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Lords of Anarchy #3
Good Dukes Wear Black
A writer for the Ladies Gazette, Miss Ophelia Dauntry’s passion is her pen. So when she sees a fellow writer kidnapped before her eyes—and the trail of evidence leads to the Lords of Anarchy—Ophelia vows to find her friend and take down the notorious London driving club in her column. But before she can argue her case, she needs the inside scoop from its newest leader: Piers Hamilton, the Duke of Trent.
Headstrong, handsome Trent joined the Lords of Anarchy after a decade in the British Army. He’s made it his business to tame the misbehavior within the driving club—and the infuriatingly attractive Ophelia is only getting in his way. The deeper she digs into the case, the more she puts her own life at risk. Can Trent convince Ophelia to trust him to seek justice…and find protection, and passion, in his arms?
Headstrong, handsome Trent joined the Lords of Anarchy after a decade in the British Army. He’s made it his business to tame the misbehavior within the driving club—and the infuriatingly attractive Ophelia is only getting in his way. The deeper she digs into the case, the more she puts her own life at risk. Can Trent convince Ophelia to trust him to seek justice…and find protection, and passion, in his arms?
306 pages, Mass Market Paperback
First published April 5, 2016
27 people are currently reading
666 people want to read
About the author
Manda Collins
38 books1,577 followersManda Collins grew up on a combination of Nancy Drew books and Jane Austen novels, and her own brand of Regency romantic suspense is the result. A former academic librarian, she holds advanced degrees in English Lit and Librarianship. Her books have been favorably reviewed in Entertainment Weekly, Library Journal, Booklist, Publisher's Weekly, Bookpage, and USA Today. A native of Alabama, she lives on the Gulf Coast with a very stubborn cat and more books than are strictly necessary.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 90 reviews
April 5, 2016
I was tricked…I tell you.
I fell for the oldest trick in the book. I sent the seemingly guilty man to the gallows without all the facts. Good Dukes Wear Black introduces us to Ophelia Dauntry, a reporter for the Ladies Gazette. While she is out shopping with a fellow writer, Maggie, they are accosted by two men who then lead Maggie off in manacles with claims that her hubby wants her committed for her insane behaviour. Oh my Lordy!!!! I am SOOOO glad that can’t really happen. My hubby would have me committed once a month…maybe even twice a month. ;)
But seriously, Good Dukes Wear Black was really interesting. We get to see a little bit about the health system of the time and how mental health issues were dealt with. I’m happy to say we’ve come a long way since then, but in some ways, it’s all the same. It’s still people dealing with an illness that doesn’t have a quick fix, can’t be given a pill to make better, and is a matter of trial and error to find answers. The thing that stood out the most was that the governing body of physicians was a bunch of Lord’s in parliament. To me, that is bloody scary. I’m not saying that the parliament of today is much better, but at least, we have specialists who give advice and recommendations.
Anyways…this story is packed full of intrigue and excitement with a romance that blossoms from the very beginning. I love a swooning maiden who wakes up in the arms of the hero who takes charge of her worries and endeavours to make her world right again. And Lordy does Trent do it right…after his “Hellcat” takes a swipe.
Both Ophelia and Trent team up to save Maggie and investigate why she was committed in the first place…because by George, it wasn’t as it first seemed.
I loved that Trent realises he likes Ophelia and makes it clear that his helping her is to make her happy. Yes, he wants justice, but he wants her more…and shows her how much. I liked that the author didn’t fluff around and make the hero hold his cards close to his chest. We know he wants her and he does not hesitate in protecting her.
This is not a smutty read, but it is packed full of romantic words and gestures, with a little heat in between. When the couple finally come together, we did not have a squeamish miss, but a passionate woman who is made to feel comfortable expressing her feelings and desires. She’s 23 and has two married friends, so she doesn’t go to the marriage bed without a little forewarning. Our Dukey really knew the right buttons to press to get his wifey comfortable (wink, wink).
Manda Collins has written a wonderful historical romance with great characters, an interesting storyline and a mystery that I did not work out until all the pieces of the puzzle were placed. I have read this authors work before, but this is the first book I’ve read in this series. While I know some things would have made sense quicker, I did not struggle reading this as a standalone. I highly recommend reading Good Dukes Wear Black.
I received an ARC of Good Dukes Wear Black via Netgalley for an honest review.
To buy Good Dukes Wear Black from Amazon -http://amzn.to/1Rzclqs
I’m an Aussie chick who loves to read and review romance, drink coffee, be a Style Setter and stalk David Gandy. To see more of my reviews, fashion, food and pervathons -
September 26, 2016
I received an eARC, from NetGalley and the publisher, in exchange for an honest review.
This is book three in the "Lords of Anarchy" series by Manda Collins.
Miss Ophelia Dauntry is a writer for a ladies Gazette along with a few of her friends. While on a shopping trip with her friend Maggie, who is also a writer..her friend Maggie gets kidnapped. Ophelia is desperate to find a way to help her friend.
Piers Hamilton, the Duke of Trent has taken over managing Lords of Anarchy a driving club. Ophelia has heard of Trent through friends. Ophelia thinks Trent can help her find her friend and so starts their relationship from friends to lovers.
I really enjoyed this book and hope that you will too.
Follow my reviews through these links..thanks!
http://sissymaereads.blogspot.com/
https://www.facebook.com/sally.mae.39...
https://www.facebook.com/groups/17091...
This is book three in the "Lords of Anarchy" series by Manda Collins.
Miss Ophelia Dauntry is a writer for a ladies Gazette along with a few of her friends. While on a shopping trip with her friend Maggie, who is also a writer..her friend Maggie gets kidnapped. Ophelia is desperate to find a way to help her friend.
Piers Hamilton, the Duke of Trent has taken over managing Lords of Anarchy a driving club. Ophelia has heard of Trent through friends. Ophelia thinks Trent can help her find her friend and so starts their relationship from friends to lovers.
I really enjoyed this book and hope that you will too.
Follow my reviews through these links..thanks!
http://sissymaereads.blogspot.com/
https://www.facebook.com/sally.mae.39...
https://www.facebook.com/groups/17091...
April 1, 2016
I love Manda Collins' narrative voice. It's so friendly and inviting. Trent was a scrumptious hero, and the conflict sheds light on the problematic mental health system of the 19th century. A good conclusion to this series.
Reviewed for Affaire de Coeur Magazine. http://affairedecoeur.com.
Reviewed for Affaire de Coeur Magazine. http://affairedecoeur.com.
June 23, 2016
GOOD DUKES WEAR BLACK is the final book the Lords of Anarchy series and, once again, Manda Collins writes an engaging mix of romance and mystery.
Trent is definitely a hero to fall in love with…strong, honourable and kind. His determination to restore the reputation of the infamous Lords of Anarchy club and help Ophelia find her friend is admirable too. I love how protective he is towards Ophelia when he tends her injuries; how he recognises her quiet loveliness when others don’t; how he expresses faith in her ability to fulfill her duties as duchess when she has doubts; how he encourages her to be open and honest with him; how he respects her enough to wait until their wedding night.
Ophelia is a likeable heroine…independent and stubborn. She doggedly refuses to agree to a passionless marriage even though her mother is determined to marry her off to her best friend’s dull son. She is also loyal and caring as seen in her deep concern for her friend, and her determined efforts to find Maggie. I like that she is wise enough to seek the duke’s help and take her two friends along when she goes to visit the orphanage, unlike some heroines who foolishly run headlong into danger. I also love her boldness and ingenuity when she finds herself in the villain’s clutches.
I enjoyed the slow build-up of the romance between Trent and Ophelia, played out against the unraveling of the mystery surrounding Ophelia’s friend’s disappearance. I also like that a genuine friendship exists alongside the growing physical attraction. It gives their relationship more depth. Trent is certainly every lady’s dream lover but I also enjoyed Ophelia’s boldness in the bedroom.
There is some delightful wit and humour in the story too. I love how Trent’s friend’s, Freddy and Mainwaring, are constantly ribbing him and, this is one of my favourite exchanges.
“I think you’ll make a splendid father when the time comes,” Mainwaring said, turning his quizzing glass from Freddy to Trent. “Quite masterful. But sensitive too.”
“Yes,” Freddy agreed. “Like the sort of father one wouldn’t be afraid to tell about a tipple into his brandy.”
