rather funny and did a wonderful job of adding tension.
Big thanks to NetGalley, Dragonblade and Alexa Aston for a copy of this book. This is my honest opinion.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
I enjoyed this story like the others, but it wasn’t my favorite. I liked the hero, Matthew, more than the heroine cousin, Verina. The character seemed really inconsistent with her feelings. She was young but at times the character was written to be wise beyond her years; then her naïveté seemed overwhelming. I appreciated how patient and persistent Matthew was and his level of honesty. From the beginning, his character was strong and loving and his desire to help others and protect those being mistreated made him a perfect hero. It took a little longer to connect with and find Verina endearing, but I did finally get there. They worked together so well and their trust added to their connection, but the jump from friends to madly in love seemed quick and rushed. At times the story didn’t flow as well as some of the others, but I still loved it cause the way this family approached love and family makes these stories enjoyable. This story had a lot of different things going on starting with neglect, abuse, the abandonment and mistreatment of women in families, a hero trying to help as many as possible, a friendship built on respect, love, marriage, family, romance, a little steam after marriage, and a HEA.
I received a copy of this book from Net Galley and am voluntarily leaving this review.
I received a copy of this book from Net Galley and am voluntarily leaving this review.
July 14, 2026
An entertaining story and the next in the series of Promising Kisses by Alexa Aston. This time it is Lady Verina Fulton’s turn. She is visiting her cousin and her husband Hugo and are looking forward to it. While there, they meet their closest neighbour, Matthew Keaton who is the current Duke of Reddington. He gained the dukedom at the age of twelve following the sudden death of his dissolute father who was attempting to walk the wall around the veranda while inebriated.
One of the first things he does is to find his beloved mother who was placed in a madhouse where she was wrongfully confined and get her out. When he sees the condition the two years of confinement has led to, he is determined to help other doves, as he calls these women and provide a better life for them. He builds houses on his property where, together with his mother, the two help to provide a safe environment for these women to recover and if they so choose, move on with their lives or continue to stay on their property for as long as they like.
When Matthew Verina, he is attracted to her, but a misunderstanding gets in the way of the meeting. It takes a while for both parties to get a better understanding of each other. A sweet story that I thoroughly enjoyed and would recommend. I received an ARC from the publishers and NetGalley and submit my honest review voluntarily.
One of the first things he does is to find his beloved mother who was placed in a madhouse where she was wrongfully confined and get her out. When he sees the condition the two years of confinement has led to, he is determined to help other doves, as he calls these women and provide a better life for them. He builds houses on his property where, together with his mother, the two help to provide a safe environment for these women to recover and if they so choose, move on with their lives or continue to stay on their property for as long as they like.
When Matthew Verina, he is attracted to her, but a misunderstanding gets in the way of the meeting. It takes a while for both parties to get a better understanding of each other. A sweet story that I thoroughly enjoyed and would recommend. I received an ARC from the publishers and NetGalley and submit my honest review voluntarily.
June 6, 2026
It is always nice to meet up again with he 3 interconnected families from this series. Like all Alexa's books, it is comfortable, entertaining even if the events which enfolds are pretty predictable. This time there is the added description of asylum life. This could have been very harrowing to read, but the author has known how to convey the horrific nature of these places without making the reader really uncomfortable.
I would agree with a previous reviewer that Verina seems a bit young (not quite 18) to display such mature organisational skills. Also, I felt the meeting with Viscount Ayles a bit underwhelming. It might have been interesting for us to see Reddington dealing with him after the ball.
These are minor quibbles and on the whole it is a really feel good romance which I recommend if you need a few hours of relaxation after a difficult read or after a particularly troublesome event in your life.
So who's next? Justina or Tray? Can't wait to find out.
I would agree with a previous reviewer that Verina seems a bit young (not quite 18) to display such mature organisational skills. Also, I felt the meeting with Viscount Ayles a bit underwhelming. It might have been interesting for us to see Reddington dealing with him after the ball.
These are minor quibbles and on the whole it is a really feel good romance which I recommend if you need a few hours of relaxation after a difficult read or after a particularly troublesome event in your life.
