The Summer of Dukes and Desire

by Emily E K Murdoch, Tanya Wilde, Anqelique Armae

970 pages, Kindle Edition

Published June 29, 2026

Reviews

[Cheryl · Rating 5 out of 5]

Abducting the Lady by Samantha Holt
Lady Eleanor Ashford was determined to escape the plans her guardian had for her. She had devised her own plan but unknown to her, someone else also had plans to help her. Eleanor has to decide if she can trust him. There are some tense and dangerous moments, which all made for an entertaining read.
Baron of Brighton’s by Sydney Jane Bailey
This was one of my favourite stories. I did feel for Emmeline, being looked down on because of her birthmark. This attitude was also taken by her obnoxious fiancé as well. Emmeline was attracted to a stranger in Brighton but he had no intention of getting wed. This was a very enjoyable read, I was hoping she would ditch her fiancé.
I enjoy these anthologies as I can read a shorter story In between longer ones and it also enables me to try different authors.
This contains a good number of stories. I received a copy via Booksprout and have voluntarily reviewed it. All thoughts and opinions are my own.

[Kelly Marie · Rating 4 out of 5]

Advance Review Copy (ARC) – Thank you to the authors for providing a copy in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own.

⭐⭐⭐⭐ 4/5 Stars

The Summer Of Dukes and Desire is a Regency romance anthology featuring thirteen brand new stories filled with second chances, scandal, adventure, and swoon-worthy heroes. The variety of authors and tropes makes for an engaging mix of short, easy-to-read historical romances.

As with many anthologies, the stories vary in length and depth. While several of the novellas provide enough space to build emotional connections and satisfying romantic arcs, some of the shorter entries feel quite rushed, which made it difficult to become fully invested in the characters or their romance.

But there are definitely standouts in the collection. So far, "One Stolen Rope of Pearls" by Sandra Sookoo has been my favorite, offering a heartfelt second-chance romance with strong emotional development. I also especially enjoyed "Abducting the Lady" by Samantha Holt and "Baron of Brighton" by Sydney Jane Baily, both of which balanced romance and plot in a way that felt more fully developed.

Overall, this is an enjoyable anthology for fans of Regency romance. While not every story worked equally well for me, the stronger entries made the collection worthwhile, and I enjoyed discovering several new authors along the way.

[Rose Seals · Rating 5 out of 5]

Very well written stories by a different author that gives you lots of great reading. All these authors have a fabulous writing style so each of the storylines fit the needs of the readers. The characters, all are on an emotional and personal journey, witty, even though some are full of wanting their own way. They are full of drama, scandal, society, love, adventure, villains, heroes, emotions, feelings, twists and turns. What a collection to sit back and enjoy. Keeps you turning the pages and wanting more. Would strongly recommend to everyone.

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

[Fedora · Rating 5 out of 5]

THE SUMMER OF DUKES AND DESIRE is a anthology of historical romance that includes the following stories: THE DUKE BIDS HIS HEART by Emily E K Murdoch, HARDLY A DAMSEL by Tanya Wilde, ABDUCTING THE LADY by Samantha Holt, BARON OF BRIGHTON by Sydney Jane Baily, A REBELLION FOR THE HELLION by Amanda Mariel, LADY C'S FINAL SCANDAL by Andrea K. Stein, DESIRING DIANA by Louisa Cornell, A SCOT WORTH STEALING by Angelique Armae, ONE STOLEN ROPE OF PEARLS by Sandra Sookoo, TWINED BENEATH SUMMER STARS by Dawn Brower, BORN TO SHAME by Ari Thatcher, SOPHIE'S SUMMER SECRET by Rose Pearson, LOVE'S CURIOSITIES: #3: ADDIE AND NOAH by Aubrey Wynne

LADY C'S FINAL SCANDAL by Andrea K. Stein

DESIRING DIANA by Louisa Cornell

ONE STOLEN ROPE OF PEARLS by Sandra Sookoo

[Lesley · Rating 4 out of 5]

