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Victorian Rebels #4
The Duke
He is noble, notorious, and takes no prisoners...
Strong as a Viking. Handsome as Adonis. Rich as Midas. Collin "Cole" Talmage, Duke of Trewyth, is the stuff that legends are made of. He's the English Empire's golden son--until fate has its way with him. Cole's family is killed and his closest comrade betrays him on the battlefield, leaving him gravely injured. But Cole is not one to dwell on misfortune. He is a man of duty, honor--and desire. And now he's ready for the fight of his lifetime...
Imogen Pritchard is a beautiful lass who works in a hospital by day and as a serving maid at night. Years ago, when she was young and penniless, she ended up spending a scandalous night with Cole, whose tormented soul was matched only by his earth-shattering passion. Imogen entered a marriage of convenience--one that left her a wealthy widow--but she never forgot Cole. Now that her long-lost lover has turned up in her hospital, injured and with no memory of her, Imogen is torn: Is it a blessing or a curse that their past remains a secret to Cole, even as his new passion for her leaves him wanting to protect and possess her...at all costs?
Strong as a Viking. Handsome as Adonis. Rich as Midas. Collin "Cole" Talmage, Duke of Trewyth, is the stuff that legends are made of. He's the English Empire's golden son--until fate has its way with him. Cole's family is killed and his closest comrade betrays him on the battlefield, leaving him gravely injured. But Cole is not one to dwell on misfortune. He is a man of duty, honor--and desire. And now he's ready for the fight of his lifetime...
Imogen Pritchard is a beautiful lass who works in a hospital by day and as a serving maid at night. Years ago, when she was young and penniless, she ended up spending a scandalous night with Cole, whose tormented soul was matched only by his earth-shattering passion. Imogen entered a marriage of convenience--one that left her a wealthy widow--but she never forgot Cole. Now that her long-lost lover has turned up in her hospital, injured and with no memory of her, Imogen is torn: Is it a blessing or a curse that their past remains a secret to Cole, even as his new passion for her leaves him wanting to protect and possess her...at all costs?
385 pages, Kindle Edition
First published February 7, 2017
422 people are currently reading
4113 people want to read
About the author
Kerrigan Byrne
71 books5,025 followersIf you're anything like me, the best night is one spent with a brawny highlander, a mysterious werewolf, a conflicted vampire, or a hot-headed Irishman. My stories span the spectrum of romantic fiction from historical, to paranormal, to romantic suspense. But I can always promise my readers one thing: memorable and sexy Celtic heroes who are guaranteed to heat your blood before they steal your heart. Lose yourself in the enchanted Celtic Isles, you never know who, or what, will find you...
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 924 reviews
December 23, 2017
The hero is a dick.
We get to see him in his "before and after" being a prisoner of war who was tortured. And, I just have to say that he was a dick to begin with, not Mr. Sweet and Wonderful.
Why:
He meets Ginny at a bar where she is the waitress, grabs her onto his lap and makes her stay with him the whole night as he gets more and more drunk. Um, ever heard of sexual harassment?
You break it, you buy it!
Next, he doesn't ask her if he can sleep with her. He simply goes to her boss and offers him enough money for her boss to force her to do it.
Well, at least he obeyed the sign.
Then, he takes her virginity without even realizing it, even though she is crying. Is he accustomed to women crying when he has sex with them? Is that just SOP?
Aww, that explains it.. Got all messy for nothing.
Then, he leaves the next day for war and is captured as a POW where he is tortured for a year. In that year, he romanticizes the "whore" he spent the night with and makes her out to be some saving angel that he will find after he's free and marry her. That's right, he's a Duke, but he plans on marrying a "whore" whose name he doesn't even know that he spent a few drunken hours with.
And, lucky him! When he is rescued and sent to the hospital, she just so happens to be the nurse who takes care of him. She even realizes he was diagnosed wrong and saves his life. Even though she was wearing a wig that night as his whore, after all of his fond memories of her, he will surely recognize his fallen angel, right?
When he is told that she saved his life and is going to give him his medicine:
"That plain-faced twit won't come near me.. Get out!"
The teacup shattered on the wall above her head, showering her with lukewarm droplets..
okay, man, we'll find you a Coke..
His little tantrum gets Ginny fired and her life falls completely apart. Luckily, a NICE old man marries her and then dies. That worked out well. Now, she is wealthy, titled, and living next door to the Duke of Dickdom. He not only doesn't remember her as his whore, but he also doesn't remember her as the nurse who saved his life. And, he hates her because she is doing charity work. Charity work!!! That bitch!!
He threatens her, degrades her, yells at her, grabs and shakes her, and rants about how the lowly poor don't deserve the help of the rich. He also calls her a gold-digging whore for marrying her husband, and is upset that she is helping reformed whores. This guy has really got whores on his mind. Only one whore is good enough for him!! His magical whore!
"Shame on you, beguiling a decent old man on his deathbed, turning his ancestral home into little better than a brothel, and not even a useful one at that."
So, brothels are cool as long as they aren't in your neighborhood, and whores are only good if they are sweet and spent the night crying in your arms because you ripped her virginity from her?
The heroine of the book was strong, compassionate, and resilient. But, the hero was such an ass that I couldn't like the story. I was actively rooting that some other guy - a nice guy - would show up and she would fall for him.
We get to see him in his "before and after" being a prisoner of war who was tortured. And, I just have to say that he was a dick to begin with, not Mr. Sweet and Wonderful.
Why:
He meets Ginny at a bar where she is the waitress, grabs her onto his lap and makes her stay with him the whole night as he gets more and more drunk. Um, ever heard of sexual harassment?
You break it, you buy it!
Next, he doesn't ask her if he can sleep with her. He simply goes to her boss and offers him enough money for her boss to force her to do it.
Well, at least he obeyed the sign.
Then, he takes her virginity without even realizing it, even though she is crying. Is he accustomed to women crying when he has sex with them? Is that just SOP?
Aww, that explains it.. Got all messy for nothing.
Then, he leaves the next day for war and is captured as a POW where he is tortured for a year. In that year, he romanticizes the "whore" he spent the night with and makes her out to be some saving angel that he will find after he's free and marry her. That's right, he's a Duke, but he plans on marrying a "whore" whose name he doesn't even know that he spent a few drunken hours with.
And, lucky him! When he is rescued and sent to the hospital, she just so happens to be the nurse who takes care of him. She even realizes he was diagnosed wrong and saves his life. Even though she was wearing a wig that night as his whore, after all of his fond memories of her, he will surely recognize his fallen angel, right?
When he is told that she saved his life and is going to give him his medicine:
"That plain-faced twit won't come near me.. Get out!"
The teacup shattered on the wall above her head, showering her with lukewarm droplets..
okay, man, we'll find you a Coke..
His little tantrum gets Ginny fired and her life falls completely apart. Luckily, a NICE old man marries her and then dies. That worked out well. Now, she is wealthy, titled, and living next door to the Duke of Dickdom. He not only doesn't remember her as his whore, but he also doesn't remember her as the nurse who saved his life. And, he hates her because she is doing charity work. Charity work!!! That bitch!!
He threatens her, degrades her, yells at her, grabs and shakes her, and rants about how the lowly poor don't deserve the help of the rich. He also calls her a gold-digging whore for marrying her husband, and is upset that she is helping reformed whores. This guy has really got whores on his mind. Only one whore is good enough for him!! His magical whore!
"Shame on you, beguiling a decent old man on his deathbed, turning his ancestral home into little better than a brothel, and not even a useful one at that."
So, brothels are cool as long as they aren't in your neighborhood, and whores are only good if they are sweet and spent the night crying in your arms because you ripped her virginity from her?
The heroine of the book was strong, compassionate, and resilient. But, the hero was such an ass that I couldn't like the story. I was actively rooting that some other guy - a nice guy - would show up and she would fall for him.
September 13, 2017
4 The Duke is a dick but I still liked him Stars
Spoilers
I liked The Duke better than the last book. Cole was a big dick at times but he did have kind moments too. Those moments helped balance his character. I felt the fact that he was a social snob and at times a pompous ass made him more real. Cole was more true to what a Duke in the Victorian era would have been like. But for all Cole's bad traits he was protective, loyal and when he loved someone it was fiercely. Although I liked Cole alright, Imogen made the book for me. She was strong, brave, and benevolent. I love that no matter how much she had to overcome, how much she suffered she still chose to see the good in life. She was full of life and joy and still some how down to earth and realistic. The sexual tension in this book was great. I loved that there was more action in this book than there was in the last book. It kept the pace going were as in The Highlander I felt it slowed down a bit in the middle. Overall this was a enjoyable read. The first book is still my favorite of the series though!
Spoilers
I liked The Duke better than the last book. Cole was a big dick at times but he did have kind moments too. Those moments helped balance his character. I felt the fact that he was a social snob and at times a pompous ass made him more real. Cole was more true to what a Duke in the Victorian era would have been like. But for all Cole's bad traits he was protective, loyal and when he loved someone it was fiercely. Although I liked Cole alright, Imogen made the book for me. She was strong, brave, and benevolent. I love that no matter how much she had to overcome, how much she suffered she still chose to see the good in life. She was full of life and joy and still some how down to earth and realistic. The sexual tension in this book was great. I loved that there was more action in this book than there was in the last book. It kept the pace going were as in The Highlander I felt it slowed down a bit in the middle. Overall this was a enjoyable read. The first book is still my favorite of the series though!
February 5, 2021
This one is my favorite so far of the Victorian Rebels series.
I still prefer lighthearted romances, but Byrne is an excellent writer and I keep getting sucked in by her characters. And Imogen was an excellent character.
The hero of this one, Cole, is more of a spy/assassin and less of a straight-up murderer, like some of the other heroes in this series. However, he's still a massive dick.
As in, he's going to do and say some seriously hypocritical and assholey stuff to Imogen. <--fair warning
This is a pretty twisted tale that takes place over several years and goes in all different kinds of directions.
At first, Imogen is a nurse by day and a serving wench (I've always wanted to type that) known as Jenny by night. She's stuck working in this shitty brothel slinging beer until her father's debts are paid off.
Enter Cole, the new Duke of...whatever. He's a soldier and rumored assassin for the Crown whose entire family just died in a railway accident leaving him as heir to the title. He's got one mission left and then he's headed home to the estate.
BUT FIRST? <--gonna get his fellow officers drunk & laid!
He ends up unknowingly buying Jenny's virginity, and sharing a magical night together. Then disappearing for over a year as a POW, only to come back and find himself dying from an infection he got while a prisoner, and under Imogen's care as a nurse.
She fights for the correct diagnosis to save his life, goes against the head doctor's orders, and stays by his side day and night until he regains consciousness.
Except he doesn't recognize her without her wig and powdered face.
So like the dick he is, he throws a cup and her head and the asshole doctor fires her.
Ok. A lot of shit happens that I don't want to spoil, but she ends up marrying a nice old man that she was friends with, and that made her a countess.
Meanwhile, Cole is completely recovered and frantically searching for Jenny. Her memory was the only thing that got him through all the torture and whatnot that he endured as a prisoner and he vows that he will find and marry her.
Also, due to reasons, he is the widow Imogen's next-door neighbor.
*dramatic music swells*
When will Cole realize that the woman he's been searching for has been beside him all along?
Ok. I loved seeing all the guys and gals from the previous books make their way through this one. They play a larger role than I thought they would, and it was actually pretty cool.
Also. There is a serial killer up in this bitch!
If you don't mind (and/or like) assholes in your books, then you'll be ok with this. I'd say Imogen is definitely the highlight, though.
I still prefer lighthearted romances, but Byrne is an excellent writer and I keep getting sucked in by her characters. And Imogen was an excellent character.
The hero of this one, Cole, is more of a spy/assassin and less of a straight-up murderer, like some of the other heroes in this series. However, he's still a massive dick.
As in, he's going to do and say some seriously hypocritical and assholey stuff to Imogen. <--fair warning
This is a pretty twisted tale that takes place over several years and goes in all different kinds of directions.
At first, Imogen is a nurse by day and a serving wench (I've always wanted to type that) known as Jenny by night. She's stuck working in this shitty brothel slinging beer until her father's debts are paid off.
Enter Cole, the new Duke of...whatever. He's a soldier and rumored assassin for the Crown whose entire family just died in a railway accident leaving him as heir to the title. He's got one mission left and then he's headed home to the estate.