“Or a kiss behind the rosebushes,” Mainwaring added.
“Or losing the cricket match for the whole team.” Freddy agreed.
“You are both quite mad,” Trent said, shaking his head at them. “You know this do you not?”
I also enjoyed the scene where Trent adopts a display of ducal arrogance, complete with quizzing glass, when he questions Doctor Gideon.
I adore Ophelia’s father for standing up for her and loving her just the way she is. Ophelia accepts that her mother loves her but that love seems conditional on Ophelia being compliant to her mother’s wishes.
There are a number of red herrings and the mystery kept me guessing right up to the point where the villain is revealed…a nasty piece of work he is too.
MY VERDICT: A satisfying end to what has been an enjoyable series.
Lords of Anarchy series (click on the book cover for more details):
**I received a complimentary copy from the publisher via NetGalley in return for an honest review. **
This review is also posted on my Rakes and Rascals Blog:
https://rakesandrascals.wordpress.com...
Trent is definitely a hero to fall in love with…strong, honourable and kind. His determination to restore the reputation of the infamous Lords of Anarchy club and help Ophelia find her friend is admirable too. I love how protective he is towards Ophelia when he tends her injuries; how he recognises her quiet loveliness when others don’t; how he expresses faith in her ability to fulfill her duties as duchess when she has doubts; how he encourages her to be open and honest with him; how he respects her enough to wait until their wedding night.
Ophelia is a likeable heroine…independent and stubborn. She doggedly refuses to agree to a passionless marriage even though her mother is determined to marry her off to her best friend’s dull son. She is also loyal and caring as seen in her deep concern for her friend, and her determined efforts to find Maggie. I like that she is wise enough to seek the duke’s help and take her two friends along when she goes to visit the orphanage, unlike some heroines who foolishly run headlong into danger. I also love her boldness and ingenuity when she finds herself in the villain’s clutches.
I enjoyed the slow build-up of the romance between Trent and Ophelia, played out against the unraveling of the mystery surrounding Ophelia’s friend’s disappearance. I also like that a genuine friendship exists alongside the growing physical attraction. It gives their relationship more depth. Trent is certainly every lady’s dream lover but I also enjoyed Ophelia’s boldness in the bedroom.
There is some delightful wit and humour in the story too. I love how Trent’s friend’s, Freddy and Mainwaring, are constantly ribbing him and, this is one of my favourite exchanges.
“I think you’ll make a splendid father when the time comes,” Mainwaring said, turning his quizzing glass from Freddy to Trent. “Quite masterful. But sensitive too.”
“Yes,” Freddy agreed. “Like the sort of father one wouldn’t be afraid to tell about a tipple into his brandy.”
“Or a kiss behind the rosebushes,” Mainwaring added.
“Or losing the cricket match for the whole team.” Freddy agreed.
“You are both quite mad,” Trent said, shaking his head at them. “You know this do you not?”
I also enjoyed the scene where Trent adopts a display of ducal arrogance, complete with quizzing glass, when he questions Doctor Gideon.
I adore Ophelia’s father for standing up for her and loving her just the way she is. Ophelia accepts that her mother loves her but that love seems conditional on Ophelia being compliant to her mother’s wishes.
There are a number of red herrings and the mystery kept me guessing right up to the point where the villain is revealed…a nasty piece of work he is too.
MY VERDICT: A satisfying end to what has been an enjoyable series.
Lords of Anarchy series (click on the book cover for more details):
**I received a complimentary copy from the publisher via NetGalley in return for an honest review. **
This review is also posted on my Rakes and Rascals Blog:
https://rakesandrascals.wordpress.com...
March 23, 2016
Netgalley for honest review. 3.75
Okay, the hero is what I loved most about this story. He really was the best part of the story as far as I'm concerned.
The Duke of Trent is now the new leader of The Lord's of Anarchy Club (driving club). Trent was determined that the club's reputation needed to be cleaned up and he would have it run in a legal and above board manner. Trent had character, was a protector and wanted to help those in need. These traits made him an all around great hero and likable character.
Ophelia writes for the Lady's Gazette's and she's a strong, determeined blue stocking. One of Ophelia's friends is kidnapped, supposedly by men her husband hired. Ophelia is determined to find and rescue her friend.
Both Ophelia and Trent are aquatinted. Ophelia is aware of Trent's skills and believes he can assist her in finding her friend.
Really liked the relationship these two had. Both characters were respectful, intelligent and gave the other due deference. The evolving of the characters relationship from friendship to a love interest was layered with moments of chemistry and intellectual banter that was a delightful read. I appreciated the author's ability to write in such a way that I envisioned the changing scenery as the story unfolded. There is the mystery of the kidnapped friend and it plays pretty heavily into the story but doesn't take away from the romance, it's well balanced.
But in the end Trent is what I loved most about this story.
This was the best of the series, for me anyway. It held my interest and was written well.
Okay, the hero is what I loved most about this story. He really was the best part of the story as far as I'm concerned.
The Duke of Trent is now the new leader of The Lord's of Anarchy Club (driving club). Trent was determined that the club's reputation needed to be cleaned up and he would have it run in a legal and above board manner. Trent had character, was a protector and wanted to help those in need. These traits made him an all around great hero and likable character.
Ophelia writes for the Lady's Gazette's and she's a strong, determeined blue stocking. One of Ophelia's friends is kidnapped, supposedly by men her husband hired. Ophelia is determined to find and rescue her friend.
Both Ophelia and Trent are aquatinted. Ophelia is aware of Trent's skills and believes he can assist her in finding her friend.
Really liked the relationship these two had. Both characters were respectful, intelligent and gave the other due deference. The evolving of the characters relationship from friendship to a love interest was layered with moments of chemistry and intellectual banter that was a delightful read. I appreciated the author's ability to write in such a way that I envisioned the changing scenery as the story unfolded. There is the mystery of the kidnapped friend and it plays pretty heavily into the story but doesn't take away from the romance, it's well balanced.
But in the end Trent is what I loved most about this story.
This was the best of the series, for me anyway. It held my interest and was written well.
March 11, 2016
I received a copy of this book from the publisher for an honest review. Good Dukes Wear Black is the last book in the Lords of Anarchy but can be read as a stand alone and the driving club plays a very minimal role in the story. The Duke of Trent has taken over as president of the Lords of Anarchy, a driving club that has been the focus of scandals recently. Determined to improve the club's reputation, Trent has invited many former soldiers he served with during the Napoleonic war including George Grayson. Grayson's wife Maggie is friends with Lady Ophelia; both ladies write for the Ladies' Gazette. Ophelia is shopping with Maggie when she is taken by two men who hold a declaration supposedly signed by her husband declaring her insane and reprimanded into the care of Dr. Hayes. Shaken and unsure what to do, Ophelia turns to Trent who she knows through her two close friends who married Trent's best friends. What follows is a mystery that had unexpected twists and turns and an enjoyable romance that develops between to mature adults who go from casual friends to something much more. I loved that Trent was willing to listen to Ophelia and although his instinct was to protect her, he allowed her to assist in the search for her friend. Ophelia is not as young as many heroines during this time period and has a level head on her shoulders. I'm sad to see the end of this trilogy, but look forward to whatever comes next from Ms. Collins.
March 9, 2017
Very good book. I missed reading the first two books in the series, but this one stood by itself very easily. That being said, I do want to go back and read the others. Ophelia is an independent and stubborn young woman who writes for the Ladies Gazette. Her friend Maggie is also a writer for the same publication. When Ophelia witnesses her friend being kidnapped, the day after an argument with her husband, Ophelia is determined to find out what happened to her. She believes it is connected to the Lords of Anarchy driving club, and confronts their new leader with her suspicions.
Trent recently took over leadership of the club, after the two previous presidents were found to be breaking the law. He is determined to bring respectability back to the club, and having Ophelia accuse them of kidnapping isn't going to help.
Ophelia and Trent know each other somewhat as they have mutual friends, which makes it a bit easier for Ophelia to go to Trent. His immediate agreement to help shows her that he had nothing to do with Maggie's kidnapping. As they spend time together trying to find out what happened to Maggie, their casual friendship begins to grow into something more.