Mix of Steamy and Sweet Novellas.
I received this advance reader copy rather late in the day to read all thirteen of the novellas in this anthology by the publication date and in order to get this review out in the first couple of days, I have only managed to read three. They are as follows:
The Duke Bids His Heart 4* by Emily E K Murdoch - a short second chance novella, where a duke has to grovel to regain his lost love.
Hardly a Damsel 5* by Tanya Wilde - a widow who was abused by her husband seeks pleasure at a cyprian ball and gets more than she bargained for!
Love’s Curiosities 4.5* by Aubrey Wynne - a sweet story of a prideful man who learns humility when he falls in love with a spirited bluestocking.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book from one of the authors. All thoughts and opinions are my own.

[Nanna · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a must collection for anyone who loves to get lost in a collection of stories with something for everyone. Some are quick fast reads; some are longer some are super steamy while others are sweet and wonderful stories of love and loss. I have read books by all authors and have enjoyed all the stories. Everyone will have their own favorite, It would take way too much space to give each story the review they deserve. I read all the book and here is a few that stood out to me.

The Duke bids his heart, by E K Murdoch, Lady Augusta known her friends as Gus is alone in the world now. Her nasty father has past and her brother who is no better kicked her out as she is a spinster, even thru he is wealthy he will not support her. She is spending time in the county thanks to an invite by the Gambling Dukes wives. For four years she has pinned for the only person who loved her for herself, she thought. Tell he just was gone no letter, no goodbye nothing. Iain Paisley was forced to leave the only women he loved, by her father. Now he hopes for a second chance with help from his friends. Nothing is as she thought, but can one live through a broken heart twice?

Abducting the Lady, part of The Kidnap Club by Samantha Holt, Lady Eleanor Ashford was raised around wealth but never felt comfortable with it. Her parents used their wealth to help others and keep their estates running and people happy. As an only child, her father taught lessons in responsibility and finance. The guardian her father left for her is stealing her blind and she has a plan to prove it. Till she is kidnapped by a very handsome man who keeps telling her it's for her own good! Nathaniel Fraser is part of a secret group of people who help women in need. They gave them a chance to find a safe place, a new life when needed and only show up when asked to. Unfortunately, Eleanor’s maid set her up as she was worried about her. Now her plans to get information on her guardian is loss. Wow, what a fast-paced story this is and one of my favorites. Suspense, danger, evil villains along with tons of witty exchange between these two. A great read.

Hardley A Damsel by Tanya Wilde What a wild ride this is and is related to Tanya’s series “Almost a Scoundrel”, Portia Sharp is attending the Cyprian masked ball for one reason only and that is to finally embrace everything her late husband robbed from her. She is going to enjoy her freedom and learn what she has been missing. She is looking for a safe, average gentleman to show her pleasure at last. Till she spots a man across the ball room that screams, Danger and he is watching her. He is hard to miss as he is taller than all the men in the room. Handsome as sin, powerful body and cocky smile. When he comes to her offering what she was there for they have a very sexy, witty banter with her telling him he is not her type! Who is kidding who he knows better. She knows better than engaging him, but this is what she comes for, isn't it? One night of passion, with a man who promises to give her everything she’s been missing. First names only and then they never see each other again. The banter, wit and playfulness are wonderful, and one can’t help but fall in love with Nathaniel. He is much more than he lets on. This is a read you will not be able to put down. I hated to see it end. If you love it as much as I did, you can catch more of them “Lady who Dares” as Portia is the aunt to Phaedpa.