BUT FIRST? <--gonna get his fellow officers drunk & laid!
He ends up unknowingly buying Jenny's virginity, and sharing a magical night together. Then disappearing for over a year as a POW, only to come back and find himself dying from an infection he got while a prisoner, and under Imogen's care as a nurse.
She fights for the correct diagnosis to save his life, goes against the head doctor's orders, and stays by his side day and night until he regains consciousness.
Except he doesn't recognize her without her wig and powdered face.
So like the dick he is, he throws a cup and her head and the asshole doctor fires her.
Ok. A lot of shit happens that I don't want to spoil, but she ends up marrying a nice old man that she was friends with, and that made her a countess.
Meanwhile, Cole is completely recovered and frantically searching for Jenny. Her memory was the only thing that got him through all the torture and whatnot that he endured as a prisoner and he vows that he will find and marry her.
Also, due to reasons, he is the widow Imogen's next-door neighbor.
*dramatic music swells*
When will Cole realize that the woman he's been searching for has been beside him all along?
Ok. I loved seeing all the guys and gals from the previous books make their way through this one. They play a larger role than I thought they would, and it was actually pretty cool.
Also. There is a serial killer up in this bitch!
If you don't mind (and/or like) assholes in your books, then you'll be ok with this. I'd say Imogen is definitely the highlight, though.
June 22, 2022
Oops..I did it again
That went too bloody fast.
I keep telling myself I should slow down but I'm really enjoying my re-read/listen of the Victorian Rebels. Firstly, because they are fantastic stories and Kerrigan Byrne is a LEGEND, and secondly, because Derek Perkins is a master at his craft.
The one thing that is standing out with my re-read/listening experience, is how many clues for the future stories we get with each instalment. A big goofy grin comes across my face when I realise The Scot, The Duke, and The Knight are coming to life.
I forgot how much of a DOUCHEWAFFLE Cole is. My heart hurt for Imogen with every insult that passed his lips. Even knowing how it plays out, I was doubting that I could ever forgive him for the hurt he caused. Such an arrogant jerk with lofty ideals, the scene at Imogen's charity event made my stomach turn. I know he comes good at the end, but I was less than impressed with what came out of his mouth.
I wish I could slow down, but alas, it's too late. I must go on!! It's time to catch up with The Scot Beds His Wife.
********************************
Stop the world…I need to read.
After finishing The Duke I have come to the conclusion that this series is my crack. I really cannot get enough of the Victorian Rebels and I am enthralled from the first page to the last. The Duke was bloody amazing. I refuse to say this series gets better or this is my favourite so far. Each and every one of the Victorian Rebels, at the time of reading is my favourite. I’m addicted and I have no desire to ever be rehabilitated. If Kerrigan Byrne ever announces a final in this series…I WILL BE DEVASTATED!!
I’m not going to do my usual ramblings for this review because I went into The Duke blind and I think the experience was better for it. I can confirm that the beginning had me a little surprised, completely sucked in and even a wee bit flushed and breathless. Kerrigan Byrne has given us an original storyline where you question how there could ever be a happy ever after for the couple.
The author has a brilliant way of taking you to the dark side and counting your blessings that the ruthless giant by your side is there to protect you and eventually cherish you. Yes, I am the heroine every time, so that means I have already - worked at Scotland Yard, been a beautiful and famous actress, survived a mental asylum and now I’ve nursed a hero back to health.
Each instalment gives me an opportunity to step back in time and experience the highs and lows of living in the late 1800s. I admire the women I become and learn to love the men who stand beside me.
Again, I have to state that The Duke was bloody brilliant. The heroine was strong, resilient and generous. Her life is dedicated to helping others and I admired her strength in facing challenges. The hero we meet at the start is very different from the hero we end up with. Both are arrogant, strong and intelligent but the hero, in the end, can only see the light with his heroine by his side.
The Victorian Rebels does not shy away from the dark side of our history. We see “gentleman” use their positions to take advantage. The author does not hide the ugly side of London where prostitution isn’t a choice, debts are paid by whatever means and reputations can be tarnished in the blink of an eye. Each instalment has violence, foul language and abuse but for me, it’s never OTT or unnecessary. It’s just part of the whole picture.
As per usual, I have finished The Duke desperate for more Kerrigan Byrne.
Stacey is Sassy, received an advanced copy of this story. The copy provided is not the final copy and may be subject to edits and changes.
That went too bloody fast.
I keep telling myself I should slow down but I'm really enjoying my re-read/listen of the Victorian Rebels. Firstly, because they are fantastic stories and Kerrigan Byrne is a LEGEND, and secondly, because Derek Perkins is a master at his craft.
The one thing that is standing out with my re-read/listening experience, is how many clues for the future stories we get with each instalment. A big goofy grin comes across my face when I realise The Scot, The Duke, and The Knight are coming to life.
I forgot how much of a DOUCHEWAFFLE Cole is. My heart hurt for Imogen with every insult that passed his lips. Even knowing how it plays out, I was doubting that I could ever forgive him for the hurt he caused. Such an arrogant jerk with lofty ideals, the scene at Imogen's charity event made my stomach turn. I know he comes good at the end, but I was less than impressed with what came out of his mouth.
I wish I could slow down, but alas, it's too late. I must go on!! It's time to catch up with The Scot Beds His Wife.
********************************
Stop the world…I need to read.
After finishing The Duke I have come to the conclusion that this series is my crack. I really cannot get enough of the Victorian Rebels and I am enthralled from the first page to the last. The Duke was bloody amazing. I refuse to say this series gets better or this is my favourite so far. Each and every one of the Victorian Rebels, at the time of reading is my favourite. I’m addicted and I have no desire to ever be rehabilitated. If Kerrigan Byrne ever announces a final in this series…I WILL BE DEVASTATED!!
I’m not going to do my usual ramblings for this review because I went into The Duke blind and I think the experience was better for it. I can confirm that the beginning had me a little surprised, completely sucked in and even a wee bit flushed and breathless. Kerrigan Byrne has given us an original storyline where you question how there could ever be a happy ever after for the couple.
The author has a brilliant way of taking you to the dark side and counting your blessings that the ruthless giant by your side is there to protect you and eventually cherish you. Yes, I am the heroine every time, so that means I have already - worked at Scotland Yard, been a beautiful and famous actress, survived a mental asylum and now I’ve nursed a hero back to health.
Each instalment gives me an opportunity to step back in time and experience the highs and lows of living in the late 1800s. I admire the women I become and learn to love the men who stand beside me.
Again, I have to state that The Duke was bloody brilliant. The heroine was strong, resilient and generous. Her life is dedicated to helping others and I admired her strength in facing challenges. The hero we meet at the start is very different from the hero we end up with. Both are arrogant, strong and intelligent but the hero, in the end, can only see the light with his heroine by his side.
The Victorian Rebels does not shy away from the dark side of our history. We see “gentleman” use their positions to take advantage. The author does not hide the ugly side of London where prostitution isn’t a choice, debts are paid by whatever means and reputations can be tarnished in the blink of an eye. Each instalment has violence, foul language and abuse but for me, it’s never OTT or unnecessary. It’s just part of the whole picture.
As per usual, I have finished The Duke desperate for more Kerrigan Byrne.
Stacey is Sassy, received an advanced copy of this story. The copy provided is not the final copy and may be subject to edits and changes.
March 30, 2017
I was really happy when Netgalley granted me this book to review!!!
When I started reading it the first chapter was promising!
We see Imogen as Ginny - mistreated, overworked and sold like a sack of grain.
Still, at the same time, there was something that grated. I kept asking myself why Imogen was the only one working in her family? OK, I thought, her mother could be ill, but her sister was 16 and healthy. So why didn't she contributed?
But, since during the whole novel we don't see any of them, I couldn't judge, but neither could I understand.
Then we skip a year and our hero (??? how can he be a hero when he buys a girl who clearly is not willing, I don't know...) is back from a brutal war. He's gravely ill, he's been tortured, he lost his hand, he's emaciated.... And Imogen is his nurse.
She's never stopped thinking about him and is half way there to being in love with him (another think I couldn't understand...).
And this is where the story went downward... when Cole wakes up, he treats Imogen, who saved his life diagnosing his illness and going against the main doctor orders, like garbage, insulting her and denigrating her, giving the main doctor an excuse to fire her and throw her out from the hospital.
Ok, OK, he's just woken up, he's still out of his mind, but I started hating him then and there.
I'm not going to tell you the whole story: first because the book has not been released yet and second because you'll want to find out yourselves, but to make it short I hated the hero.
And I'm so sorry to say it, because I loved the heroes in the previous books who were also tough, broken and dangerous men, but they were also intelligent, while Cole was just plain stupid and very, very classist: he's a Duke and therefore all other people are just dust under his boots. God has given him the right to do and say whatever he wants and that's that!
And that attitude goes on and on and on... Not only towards Imogen, but also all the others without exclusion! It was intolerable!!! His arrogance was so OTT that's not even funny!!!
Imogen was slightly better. At least she was not a snob! She had positive ideas and wanted to help others. She didn’t treat others like garbage!
Another thing I didn't like was an over-abundance of flowery paragons that didn't make much sense (at least to me) like: gentle violence.
Also repeated comparison to Greek statues and wolf, bear, panther, etc...
It's OK to make remarks like that once or twice, but they were all over, on almost every page!!! It was tedious! I wanted to shout: "OK, I got it! He's a sleek, David statuesque, dark, brooding, huge, wolf!! Stop repeating it!!!"
I was tempted with DNF several times, but since I love all the other books written by Ms. Byrne, I kept reading and hoping that something will change...
And it did: in the last chapter and in such a hasty and abrupt way that my head was spinning!
We don't see the ass-Cole groveling. He just orders Imogen that they'll get married and that she doesn't have a say in it! Ah, and, by the way, he's in love with her!!!
If I were Imogen I would have shot him! But, no what she does? She says she loves him too and they f*ck even if she's just woken up from a drugged sleep/attempted abdution/murder!!!
Well, my friends, I know that my review is actually a rant and it will be unpopular since many people here loved it, but that's how I felt... sorry... :(
I hope the next book will be better!
When I started reading it the first chapter was promising!
We see Imogen as Ginny - mistreated, overworked and sold like a sack of grain.
Still, at the same time, there was something that grated. I kept asking myself why Imogen was the only one working in her family? OK, I thought, her mother could be ill, but her sister was 16 and healthy. So why didn't she contributed?
But, since during the whole novel we don't see any of them, I couldn't judge, but neither could I understand.
Then we skip a year and our hero (??? how can he be a hero when he buys a girl who clearly is not willing, I don't know...) is back from a brutal war. He's gravely ill, he's been tortured, he lost his hand, he's emaciated.... And Imogen is his nurse.
She's never stopped thinking about him and is half way there to being in love with him (another think I couldn't understand...).
And this is where the story went downward... when Cole wakes up, he treats Imogen, who saved his life diagnosing his illness and going against the main doctor orders, like garbage, insulting her and denigrating her, giving the main doctor an excuse to fire her and throw her out from the hospital.
Ok, OK, he's just woken up, he's still out of his mind, but I started hating him then and there.
I'm not going to tell you the whole story: first because the book has not been released yet and second because you'll want to find out yourselves, but to make it short I hated the hero.
And I'm so sorry to say it, because I loved the heroes in the previous books who were also tough, broken and dangerous men, but they were also intelligent, while Cole was just plain stupid and very, very classist: he's a Duke and therefore all other people are just dust under his boots. God has given him the right to do and say whatever he wants and that's that!
And that attitude goes on and on and on... Not only towards Imogen, but also all the others without exclusion! It was intolerable!!! His arrogance was so OTT that's not even funny!!!
Imogen was slightly better. At least she was not a snob! She had positive ideas and wanted to help others. She didn’t treat others like garbage!
Another thing I didn't like was an over-abundance of flowery paragons that didn't make much sense (at least to me) like: gentle violence.
Also repeated comparison to Greek statues and wolf, bear, panther, etc...
It's OK to make remarks like that once or twice, but they were all over, on almost every page!!! It was tedious! I wanted to shout: "OK, I got it! He's a sleek, David statuesque, dark, brooding, huge, wolf!! Stop repeating it!!!"