I loved both Ophelia and Trent. He is honorable and protective. He has only been a duke for a couple years after being a soldier during the war. He envies his friends their happy marriages, and wonders if he'll find someone who wants him for himself, not his title. Ophelia had not been someone he considered before, but he finds himself captivated and fascinated by her. I loved that he had a great deal of respect for her intelligence, and though her stubbornness sometimes frustrated him, didn't try to shut her out of the investigation. Ophelia is smart and very loyal to her friends. She's determined to find out what happened to Maggie. She quickly trusts Trent to help her do so.
The development of their relationship is really good. They have a basis in friendship, and a chemistry that makes itself known the more time they spend together. I loved how Trent realized quickly that he wanted Ophelia in his life, though it took a little longer for him to realize that it was love. There were a couple of really good scenes with his friends Freddy and Mainwaring as tease him about what they see. I also enjoyed his bouts of jealousy regarding her other suitor. The scene at the ball was especially fun, as circumstances get a bit out of control. I really enjoyed how Ophelia saw her feelings for Trent grow from just friendship, but was a bit worried about what his feelings for her were. She was already fighting off the boring suitor that her mother was pushing on her. I especially enjoyed that there was no great misunderstanding that drives them apart before they get their happy ending.
The mystery was quite interesting and convoluted. As was possible in that era, Maggie is taken off the street by men having an order that she is to be put in an insane asylum. As she was obviously not mentally ill, Ophelia is certain that there is more behind it. There are multiple twists and turns, as suspects are discovered and dismissed. Each time I thought that I knew who it was, something would happen to change my mind. The final confrontation was intense. I really liked that Ophelia had an active part and wasn't just waiting around to be saved.
Trent recently took over leadership of the club, after the two previous presidents were found to be breaking the law. He is determined to bring respectability back to the club, and having Ophelia accuse them of kidnapping isn't going to help.
Ophelia and Trent know each other somewhat as they have mutual friends, which makes it a bit easier for Ophelia to go to Trent. His immediate agreement to help shows her that he had nothing to do with Maggie's kidnapping. As they spend time together trying to find out what happened to Maggie, their casual friendship begins to grow into something more.
I loved both Ophelia and Trent. He is honorable and protective. He has only been a duke for a couple years after being a soldier during the war. He envies his friends their happy marriages, and wonders if he'll find someone who wants him for himself, not his title. Ophelia had not been someone he considered before, but he finds himself captivated and fascinated by her. I loved that he had a great deal of respect for her intelligence, and though her stubbornness sometimes frustrated him, didn't try to shut her out of the investigation. Ophelia is smart and very loyal to her friends. She's determined to find out what happened to Maggie. She quickly trusts Trent to help her do so.
The development of their relationship is really good. They have a basis in friendship, and a chemistry that makes itself known the more time they spend together. I loved how Trent realized quickly that he wanted Ophelia in his life, though it took a little longer for him to realize that it was love. There were a couple of really good scenes with his friends Freddy and Mainwaring as tease him about what they see. I also enjoyed his bouts of jealousy regarding her other suitor. The scene at the ball was especially fun, as circumstances get a bit out of control. I really enjoyed how Ophelia saw her feelings for Trent grow from just friendship, but was a bit worried about what his feelings for her were. She was already fighting off the boring suitor that her mother was pushing on her. I especially enjoyed that there was no great misunderstanding that drives them apart before they get their happy ending.
The mystery was quite interesting and convoluted. As was possible in that era, Maggie is taken off the street by men having an order that she is to be put in an insane asylum. As she was obviously not mentally ill, Ophelia is certain that there is more behind it. There are multiple twists and turns, as suspects are discovered and dismissed. Each time I thought that I knew who it was, something would happen to change my mind. The final confrontation was intense. I really liked that Ophelia had an active part and wasn't just waiting around to be saved.
November 7, 2016
Piers Hamilton is the Duke of Trent and the latest president of the Lords Of Anarchy which was a driving club known for it’s fast races and drunken debauchery. Trent liked a challenge and accepted becoming president of the club but he planned on cleaning it up and he know watched the members mingling with the ton. Trent had spent years in His Majesty’s Army and knew how to to train unruly men into the best soldiers. Now Trent hoped there would be no more bad behavior from the club members. Trent, Frederick Lisle, and the Earl Of Mainwaring was in a circle of friends that had been friends since their schooldays. The Earl of Mainwaring’s wife was Hermione and Frederick’s wife was Leonora. Trent was glad his friends had found wives but he didn’t know if he ever would find one. First Trent didn’t want a woman who didn’t care for him only his title and Trent didn’t have the charm or manners his friends did as underneath he was a soldier at heart. Ophelia was at the party which wasn’t unusual as she was friends with the Earl’ wife as well as Fredrick's. Ophelia’s mother was not happy Ophelia had anything to do with the newspaper editor Edwin but all Ophelia cared about is in concern to Edwin was he put her short essays in his paper. But tonight Ophelia had words with Maggie’s husband George. Trent was taking him away but Ophelia followed behind. George Grayson was about to ruin his wife’s reputation and expose her identity as the author of a very popular advice column “Ask A Reigning Toast”. This was an advice column for society women. With Maggie’s success it ensured the success of Ophelia's column about needlework.Also at some later date Maggie and Ophelia hope to be able to write about more important things like the orphanage and other important issues. Ophelia goes out shopping with Maggie and two men come up and put Maggie in handcuffs and says her husband wants Maggie committed for her insane behavior in care of Dr. Hayes. Both Ophelia and Trent work to save Maggie and investigate why she was committed. But Trent makes it clear he is helping because he likes Ophelia. But he does also want justice. Ophelia’s mother is determined to marry Ophelia off to her best friend's son but Ophelia refuses to enter into a passionless marriage. Ophelia was smart enough to have her two friends go to the orphanage with her. Ophelia and Trent have a slow building romance now. Then George Grayson mysterious disappears.
I really loved this story. I loved the intrigue and excitement and obviously the romance between Trent and Ophelia. I love how Trent is protective of Ophelia but even more he respects her and is acting as a gentleman and is willing to wait to go to bed with her. Also Trent is willing to help Ophelia find her friend and how loyal and independent Ophelia is. This story has a great plot . I also love the twists and turns as well as the characters. I highly recommend.
I really loved this story. I loved the intrigue and excitement and obviously the romance between Trent and Ophelia. I love how Trent is protective of Ophelia but even more he respects her and is acting as a gentleman and is willing to wait to go to bed with her. Also Trent is willing to help Ophelia find her friend and how loyal and independent Ophelia is. This story has a great plot . I also love the twists and turns as well as the characters. I highly recommend.
April 5, 2016
Did I find the whole I love you thing that happened between the characters too fast since they fell in love in less than a week's time? I did. Did I care? No.
I devoured this novel. When I was reading it time stopped and I was sucked into the world of this book. I didn't want to get out and I wish the author had written more so I could read it. My only consolation is the fact that I have one Manda Collins book left for me to read. I cannot say that it was pre4dictable even if I saw a couple of things coming. The readers will definitely enjoy Ophelias and Trent investigation.
The main plot aside romance his the research for Maggie, a friend of Ophelia's who is taken away after she was declared insane by her husband and a doctor who had never examined her. The lass was obviously not crazy and after Ophelia bursts into The lords of anarchy establishment she and Trent begin an investigation in order to find why Maggie was taken away and where she was. I liked that the author inspired the story from events that actually happened because things get even more real and the average reader doesn't know that people could have been declared mad and taken away just because a relative of them said so. It was a horrifying piece of info, but it makes you see the world differently.
On the romantic side, even though the characters had an almost insta-love situation going on, gave us the chance to see how their relationship was involved and the romance was almost always present. I loved the relationship between these two.
So far I haven't read a romance by Manda Collins that I haven't loved so I will be recommending this one which is going to the list with their nominations for my top ten books for 2016. I hadn't enjoyed so thoroughly a book in a while and days after finishing this book, I still can't pinpoint the any flaws, this book may have which means that I fell for this book. I might have an arc, but if I get the chance to buy the book as a paperback I most definitely will.
I devoured this novel. When I was reading it time stopped and I was sucked into the world of this book. I didn't want to get out and I wish the author had written more so I could read it. My only consolation is the fact that I have one Manda Collins book left for me to read. I cannot say that it was pre4dictable even if I saw a couple of things coming. The readers will definitely enjoy Ophelias and Trent investigation.