Lady’s C Final Scandal by Andrea K Stein, This is my favorite of all the books because I have read all of Andrea’s series and this story brings all the charters from her books together for Lady Camilla’s sixty-fifth birthday super bash! Anyone who has read any of her books will love this amazing story and her great surprise. What a crew this book has with Dikie, Lionel and Nathanil, Captain El and her very handsome Duke. Honoria and Leo just to name a few. Camilla is planning on shocking the ton with something she did when very young, and her father stepped in and ruined her hopes and dreams. She has been married three times, and the greatest sadness is that she never had any children. Lionel is her great nephew and the love of her life. He lives with her along with his friend Nathanil and children they have taken in. The greatest surprise is going to be what those who love her give her back. There are a few surprises you will not see coming, and some twists and turns. I couldn’t put it down.

There are thirteen stories in this great collection. Each is super special some are sexy other very romantic. There is something for everyone and a great way to meet some wonderful authors too. It would be way too long to review them all, but here are the stories and authors waiting for you. All the books in this collection are new and unpublished. Rush and get your copy before the price goes up. This is a book we will reread again and again for such.

Baron of Brighton by Sydney Jane Baily, A Rebellion for the Hellion by Amanda Mariel, Desiring Diana by Louisa Cornell, A Scot Worth Stealing by Anqelique Armae, One Stolen Rope of Pearls by Sandra Sookoo, Twined Beneath Summer Stars by Dawn Brower, Born to Shame by Ari Thatcher, Sophie's Summer Secret by Rose Pearson, Love’s Curiosities: #3Addie and Noah by Aubrey Wynne I received and ARC and wish to thank all the author for this fun, page turning read. This is my honest opinion and am freely giving it.

[Fanosse23 · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Summer of Dukes and Desire brings together 13 stories by talented historical romance authors, offering plenty to delight fans of the genre. This multi-author box set is centered around themes of summer, dukes, and desire—an irresistible combination for a Regency romance lover like me. The variety of voices and styles makes the reading experience vibrant and engaging, providing moments to laugh, to swoon, and to reflect.

Anthologies often offer the joy of discovering new authors, and this one is no exception. While some stories resonated with me more than others, I truly found something to enjoy in every single tale. while all the stories were worth reading, here are my personal highlights.

The Duke Bids His Heart by Emily E K Murdoch

Lady Augusta Cecil is determined to forge her own path, but the duke who once broke her heart won’t let her slip away again. The emotional journey of Gus and Iain—separated by lies, reunited by enduring love—was beautifully written. I felt the angst, the longing, and the depth of their connection.

Hardly a Damsel by Tanya Wilde

One night. No names. No promises. Lady Portia Sharpe seeks a single night of passion and finds herself entangled with the infamous “Devil of London.” Their fiery, slow-burn romance is a dance of determination and desire. I adored Portia’s strength and the way Jack falls completely for her.

Abducting the Lady by Samantha Holt

Lady Eleanor Armstrong, an heiress under the control of her self-serving guardian, finds an unexpected ally in a member of the Kidnap Club. This charming, fast-paced escape and partnership made for a fun and engaging story. Another great story with wonderful characters, it captured my attention!

Baron of Brighton by Sydney Jane Baily

A scarred heroine in a loveless engagement and a notorious rake find healing and hope in each other. Emmeline and the Baron of Brighton are a perfect match, lifting each other up and overcoming the judgments of society.

A Rebellion for the Hellion by Amanda Mariel

Simon, a hero with a heart of gold, falls first and offers Honoria the freedom to be her spirited self. Their love story is tender, honorable, and full of heart—a truly swoon-worthy read.

Lady C's Final Scandal by Andrea K. Stein

Lady Camilla lives life on her own terms, and her 65th birthday celebration at Vauxhall Gardens is the perfect backdrop for a wildly fun, scandalous tale. Complete with twists and fireworks, this was one of my absolute favorites.

Desiring Diana by Louisa Cornell

There was a lot going on in this story behind the scenes and I would have liked to know more about the lady that Creighton loved who was taken away from him and the reason for his inability to marry another.

Benedict’s task to steal his friend’s fiancée leads to an unexpected romance with Diana. I enjoyed the humor and charm in seeing him fall for her while navigating the consequences of his actions. t was quite fun watching Benedict fall for Diana and the lengths he went to to make it right. I am still smiling when I think of the ending to this perfect story.