I was tempted with DNF several times, but since I love all the other books written by Ms. Byrne, I kept reading and hoping that something will change...
And it did: in the last chapter and in such a hasty and abrupt way that my head was spinning!
We don't see the ass-Cole groveling. He just orders Imogen that they'll get married and that she doesn't have a say in it! Ah, and, by the way, he's in love with her!!!
If I were Imogen I would have shot him! But, no what she does? She says she loves him too and they f*ck even if she's just woken up from a drugged sleep/attempted abdution/murder!!!
Well, my friends, I know that my review is actually a rant and it will be unpopular since many people here loved it, but that's how I felt... sorry... :(
I hope the next book will be better!
March 10, 2017
The Duke by Kerrigan Byrne is a 2017 St. Martin’s Press publication.
The Victorian Rebels series is my favorite series in the historical romance category right now. I eagerly anticipate each new installment, but then hoard it because I want to have something to look forward to and I know once I finish it, I’ll have to wait for what seems like an eternity for the next book in the series.
I couldn’t hold out any longer, but I did manage to read the book very slowly, drawing it out and lapping up every delicious morsel one chapter at a time, trying to make it last as long as I could.
Kerrigan Bryne can create a dark and troubled hero better than anyone out there right now. Collin ‘Cole’ Talmage, the Duke of Trewyth, is tortured, but is slightly different from the heroes featured in past installments.
He’s a privileged Duke who spends one night with the sweet and innocent Ginny, leaving him with a memory he can not shake. In fact, it’s his memory of her that sustains him on the battlefield, where he is severely injured. She haunts him always, as his seemingly futile search for her stretches out over the years.
Imogen Pritchard, is a nurse by day, a maid by night, but after a dangerous encounter she is saved by a marriage of convenience. Now widowed, Imogen suddenly finds herself face to face with the one man she could never forget. But, little does he know, Imogen, the wealthy widow next door, is the woman he has been longing for. Should Imogen remind him of their shared past or keep it secret from him?
As a big fan of romantic suspense, I loved the element of suspense in this chapter, which was like the cherry on top!
The way the lovers seemed like two ships passing in the night also adds an element of tension to the story and of course a little frustration, too.
Cole, of course, is heartbroken and sad, but also, bitter and angry. He doesn’t know what to make of Imogen and his attraction to her, which leaves him conflicted about his feelings for Ginny, while Imogen is afraid to tell him the truth, which creates inner angst and turmoil, but makes for some seriously sharp dialogue as the pair play a delightful and slightly dangerous lovers game.
The only downside to the story is that the ending was tidied up a bit too abruptly, combining the threads a little too hurriedly, but it was still dramatic and despite the dark tones, the book ended on a humorous note, allowing Cole to steal the show and Imogen’s heart once and for all.
This is another terrific effort by this author. I love her style, her risk -taking plot lines, and how her stories are ever evolving and changing guaranteeing they stay fresh and original!
4.5 stars
The Victorian Rebels series is my favorite series in the historical romance category right now. I eagerly anticipate each new installment, but then hoard it because I want to have something to look forward to and I know once I finish it, I’ll have to wait for what seems like an eternity for the next book in the series.
I couldn’t hold out any longer, but I did manage to read the book very slowly, drawing it out and lapping up every delicious morsel one chapter at a time, trying to make it last as long as I could.
Kerrigan Bryne can create a dark and troubled hero better than anyone out there right now. Collin ‘Cole’ Talmage, the Duke of Trewyth, is tortured, but is slightly different from the heroes featured in past installments.
He’s a privileged Duke who spends one night with the sweet and innocent Ginny, leaving him with a memory he can not shake. In fact, it’s his memory of her that sustains him on the battlefield, where he is severely injured. She haunts him always, as his seemingly futile search for her stretches out over the years.
Imogen Pritchard, is a nurse by day, a maid by night, but after a dangerous encounter she is saved by a marriage of convenience. Now widowed, Imogen suddenly finds herself face to face with the one man she could never forget. But, little does he know, Imogen, the wealthy widow next door, is the woman he has been longing for. Should Imogen remind him of their shared past or keep it secret from him?
As a big fan of romantic suspense, I loved the element of suspense in this chapter, which was like the cherry on top!
The way the lovers seemed like two ships passing in the night also adds an element of tension to the story and of course a little frustration, too.
Cole, of course, is heartbroken and sad, but also, bitter and angry. He doesn’t know what to make of Imogen and his attraction to her, which leaves him conflicted about his feelings for Ginny, while Imogen is afraid to tell him the truth, which creates inner angst and turmoil, but makes for some seriously sharp dialogue as the pair play a delightful and slightly dangerous lovers game.
The only downside to the story is that the ending was tidied up a bit too abruptly, combining the threads a little too hurriedly, but it was still dramatic and despite the dark tones, the book ended on a humorous note, allowing Cole to steal the show and Imogen’s heart once and for all.
This is another terrific effort by this author. I love her style, her risk -taking plot lines, and how her stories are ever evolving and changing guaranteeing they stay fresh and original!
4.5 stars
February 12, 2021
While this book isn't as dark as the rest of the books, we do have a spy duke protecting our heroine from someone trying to kill her. The duke, Colin, and Imogen have a passionate night together years ago, but Imogen was in disguise and Colin has never been able to find her again. Now, he's living next to widowed Imogen who drives him crazy. I was surprised by how much back story we got in this book of when Colin and Imogen have their night together (at least 1.5 hours of the audiobook), but I actually enjoyed that establishment to their relationship. While I do think that Colin was weirdly obsessed with her and his desperation to find her to marry her, I did like how Colin had no idea that Imogen was the woman he had spent the night with.
I loved Imogen's character and how she was a nurse before marrying a rich man right before he died. We still got a good chunk of the book with her as a nurse, which was fun. Colin actually has his hand cut off while doing spy things and is now living without a hand. I wasn't expecting to see so much of the other couples from this series so far, but it was fun seeing all of the men together and working to protect Imogene and figure out who was after her. The mystery was fun and there was definitely insane chemistry between Imogen and Colin. Overall, I really enjoyed this one!
I loved Imogen's character and how she was a nurse before marrying a rich man right before he died. We still got a good chunk of the book with her as a nurse, which was fun. Colin actually has his hand cut off while doing spy things and is now living without a hand. I wasn't expecting to see so much of the other couples from this series so far, but it was fun seeing all of the men together and working to protect Imogene and figure out who was after her. The mystery was fun and there was definitely insane chemistry between Imogen and Colin. Overall, I really enjoyed this one!
May 3, 2017
Loved it. :-)
Kerrigan Byrne is writing THE BEST historical romance heroes available today, full stop. I love that they're not perfect. I love that they're believable as 19th century characters.
Thank you, Ms. Byrne, for writing 19th century heroes in books based in the 19th century. <3
Kerrigan Byrne is writing THE BEST historical romance heroes available today, full stop. I love that they're not perfect. I love that they're believable as 19th century characters.
Thank you, Ms. Byrne, for writing 19th century heroes in books based in the 19th century. <3
May 12, 2020
3.5 stars
“I would fall in love with you if you’d let me.”
I still can’t decide whether to round it up or down. The thing is, Cole is such an ignorant blind jerk! He’s such a snob. He’s got a lot of annoying traits. However, when I read a historical romance I try to remind myself that they’re a representation of that certain time where snobby dukes were a thing. He was as flawed as the other heroes in the previous books, but for some reason I didn’t like him that much. Still, I kinda think he was more true to what a Duke in the Victorian era would have been like.
On the other hand, I really liked Imogen. Despite everything she has been through, she was strong, brave, and generous. Her past made her change for the better and thickened her skin. She used everything she went through to be a stronger person.
I like the second half better than the first one. This book has its ups and downs. I like Imogen and loved how she stood for herself and what she believes in. I didn’t like the duke that much and kinda cringed every time he opens his smart mouth! I still enjoyed this book tho. This series is so addictive to read.
“I would fall in love with you if you’d let me.”
I still can’t decide whether to round it up or down. The thing is, Cole is such an ignorant blind jerk! He’s such a snob. He’s got a lot of annoying traits. However, when I read a historical romance I try to remind myself that they’re a representation of that certain time where snobby dukes were a thing. He was as flawed as the other heroes in the previous books, but for some reason I didn’t like him that much. Still, I kinda think he was more true to what a Duke in the Victorian era would have been like.
On the other hand, I really liked Imogen. Despite everything she has been through, she was strong, brave, and generous. Her past made her change for the better and thickened her skin. She used everything she went through to be a stronger person.
I like the second half better than the first one. This book has its ups and downs. I like Imogen and loved how she stood for herself and what she believes in. I didn’t like the duke that much and kinda cringed every time he opens his smart mouth! I still enjoyed this book tho. This series is so addictive to read.
February 7, 2017
Mixed feelings are the worst.
I have absolutely loved the previous book in the Victorian Rebels series, however, I had a crazy love-hate relationship with this one. On one hand, I absolutely loved the main character Imogen and I worshiped her bravery, sass and intelligence. I adored seeing Cole getting his ass burned by this Queen.
But on the other hand… I cringed a few times. Really hard. You see, I can read a good romance as much as the next guy but sometimes the situations in which these two got aroused were extremely weird and made me leave my body by how irritated I was. Take a scene where Cole kills five people to protect Imogen, you know what she thought?
So, unfortunately, I haven’t like The Duke as much as I liked The Highlander, but I do applaud Kerrigan for always creating interesting female characters who make their own destiny.
*E-copy provided by the author/publisher in exchange for an honest review via Netgalley.*
You can read this review on BookishFever.
I have absolutely loved the previous book in the Victorian Rebels series, however, I had a crazy love-hate relationship with this one. On one hand, I absolutely loved the main character Imogen and I worshiped her bravery, sass and intelligence. I adored seeing Cole getting his ass burned by this Queen.
“You know some big words for such a small woman.”
“And you have a small mind for such a big man.”
But on the other hand… I cringed a few times. Really hard. You see, I can read a good romance as much as the next guy but sometimes the situations in which these two got aroused were extremely weird and made me leave my body by how irritated I was. Take a scene where Cole kills five people to protect Imogen, you know what she thought?
“He’d killed for her.
Why did that make her breasts tight and heavy? Why did a thrill of unnerving heat bloom beneath the dread and repulsion?”
So, unfortunately, I haven’t like The Duke as much as I liked The Highlander, but I do applaud Kerrigan for always creating interesting female characters who make their own destiny.
*E-copy provided by the author/publisher in exchange for an honest review via Netgalley.*
You can read this review on BookishFever.
January 7, 2018
Sale Alert 07Jan17 at Amazon for 2.99
This is a couple I was really rooting for. In the beginning we get this wonderful night that Collin and Imogen end up in bed together. He is a bit drunk and headed on a dangerous mission for Queen and Country and she was mistaken for a prostitute but hey who hasn’t had that happen to them. Still they have this great first night together where she is the first person in a long time to seem to really get the grief he feels at the loss of his family and sees something that no one else has.
But after Collin has been through a nightmare and lost his had in the process he returns to England and doesn’t even recognize Imogen. He might be looking everywhere for Ginny the whore with a heart of gold that he wants to save from that life but he definitely doesn’t see her in the nurse that helped save him.
My heart broke for Imogen and her situation. But she still remained this entirely likeable always look on the bright side kind of girl that was just going to keep on trying to get by and push through whatever came her way good or bad. I really liked how she ended up in the country house across from Collin a year or two later.
I was on the edge of my seat wondering when he was going to see it. When all of the clouds would clear from his eyes and he’d realize that the woman he is looking for is just across the lawn from him. It is even more funny how agitated she seems to make him as he tries to deny the pull he fells for her. He is actually at most times a complete and utter jerk to her. But she throws back as good as she gets and their deadly dance is just beginning.
Collin made himself really difficult to like and for a while I totally had to rely on Imogen to carry the romance for me. At least there were the characters and anti-heroes from the other books to step in and tell him when he was being a down right pain in the caboose or idiot altogether. You don’t have to have read the other books to enjoy this one however a few scenes become a bit funnier if you have.
There is also a serial killer running around and it is hard to be sure but it seems like he is killing women that look like Imogen and that she is in great peril. With some help from the other Victorian Rebels and their wives Collin is determined to keep her safe even if it means he might not be able to keep his own heart safe.