The main plot aside romance his the research for Maggie, a friend of Ophelia's who is taken away after she was declared insane by her husband and a doctor who had never examined her. The lass was obviously not crazy and after Ophelia bursts into The lords of anarchy establishment she and Trent begin an investigation in order to find why Maggie was taken away and where she was. I liked that the author inspired the story from events that actually happened because things get even more real and the average reader doesn't know that people could have been declared mad and taken away just because a relative of them said so. It was a horrifying piece of info, but it makes you see the world differently.
On the romantic side, even though the characters had an almost insta-love situation going on, gave us the chance to see how their relationship was involved and the romance was almost always present. I loved the relationship between these two.
So far I haven't read a romance by Manda Collins that I haven't loved so I will be recommending this one which is going to the list with their nominations for my top ten books for 2016. I hadn't enjoyed so thoroughly a book in a while and days after finishing this book, I still can't pinpoint the any flaws, this book may have which means that I fell for this book. I might have an arc, but if I get the chance to buy the book as a paperback I most definitely will.
April 27, 2016
" Good Dukes Wear Black" is the third book on the Lords Of Anarchy Series and the first one I have read . this book can definetly be read as a standalone, but I have intentions of going back and reading the first two.
I absolutely fell for the hero in this story, " the Duke of Trent" , he was a truly honorable gentleman, straight forward ,protective not overbearing and caring. Our heroine Ophelia Dauntry is not your typical 19 th century young debutante; Ophelia is what would be considered a blue stocking , she's long with a freind is actually a writer for the Ladies Gazette, she may only be writing about stitcher you right now but her and her freind Maggie Grayson are looking to write more important stories such as the state of orphanages and such.
Trent and Ophelia have known each other for. A while through common friends but are brought close together when she shows up on his doorstep bruised and disheveled after trying to prevent her freind Maggie from being taken against her will to an insane asylum .
Turns out that in t 19 th century England , you could be committed , just grabbed of the street or in Maggie's case , the haberdashery with a writ from the Doctor who never saw you, just on the word of family. ( scary thought that is) . I digress though. Trent finds himself called away by his butler from some sword play with fellow members of the Lords of anarchy , including Maggie Grayson's husband to attend to a swooning Ophelia . Having a fainting Ophelia , injured and worried in his arms draws Trent into the search for Maggie and also her husband who mysteriously disappears .
As Ophelia and Trent spend time together they become closer and Trent becomes possessive clearly staking his property when push comes to shove.
What would a historical romance be without a happy ending,of course you get one button also get a nice mystery blended into a delightful romance , that makes this story one almost impossible to put down .
Arc graciously provided via Netgalley for an honest review .
I absolutely fell for the hero in this story, " the Duke of Trent" , he was a truly honorable gentleman, straight forward ,protective not overbearing and caring. Our heroine Ophelia Dauntry is not your typical 19 th century young debutante; Ophelia is what would be considered a blue stocking , she's long with a freind is actually a writer for the Ladies Gazette, she may only be writing about stitcher you right now but her and her freind Maggie Grayson are looking to write more important stories such as the state of orphanages and such.
Trent and Ophelia have known each other for. A while through common friends but are brought close together when she shows up on his doorstep bruised and disheveled after trying to prevent her freind Maggie from being taken against her will to an insane asylum .
Turns out that in t 19 th century England , you could be committed , just grabbed of the street or in Maggie's case , the haberdashery with a writ from the Doctor who never saw you, just on the word of family. ( scary thought that is) . I digress though. Trent finds himself called away by his butler from some sword play with fellow members of the Lords of anarchy , including Maggie Grayson's husband to attend to a swooning Ophelia . Having a fainting Ophelia , injured and worried in his arms draws Trent into the search for Maggie and also her husband who mysteriously disappears .
As Ophelia and Trent spend time together they become closer and Trent becomes possessive clearly staking his property when push comes to shove.
What would a historical romance be without a happy ending,of course you get one button also get a nice mystery blended into a delightful romance , that makes this story one almost impossible to put down .
Arc graciously provided via Netgalley for an honest review .
April 5, 2016
Manda Collins has done it again. Another Breathtaking romance in the series "Lords of Anarchy". I have read the previous two and loved them both, but I think this one is my favorite.
Ophelia is a feisty, independent, stubborn young lady who does the unthinkable in that she writes articles for a newspaper. Her mother is determined to marry her off to the most boring unappealing man because he is the son of her best friend.
The Duke of Trent is a gentleman to the core. He is an ex-soldier and just getting used to being a Duke.
He is handsome, honorable and is now the new Leader of the Lords of Anarchy club. He is determined to repair the reputation of the club and is prepared to expel any member who does not meet his standards.
Trent knows who Ophelia as a casual acquaintance because his two best friends are married to her best friends. When a fellow female writer gets carried away by two hulking brutes to a mental hospital she is determined to find out who and why. She confronts the lady's husband at a ball and soon finds out he is a member of the Lords of Anarchy. Trent intervenes and the sparks start to fly.
Trent is determined not to let this be linked to his club but he is also concerned about Ophelia going out on her own to try to find the culprit who is behind this injustice. So begins the adventure.
Manda writes an exciting story with a great mystery to solve. A powerful romance with marvelous sensuality, witty fresh dialogue and a really nasty villain. This is truly a excellent read and I would recommend this to you as a stand alone story or if you have read the previous books in the series. I have all of Manda's Historical Romances, they are keepers.
Received a complimentary copy from Netgalley for an honest review.
Ophelia is a feisty, independent, stubborn young lady who does the unthinkable in that she writes articles for a newspaper. Her mother is determined to marry her off to the most boring unappealing man because he is the son of her best friend.
The Duke of Trent is a gentleman to the core. He is an ex-soldier and just getting used to being a Duke.
He is handsome, honorable and is now the new Leader of the Lords of Anarchy club. He is determined to repair the reputation of the club and is prepared to expel any member who does not meet his standards.
Trent knows who Ophelia as a casual acquaintance because his two best friends are married to her best friends. When a fellow female writer gets carried away by two hulking brutes to a mental hospital she is determined to find out who and why. She confronts the lady's husband at a ball and soon finds out he is a member of the Lords of Anarchy. Trent intervenes and the sparks start to fly.
Trent is determined not to let this be linked to his club but he is also concerned about Ophelia going out on her own to try to find the culprit who is behind this injustice. So begins the adventure.
Manda writes an exciting story with a great mystery to solve. A powerful romance with marvelous sensuality, witty fresh dialogue and a really nasty villain. This is truly a excellent read and I would recommend this to you as a stand alone story or if you have read the previous books in the series. I have all of Manda's Historical Romances, they are keepers.
Received a complimentary copy from Netgalley for an honest review.
April 7, 2016
Regency Romance Book 3 in the series . Hero is Trent (a Duke ) Heroine is Ophelia.
Ophelia is at a ball with her friends ( her friends husbands are friends with Trent and you meet them in book 1 and book 2) when she sees a scuffle. Her friend is having an argument with her husband right in the middle of the ball. Ophelia and that friend are writers for a lady gazette and her friends husband doesn't like it . Plus her husband is accusing her of having an affair .
Ophelia left the ball a little latter and but after her friend .
The next day Ophelia and her friend is at the newspaper taking to the editor about doing some in deep articles instead of a gossip article . The editor says no ... NO .
The ladies leave to go to a hat shop . While on the road outside of the shop two burly men come and they are taking Ophelia friend away to the nut house as we call it now . Ophelia start to question them asking by who's order . The two men advise by the his band and they push Ophelia and hurt her .
The doctor is friends with the Lords of Anarchy who Trent is the president . Ophelia goes to see Trent to question him .
Grab it and see who the bad guys are !! Few suprises in the story
Ophelia is at a ball with her friends ( her friends husbands are friends with Trent and you meet them in book 1 and book 2) when she sees a scuffle. Her friend is having an argument with her husband right in the middle of the ball. Ophelia and that friend are writers for a lady gazette and her friends husband doesn't like it . Plus her husband is accusing her of having an affair .
Ophelia left the ball a little latter and but after her friend .
The next day Ophelia and her friend is at the newspaper taking to the editor about doing some in deep articles instead of a gossip article . The editor says no ... NO .
The ladies leave to go to a hat shop . While on the road outside of the shop two burly men come and they are taking Ophelia friend away to the nut house as we call it now . Ophelia start to question them asking by who's order . The two men advise by the his band and they push Ophelia and hurt her .