One Stolen Rope of Pearls by Sandra Sookoo

This was another favorite story from this collection. Adam and Rebecca were once engaged to be married, but she stood him up. He was devastated and swore off women—until their paths crossed again.

This beautifully written, emotional second-chance story swept me up completely. I felt every emotion: the betrayal, the longing, the angst, the confusion, and ultimately, the forgiveness. The power of true love prevailed.

It was a fabulous story, and I loved every minute of it.

Love’s Curiosities: #3 Addie and Noah by Aubrey Wynne

Every visit to the curiosity shop is engaging, fun, and magical. This story was especially interesting, as Adam comes to recognize his own arrogance and strives to change for Addie, all while the mystical ring and its magical abilities influence his journey. Returning to the whimsical shop feels as enchanting as ever, and watching Adam’s growth alongside the ring’s subtle magic makes this entry both captivating and satisfying.

Overall, The Summer of Dukes and Desire is a delightful collection, perfect for anyone who loves Regency romance. It offers heartfelt stories, humor, passion, and the timeless theme of love’s triumph. Even in the entries that resonated less, there was always something to enjoy, and the anthology introduced me to several new-to-me authors I will gladly read again.

If you’re looking for a light, entertaining escape filled with dukes, daring heroines, and happily-ever-afters, this anthology is a wonderful choice.

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

[Dora · Rating 5 out of 5]

This Regency anthology is full of romantic and passionate stories easy to read, and I even came across one with a touch of magic that made me smile several times. Some were shorter, others longer, but as an avid fan of this genre, I was thoroughly entertained by the various situations the protagonists found themselves in. The prize is a real bargain, and it's a bonus to have so many authors offering their talent and whetting my appetite for more. Anthologies are a great way to discover new authors, and I've often found some delightful surprises.
The five stories I've read so far:
"The Duke Bids His Heart" by Emily Murdoch - after being separated by deceit and disappointment, the protagonists get a second chance. It's interesting how Gus wants to maintain her independence, and how the Gaming Dukes get involved.
"Abducting the Lady" by Samantha Holt - Ellie's plans to uncover the villain didn't go as she expected, but if the Kidnap Club is involved, there's a solution to the problem. I enjoyed the adventure and was intrigued by the modus operandi.
Hardly a Damsel by Tanya Wilde—I was struck by how determined and willing Portia was to have an unforgettable and passionate night after the bad experience of her marriage. Fortunately, the prospect delivered more than expected.
Baron of Brighton—Emmelina's situation, trapped and segregated by her mark, made me sad, and I liked how the baron offered her a positive vision of herself and lifted her spirits despite his own shortcomings. I liked how they both changed.
Love’s Curiosities: #3 Addie and Noah by Aubrey Wynne—I was intrigued from the beginning by its touch of magic and Noah's character. I found Addie's character interesting and a good match for handling the situation that plagued Noah. I liked the originality of their adventures and that Noah was trying to understand magic.
Voluntarily reviewed this copy.

[Janet · Rating 5 out of 5]

LADY C’S FINAL SCANDAL by Andrea K Stein 5s
Society declared her a Diamond of the First Water during her debut season at seventeen. Now approaching sixty five Lady Camilla Bowles Attington Carrington Whitby decides to celebrate her birthday by re-living her youthful glory as her Season’s Incomparable. She commissions a portrait based on nude sketches created by her first long, lost lover. After five husbands who conveniently died and left her the wealthiest widow in London, she should be able to do whatever she wants to celebrate her 65th birthday. She’ll take over Vauxhall Gardens in its entirety to keep the celebration private.
The enigmatic Lady C finally has her story, she’s appeared in many of the author’s books & is an absolute delight, there are surprises, lost loves, new loves & all of Lady C’s nearest & dearest wanting her to have the birthday of a life time. A wonderful story
A huge anthology of a baker’s dozen stories, these novellas are ideal for dipping into , finding new authors & new stories from must read authors
I voluntarily read and reviewed a special copy of this book; all thoughts and opinions are my own

[Bonnie · Rating 4 out of 5]

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

This is a HEFTY (over 900 pages!!!!) anthology of historical romance short stories from a variety of authors, many of whom are quite well known names.