Overall:
I enjoy this series. The Highwayman is still by far my favorite but all of these have been fun and fluffy. I will warn you that in the middle you will have to be really patient with Collin as he acts like a jerk for a good portion of the middle of the book. This is not a deal breaker for me because I love believing in the broken hero and just waiting for that moment when it all clicks in place and he realizes that everything he never knew he wanted is standing right in front of him. If you are looking for something like that this should work well for you.
This is a couple I was really rooting for. In the beginning we get this wonderful night that Collin and Imogen end up in bed together. He is a bit drunk and headed on a dangerous mission for Queen and Country and she was mistaken for a prostitute but hey who hasn’t had that happen to them. Still they have this great first night together where she is the first person in a long time to seem to really get the grief he feels at the loss of his family and sees something that no one else has.
“Is Ginny your real name?” he queried.
“No,” she confessed.
“You’ll have to tell me what it is.” His words were barely intelligible now, and Imogen didn’t have to wait long until a soft snore vibrated against her skin.
“It’s Imogen,” she whispered. A tear slid into her hair as she realized she’d shared the most physical and emotional intimacy she’d ever known with a man who didn’t even know her name. They’d never even been introduced, and likely never would be. “My name is Imogen Pritchard, Your Grace. It’s a pleasure to make your acquaintance.”
But after Collin has been through a nightmare and lost his had in the process he returns to England and doesn’t even recognize Imogen. He might be looking everywhere for Ginny the whore with a heart of gold that he wants to save from that life but he definitely doesn’t see her in the nurse that helped save him.
Oh God, nothing had at all gone as she’d hoped or as she’d feared. Her greatest fear should not have been that Trenwyth remembered her. It should have been that he’d not recognize her at all.
My heart broke for Imogen and her situation. But she still remained this entirely likeable always look on the bright side kind of girl that was just going to keep on trying to get by and push through whatever came her way good or bad. I really liked how she ended up in the country house across from Collin a year or two later.
I was on the edge of my seat wondering when he was going to see it. When all of the clouds would clear from his eyes and he’d realize that the woman he is looking for is just across the lawn from him. It is even more funny how agitated she seems to make him as he tries to deny the pull he fells for her. He is actually at most times a complete and utter jerk to her. But she throws back as good as she gets and their deadly dance is just beginning.
He made a droll sound. “I rather think I’m not too dense to decipher real pleasure from false.”
She lifted a lovely bare shoulder and rolled her eyes heavenward. “Every man assumes thusly.”
How was it that such a lovely, soft woman had such a sharp tongue? It was like being bitten by a butterfly
….
“You know some big words for such a small woman.”
“And you have a small mind for such a big man,” she volleyed back, raking him with a disgusted glare.
Collin made himself really difficult to like and for a while I totally had to rely on Imogen to carry the romance for me. At least there were the characters and anti-heroes from the other books to step in and tell him when he was being a down right pain in the caboose or idiot altogether. You don’t have to have read the other books to enjoy this one however a few scenes become a bit funnier if you have.
There is also a serial killer running around and it is hard to be sure but it seems like he is killing women that look like Imogen and that she is in great peril. With some help from the other Victorian Rebels and their wives Collin is determined to keep her safe even if it means he might not be able to keep his own heart safe.
Overall:
I enjoy this series. The Highwayman is still by far my favorite but all of these have been fun and fluffy. I will warn you that in the middle you will have to be really patient with Collin as he acts like a jerk for a good portion of the middle of the book. This is not a deal breaker for me because I love believing in the broken hero and just waiting for that moment when it all clicks in place and he realizes that everything he never knew he wanted is standing right in front of him. If you are looking for something like that this should work well for you.
February 7, 2017
I received this book for free in exchange for an honest review. This does not affect my opinion of the book or the content of my review.
Collin "Cole" Talmage is now the Duke of Trenwyth after the death of his mother, father, and older brother. The crown still has need of him and his spy capabilities but for one night at a brothel, he's going to forget it all in the arms of a raven haired woman.
Imogen spends her days as a nurse and nights as "Ginny”, a barkeep in a brothel. When Cole and his soldiers walk in, he instantly captures her attention. Their one night together will never be forgotten but the next two years will shake up both their worlds.
Cole and Imogen now live next door to one another but will pain and pride keep them miles apart?
The man had been scoundrel and saint. Heathen and hero. A dangerous man and a deferential lover.
Fourth in the Victorian Rebels series, The Duke, could be read as a standalone. The couples from the previous books all make extended appearances but while readers of the series will enjoy getting glimpses of favorites, newcomers will enjoy how they help to fill out the world the author has created; you might wonder how some relationships were formed but you won't be lost here. The author's talent of creating strong characters with dark pasts continues but I felt this one was a little slower paced. The sometimes leaning toward purple prose and tendency to wax poetic stood out a bit more in fault because of the slowness. The repetitive comparing of the hero to a beast also became redundant and left me wanting more emotional and interaction scenes instead of lines of telling me what the hero looked like.
"You haven't any idea the strength it takes to be a woman."
I really enjoyed the premise of the story, Cole and Imogene sharing one night, circumstances keep them apart, hidden identities, danger, and then coming together. This is somewhat of an enemies-to-lovers trope story, however, Cole doesn't recognize Imogene but she knows who he is the whole time. Cole's story of being captured, tortured, and then shutting himself off from the world isn't anything new to the romance genre. Yet, he's a little different because we don't usually see our heroes be on the snobby side of classism, which he is. He never crosses an unredeemable line, and is in fact probably more historically accurate, but you might want to throw your sherry in his face a time or two. Imogen also follows some trope lines but again, feels slightly different. She has to work in a brothel to work off money her father owed, deals with a sexist doctor as a nurse, and becomes a bit of a Cinderella by marrying a patient. Anstruther is Imogen's elderly patient, an earl, and ends up marrying her to save her. The glimpses we get of him here have me wanting a novella of him and his former wife Sarah; he was so kind and funny.
She was a woman of desire, of spirit and determination.
Cole and Imogen have fire and emotion but after their initial meeting, it takes a while to get there. Cole is an extremely bitter person after his capture and torture with the Ottomans and persists on being fairly rude to Imogene for more than half of the story. I think having him discover her as his "Ginny" earlier on, would have given me more of the loving time I craved between the two. I really enjoyed Imogen as a character from her strength to her compassion but I feel like we missed some parts of her by never really seeing her family. It felt extremely odd to show her working in a brothel for her mother and sister and never getting to meet them (we briefly glimpse the sister). The family dynamic would have added more emotional dimension to her character.
The ending felt extremely rushed with the reveal and wrap-up of the villain almost giving me whiplash. I really enjoy this author's writing but the execution felt a little off here with too much focus on overwriting Cole's physical stature, a meandering middle, and not enough love between our couple. However, even when this author uses tropes, she still manages to put a spin that have them feeling new and intriguing. Plus, if you're missing all your favorite couples from previous books, their appearances here will have you smiling. I'll still be anticipating books from this series, especially a certain Inspector as he seems to have some secrets to tell.
Collin "Cole" Talmage is now the Duke of Trenwyth after the death of his mother, father, and older brother. The crown still has need of him and his spy capabilities but for one night at a brothel, he's going to forget it all in the arms of a raven haired woman.
Imogen spends her days as a nurse and nights as "Ginny”, a barkeep in a brothel. When Cole and his soldiers walk in, he instantly captures her attention. Their one night together will never be forgotten but the next two years will shake up both their worlds.
Cole and Imogen now live next door to one another but will pain and pride keep them miles apart?
The man had been scoundrel and saint. Heathen and hero. A dangerous man and a deferential lover.
Fourth in the Victorian Rebels series, The Duke, could be read as a standalone. The couples from the previous books all make extended appearances but while readers of the series will enjoy getting glimpses of favorites, newcomers will enjoy how they help to fill out the world the author has created; you might wonder how some relationships were formed but you won't be lost here. The author's talent of creating strong characters with dark pasts continues but I felt this one was a little slower paced. The sometimes leaning toward purple prose and tendency to wax poetic stood out a bit more in fault because of the slowness. The repetitive comparing of the hero to a beast also became redundant and left me wanting more emotional and interaction scenes instead of lines of telling me what the hero looked like.
"You haven't any idea the strength it takes to be a woman."
I really enjoyed the premise of the story, Cole and Imogene sharing one night, circumstances keep them apart, hidden identities, danger, and then coming together. This is somewhat of an enemies-to-lovers trope story, however, Cole doesn't recognize Imogene but she knows who he is the whole time. Cole's story of being captured, tortured, and then shutting himself off from the world isn't anything new to the romance genre. Yet, he's a little different because we don't usually see our heroes be on the snobby side of classism, which he is. He never crosses an unredeemable line, and is in fact probably more historically accurate, but you might want to throw your sherry in his face a time or two. Imogen also follows some trope lines but again, feels slightly different. She has to work in a brothel to work off money her father owed, deals with a sexist doctor as a nurse, and becomes a bit of a Cinderella by marrying a patient. Anstruther is Imogen's elderly patient, an earl, and ends up marrying her to save her. The glimpses we get of him here have me wanting a novella of him and his former wife Sarah; he was so kind and funny.
She was a woman of desire, of spirit and determination.
Cole and Imogen have fire and emotion but after their initial meeting, it takes a while to get there. Cole is an extremely bitter person after his capture and torture with the Ottomans and persists on being fairly rude to Imogene for more than half of the story. I think having him discover her as his "Ginny" earlier on, would have given me more of the loving time I craved between the two. I really enjoyed Imogen as a character from her strength to her compassion but I feel like we missed some parts of her by never really seeing her family. It felt extremely odd to show her working in a brothel for her mother and sister and never getting to meet them (we briefly glimpse the sister). The family dynamic would have added more emotional dimension to her character.
The ending felt extremely rushed with the reveal and wrap-up of the villain almost giving me whiplash. I really enjoy this author's writing but the execution felt a little off here with too much focus on overwriting Cole's physical stature, a meandering middle, and not enough love between our couple. However, even when this author uses tropes, she still manages to put a spin that have them feeling new and intriguing. Plus, if you're missing all your favorite couples from previous books, their appearances here will have you smiling. I'll still be anticipating books from this series, especially a certain Inspector as he seems to have some secrets to tell.
February 25, 2022
Yet another 5 star read from Kerrigan Byrne.
I read this book on the day I was supposed to have my parents and some family members over for dinner. I got so caught up in reading this novel, that like a lazy hostess, I had food delivered instead of cooking it. That is how much I enjoyed reading this story.
Trigger Warning - This entire series contains some graphic violence, references to physical & sexual abuse, intentions to cause harm and murder.
Plot Summary
To say that Collin Talmage, the Duke of Trenwyth, has had a difficult life would be an understatement. Losing his entire family in an accident made him the duke. He has traumas aplenty due to his career in the army and the torture he endured during his tenure as a spy. All through this darkness, Cole has been holding on to the memory of one woman, Ginny, a light in his darkness.
Imogen, the widowed Lady Anstruther, has had a difficult life as well until the kindness of her late husband saved her & her family from a life of destitution. She had done what she had to, to survive, but now as a respected titled Lady working on many charitable efforts, keeping her past hidden is essential. Even if the past is her next-door neighbour, Cole, the one she never forgot, the one she can never hope to have, the light in her darkness. When fate throws them back together, with a past that looms over them, a murderer who threatens their safety, will the Lady save the Duke or the Duke will save the Lady?
It took me 21 minutes to summarize this relatively simple plot.
My Thoughts
- I doff my hat to Kerrigan Byrne for delivering another page-turner in this series. When the previous books are great, the sequels can seem disappointing, but not this one.
- There are some common threads to this series, high intensity & angst, broken heroes and heroines who are the guardian angels, opposites attract, insta-lust or love and a secondary thriller or criminal subplot.
- The author doesn't delve deeper into the character backgrounds and keeps the story very current. An interesting combination of overshadowing past and the choices, resulting, due to the character's current circumstance.
- But never once do the books seem repetitive to me, and therein lies Ms Byrne's skill. Her writing style is very philosophical that brings out the rawness of human nature, something that is not easy to achieve.
- This story was surprisingly full of dry wit and wry humour, quite unlike the other books in the series. Along with more steamy goodness, also quite unlike the others, which were slow burn.