So who's next? Justina or Tray? Can't wait to find out.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Lady Verina and her sister are visiting their cousin before their come out season. While they are there they meet the neighbour the Duke of Reddington. She finds him very attractive but isn't sure and feels she want to have a season. While they are staying at her cousins she grows closer to Mathew and discovers more about him. He is a hero who rescues ladies imprisoned in madhouse by their relatives when they want them out of the way and Verina finds that she likes Matthew more and more. This was a very nice story with the drama of the rescues and the horror of what goes on in the madhouses illustrated to the reader. I was aware of there existence but not how bad they were. From that point of view this,was an interesting story
Thanks to Netgalley and Dragonblade publishing for my arc copy
Thanks to Netgalley and Dragonblade publishing for my arc copy
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Saviors, Families, Friends and so Much More:
This was a fascinating story from the very beginning
The characters are outstanding as they dealt with a very sensitive and tragic realization of the times.
I felt Matthew was caring and brave along with his mother who both captured my heart with their determination to help others that found themselves in the same horrible situation as his mother
Verina was a determined young lady on her way to her first season. It didn't take long for her and Mathew to become infatuated with each other As they come together and discover more about life and themselves the story took me into a sweet romance where both characters discover a new world awaits them to make for a very rewarding and sweet ending.
Readers Note: This gripping plot deals with tragic occurrences for unwanted wives or daughters known as the Damaged Doves.
This was a fascinating story from the very beginning
The characters are outstanding as they dealt with a very sensitive and tragic realization of the times.
I felt Matthew was caring and brave along with his mother who both captured my heart with their determination to help others that found themselves in the same horrible situation as his mother
Verina was a determined young lady on her way to her first season. It didn't take long for her and Mathew to become infatuated with each other As they come together and discover more about life and themselves the story took me into a sweet romance where both characters discover a new world awaits them to make for a very rewarding and sweet ending.
Readers Note: This gripping plot deals with tragic occurrences for unwanted wives or daughters known as the Damaged Doves.
June 8, 2026
This is my 58th book by Alexa Aston. I only started reading her in early 2021 and LOVE her books. She is such a great writer and great storyteller. She isn't super steamy but just enough and her writing is so good, I don't care. :) Definitely one of my favorite authors. I have been loving this series.
I really liked Verina and Matthew. I liked their story and their personalities. Matthew ended up taking something so traumatic and turning it into such a beautiful thing. How he helped so many. It didn't seem to make him bitter. Just made him want to help more. It's crazy to me, the things men could do to their wives during this time, and get away with it. I loved Matthew's mom and her strength. This was also a great read about the love, caring and strength of family and being surrounded by so much love. Really good read. I love Alexa Aston's stories.
I really liked Verina and Matthew. I liked their story and their personalities. Matthew ended up taking something so traumatic and turning it into such a beautiful thing. How he helped so many. It didn't seem to make him bitter. Just made him want to help more. It's crazy to me, the things men could do to their wives during this time, and get away with it. I loved Matthew's mom and her strength. This was also a great read about the love, caring and strength of family and being surrounded by so much love. Really good read. I love Alexa Aston's stories.
June 8, 2026
Dove Hall
No one remembered Matthew Keaton at Harrow School and he had to get his own transportation home. Riding home on the mail coach, he was dreading going home. He walked into the house with his father having a drunken party. A fatal fall from parapet made Matthew Duke of Reddington at age 12. Before he buried his father, he went to Throckmorten asylum and got his mom. Lady Verona Fulton was from a large loving family and like Matthew, but his teasing her for a kiss turned her off. Matthew had big cornflower blue eyes, blonde hair and a big body with a dimple in his chin. He was hard to resist and they were thrown together at balls, dinners and a carriage ride with a fabulous kiss. Her admiration for him grew 10 fold when he told her about Dove Hall and the work he was doing. Fun book filled with family, honor and forever love 💕
No one remembered Matthew Keaton at Harrow School and he had to get his own transportation home. Riding home on the mail coach, he was dreading going home. He walked into the house with his father having a drunken party. A fatal fall from parapet made Matthew Duke of Reddington at age 12. Before he buried his father, he went to Throckmorten asylum and got his mom. Lady Verona Fulton was from a large loving family and like Matthew, but his teasing her for a kiss turned her off. Matthew had big cornflower blue eyes, blonde hair and a big body with a dimple in his chin. He was hard to resist and they were thrown together at balls, dinners and a carriage ride with a fabulous kiss. Her admiration for him grew 10 fold when he told her about Dove Hall and the work he was doing. Fun book filled with family, honor and forever love 💕
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Verina gets her story and it is a lovely, sigh worthy experience. Somewhat hard to read as I never truly understood what happened to some of the ladies of the ton, with such heartwrenching stories and horrible men in their lives. That Matthew was a champion to these ladies just made my heart love him more. Their chemistry was adorable, but I got a bit frustrated with Verina at first, but reading the plot made me understand her better. The “climax” was not much of one with one of the Dove’s fathers, thought that could have been a bit more ‘exciting’, but the epilogue was precious as we learn more of their history after marriage. A beautiful tale and worth the time to read.