Full disclosure, I have not read all the stories, but I have read most of them, and will likely get around to the rest a bit later, but from what I can see so far, I think they are not previously published, and many may relate to previously published works/series by the various authors. I did find that there were a couple of stories that, because they had characters and relationships that appear to be from series I have not read yet, I found myself a bit lost.

But overall, they are all historical romance short stories and generally have been enjoyable to read, and all are steamy with differing levels of steam. A pleasant set of stories to while away a few leisurely summer evenings with, with a nice cool glass of lemonade, or a gin and tonic with. Low committment, low stress reading.

3.5 stars out of 5

[Winnifred D. · Rating 3 out of 5]

This anthology is a mixed bag, with too many entries suffering from an overload of characters with too little development. Also, a couple of the entries are not standalones. But my favorites overall were:

"Baron of Brighton" Sydney Jane Bailey--steam level 2. 3.75 stars. The romance is underdeveloped but I love how the MFC, who has facial birthmarks, becomes stronger and starts to love herself for who she is. I always enjoy this author's writing style too.

"Love's Curiosities" Aubrey Wynn--steam level 1. 3.25 stars. Solid writing style and fun fantasy premise but I wasn't super into the MMC.

"Born to Shame" Ari Thatcher--steam level 3 (some f-bombs if that offends you). 3.5 stars. Raciest one of the bunch. MFC's behavior was anachronistic and I couldn't figure out the dynamic with the uncle, who legally had no say in the family's marriages. But it was enjoyable steam-wise and MFC's siblings were well developed characters.

This is my honest, voluntary review of an advanced reader copy of this collection.

[Gylene · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book is a fabulous collection of thirteen short stories by thirteen fabulous authors!! These stories are not interconnected they only have the common theme of Summer, Dukes and Desire.

My review is not focusing on any particular story or author. Overall, I loved this book and thought it was really good! I enjoyed reading every story in the book. I like reading anthologies because they are short, quick stories, and I can read one or several a day. The book was full of entertainment, downright delightful, and had lots of romance in it! I thought each story was well written and very enjoyable to read. Each story was uniquely written and each author did a fantastic job with their own unique story. The book is full of wonderful characters and truly there is something for everyone to enjoy. I would recommend this book!

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

[Debdutch · Rating 5 out of 5]

“The Summer of Dukes and Desire” by Emily K. Murdoch and more

-A wonderful Regency anthology featuring 13 novellas by a talented group of authors. With a mix of sweet and steamy romances, there is something for every historical romance fan. The stories include plenty of love, humor, adventure, drama, and happily-ever-afters.

As with most anthologies, I enjoyed some stories more than others, but every one had something to offer. I especially like discovering new authors alongside favorites I already enjoy. The variety of writing styles and romance tropes kept the collection fresh and entertaining.

This box set is an excellent value and perfect for readers who love Regency romance. For readers who enjoy dukes, witty characters, scandal, and heartwarming love stories.

[Lana Birky · Rating 5 out of 5]

"𝐋𝐚𝐝𝐲 𝐂’𝐬 𝐅𝐢𝐧𝐚𝐥 𝐒𝐜𝐚𝐧𝐝𝐚𝐥" 𝐛𝐲 𝐀𝐧𝐝𝐫𝐞𝐚 𝐊. 𝐒𝐭𝐞𝐢𝐧 - Lady Camilla Bowles Attington Carrington Whitby has finally claimed center stage, and what a delight she is. After marrying and burying three dearly departed husbands and a lifetime of being London’s most notorious Diamond, she decides her sixty‑fifth birthday deserves nothing less than a private takeover of Vauxhall Gardens - nude portrait, lost lover, and all. Surprises, old flames, new sparks, and every one of her nearest and dearest rallying to give her the birthday of a lifetime make this novella an absolute treat. Lady C shines, struts, and scandalizes like only she can. What a sparkling and fun adventure! I voluntarily read and reviewed an Advanced Reader's Copy of this book; all thoughts and opinions are my own. 