The doctor is friends with the Lords of Anarchy who Trent is the president . Ophelia goes to see Trent to question him .
Grab it and see who the bad guys are !! Few suprises in the story
April 6, 2016
Ophelia and Trent are not strangers to each other. They have often been together socially with his dear friends, Lord Lisle and the Earl of Mainwaring and their wives Hermione and Leonora. However they have never been alone together until the day Ophelia shows up at his door after the attack on her friend Maggie. Trent is incensed at the violence against Ophelia and Maggie and agrees to help Ophelia discover the whereabouts of her dear friend. Thus thrown together in their search they become attracted to each other.
Manda Collins has a way with pulling the reader into her plots that are filled with mystery, action and adventure. The simmering, sensual romance is like the frosting on the cake. Trent is a hero we love as were Lisle and Mainwaring in the first two books in the series. Ophelia is a determined heroine but too often is foolish at risking her neck. And Trent should have realized that she can’t be left alone or she will cause more trouble.
This was a quick read and will certainly be enjoyed by those who like mystery and action along with their sexy romance.
I received this book free for review from the publisher.
http://ladeetdareads.wordpress.com
Manda Collins has a way with pulling the reader into her plots that are filled with mystery, action and adventure. The simmering, sensual romance is like the frosting on the cake. Trent is a hero we love as were Lisle and Mainwaring in the first two books in the series. Ophelia is a determined heroine but too often is foolish at risking her neck. And Trent should have realized that she can’t be left alone or she will cause more trouble.
This was a quick read and will certainly be enjoyed by those who like mystery and action along with their sexy romance.
I received this book free for review from the publisher.
http://ladeetdareads.wordpress.com
April 5, 2016
This should be the last installment in this series and I'm going to miss it because Manda Collins wrote about nice characters involved in interesting stories, specially this last one about people sent away against their will in mental asylum. I hope she is going to start a new series very soon!
Questo dovrebbe essere l'ultimo volume della serie e mi mancherá, perché l'autrice scrive storie divertenti con personaggi interessanti, specialmente quest'ultima che riguarda persone chiuse in manicomio contro la loro volontá solo perché in qualche modo mettevano i bastoni tra le ruote a qualcuno di importante in famiglia. Spero che inizi presto una nuova serie.
THANKS TO NETGALLEY AND ST.MARTIN'S PRESS FOR THE PREVIEW!
Questo dovrebbe essere l'ultimo volume della serie e mi mancherá, perché l'autrice scrive storie divertenti con personaggi interessanti, specialmente quest'ultima che riguarda persone chiuse in manicomio contro la loro volontá solo perché in qualche modo mettevano i bastoni tra le ruote a qualcuno di importante in famiglia. Spero che inizi presto una nuova serie.
THANKS TO NETGALLEY AND ST.MARTIN'S PRESS FOR THE PREVIEW!
July 27, 2016
thoroughly enjoyed it!
January 2, 2018
The last book in The Lords of Anarchy series. Yes, I read all three in three days. Again, the story in this book is very different and very heartbreaking. I have read about the asylums and how women could be committed by just a whim of their husbands or parents and it is brought to the forefront in this story. During their journey to find a friend, Ophelia and Trent discover love and friendship. A great story with fantastic characters and a story you are not sure who is the bad guy. Great series.
August 7, 2016
Reviewed at Keeper Bookshelf
I have to say up front that Piers Hamilton, the Duke of Trent is the embodiment of what I envision an Historical – Regency Hero to be. He is strong, stubborn and authoritative. He can also be gentle, kind and understanding – and let’s not get started on the sexiness of the man. Yes, I’m afraid I’ll be picturing Trent as the hero of many a book to come – because they all should be that pure male. Just sayin’.
It’s a sad historical fact that at one time a woman could be hauled of to an insane asylum on the mere word of a male relative. No examination. No doctor visit. No proof – or help. Simply locked away for possibly the rest of their lives on a whim or a plan.
Ophelia sees her friend, Maggie, being led off in chains from the streets of London straight to an insane asylum and can do nothing to stop it. The trail of evidence behind this action appears to lead straight to the driving club, The Lords of Anarchy. She needs information and what better place to find it than at the source.
Trent is determined to clean up the driving club. It’s working, but it’s slow work. Now Ophelia is stating that a member has basically had her friend kidnapped and tossed into an asylum – and it had to be one of the members of his club. As Trent and Ophelia investigate other matters are coming to a head. Like Ophelia’s mother’s intent to see her married to a man of her choosing not her daughter’s.
There is an attraction between Ophelia and Trent, one that this handsome man is not about to let slip through his fingers. He enjoys her company and is falling for her charms and that is perfectly alright with him. Now all he needs to do is eliminate the competition, convince the lady that she would make an amazing Duchess and all will be right with his world. Oh, and save her friend. So much for a Duke to tend to – but for his lady, nothing is too difficult.
It’s always a bittersweet moment for me when a series that I’ve enjoyed comes to a close. Good Dukes Wear Black was the perfect final chapter in The Lords of Anarchy series… but maybe we’ll get a holiday novella one day to bring our couples back for a bit. It was a treat to reconnect with the couples from the previous stories once again. And Trent along with his lady, Ophelia make such a delightful couple. A great part of Trent’s charm was his ability to take Ophelia exactly as she is – no need to remake his lady, she is fine exactly the way she is.
Secondary characters always matter and we have quite a few that need a closer look during this story. The mystery to be solved is an intriguing thread woven throughout this story and by the time the reveal takes place we’ll have more than one suspect. I personally love red herrings and always believe that some explanations are simply too good to be true at first glance.
I would highly recommend this story and the entire series. If you long for that perfect hero, if a touch of mystery tossed in with your romance delights you then this is a story that you’ll want to pick up.
*I received an e-ARC of Good Dukes Wear Black from the publisher and NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. That does not change what I think of this novel.*
I have to say up front that Piers Hamilton, the Duke of Trent is the embodiment of what I envision an Historical – Regency Hero to be. He is strong, stubborn and authoritative. He can also be gentle, kind and understanding – and let’s not get started on the sexiness of the man. Yes, I’m afraid I’ll be picturing Trent as the hero of many a book to come – because they all should be that pure male. Just sayin’.
It’s a sad historical fact that at one time a woman could be hauled of to an insane asylum on the mere word of a male relative. No examination. No doctor visit. No proof – or help. Simply locked away for possibly the rest of their lives on a whim or a plan.
Ophelia sees her friend, Maggie, being led off in chains from the streets of London straight to an insane asylum and can do nothing to stop it. The trail of evidence behind this action appears to lead straight to the driving club, The Lords of Anarchy. She needs information and what better place to find it than at the source.
Trent is determined to clean up the driving club. It’s working, but it’s slow work. Now Ophelia is stating that a member has basically had her friend kidnapped and tossed into an asylum – and it had to be one of the members of his club. As Trent and Ophelia investigate other matters are coming to a head. Like Ophelia’s mother’s intent to see her married to a man of her choosing not her daughter’s.
There is an attraction between Ophelia and Trent, one that this handsome man is not about to let slip through his fingers. He enjoys her company and is falling for her charms and that is perfectly alright with him. Now all he needs to do is eliminate the competition, convince the lady that she would make an amazing Duchess and all will be right with his world. Oh, and save her friend. So much for a Duke to tend to – but for his lady, nothing is too difficult.
It’s always a bittersweet moment for me when a series that I’ve enjoyed comes to a close. Good Dukes Wear Black was the perfect final chapter in The Lords of Anarchy series… but maybe we’ll get a holiday novella one day to bring our couples back for a bit. It was a treat to reconnect with the couples from the previous stories once again. And Trent along with his lady, Ophelia make such a delightful couple. A great part of Trent’s charm was his ability to take Ophelia exactly as she is – no need to remake his lady, she is fine exactly the way she is.
Secondary characters always matter and we have quite a few that need a closer look during this story. The mystery to be solved is an intriguing thread woven throughout this story and by the time the reveal takes place we’ll have more than one suspect. I personally love red herrings and always believe that some explanations are simply too good to be true at first glance.
I would highly recommend this story and the entire series. If you long for that perfect hero, if a touch of mystery tossed in with your romance delights you then this is a story that you’ll want to pick up.
*I received an e-ARC of Good Dukes Wear Black from the publisher and NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. That does not change what I think of this novel.*
April 8, 2016
The second I have read in this series, I made a crucial mistake early on, and will forever feel guilty for it: never settle into your resentful feelings toward a character until you hear his story….