I received this story for free and these are my own views.
I received this story for free and these are my own views.
June 7, 2026
I love books by this author because they are such an easy comfortable read. I know exactly what I’m going to get out of this series. Someone has a tragic backstory, usually the main character who’s not part of the overarching family of the series, they meet their new partner, and it’s pretty much love at first sight. In this case, Matthew becomes a duke at age 12, rescues his mother from an asylum, and then spends his adulthood rescuing other women from the same fate. He meets Verina when she’s visiting her cousin, who’s married to his best friend. Pretty straightforward situation here, made better by the fact that he’s totally impressed by her competence and compassion. I like knowing exactly what I’m getting here with this book and it did not disappoint.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
4.5*
I had to take a short break after reading the harrowing prologue and on a few other occasions too. The author brings into the light of a romance the awful conditions of asylums and the fact that men could commit family members to them for little or no reason.
I enjoyed the slow burn romance and Lady Verina’s caution in her feelings made a nice change of pace to the books I have recently read. Matthew was a wonderful hero who so deserved to have a happy marriage and loving family.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book from NetGalley. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
I had to take a short break after reading the harrowing prologue and on a few other occasions too. The author brings into the light of a romance the awful conditions of asylums and the fact that men could commit family members to them for little or no reason.
I enjoyed the slow burn romance and Lady Verina’s caution in her feelings made a nice change of pace to the books I have recently read. Matthew was a wonderful hero who so deserved to have a happy marriage and loving family.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book from NetGalley. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
June 16, 2026
A Promising Kiss it the eighth book in the Captivating Kisses series.
The families, the Worthingtons, Alingtons, and Fultons come together as the next family member is about to make their debut in Season. But before she makes her debut, she will meet Matthew, the Duke of Reddington, who will change Verina's life.
I love the series, but this one felt a little flat compared to the others. It felt more about retelling the past. Verina and Matthew are an interesting couple, and their journey to the altar is met with little resistance. I would have preferred to see them struggle during their courtship.
I received an ARC from NetGalley for an unbiased review.
The families, the Worthingtons, Alingtons, and Fultons come together as the next family member is about to make their debut in Season. But before she makes her debut, she will meet Matthew, the Duke of Reddington, who will change Verina's life.
I love the series, but this one felt a little flat compared to the others. It felt more about retelling the past. Verina and Matthew are an interesting couple, and their journey to the altar is met with little resistance. I would have preferred to see them struggle during their courtship.
I received an ARC from NetGalley for an unbiased review.
September 11, 2026
Lady Verina Fulton comes from a close-knit family who marry for love. She isn't necessarily looking for a love match. Besides she wants to have her first season before making a commitment. Meeting Matthew Keaton, the Duke of Reddington, is exciting. She's never been attracted to a man like this before. Matthew is hesitant to marry. He leads a secret life he doesn't see being conducive to having a family. But he's never known a young lady like Verina.
Another match in the making with this rambunctious and loving family is always entertaining.
Descriptive sex.
I voluntarily read and reviewed a copy of this book from Netgalley.
Another match in the making with this rambunctious and loving family is always entertaining.
Descriptive sex.
I voluntarily read and reviewed a copy of this book from Netgalley.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
This is a fun, entertaining read. I love being in this world with these characters, especially when we get to spend time with the couples from the other books in the series. Matthew and Verina are interesting, captivating characters. I enjoyed their romance and the path it took to get to their HEA. The secondary characters added to the fabric of the story and my enjoyment. The story is easy to read and get into.