[Aud · Rating 5 out of 5]

“The Summer of Dukes and Desire” by 13 authors - Aubrey Wynne, Rose Pearson et.al.
Two Sweet, Eleven I’ll find out later
I recognized the names of some of the other authors. And, so far, I have only read two sweet stories: ‘Love’s Curiosities’ #13 by Aubrey Wynne and ‘Sophie’s Summer Secret’ #12 by Rose Pearson.
I thoroughly enjoyed my time within their pages. Reading fun, light, well written romance stories is my happy place. I expect the other stories will be just as well written. I think that at least a couple of the remaining stories will be substantially spicier.. . I will endeavor to come back to this book when I have a bit more free reading time.. to find the answer to that question. Happy Reading ! !

[Jo · Rating 5 out of 5]

Its always a wonderful experience when a number of talented authors band together to create a book set of stories to thrill, entertain and enthrall us. Well written fast paced, short stories filled with romance, adventure, scandals and aah moments fill the pages of this set.

Characters are well developed, swoon worthy and richly captivating. Plots are creative each story can stand on its own. A perfect set for anyone, especially those who can only grab an hour of self care to step away for a bit of reading pleasure.

[Peggy · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Summer of Dukes and Desire is an anthology with thirteen engaging new Regency romances. These talented authors have written stories with scandal, second chances, exciting adventure, swoon-worthy heroes and feisty heroines.

Lady C’s Final Scandal by Andrea K. Stein
Lady Camilla Bowles Attington Carrington Whitby has been one of the darlings and darings of the Ton since she debuted at seventeen. As she approaches her sixty-fifth birthday, she decides to make it a grand spectacle. Her party will be held at Vauxhall Gardens, the entire garden. The main event will be the unveiling of a very interesting portrait based on some sketches by a long-ago love. Lady C is a favorite character and appears across several series. She is a prominent influence in every situation. A wonderful story with lots of surprises.

Abducting the Lady by Samantha Holt
Lady Eleanor Armstrong is an heiress who has plans to escape plans of her unscrupulous guardian. Just as she thinks she has succeeded in her plan for escape, she is grabbed by Nathaniel Fraser, a member of the Kidnap Club. The group had been approached to rescue Eleanor from certain and imminent danger. This is a fast-paced, entertaining story.

I voluntarily reviewed an ARC of this collection.

[Dominique Englebert · Rating 5 out of 5]

Dukes and Desire, a winning formula
This anthology of thirteen novellas enchanted by the diversity of Regency romances. I discovered some new authors that I certainly shall look up to read others of their books.
I especially like Baron of Brighton by Sydney Jane Baily. She is one of the authors I discovered and I would love to read more of her books.
Another new author for me is Angelique Armae with A Scot Worth Stealing, a lovely story indeed.
Ari Thatcher’s Born to Shame is my favourite romance.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Patti Trillich · Rating 5 out of 5]

Multiple marvelous stories

These authors have woven mini-marvels that kept my interest as I traveled through them. It's a must-read for those interested in historical romances but who have limited time to read!

[Isha Coleman · Rating 4 out of 5]

Emotion, passion and intrigue set the senses on high alert. From unpredictable to irresistible, the heat is on and it might just cost you, your heart.

[Gaynor Jones · Rating 5 out of 5]

Lords and Ladies

Get swept back in time , where rakes and rogues, damsels, villians and more fill the pages with stories or danger, desire, forbidden passion and more!

[Mary E · Rating 5 out of 5]

A Supper Romances

Each story held their own in romance, love and some strong emotions! I was not disappointed with any of these stories!