The Lords of Anarchy are a group of titled friends who enjoy a bit of carriage racing and other manly pursuits. Enough to raise the eyebrows of the ton, but not intentionally hurtful or destructive, simply a group of men seeking entertainments.
Piers is the latest ‘leader’ of the group, headstrong, handsome, daring, and the Duke of Trent. He’s come to the notice of Ophelia Dauntry, a young writer with a regular feature in the Lady’s Gazette that uses a mix of research and scorn to reveal the foibles of the titled. While walking with her friend Maggie, another writer, Ophelia is brusquely shoved aside by those who spirit Maggie away.
Believing that Maggie was taken for nefarious reasons, Ophelia confronts her husband, and discovers the man is a member of The Lords of Anarchy. Since her best friends are married to men who know Piers, she and he are acquainted; and she confronts his leadership to enlist his help in finding Maggie. Initially interested in redeeming the reputation of the club and expecting its members to be in agreement with him, Piers has a decision to make.
Knowing that Ophelia would continue without him, something that his own sense of honor and justice will not allow, Piers agrees to assist Ophelia (although hoping that she will remain more in the background) as the reasons for Maggie’s admittance to a mental institution are discovered.
I found Piers a touch self-satisfied and dismissive, but he was so much more: clever and playing his cards close to the vest when he asks questions. His relationship and developing affection and admiration for Ophelia grow slowly, and the revelations of the medical beliefs and treatment of women by the ‘mental health’ system of the time were illuminating. Trent’s clear expression of his interest in helping Ophelia because he wants to please her comes primary to his wishing to see justice done, but the balance of the “mission’ and the relationship play perfectly to keep readers engaged and thinking. A wonderful installment in the series, with romantic moments, clever banter and characters that develop and reveal themselves to readers and one another beautifully.
I received an eArc copy of the title from the publisher via NetGalley for purpose of honest review. I was not compensated for this review: all conclusions are my own responsibility.
This review was originally posted on I am, Indeed
The Lords of Anarchy are a group of titled friends who enjoy a bit of carriage racing and other manly pursuits. Enough to raise the eyebrows of the ton, but not intentionally hurtful or destructive, simply a group of men seeking entertainments.
Piers is the latest ‘leader’ of the group, headstrong, handsome, daring, and the Duke of Trent. He’s come to the notice of Ophelia Dauntry, a young writer with a regular feature in the Lady’s Gazette that uses a mix of research and scorn to reveal the foibles of the titled. While walking with her friend Maggie, another writer, Ophelia is brusquely shoved aside by those who spirit Maggie away.
Believing that Maggie was taken for nefarious reasons, Ophelia confronts her husband, and discovers the man is a member of The Lords of Anarchy. Since her best friends are married to men who know Piers, she and he are acquainted; and she confronts his leadership to enlist his help in finding Maggie. Initially interested in redeeming the reputation of the club and expecting its members to be in agreement with him, Piers has a decision to make.
Knowing that Ophelia would continue without him, something that his own sense of honor and justice will not allow, Piers agrees to assist Ophelia (although hoping that she will remain more in the background) as the reasons for Maggie’s admittance to a mental institution are discovered.
I found Piers a touch self-satisfied and dismissive, but he was so much more: clever and playing his cards close to the vest when he asks questions. His relationship and developing affection and admiration for Ophelia grow slowly, and the revelations of the medical beliefs and treatment of women by the ‘mental health’ system of the time were illuminating. Trent’s clear expression of his interest in helping Ophelia because he wants to please her comes primary to his wishing to see justice done, but the balance of the “mission’ and the relationship play perfectly to keep readers engaged and thinking. A wonderful installment in the series, with romantic moments, clever banter and characters that develop and reveal themselves to readers and one another beautifully.
I received an eArc copy of the title from the publisher via NetGalley for purpose of honest review. I was not compensated for this review: all conclusions are my own responsibility.
This review was originally posted on I am, Indeed
March 29, 2016
Miss Ophelia Dauntry is quite content to be writing about needlepoint in the Ladies Gazette, although she and her friend Maggie Grayson – another lady reporter – would rather publish articles concerning social issues. While doing research for a column that will most likely not see the light of day, Maggie stumbles upon very disquieting events. One morning, as Ophelia and Maggie are out shopping, Ophelia sees Maggie dragged away by two burly men. They are taking her to an insane asylum on the orders of her husband. Ophelia becomes immediately suspicious, as she had no inkling there was anything amiss in the Grayson’s marriage. On top of it all, George Grayson is a member of the infamous Lords of Anarchy, which have been suspected of unsavoury activities in recent years. That is precisely what their new president, Piers Hamilton, the Duke of Trent, is looking into. Trent intends to restore the Lords’ reputation and get rid of the bad elements. When Ophelia comes knocking at this door demanding explanations and to ask for his help in finding her friend, Trent wholeheartedly agrees.
GOOD DUKES WEAR BLACK is a splendid conclusion the Lords of Anarchy, but still can easily be read as a standalone. Even though the characters from the previous books feature prominently, a new reader would feel perfectly at ease. In addition to the exciting mystery surrounding Maggie’s disappearance, there is of course the romance, and there is a rather interesting twist to Ophelia’s mother’s views on marriage for her daughter. Trent needs a bride, as he doesn’t want his wastrel fop of a cousin to inherit the dukedom, and concludes that Ophelia might make a fine duchess. Trent and Ophelia have known each other socially for a good while, but they get much better acquainted while searching for Maggie.
Trent is one dashing, irresistible duke if I ever saw one; what a perfectly splendid character! I really loved how he brandished his title as a weapon; he truly is a soldier at heart. The friendship between Trent and his two friends, Lord Lisle and the Earl of Mainwaring is adeptly conveyed, and their banter sounds entirely genuine. The dialogues are very smooth, and the characters uniformly well fleshed-out. Trent and Ophelia are just perfect together: Ophelia is determined and independent, but still very much a Regency lady: Ms. Collins gives us a beautifully realistic and interesting heroine in Ophelia. In fact, Trent and Ophelia are such a great pair, there is a mutual respect, a sense of fun, and great chemistry, that I would really wish to see a series built around them investigating!
I received a complimentary copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
GOOD DUKES WEAR BLACK is a splendid conclusion the Lords of Anarchy, but still can easily be read as a standalone. Even though the characters from the previous books feature prominently, a new reader would feel perfectly at ease. In addition to the exciting mystery surrounding Maggie’s disappearance, there is of course the romance, and there is a rather interesting twist to Ophelia’s mother’s views on marriage for her daughter. Trent needs a bride, as he doesn’t want his wastrel fop of a cousin to inherit the dukedom, and concludes that Ophelia might make a fine duchess. Trent and Ophelia have known each other socially for a good while, but they get much better acquainted while searching for Maggie.
Trent is one dashing, irresistible duke if I ever saw one; what a perfectly splendid character! I really loved how he brandished his title as a weapon; he truly is a soldier at heart. The friendship between Trent and his two friends, Lord Lisle and the Earl of Mainwaring is adeptly conveyed, and their banter sounds entirely genuine. The dialogues are very smooth, and the characters uniformly well fleshed-out. Trent and Ophelia are just perfect together: Ophelia is determined and independent, but still very much a Regency lady: Ms. Collins gives us a beautifully realistic and interesting heroine in Ophelia. In fact, Trent and Ophelia are such a great pair, there is a mutual respect, a sense of fun, and great chemistry, that I would really wish to see a series built around them investigating!
I received a complimentary copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
March 20, 2016
I got this book from Netgalley in exchange for honest review.
I read all of the other “Lords of Anarchy” books and liked all of them, that’s what I had to give this one a try.
Miss Dauntry, Ophelia for members of the family, publishes articles in the “Ladies Gazette” with one of her best friends. One day she is shopping with her friend and suddenly two men come into the shop and kidnap her, well not really kidnap her but because of a letter signed by her husband, she got declared crazy and they bring her into a facility for mentally instable people.
The night before there was a quarrel between Ophelia’s friend and her husband at a ball because of their work for the “Ladies Gazette”.
Trent, the new leader of the “Lords of Anarchy”, fought in the Napoleon War for years, is about to change the riding club because he doesn’t want anything illegal. He’s not only a handsome guy but also very tall and nevertheless a Duke. Usually he doesn’t care a lot about his title but when needed he knows how to act like one.