- Even with the common tropes and simple-ish plots, the author can deliver engaging stories by using her characters well. And what characters they are.
- I relished Cole & Imogen's romance. These two had a push-pull relationship that brought out either the worst or the best in them. This was not your average gooey romance. They locked horns, bantered, fought and couldn't keep their hands off of each other. Considering their backgrounds, it made their love quite believable.
- I have been coming up with metaphors for the heroes, Dorian was darkness, Christopher was cold, Liam was lava, and Cole was hardness (not in a dirty way, okay a little in a dirty way, but mostly like a diamond, glittery on the outside but very tough and not easy to crack on the inside).
I just realized, 3 of these heroes have alliterative metaphors.
- Cole was a delicious duke, an alpha hero, a little entitled but he is duke, so it's allowed. Imogen was a lovely heroine, a do-gooder without the naivete, strong and confident.
- The cameos of Blackwells, Argents & the Mackenzies was delightful. I even enjoyed the little titbits that have been scattered throughout this story about the following books, the Rook character and even CI Morley.
- The villain was guessable, but I am not complaining because this is a romance novel and not a thriller. I did like the uniqueness of the villain having Dissociative Identity Disorder or Schizophrenia. Not a lot of details were provided on that front. Again, no complaints.
My Recommendation
This series is worth dropping whatever you are reading and picking it up. It does have a big reveal in book 6 (The Duke with the Dragon Tattoo), that my GR friends refuse to tell me and are delighted in my squirming to know and forbearance to not read the spoilers. No matter, I shall read and find out! On to the next one - The Scot Beds His Wife!
I read this book on the day I was supposed to have my parents and some family members over for dinner. I got so caught up in reading this novel, that like a lazy hostess, I had food delivered instead of cooking it. That is how much I enjoyed reading this story.
Trigger Warning - This entire series contains some graphic violence, references to physical & sexual abuse, intentions to cause harm and murder.
Plot Summary
To say that Collin Talmage, the Duke of Trenwyth, has had a difficult life would be an understatement. Losing his entire family in an accident made him the duke. He has traumas aplenty due to his career in the army and the torture he endured during his tenure as a spy. All through this darkness, Cole has been holding on to the memory of one woman, Ginny, a light in his darkness.
Imogen, the widowed Lady Anstruther, has had a difficult life as well until the kindness of her late husband saved her & her family from a life of destitution. She had done what she had to, to survive, but now as a respected titled Lady working on many charitable efforts, keeping her past hidden is essential. Even if the past is her next-door neighbour, Cole, the one she never forgot, the one she can never hope to have, the light in her darkness. When fate throws them back together, with a past that looms over them, a murderer who threatens their safety, will the Lady save the Duke or the Duke will save the Lady?
It took me 21 minutes to summarize this relatively simple plot.
My Thoughts
- I doff my hat to Kerrigan Byrne for delivering another page-turner in this series. When the previous books are great, the sequels can seem disappointing, but not this one.
- There are some common threads to this series, high intensity & angst, broken heroes and heroines who are the guardian angels, opposites attract, insta-lust or love and a secondary thriller or criminal subplot.
- The author doesn't delve deeper into the character backgrounds and keeps the story very current. An interesting combination of overshadowing past and the choices, resulting, due to the character's current circumstance.
- But never once do the books seem repetitive to me, and therein lies Ms Byrne's skill. Her writing style is very philosophical that brings out the rawness of human nature, something that is not easy to achieve.
- This story was surprisingly full of dry wit and wry humour, quite unlike the other books in the series. Along with more steamy goodness, also quite unlike the others, which were slow burn.
- Even with the common tropes and simple-ish plots, the author can deliver engaging stories by using her characters well. And what characters they are.
- I relished Cole & Imogen's romance. These two had a push-pull relationship that brought out either the worst or the best in them. This was not your average gooey romance. They locked horns, bantered, fought and couldn't keep their hands off of each other. Considering their backgrounds, it made their love quite believable.
- I have been coming up with metaphors for the heroes, Dorian was darkness, Christopher was cold, Liam was lava, and Cole was hardness (not in a dirty way, okay a little in a dirty way, but mostly like a diamond, glittery on the outside but very tough and not easy to crack on the inside).
I just realized, 3 of these heroes have alliterative metaphors.
- Cole was a delicious duke, an alpha hero, a little entitled but he is duke, so it's allowed. Imogen was a lovely heroine, a do-gooder without the naivete, strong and confident.
- The cameos of Blackwells, Argents & the Mackenzies was delightful. I even enjoyed the little titbits that have been scattered throughout this story about the following books, the Rook character and even CI Morley.
- The villain was guessable, but I am not complaining because this is a romance novel and not a thriller. I did like the uniqueness of the villain having Dissociative Identity Disorder or Schizophrenia. Not a lot of details were provided on that front. Again, no complaints.
My Recommendation
This series is worth dropping whatever you are reading and picking it up. It does have a big reveal in book 6 (The Duke with the Dragon Tattoo), that my GR friends refuse to tell me and are delighted in my squirming to know and forbearance to not read the spoilers. No matter, I shall read and find out! On to the next one - The Scot Beds His Wife!
March 19, 2017
I really liked the heroine of this book, Imogen. She was smart, kind, patient, caring, and determined. The hero, meh, he was a haughty brat throwing a tantrum due to his capture while on a mission. He was just one big complainer and vat of aristocratic superiority. He improved a bit around the 55% mark and started seeing Imogen for herself vs who he thought she was. He was still a douche for all of the book. I like the tortured hero thing, but he didn't compel compassion when he's spouting ideas about how he's superior because he's a blue blood and that people can't change or criminals can't reform. I got tired of his angry views of life.
Most of the stars in this book go to Imogen, who was a saint to put up with Cole. I liked the incorporation of the previous characters from this series. The murder mystery part was a nice addition, but way easy to figure out. Here's hoping the next book has a nicer hero.
Most of the stars in this book go to Imogen, who was a saint to put up with Cole. I liked the incorporation of the previous characters from this series. The murder mystery part was a nice addition, but way easy to figure out. Here's hoping the next book has a nicer hero.
January 19, 2017
This review was originally posted on Addicted To Romance
Summary
Imogen once knew and truly cared for Collin Talmage, and even though she had little choice when she was innocent, he showed her tenderness and passion. She never though she would see him again, but Collin came back to England damaged, and as a nurse she aided in his recovery. But circumstances forced her to make a new life for herself, where she married a man who was sickly but a good friend to her and offered her a stable future and a chance to make a difference. Now Imogen is a widow, but goes out of her way to help those in need whether they be starved children, or abused prostitutes or injured veterans or even thieves who want a different kind of life. But her new neighbor isn't pleased with her at all. Imogen knows exactly who Collin is but he has no clue that she is the one girl he has been searching for years for, the one woman he gave his heart to. Collin and Imogen have sparks that fly between them, but Imogen wonders if she can tell this dangerous man the truth of their past or is it too late for them to have a future?
Plot and Story Line
Kerrigan Byrne just keeps surprising me with this series, with each installment I keep falling into the world she has created and what a world of danger and passion and the depth of true humanity that is divulged in these books. In The Duke, her most recent release we have a story of lost love and discovery. Imogen and Collin have a past with each other and there are some secrets too but its quite complicated so its not so black and white as it might appear to be. Imogen has a heart of gold, and she gave her innocence and her heart to Collin. But Collin has lived through a hell of his own. Returned to England, created his own fake hand for the one he lost in order to escape alive out of the hellhole he was in. Now when these two meet up again they are next door neighbors but Collin is quite hostile at first. He doesn't realize that Imogen and the woman he knew as "Ginny" are one and the same. Tempers fly and these two go at it like cats and dogs....or some weird mating ritual because they also have powerful chemistry. I loved the bantering these two have with each other. Its quite lively and highly entertaining. Such a delight to partake of this author once again. She is unique and simply talented. She writes stories that are captivating and not what most HR authors writes now and that is what I love most about her. Its fresh and fun with dark edges that keep you coming back for more. I can't wait to see what is up next.
The Cover
What a drop dead gorgeous cover...I swear they just keep getting better and better. I love her white flowy dress, and the way he holds her from behind.
Overall View
The Duke is evidence of the pure and unique talent that is Kerrigan Byrne. A story of love that isn't easy and a romance that packs a punch to your heart!! INCREDIBLE!!
Click To Buy On Amazon
[foogallery id="18974"]
Summary
Imogen once knew and truly cared for Collin Talmage, and even though she had little choice when she was innocent, he showed her tenderness and passion. She never though she would see him again, but Collin came back to England damaged, and as a nurse she aided in his recovery. But circumstances forced her to make a new life for herself, where she married a man who was sickly but a good friend to her and offered her a stable future and a chance to make a difference. Now Imogen is a widow, but goes out of her way to help those in need whether they be starved children, or abused prostitutes or injured veterans or even thieves who want a different kind of life. But her new neighbor isn't pleased with her at all. Imogen knows exactly who Collin is but he has no clue that she is the one girl he has been searching for years for, the one woman he gave his heart to. Collin and Imogen have sparks that fly between them, but Imogen wonders if she can tell this dangerous man the truth of their past or is it too late for them to have a future?
Plot and Story Line
Kerrigan Byrne just keeps surprising me with this series, with each installment I keep falling into the world she has created and what a world of danger and passion and the depth of true humanity that is divulged in these books. In The Duke, her most recent release we have a story of lost love and discovery. Imogen and Collin have a past with each other and there are some secrets too but its quite complicated so its not so black and white as it might appear to be. Imogen has a heart of gold, and she gave her innocence and her heart to Collin. But Collin has lived through a hell of his own. Returned to England, created his own fake hand for the one he lost in order to escape alive out of the hellhole he was in. Now when these two meet up again they are next door neighbors but Collin is quite hostile at first. He doesn't realize that Imogen and the woman he knew as "Ginny" are one and the same. Tempers fly and these two go at it like cats and dogs....or some weird mating ritual because they also have powerful chemistry. I loved the bantering these two have with each other. Its quite lively and highly entertaining. Such a delight to partake of this author once again. She is unique and simply talented. She writes stories that are captivating and not what most HR authors writes now and that is what I love most about her. Its fresh and fun with dark edges that keep you coming back for more. I can't wait to see what is up next.
The Cover
What a drop dead gorgeous cover...I swear they just keep getting better and better. I love her white flowy dress, and the way he holds her from behind.
Overall View
The Duke is evidence of the pure and unique talent that is Kerrigan Byrne. A story of love that isn't easy and a romance that packs a punch to your heart!! INCREDIBLE!!
Click To Buy On Amazon
[foogallery id="18974"]
February 12, 2017
The Duke 'The Duke' by Kerrigan Byrne is book four in the "Victorian Rebels". This is the story of Collin Talmage, Duke of Trenwyth and Imogen Pritchard. I have read the other book in this series but I feel this is easily a standalone book. I have truly loved this series and this book just added to the enjoyment. Collin has lost his family and now he has inherited the Title of Duke of Trenwyth. Collin happens to meet Imogen 'Ginny' when she is trying to keep her mother and sister from the poor house. Imogen has taken to working as a nurse by day and working at at bar/brothel at night to pay off her fathers debt. Imogen noticed a sadness in Collin that first night at the bar. Collin too noticed Imogen and paid for her for the night. Imogen tried to talk her boss out of taking the money and turning her into a prostitute. But the money would pay a large part of her fathers debit. So Collin and Imogen spent the night together with Imogen sneaking out before morning. Collin and Imogen didn't see each other for a few more years after that night. We learn that Collin was taken as a prisoner of war and was hurt badly during that time. Imogen is still working both jobs so when Collin is brought in she is the nurse assigned to him. It seems Collin hasn't forgotten 'Ginny" but he doesn't realize that who Imogen is. Imogen doesn't get the chance to tell him nor is she sure she wants too. Collin and Imogen story does have some drama in it when there appears to be a stalker after Imogen. This was just and exciting read that I could not put down and read it until the end. "My honest review is for a special copy I voluntarily read."
January 7, 2018
*UPDATE* 2.99 Sale, today only
Kerrigan Byrne, please never stop writing your wicked beastly men with caring hearts and their outrageously strong heroines playing damsels in distress.
I want to be part of the pack. I want to be one of your Red Riding Hood ladies. I want to tame a feral beast on my own!