I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
June 5, 2026
This eight book in the Captivating Kisses series was an engaging slowburn historical romance. The characters were interesting and likable, and their growing relationship was lovely. It touched on a diabolical and tragic occurrence of females being locked away in asylums by the men in their lives and sadly how common it was at that time. I enjoyed the family bonds and friendships and how heartwarming it was that the newcomers were welcomed into their close circle. I liked the happy and satisfying ending. I highly recommend reading!
June 12, 2026
A very touching story about Matthew and Verina. Verina is 17 and very tender hearted. She's seen many of her family make love matches. Matthew's mother was put in an asylum by his father when Matthew was young. He eventually figured out where she was and busted her out. He now dedicates his life to rescuing other women trapped in the same situation. I did enjoy seeing such a good man and he definitely is making a difference. I do wish Verina would have been a few years older instead of 17, to his age of 25.
Thank you to Dragonblade for the copy of this book. Opinions are my own.
Thank you to Dragonblade for the copy of this book. Opinions are my own.
June 23, 2026
Bad Places
Mathew became a Duke at a very young age and found out a secret that horrified him. It also set him on a life path that he'd never expected. Verina was getting ready to experience her very first season and had come to stay a while with her cousin Tia who lived next to Matthew. When these two met the sparks started to fly. She found out his secret and now she wants to help. Alexa Aston addresses a problem that occurred in a lot of women 's lives that broke my heart. Get refuse yes ready.
Mathew became a Duke at a very young age and found out a secret that horrified him. It also set him on a life path that he'd never expected. Verina was getting ready to experience her very first season and had come to stay a while with her cousin Tia who lived next to Matthew. When these two met the sparks started to fly. She found out his secret and now she wants to help. Alexa Aston addresses a problem that occurred in a lot of women 's lives that broke my heart. Get refuse yes ready.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Verina has been looking forward to her first Season for a long time. When she visits her cousin's neighbor Matthew, she is immediately attracted. Matthew secretly saves women who were falsely put into insane asylums but their relatives. Verina admires him greatly. Matthew is instantly attracted to Innocent and calming Verina. Can he compete for her love when she starts her London Season? I received an ARC from NetGalley and Dragonblade Publishing for my honest review.
July 26, 2026
Love when you least expect it!
Lovely book with great characters. Verina meets the Duke of Reddington and finds a new purpose in life. Although young Verina is intelligent and mature she impresses the Duke but as many men do, he puts his foot in his mouth and al,sit loses the love of his life! As the story unfolds Verina sees what a wonderful man Matthew is and the sacrifice he makes daily for others! Highly recommend this book!
Lovely book with great characters. Verina meets the Duke of Reddington and finds a new purpose in life. Although young Verina is intelligent and mature she impresses the Duke but as many men do, he puts his foot in his mouth and al,sit loses the love of his life! As the story unfolds Verina sees what a wonderful man Matthew is and the sacrifice he makes daily for others! Highly recommend this book!
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
What an amazing story! This author does a fantastic job of drawing you into the story. She addresses societal issues and points out injustices. While doing that, she also weaves a sweet, romantic love story. Every book in this series is different, but the love of family shines through so loudly and clearly. This is an excellent addition to the series!
July 31, 2026
Another wonderful story
Matthew and Verina are another perfect partnership for this wonderful extended family. The backstory was fascinating and an excellent addition to the series.
Matthew and Verina are another perfect partnership for this wonderful extended family. The backstory was fascinating and an excellent addition to the series.
September 28, 2026
A lovely romance
I liked the story of the Duke helping women who had been placed in asylums by evil relatives. The romance ran parallel with this and it gave an extra dimension which was enjoyable.
I liked the story of the Duke helping women who had been placed in asylums by evil relatives. The romance ran parallel with this and it gave an extra dimension which was enjoyable.
June 25, 2026
Promising kiss
This is a delightful book and the 2nd storyline never stole from the cast of characters! Marvelous development without smoking the reader over their head .
This is a delightful book and the 2nd storyline never stole from the cast of characters! Marvelous development without smoking the reader over their head .
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