When Ophelia’s friend is kidnapped, Ophelia gets hurt and flees to Trent’s house. He cannot do anything different than help and listen to the beautiful woman in his guestroom. Ophelia insists on visiting the hospital for mentally ill and slowly they realize that there is more behind it.
It’s a slowly developing but beautiful love story. You have to love Ophelia and Kent and their way to deal with things. She isn’t afraid of anything and he is simply ruggedly handsome – what else! Collins has a way to deal with words that you see the storyline like a movie – the dresses, the rooms, the way they talk to each other.
Nevertheless the story is completely different. It’s about society, the easy way to get rid of family members (mostly females) you were sick of. It was easy to declare people crazy.
Collins made me make notes and soon, asap, do some research on it. It’s an interesting topic because I want to look into Austrian newspapers (you can do it easily with the newspaper archive of the Austrian National Library ONB) and the topic.
Rating: 5*****
I read all of the other “Lords of Anarchy” books and liked all of them, that’s what I had to give this one a try.
Miss Dauntry, Ophelia for members of the family, publishes articles in the “Ladies Gazette” with one of her best friends. One day she is shopping with her friend and suddenly two men come into the shop and kidnap her, well not really kidnap her but because of a letter signed by her husband, she got declared crazy and they bring her into a facility for mentally instable people.
The night before there was a quarrel between Ophelia’s friend and her husband at a ball because of their work for the “Ladies Gazette”.
Trent, the new leader of the “Lords of Anarchy”, fought in the Napoleon War for years, is about to change the riding club because he doesn’t want anything illegal. He’s not only a handsome guy but also very tall and nevertheless a Duke. Usually he doesn’t care a lot about his title but when needed he knows how to act like one.
When Ophelia’s friend is kidnapped, Ophelia gets hurt and flees to Trent’s house. He cannot do anything different than help and listen to the beautiful woman in his guestroom. Ophelia insists on visiting the hospital for mentally ill and slowly they realize that there is more behind it.
It’s a slowly developing but beautiful love story. You have to love Ophelia and Kent and their way to deal with things. She isn’t afraid of anything and he is simply ruggedly handsome – what else! Collins has a way to deal with words that you see the storyline like a movie – the dresses, the rooms, the way they talk to each other.
Nevertheless the story is completely different. It’s about society, the easy way to get rid of family members (mostly females) you were sick of. It was easy to declare people crazy.
Collins made me make notes and soon, asap, do some research on it. It’s an interesting topic because I want to look into Austrian newspapers (you can do it easily with the newspaper archive of the Austrian National Library ONB) and the topic.
Rating: 5*****
March 27, 2016
*I received an eARC of this book from NetGalley and the publisher in exchange for an honest review*
I really loved this book - it was definitely my favorite of the three.
The Duke of Trent aka Trent has taken over the Lords of Anarchy driving club, in hopes of cleaning up the clubs image. Now that his best friends have married, he has begun thinking of joining them, but the idea of a debutante is chilling to him.
Ophelia writes articles for a ladies journal and is friends with Leonora and Hermione from the previous books and is therefore acquainted with Trent by association - she finds him attractive, but knows that a girl like her would never have any hope of a lasting relationship with someone like him. When her dear friend Maggie (who also writes for the paper) is taken by force while they are out shopping and Ophelia is roughed up - all signs point to a member of the Lords of Anarchy as the culprit. Ophelia goes to Trent's home to confront him and demand that he help her get her friend back.
What ensues is a delightful tale of two sorta friends who come to know each other better and become more than friends. There is also a decent mystery and many amusing moments with the former heroes and heroines. While the book isn't nearly as steamy as I usually like, it is sufficiently warm and the love scenes are perfectly placed in the story - no obligatory 50% mark love scenes here - when they finally do get together - it feels right - not forced or formulated.
I would highly recommend this book and while this book is third in a series - you could easily read it as a stand alone and not feel lost. Ms. Collins is a must read author for me and I can't wait to see what she comes up with next!
I really loved this book - it was definitely my favorite of the three.
The Duke of Trent aka Trent has taken over the Lords of Anarchy driving club, in hopes of cleaning up the clubs image. Now that his best friends have married, he has begun thinking of joining them, but the idea of a debutante is chilling to him.
Ophelia writes articles for a ladies journal and is friends with Leonora and Hermione from the previous books and is therefore acquainted with Trent by association - she finds him attractive, but knows that a girl like her would never have any hope of a lasting relationship with someone like him. When her dear friend Maggie (who also writes for the paper) is taken by force while they are out shopping and Ophelia is roughed up - all signs point to a member of the Lords of Anarchy as the culprit. Ophelia goes to Trent's home to confront him and demand that he help her get her friend back.
What ensues is a delightful tale of two sorta friends who come to know each other better and become more than friends. There is also a decent mystery and many amusing moments with the former heroes and heroines. While the book isn't nearly as steamy as I usually like, it is sufficiently warm and the love scenes are perfectly placed in the story - no obligatory 50% mark love scenes here - when they finally do get together - it feels right - not forced or formulated.
I would highly recommend this book and while this book is third in a series - you could easily read it as a stand alone and not feel lost. Ms. Collins is a must read author for me and I can't wait to see what she comes up with next!
March 14, 2016
It was with great pleasure that I experienced another lovematch for the Lords of Anarchy! Once again, Manda Collins gives us a feel-good love story in the midst of sinister and clandestine goings-on. This time, their new president, the Duke of Trent, falls for the Lady Ophelia, the third in a trio of bluestocking best friends who have been caught up in the nefarious events that seem to take place to those connected with the Lords of Anarchy carriage driving/racing club. Lady Ophelia is a journalist, writing for a ladies' newspaper. She happens to be present when a friend and fellow journalist is taken up, against her will, by the henchmen of a "psychiatrist" who runs a lunatic asylum. She appeals to Trent for help in finding her friend and recovering her freedom. These characters are well-drawn, three-dimensional people. I love their intertwined friendships. The ladies are long-time friends who share not-commonly-spoken-of secrets about love and marriage and just so happen to fall for a trio of male friends. The gentlemen are supportive of each other; they mock and joke among themselves, and show up to lend their muscle or presence, whichever is needed in a given circumstance. As has happened before, friendship leads to attraction, which leads to a slight lapse in judgment that leads to marriage. And, although it is not the fashion of the ton, among this group of friends, marriage (and a dangerous mystery to solve) leads to love. I heartily recommend this book for all those who like a bit of mystery and danger in their romantic reading.
My thanks to Netgalley for providing a copy in exchange for my opinion.
My thanks to Netgalley for providing a copy in exchange for my opinion.
March 29, 2016
Miss Ophelia Dauntry gets the shock of her life when her fellow writer and friend is taken away to the Hayes Clinic for the insane. Maggie Grayson is no more insane than she is so Ophelia works to get to the bottom of the writ signed by her husband. Enlisting the help of the Duke of Trent is the last thing Ophelia wants to do, but she knows, Trent carries more authority and can get answers where she cannot.
This is the second story I've read in the series and I enjoyed it immensely. I adored Trent and how he treated Ophelia, a headstrong lady to say the least. The slow buildup of the romantic relationship was realistic as I'm not a fan of "instantly in love" types of stories. I especially enjoyed the lively conversations between Trent and Ophelia. Ms. Collins has also shined a light on the horrid conditions for the mentally insane during the Regency era and it's the first book I've read that has tackled this subject. It was very well done and kept the story moving forward through all the twists and turns. Ms. Collins tells a compelling story and her writing is superb. I did find quite a few typos in the ARC though, but I'm sure those will be fixed for the final copy. Fans of historical fans will definitely enjoy this story. Highly Recommended.
I received a copy of this book from the publisher in exchange for a fair and honest review.
This is the second story I've read in the series and I enjoyed it immensely. I adored Trent and how he treated Ophelia, a headstrong lady to say the least. The slow buildup of the romantic relationship was realistic as I'm not a fan of "instantly in love" types of stories. I especially enjoyed the lively conversations between Trent and Ophelia. Ms. Collins has also shined a light on the horrid conditions for the mentally insane during the Regency era and it's the first book I've read that has tackled this subject. It was very well done and kept the story moving forward through all the twists and turns. Ms. Collins tells a compelling story and her writing is superb. I did find quite a few typos in the ARC though, but I'm sure those will be fixed for the final copy. Fans of historical fans will definitely enjoy this story. Highly Recommended.