Sigh. LOVE THIS SERIES!
And how genius and entertaining to read about love triangle including... well. 2 characters only!
Arc received in exchange for a review.
More reviews and book talk at :
You can find me here too ☞
Kerrigan Byrne, please never stop writing your wicked beastly men with caring hearts and their outrageously strong heroines playing damsels in distress.
I want to be part of the pack. I want to be one of your Red Riding Hood ladies. I want to tame a feral beast on my own!
Sigh. LOVE THIS SERIES!
And how genius and entertaining to read about love triangle including... well. 2 characters only!
Arc received in exchange for a review.
More reviews and book talk at :
You can find me here too ☞
October 23, 2019
5 STARS
WOW. This one was really good. Best in the series so far I think. Other than maybe the first. Love me some dark brooding broken beast. Trenwyth was stunning in this. Hot-headed and selfish, hating the world, and her for keeping him in it. Gaaahhhh... my mouth is still gaping from the overwhelming bigness of this man. And Imogen was a rock. You could only admire what she had to overcome. Great story. Byrne's books are definitely OTT and farfetched, but the story was so good, you just don't care. Looking forward to reading on in the series.
“I can’t tell you how many times I wanted to reach for you,” she said. “But I was afraid. I didn’t know how to find you. If you were still there. If you’d even want me anymore.” He tucked a tendril of her hair away from her face, true veneration smoothing the regret she read in him. “How could anyone not want the warmth of the sun on their face after so long in the shadows?”
WOW. This one was really good. Best in the series so far I think. Other than maybe the first. Love me some dark brooding broken beast. Trenwyth was stunning in this. Hot-headed and selfish, hating the world, and her for keeping him in it. Gaaahhhh... my mouth is still gaping from the overwhelming bigness of this man. And Imogen was a rock. You could only admire what she had to overcome. Great story. Byrne's books are definitely OTT and farfetched, but the story was so good, you just don't care. Looking forward to reading on in the series.
February 7, 2017
4.5 Stars!!!!!!
SOLD! I am sold on Kerrigan Byrne for life and will be reading all of her books. This was my first book by Kerrigan Byrne, and I was greatly impressed. She is such an amazing and creative story-teller. Her stories are definitely more plot-based, which I appreciate. This story has so many layers to it. She just kept peeling back all of the intricacies to the characters. Kerrigan took my heart and wove it in and out of the pages of this story.
The beginning is so hot. She did not mess around in breaking out the sexy times (woo!). But then the story takes a quick turn, and the story leads both Cole and Imogen through separate tragedies.
The beast was no duke. He was no man raised with genteel civility, with a care for the expense of things or the consequences of his actions. This beast was no longer dormant within him, but prowling beneath the surface of his skin, wanting to mark his territory.
And he’d found a delectable morsel just now, one he was in danger of acquiring a taste for.
My Cole & Imogen:
Cole is a soldier, a spy, a duke….an animal. He is many things in this book. He travels through war and pain and torture, barely making it out alive. Imogen is his savior, in more ways than one, but he doesn’t even know it. He is trapped in the darkness, and she is light. He cannot escape and is constantly fighting against himself.
Imogen has been through her own version of hell. She has fought her own war, but she is a beacon of hope and is determined to help others that were in a situation like her own. I loved how strong she was. Even when I didn’t expect it, she would stand up to Cole. The feminism in this book! Gah!
”It would take nothing to destroy you.” He tightened his fingers ever so slightly, and the telltale jump of her pulse belied her unwavering audacity.
“Better men than you have tried,” she remonstrated, her eyes blazing green with a maelstrom of her own primitive emotions. “Yet here I stand.”
THE FEELS!!!! Lawdy, the feels. I’m usually not a fan of angst, but this book was all kinds of delicious. Most of this book is sad, but I loved it (again, not my usual opinion). I felt so much in this book. The tragedies that both Cole and Imogen have to go through in order to finally be together. They are in each other’s lives, but Cole is searching and he doesn’t even know he’s searching for Imogen! Gah! And Imogen has to PINE for him! Oh, the pining! Curse you, Kerrigan for tugging at my heart, so!
If you are fan of Julia Quinn, you will love Kerrigan Byrne! They are very similar in the story-telling, character development, and the feels.
I have to say, I am sad that I did not read the previous 3 books in this series before this one. The characters from the first 3 books in this series were in this book enough that I was a little lost and wanted to know more about them! I would recommend reading this series in order (which I usually don’t say).
ARC courtesy of publisher in exchange for an honest review
Find me on
SOLD! I am sold on Kerrigan Byrne for life and will be reading all of her books. This was my first book by Kerrigan Byrne, and I was greatly impressed. She is such an amazing and creative story-teller. Her stories are definitely more plot-based, which I appreciate. This story has so many layers to it. She just kept peeling back all of the intricacies to the characters. Kerrigan took my heart and wove it in and out of the pages of this story.
The beginning is so hot. She did not mess around in breaking out the sexy times (woo!). But then the story takes a quick turn, and the story leads both Cole and Imogen through separate tragedies.
The beast was no duke. He was no man raised with genteel civility, with a care for the expense of things or the consequences of his actions. This beast was no longer dormant within him, but prowling beneath the surface of his skin, wanting to mark his territory.
And he’d found a delectable morsel just now, one he was in danger of acquiring a taste for.
My Cole & Imogen:
Cole is a soldier, a spy, a duke….an animal. He is many things in this book. He travels through war and pain and torture, barely making it out alive. Imogen is his savior, in more ways than one, but he doesn’t even know it. He is trapped in the darkness, and she is light. He cannot escape and is constantly fighting against himself.
Imogen has been through her own version of hell. She has fought her own war, but she is a beacon of hope and is determined to help others that were in a situation like her own. I loved how strong she was. Even when I didn’t expect it, she would stand up to Cole. The feminism in this book! Gah!
”It would take nothing to destroy you.” He tightened his fingers ever so slightly, and the telltale jump of her pulse belied her unwavering audacity.
“Better men than you have tried,” she remonstrated, her eyes blazing green with a maelstrom of her own primitive emotions. “Yet here I stand.”
THE FEELS!!!! Lawdy, the feels. I’m usually not a fan of angst, but this book was all kinds of delicious. Most of this book is sad, but I loved it (again, not my usual opinion). I felt so much in this book. The tragedies that both Cole and Imogen have to go through in order to finally be together. They are in each other’s lives, but Cole is searching and he doesn’t even know he’s searching for Imogen! Gah! And Imogen has to PINE for him! Oh, the pining! Curse you, Kerrigan for tugging at my heart, so!
If you are fan of Julia Quinn, you will love Kerrigan Byrne! They are very similar in the story-telling, character development, and the feels.
I have to say, I am sad that I did not read the previous 3 books in this series before this one. The characters from the first 3 books in this series were in this book enough that I was a little lost and wanted to know more about them! I would recommend reading this series in order (which I usually don’t say).
ARC courtesy of publisher in exchange for an honest review
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March 28, 2022
Full thoughts will be in tomorrow's (3/28) vlog
February 2, 2022
******REVIEW CONTAINS SPOILERS******
Reread on 12/30/17
* Review update *
I’m upping my rating from 3.5 Stars to 4.5 Stars and here’s why.... I was so disappointed in Cole for the way he treated Genny when they met again after their one night together, but, after my rereading I now see where his head is at. He was taken as a prisoner of war, surviving horrible torture and of course Genny was in disguise during their one night, not to mention it has been two years since their night together. I love Genny’s character (her getting tipsy on champagne, making out with Cole, and getting caught was funny and entertaining) more this time around, and I understood her motives for keeping her secrets. I’m disappointed with the lack of an epilogue, I would have liked to see their dynamics as a solid couple.
3.5 Conflicted Stars!!
First off, I love this series but.......I have mixed feelings on this one, it’s not my favorite in the series but definitely worth reading.
Imogen (Genny) is a nurse by day and a serving maid in a brothel/gambling bar at night (under disguise) to work off her deceased father's gambling debt to the proprietor. She isn't "for sale"….that is until a wealthy Duke offers an extraordinary sum for one night with her before he goes off to war, and the pimp who promised she wouldn’t have to “whore” for him brakes his promise and sells her, she goes along with it because he tells her he will go after her little sister to work off the debt if she refuses (this is my biggest issue with the storyline especially since Genny is a virgin). Naturally they share memorable a night of passion, a night neither have forgotten.
When Cole returns from war (after being held as a prisoner of war), he is deathly ill. Ginny is the nurse who saves his life by going behind the back of the pompous Doctor in charge and having another doctor exam him, and in doing so saves his life. When Cole wakes up, he does not recognize Ginny as the women he has dreamed about, the women whose memory has kept him alive so he can return and find her. Unfortunately, he treats Genny HORROBLY, upon waking, he insults and degrades her, and in doing so gives the pompous doctor an excuse to fire her and throw her out of the hospital….this was my other issue, I have no idea why he was so horrid to Genny upon seeing her.
Genny is frightened since her young sister and mother rely on her to support them. Genny still has her job at the Brothel, but things with a customer go horribly wrong, next thing you know she’s on the run. Down and out she is offered a marriage of convenience by one of her elderly patients who is dying and is very fond of her. With her marriage, she’s now a widowed titled lady of wealth and lives in a large estate where the Duke happens to be her neighbor.
Cole doesn't realize his new neighbor is the woman who haunts his dreams. In fact, he finds her irritating and does what he can to intimidate and bully her into deserting her plans to turn her home into a safe-haven for abused women and children, including prostitutes who wish to reform….but he’s not the only one watching Ginny, soon it’s apparent that someone is out to harm her and it’s up to Cole to keep her safe.
“Cole stilled when his feral eyes found her, roaming every inch as though searching for a wound. The doorway framed him like a portal to purgatory, and he stood like an avenging archangel come to wreak a wrath no less than biblical”.
It was great to have the characters from the previous books included in Genny and Cole’s storyline!! I can’t wait for the next book in the series!!
September 23, 2019
3 Mixed Feelings
I really liked the main character Imogen (aka Ginny), despite her obsession with the ass of a Duke - Cole, she is a strong woman who has done what needs to be done to survive and truly live, without obliterating her soul and compassion.
This is the first book by the author where I have finished the book overall not caring for the hero, man oh man, at times he is a BIG ASS and IDIOT – his words frequently unjustly scathing and harsh, when it comes to the heroine. I know he has endured a lot, but he never truly apologies or acknowledges his epic jerkiness in a manner that is contrite. His treatment of the heroine throughout the book was more than a little disappointing. And I found myself wincing more than once.
3 stars and not less simply because of the heroine!
Potential Triggers:
£1.82 on Amazon 21st September 2019
I really liked the main character Imogen (aka Ginny), despite her obsession with the ass of a Duke - Cole, she is a strong woman who has done what needs to be done to survive and truly live, without obliterating her soul and compassion.
This is the first book by the author where I have finished the book overall not caring for the hero, man oh man, at times he is a BIG ASS and IDIOT – his words frequently unjustly scathing and harsh, when it comes to the heroine. I know he has endured a lot, but he never truly apologies or acknowledges his epic jerkiness in a manner that is contrite. His treatment of the heroine throughout the book was more than a little disappointing. And I found myself wincing more than once.
3 stars and not less simply because of the heroine!
Potential Triggers:
£1.82 on Amazon 21st September 2019
February 18, 2020
Imogen Pritchard is a nurse by day and at night she works as a maid and barkeep at the Bare Kitten Gin and Dance Hall in London to take care of her mother and sister, as well as help repay her father’s gambling debt to the owner. She has a special arrangement with him where she doesn’t have to “service” the bar patrons but on one night, he broke that agreement when Collin Talmadge, Duke of Trewyth, shows up with his cadre of soldiers and makes an offer the owner wouldn’t refuse. He’s just lost his beloved family in an accident and is on the eve of a new assignment for the Crown. His one night with “Ginny” as she’s known at Bare Kitten turns out to be more memorable than either of them imagined.
The men of this series are most definitely the epitome of rebels, all physically imposing, fearless and willing to work in the gray areas of the law. Collin gets captured during the campaign he left for following his assignation with Imogen and was presumed dead until he was found and rescued by Liam MacKenzie a year later. He returns a very broken man with dark edges and indirectly was responsible for Imogen losing her job at the hospital after she helps save his life.
I have to admit that I didn’t like Collin (Cole to his friends) for much of this story. He was tortured and sullen, and directed much of his anger towards Imogen who he didn’t recognize as his Ginny. Her circumstances changed, for the better, and he resented her for what he felt were good reasons (you’ll need to read the book for that). Imogen holds her own with him but doesn’t let on that she’s the woman he’s still desperately trying to find as the memory of that one night with her sustained him during his captivity.
There’s a lot going on here as a serial killer is at large, preying on women who are seemingly unconnected but look very similar, including Imogen. That danger was in the background but the strength of the story is the developing relationship between Cole and Imogen. I did weary of the time it took for the secret to be revealed but it was entirely consistent with the story and Cole’s transformation. I had a hard time putting it down and the narrator, Derek Perkins, again delivered a stellar performance. This series isn’t for those looking to revel in the aristocratic and genteel aspects of the Victorian era. It’s honest about that time, particularly how difficult it was for women and those outside of the Royal connections and for me that’s a very good thing. It’s ranking as one of my favorites.
Posted on Blue Mood Café
The men of this series are most definitely the epitome of rebels, all physically imposing, fearless and willing to work in the gray areas of the law. Collin gets captured during the campaign he left for following his assignation with Imogen and was presumed dead until he was found and rescued by Liam MacKenzie a year later. He returns a very broken man with dark edges and indirectly was responsible for Imogen losing her job at the hospital after she helps save his life.
I have to admit that I didn’t like Collin (Cole to his friends) for much of this story. He was tortured and sullen, and directed much of his anger towards Imogen who he didn’t recognize as his Ginny. Her circumstances changed, for the better, and he resented her for what he felt were good reasons (you’ll need to read the book for that). Imogen holds her own with him but doesn’t let on that she’s the woman he’s still desperately trying to find as the memory of that one night with her sustained him during his captivity.
There’s a lot going on here as a serial killer is at large, preying on women who are seemingly unconnected but look very similar, including Imogen. That danger was in the background but the strength of the story is the developing relationship between Cole and Imogen. I did weary of the time it took for the secret to be revealed but it was entirely consistent with the story and Cole’s transformation. I had a hard time putting it down and the narrator, Derek Perkins, again delivered a stellar performance. This series isn’t for those looking to revel in the aristocratic and genteel aspects of the Victorian era. It’s honest about that time, particularly how difficult it was for women and those outside of the Royal connections and for me that’s a very good thing. It’s ranking as one of my favorites.
Posted on Blue Mood Café
November 24, 2020
3.5*
I loved the previous books in this series but THE DUKE fell short of my expectations because I never really warmed to Cole as a hero.
I understood how the loss of his entire family, betrayal by a man he trusted and his subsequent imprisonment and torture had left him a broken and bitter man. However, Dorian, Christopher and Liam, the heroes of the previous books, had equally dark and traumatic pasts, but each shows an emotional vulnerability that I felt was lacking in Cole. For most of the book, he blows hot and cold towards Imogen, passionate and protective one moment and cruel and contemptuous the next. When he discovers that Imogen and ‘Ginny’ are the same person, he treats her despicably, only concerned with his own pain and sense of loss and never considering what Imogen may have endured.
On the other hand, I really liked Imogen. She made great sacrifices to protect her mother and younger sister and I admired the courage, resilience and kindness she demonstrated. Unlike Cole, she hadn’t let the past make her angry and bitter but instead she had resolved to help others to find a better life. I also liked how she stood up to Cole but, there were times when I felt she was too forgiving of his callous behaviour.
While the other books contained dark, edgy and often explicit love scenes, they always revealed something of the heroes’ fears and insecurities. Whereas the love scenes between Cole and Imogen seemed more about anger, revenge and domination on Cole’s part and submissiveness on Imogen’s part. For me, Cole needed to have shown himself capable of tenderness, compassion and a vulnerable heart, before I accepted that he was worthy of Imogen’s love.
Despite these criticisms, I still love Ms. Byrne’s ability to write compelling, gritty and suspenseful plots; stories that highlight the darker side of Victorian society, its injustices and the plight of women. We see this when Doctor Longhurst refuses to listen to Imogen, a mere woman, who is sure that Cole has septicemia and not typhus as diagnosed by the doctor.
All the characters from the previous books make an appearance and I enjoyed the interactions between Dorian. Christopher, Liam and Cole. Hints are dropped about Inspector Morley which suggest that he has an intriguing story to tell and I'm hoping he gets his own book.
Although this book wasn’t a favourite of mine, I’m still looking forward to reading the next book in the series, THE SCOT BEDS HIS WIFE.
Victorian Rebels series so far (click on the link below for more details)
https://www.goodreads.com/series/1427...
*I received a copy of this book from the publisher via NetGalley in return for an honest review.*
I loved the previous books in this series but THE DUKE fell short of my expectations because I never really warmed to Cole as a hero.
I understood how the loss of his entire family, betrayal by a man he trusted and his subsequent imprisonment and torture had left him a broken and bitter man. However, Dorian, Christopher and Liam, the heroes of the previous books, had equally dark and traumatic pasts, but each shows an emotional vulnerability that I felt was lacking in Cole. For most of the book, he blows hot and cold towards Imogen, passionate and protective one moment and cruel and contemptuous the next. When he discovers that Imogen and ‘Ginny’ are the same person, he treats her despicably, only concerned with his own pain and sense of loss and never considering what Imogen may have endured.
On the other hand, I really liked Imogen. She made great sacrifices to protect her mother and younger sister and I admired the courage, resilience and kindness she demonstrated. Unlike Cole, she hadn’t let the past make her angry and bitter but instead she had resolved to help others to find a better life. I also liked how she stood up to Cole but, there were times when I felt she was too forgiving of his callous behaviour.
While the other books contained dark, edgy and often explicit love scenes, they always revealed something of the heroes’ fears and insecurities. Whereas the love scenes between Cole and Imogen seemed more about anger, revenge and domination on Cole’s part and submissiveness on Imogen’s part. For me, Cole needed to have shown himself capable of tenderness, compassion and a vulnerable heart, before I accepted that he was worthy of Imogen’s love.
Despite these criticisms, I still love Ms. Byrne’s ability to write compelling, gritty and suspenseful plots; stories that highlight the darker side of Victorian society, its injustices and the plight of women. We see this when Doctor Longhurst refuses to listen to Imogen, a mere woman, who is sure that Cole has septicemia and not typhus as diagnosed by the doctor.
All the characters from the previous books make an appearance and I enjoyed the interactions between Dorian. Christopher, Liam and Cole. Hints are dropped about Inspector Morley which suggest that he has an intriguing story to tell and I'm hoping he gets his own book.
Although this book wasn’t a favourite of mine, I’m still looking forward to reading the next book in the series, THE SCOT BEDS HIS WIFE.
Victorian Rebels series so far (click on the link below for more details)
https://www.goodreads.com/series/1427...
*I received a copy of this book from the publisher via NetGalley in return for an honest review.*
August 13, 2018
Do we ever read about a man who chooses doe-eyed innocence in the face of terrible adversity? We didn't here either, but, of course, the heroine did!
Don't get me wrong, Imogen was amazing...I didn't even mind Cole entirely. But I read this for her. I would read it and enjoy it for her again. I enjoyed their quieter moments, and when Cole is tender and sweet he really is. I just didn't really think he had a right to his anger in the end there, I guess this is a problematic pattern with KB books for me. The hero always acts the fool at the end in the face of his steadfast love interest, and usually has no reason to do so....also just a weird preference here but I do wish when
I will likely take a bit of a breather now, for a day or two at least. I'm not sure what I expect to find on the other side of it.
Don't get me wrong, Imogen was amazing...I didn't even mind Cole entirely. But I read this for her. I would read it and enjoy it for her again. I enjoyed their quieter moments, and when Cole is tender and sweet he really is. I just didn't really think he had a right to his anger in the end there, I guess this is a problematic pattern with KB books for me. The hero always acts the fool at the end in the face of his steadfast love interest, and usually has no reason to do so....also just a weird preference here but I do wish when
I will likely take a bit of a breather now, for a day or two at least. I'm not sure what I expect to find on the other side of it.
February 27, 2020
Imogene Pritchard works as a nurse during the day to keep a roof over her family's head. At night she works as a barmaid at the Bare Kitten, paying off her father's debt to the innkeeper. One evening Collin "Cole" Talmadge, the Duke of Trenwyth, comes into the bar with his troops. He is in mourning for his family and is about to go on his last mission for the crown. He pays for a night with Imogene who calls herself "Ginny". It's a night neither of them will forget.
Later, after being presumed dead, Cole is rescued from an Ottoman prison and brought back to a London hospital. Imogene is chosen to be his nurse. When he doesn't recognize her and gets her fired, Imogene takes up with an elderly patient who offered her a marriage of convenience. Now she is a widow, living next door to the Duke, and hoping he never realizes who she is.
This book has a long but interesting backstory. It took nearly half the book to get up to the present (1879) when Cole and Imogene meet again. Cole has never forgotten his night with Ginny. He has scoured Britain and the continent looking for her with no success. He is a bitter man who believes Ginny will help him heal. When Imogene hears that he is actively looking for Ginny, she doesn't know what to do.
I liked this story. Cole was so blind to what was right in front of his face. I'm looking forward to the next book in the series. My rating: 4.5 Stars.
Later, after being presumed dead, Cole is rescued from an Ottoman prison and brought back to a London hospital. Imogene is chosen to be his nurse. When he doesn't recognize her and gets her fired, Imogene takes up with an elderly patient who offered her a marriage of convenience. Now she is a widow, living next door to the Duke, and hoping he never realizes who she is.
This book has a long but interesting backstory. It took nearly half the book to get up to the present (1879) when Cole and Imogene meet again. Cole has never forgotten his night with Ginny. He has scoured Britain and the continent looking for her with no success. He is a bitter man who believes Ginny will help him heal. When Imogene hears that he is actively looking for Ginny, she doesn't know what to do.
I liked this story. Cole was so blind to what was right in front of his face. I'm looking forward to the next book in the series. My rating: 4.5 Stars.
November 10, 2021
4"Messy. Difficult. Sad … Infuriating and utterly fulfilling” stars.
I adore Kerrigan Bryne's writing style. I love her genuinely dark twisted heroes and unsettling plot lines that all build up to a gratifying end. Needless, to say this is my fav series by her yet somehow when I read it last year, I skipped the 4th and 5th books of this series.😂😂 I know it could be because I was in a hurry to read the 6th book.
Things I loved about the book
1. Just like some other books in this series. We have a couple who met, felt strongly for each other and got separated. Years later they met again, but now they are jagged by life and things can't be the same.
2. KB writes the best dark/damaged MCs in HR...period. We don't have dark MCs who are crying over their broken hearts...we have one who has endured a lot and has done a lot of things they are not proud of.
3. Again, KB brings subjects such as PTSD, serial killers and mental illness.
4. An angsty yet utterly beautiful love story.
"That you turned a virgin into a prostitute. That you paid twenty pounds. I may have sold myself to you, Your Grace, but I was never cheap.”
“You cost me more than you know,” he snarled.
“Likewise!”
"I will love you for your light if you can love me through the dark times."
My ranking of the Victorian rebel series
1. Sixth Book - The duke with the dragon tattoo
2. Third Book - The highlander
3. first Book -The highwayman
4. Seventh Book -A dark and stormy knight
5. Second Book - The hunter
6. The scot beds his wife-yet to read.
I adore Kerrigan Bryne's writing style. I love her genuinely dark twisted heroes and unsettling plot lines that all build up to a gratifying end. Needless, to say this is my fav series by her yet somehow when I read it last year, I skipped the 4th and 5th books of this series.😂😂 I know it could be because I was in a hurry to read the 6th book.
Things I loved about the book
1. Just like some other books in this series. We have a couple who met, felt strongly for each other and got separated. Years later they met again, but now they are jagged by life and things can't be the same.
2. KB writes the best dark/damaged MCs in HR...period. We don't have dark MCs who are crying over their broken hearts...we have one who has endured a lot and has done a lot of things they are not proud of.
3. Again, KB brings subjects such as PTSD, serial killers and mental illness.
4. An angsty yet utterly beautiful love story.
"That you turned a virgin into a prostitute. That you paid twenty pounds. I may have sold myself to you, Your Grace, but I was never cheap.”