I received a copy of this book from the publisher in exchange for a fair and honest review.
April 2, 2016
Piers Hamilton, Duke of Trent, is now the leader of the Lords of Anarchy. He isn't too thrilled in being in the situation, but being a good guy he intends to make it a success. There have been comments to the effect that make others view the club as bad. Piers wants new members to join and will do anything to keep the gossip from ruining his plans.
Ophelia Dauntry is a bluestocking who writes for the Ladies Gazette about needlework. She is getting kinda bored with this subject and yearns to write more meaningful stories. Her boss is not interested in her opinion because it would put off the readers in buying.
One day while shopping with her best friend Maggie, she witnesses her friend being handcuffed by two men who mean business. Maggie has been consigned by her husband (who is not thrilled in Maggie's occupation with the Ladies Gazette) to the looney bin. Of course, Ophelia tries to help her but is kinda ruffed up a bit.
Ophelia goes to the Lords of Anarchy club to confront the man she thinks is responsible for her imprisonment. Piers and Ophelia get to know each other during their investigation.
They find in each other what has been missing in their lives and love is the key. This is a very good book and will entertain anyone who likes regency romance.
I appreciate Net Galley for this ARC title in which I gave an honest review.
Ophelia Dauntry is a bluestocking who writes for the Ladies Gazette about needlework. She is getting kinda bored with this subject and yearns to write more meaningful stories. Her boss is not interested in her opinion because it would put off the readers in buying.
One day while shopping with her best friend Maggie, she witnesses her friend being handcuffed by two men who mean business. Maggie has been consigned by her husband (who is not thrilled in Maggie's occupation with the Ladies Gazette) to the looney bin. Of course, Ophelia tries to help her but is kinda ruffed up a bit.
Ophelia goes to the Lords of Anarchy club to confront the man she thinks is responsible for her imprisonment. Piers and Ophelia get to know each other during their investigation.
They find in each other what has been missing in their lives and love is the key. This is a very good book and will entertain anyone who likes regency romance.
I appreciate Net Galley for this ARC title in which I gave an honest review.
March 30, 2016
Piers Hamilton, the Duke of Trent, inherited a mess when he became the new leader of the Lords of Anarchy. He's working hard to bring in new members to help supplant the ones who were somewhat less than... salubrious. But his club still has a fairly bad name among the gossips. And that is driven home to him once again when Ophelia Dauntry comes to him for help, accusing his club of assigning her friend to an asylum.
Ophelia is terrified. She's a writer for the Ladies Gazette (she writes about needlework but would like to concentrate on more meaningful stories) as is her friend Maggie. Ophelia knows that Maggie's husband isn't thrilled with their work but she didn't think that the man would consign Maggie to a place as horrible as Dr. Hayes' Clinic. And it turns out it may not have been him after all.
So Piers and Ophelia are off, trying to fin out what happened to Maggie and trying not to fall in love... (But this is a romance so, yeah, that latter part is t going to work.)
I didn't love the subplot of Ophelia's mother and didn't quite feel like I got to know Ophelia or Piers but I did like the book overall and regular readers of Ms. Collins WON'T be disappointed.
Ophelia is terrified. She's a writer for the Ladies Gazette (she writes about needlework but would like to concentrate on more meaningful stories) as is her friend Maggie. Ophelia knows that Maggie's husband isn't thrilled with their work but she didn't think that the man would consign Maggie to a place as horrible as Dr. Hayes' Clinic. And it turns out it may not have been him after all.
So Piers and Ophelia are off, trying to fin out what happened to Maggie and trying not to fall in love... (But this is a romance so, yeah, that latter part is t going to work.)
I didn't love the subplot of Ophelia's mother and didn't quite feel like I got to know Ophelia or Piers but I did like the book overall and regular readers of Ms. Collins WON'T be disappointed.
May 25, 2016
The search for Ophelia's friend takes the centre stage of this story. Ophelia, the heroine writes articles for Mr Carrington (newspaper man). Recently, her friend took an interest in the mental clinic run by Dr Hayes and the treatment of the patients. This keen interest led her to being kidnapped in the presence of Ophelia. Trent, the hero, is the mutual acquaintance of Ophelia through her friend's wives. He is also the president of a club whose members call themselves the lord of anarchy. The heroine suspects one of those fellow lords is behind the kidnapping. She even doubts Trent who is willing to assist her in the search. A few twists and some interesting background stories lend the story a mysterious air. Romantic scenes are less. The H and h ends up married due to a compromising situation. The interactions between characters of previous stories in the series were not boring. The camaraderie made the hero and heroine more endearing. I like lord Frederic in the final scene and now must read the previous books in the series (a wrong which needs to be righted loll).
March 15, 2016
This is the third book in this series and can be read as a stand alone. Although it is really nice knowing all the previous characters and how they fit with one another. I enjoyed Ophelia's and Trent's story. Trent was the hero of the book in that I could not get enough of him. He was just such a man. Ophelia is determined to find her missing friend and I often wonder about these headstrong women and their abilities to get into bad scrapes. Their love story is centered around finding her friend and now her friends missing husband. So much is built around it that when we get answers to both they aren't quite full and complete answers. I left the book wondering and thinking about them more than I did about Trent and Ophelia. Just a few too many unanswered questions or confusing/vague answers. I did love their story and if I wasn't left with questions this would easily have been a 5 star for me.
Thank you Netgalley for this ARC for my honest review.
Thank you Netgalley for this ARC for my honest review.
April 5, 2016
A tremendously satisfying final chapter in Collins' "Lords of Anarchy" series, this romance focuses on Ophelia and Trent and has an extremely engrossing mystery woven into the Regency romance storyline. You don't have to have read the others in the series to enjoy this one but whyever not? Buy them all and treat yourself!
Ophelia writes for a lady's magazine which is how she connects with another woman writer, only this one soon is abducted and committed for madness, despite Ophelia's attempts to intervene. She turns to Trent, newly installed as lesser of the once disgraced "Lords of Anarchy" and eager to forestall the fallout which implicates a club member. This brings him together with Ophelia and the investigation is deftly slipped into their budding romance.
Some might find Ophelia's mother a bit of a cipher and her rival suitor has no clear motivations but, other than those minor complaints, I was entranced. A keeper!
Ophelia writes for a lady's magazine which is how she connects with another woman writer, only this one soon is abducted and committed for madness, despite Ophelia's attempts to intervene. She turns to Trent, newly installed as lesser of the once disgraced "Lords of Anarchy" and eager to forestall the fallout which implicates a club member. This brings him together with Ophelia and the investigation is deftly slipped into their budding romance.
Some might find Ophelia's mother a bit of a cipher and her rival suitor has no clear motivations but, other than those minor complaints, I was entranced. A keeper!
March 6, 2016
I received this from the publisher and Netgalley in exchange for an honest review. This is book three in the series and I had not read the first two books but I was able to follow the story really well. In this book, Trent a duke has just taken over leadership of the Lord's of Anarchy club and Ophelia is a young journalist. They had several friends in common but Ophelia is not a fan of the Lord's of Anarchy. Now, she believes she has reason to hate them. Her friend was abducted and it looks like it was her husband a member of the club. Trent is having some trouble he is intrigued and wants to help. They grow to love each other and try to solve the mystery. It was an entertaining read and I enjoyed it but there was just something I did not love. I can't even put it into words but just not a five star read for me.
August 15, 2016
Knowing one another for roughly a year, Ophelia and Trent, through their friends when Trent sees Fee more then someone off limits as he labeled her then. One kiss changed both of their lives and their partnership will solve a ring of crimes pertaining to a doctor and a newspaper person that are related. Secretes are to be revealed, kidnapping(s) to be solved and found. What we never really had much of Fee's background other then for her to finding a 'love match' but we get to find out the real reason why she hasn't accepted a man is due to her mother and her persistent to see her eldest daughter married to her mothers best friends son, a very dullish man, whom Fee has no connections with no matter who much her mother pushes her. Besides some depressing issues, mysteries, there will be a few happy surprises.
Now I wounder if there will be more of the Lords of Anarchy romances???
Now I wounder if there will be more of the Lords of Anarchy romances???
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