“You cost me more than you know,” he snarled.
“Likewise!”
"I will love you for your light if you can love me through the dark times."
My ranking of the Victorian rebel series
1. Sixth Book - The duke with the dragon tattoo
2. Third Book - The highlander
3. first Book -The highwayman
4. Seventh Book -A dark and stormy knight
5. Second Book - The hunter
6. The scot beds his wife-yet to read.
August 30, 2020
I’ve read all seven books available in this series in seven days… yep, you read that correctly… it matched my reading mood perfectly and I just couldn’t put them down… and now I think I might have fried my brain a bit… because once I finished the last one, I fell into a mother of all reading slumps… I don’t want to pick up anything… so I will finish writing all the reviews and then just take a break from reading in general for a while… :)
This is a very emotional and intense series of historical romances to read… definitely keep that in mind going in… it varies in different books, but all main characters suffer from some sort of trauma… so depending on which installment you pick up there are trigger warnings for torture, rape, physical and mental abuse, assault… most of it happens not on the actual pages of the stories, but nonetheless has a huge impact on everything… be prepared for themes like that before picking them up…
As much as each book in this series works as a standalone, it’s best to read them in order, cause most of the characters in it are somehow connected to each other :) trust me on this :) the sixth book in this series was my very first ever Kerrigan Byrne book I’ve read and I liked it immensely better once I read the first five stories :) so I will have one short paragraph about how amazing this series is in general and then below you will find a few sentences about each story published in it so far, cause I read them so quickly one after another that they are all a blur in my mind right now :)
The writing style is absolutely spectacular and that is saying something for me, because these stories have some of the themes and tropes I am not only not a fan off, but ones I actively try and avoid in the books I read… and yet, she somehow made it work… :) not gonna lie, maybe once I reread these stories in the future I will be able to read them more critically, but as of now, all of them were 5 stars reads for me :) yes, the stories are very intense and emotional… they deal with some dark topics… and for some of you the relationships may seem rushed but I just… I couldn’t help but love all of them… the heroes of these books are usually the more troubled ones, with darker pasts… and when they love, they love with everything that’s inside them…even the darkest parts of them... they love fiercely and passionately… and I just inhaled all of it… don’t get me wrong, the heroines are no wallflowers either… :) the relationships are always intense and never easy… usually they develop pretty quickly, but they always feel well built and complex enough :) there’s action, surprising twists and turns, some gaspworthy moments and some drama… but also some sweet moments… not to mention an absolutely swoonworthy hot and sensual ones as well… like I said before, this series perfectly fit into my reading mood ;) below is a little bit about each book :) hopefully once I reread them in the future I will be able to write more coherent reviews about each story :)
The highwayman
Story about two people with a surprising connection in their past and a marriage of convenience all wrapped up in an additional mystery… :) add a scarred hero and a badass heroine and I was sold immediately :) aside from the main relationship we have some side ones forming as well which I loved with all my heart… :) it’s a very good introduction to the whole series, with some hints and foreshadowing about future main characters
The hunter
This one took me a moment to get into, because a killer for hire who is fascinated by a woman who he was hired to kill can get… tricky… especially since he’s not the best at communicating his thoughts outside to other people… but to surprise of no one, I ended up in love ;)
The highlander
This one might be my favourite out of them all, and I’m not sure why… :) it has some Beauty and the beast vibes as well as some Jane Eyre ones… the romance develops over a bit longer than usual amount of time, so that might have been a factor in my love for it… even if she’s pretending to be someone else… :) I saw some of the reveals in advance, but it was still super enjoyable :)
The duke
The synopsis of this one is a bit misleading, so let me clarify for you… our heroine works as a nurse and serving maid… she meets a duke and they spend a night together… as in, he pays for a night with her… one year later he shows up in her hospital, not remembering her and with some great injuries… and THEN she goes into a marriage of convenience to a wonderful older man and we skip forward a couple of years to when she is now a widow… again, this one has some themes I don’t like… hidden identity and whatnot, and yet… I loved it :) aside from that we have a killer mystery to which reveal I did not see coming…
The scot beds his wife
Another story with a hidden identity and quite a few other themes I don’t like in books… and yet I absolutely could understand why it had to happen like that… a lot of dramatic and surprising turns of events and a romance between very reluctant two people… which worked out surprisingly well in the end :)
The duke with the dragon tattoo
I loved this one immensely better the second time around… I remembered one big reveal about our hero who doesn’t remember his past, but aside from that nothing else… and now that I read the books in order I appreciated that much more all the familiar couples that make appearances in this one :)
The dark and stormy knight
The last currently available books went by very fast… I was curious about reading about this particular hero for a while and his story definitely did not disappoint :) what’s even better, Pru, our heroine, has three sisters, and a spin-off stories all about them is gonna be published within the next year :) I may or may not already preordered all of them… ;)
XOXO
A
This is a very emotional and intense series of historical romances to read… definitely keep that in mind going in… it varies in different books, but all main characters suffer from some sort of trauma… so depending on which installment you pick up there are trigger warnings for torture, rape, physical and mental abuse, assault… most of it happens not on the actual pages of the stories, but nonetheless has a huge impact on everything… be prepared for themes like that before picking them up…
As much as each book in this series works as a standalone, it’s best to read them in order, cause most of the characters in it are somehow connected to each other :) trust me on this :) the sixth book in this series was my very first ever Kerrigan Byrne book I’ve read and I liked it immensely better once I read the first five stories :) so I will have one short paragraph about how amazing this series is in general and then below you will find a few sentences about each story published in it so far, cause I read them so quickly one after another that they are all a blur in my mind right now :)
The writing style is absolutely spectacular and that is saying something for me, because these stories have some of the themes and tropes I am not only not a fan off, but ones I actively try and avoid in the books I read… and yet, she somehow made it work… :) not gonna lie, maybe once I reread these stories in the future I will be able to read them more critically, but as of now, all of them were 5 stars reads for me :) yes, the stories are very intense and emotional… they deal with some dark topics… and for some of you the relationships may seem rushed but I just… I couldn’t help but love all of them… the heroes of these books are usually the more troubled ones, with darker pasts… and when they love, they love with everything that’s inside them…even the darkest parts of them... they love fiercely and passionately… and I just inhaled all of it… don’t get me wrong, the heroines are no wallflowers either… :) the relationships are always intense and never easy… usually they develop pretty quickly, but they always feel well built and complex enough :) there’s action, surprising twists and turns, some gaspworthy moments and some drama… but also some sweet moments… not to mention an absolutely swoonworthy hot and sensual ones as well… like I said before, this series perfectly fit into my reading mood ;) below is a little bit about each book :) hopefully once I reread them in the future I will be able to write more coherent reviews about each story :)
The highwayman
Story about two people with a surprising connection in their past and a marriage of convenience all wrapped up in an additional mystery… :) add a scarred hero and a badass heroine and I was sold immediately :) aside from the main relationship we have some side ones forming as well which I loved with all my heart… :) it’s a very good introduction to the whole series, with some hints and foreshadowing about future main characters
The hunter
This one took me a moment to get into, because a killer for hire who is fascinated by a woman who he was hired to kill can get… tricky… especially since he’s not the best at communicating his thoughts outside to other people… but to surprise of no one, I ended up in love ;)
The highlander
This one might be my favourite out of them all, and I’m not sure why… :) it has some Beauty and the beast vibes as well as some Jane Eyre ones… the romance develops over a bit longer than usual amount of time, so that might have been a factor in my love for it… even if she’s pretending to be someone else… :) I saw some of the reveals in advance, but it was still super enjoyable :)
The duke
The synopsis of this one is a bit misleading, so let me clarify for you… our heroine works as a nurse and serving maid… she meets a duke and they spend a night together… as in, he pays for a night with her… one year later he shows up in her hospital, not remembering her and with some great injuries… and THEN she goes into a marriage of convenience to a wonderful older man and we skip forward a couple of years to when she is now a widow… again, this one has some themes I don’t like… hidden identity and whatnot, and yet… I loved it :) aside from that we have a killer mystery to which reveal I did not see coming…
The scot beds his wife
Another story with a hidden identity and quite a few other themes I don’t like in books… and yet I absolutely could understand why it had to happen like that… a lot of dramatic and surprising turns of events and a romance between very reluctant two people… which worked out surprisingly well in the end :)
The duke with the dragon tattoo
I loved this one immensely better the second time around… I remembered one big reveal about our hero who doesn’t remember his past, but aside from that nothing else… and now that I read the books in order I appreciated that much more all the familiar couples that make appearances in this one :)
The dark and stormy knight
The last currently available books went by very fast… I was curious about reading about this particular hero for a while and his story definitely did not disappoint :) what’s even better, Pru, our heroine, has three sisters, and a spin-off stories all about them is gonna be published within the next year :) I may or may not already preordered all of them… ;)
XOXO
A
February 10, 2017
**4.5 Stars**
I was captivated by this story, its darkness and its beauty. The plot was intricately crafted, with deep layers of emotional complexity, palpable tension and angsty feels. The Duke is an epic romance, flawlessly written, from the amazing character development to the unique storyline. It is however a dark story, with a happy ending that felt like a relief! It’s definitely not a fluffy fairytale.
“The duke was a particularly lethal combination of paradoxes. Patient and volatile. Principled and vicious. A nobleman, but by no means a gentleman.”
The story is set in London during the Victorian era. Imogen Pritchard has been forced to work two jobs to pay off her father’s gambling debts and keep her family fed. Her encounter with Cole Talmage, the Duke of Trenwyth will change her life. Cole is a complex, heartbroken and tortured character. He buys Imogen’s virginity, and yet she feels protected and desired. Neither one of them will forget the emotional intimacy they shared for a few hours.
Fast forward two years, Cole has been to hell and back, literally. Held hostage, tortured and abused by the Ottoman Turks, he is severely injured physically and mentally. During his captivity, Imogen has become his obsession and dreaming of her was his sanctuary. He intends to find her back, but doesn’t recognize her as his new neighbor. I must admit that I had to suspend disbelief, this non-recognition plays obviously a pivotal role in the story. Imogen’s status in society has drastically changed, she married one of her patients at the hospital and has become a dowager countess.
Cole’s captivity has altered him, he is bitter, cynical and tortured by fits of wrath and terror. In my mind, he is the definition of the tragic hero, betrayed, abandoned and broken. He is not a good man, he despises Imogen, threatens and humiliates her. She is tolerant and easygoing, but he pushes her past her limits. Obviously, they come from very different worlds and Imogen is convinced that, even if Cole did recognize her, they would never be able to overcome the divide between them.
Imogen is a strong woman who can do anything she sets her mind to, she is selfless, determined and is a free spirit. Despite his anger, Cole is attracted to Imogen like a moth to a flame, he craves her company, her sweetness and generosity. She is determined to save him from himself. I was happy to see that this character was redeemable, he was ashamed of his past actions. I definitely needed more groveling to make his path to redemption believable, though! Oh, and I would have enjoyed an epilogue, so much!
Cole and Imogen’s story was unforgettable and epic, with thrilling elements and stunning settings. This was my first read by Kerrigan Byrne, but I definitely want to catch up on her Victorian rebels series. This book can be read as a standalone.
I received an advanced copy of this book from the publisher, via NetGalley.
I was captivated by this story, its darkness and its beauty. The plot was intricately crafted, with deep layers of emotional complexity, palpable tension and angsty feels. The Duke is an epic romance, flawlessly written, from the amazing character development to the unique storyline. It is however a dark story, with a happy ending that felt like a relief! It’s definitely not a fluffy fairytale.
“The duke was a particularly lethal combination of paradoxes. Patient and volatile. Principled and vicious. A nobleman, but by no means a gentleman.”
The story is set in London during the Victorian era. Imogen Pritchard has been forced to work two jobs to pay off her father’s gambling debts and keep her family fed. Her encounter with Cole Talmage, the Duke of Trenwyth will change her life. Cole is a complex, heartbroken and tortured character. He buys Imogen’s virginity, and yet she feels protected and desired. Neither one of them will forget the emotional intimacy they shared for a few hours.
Fast forward two years, Cole has been to hell and back, literally. Held hostage, tortured and abused by the Ottoman Turks, he is severely injured physically and mentally. During his captivity, Imogen has become his obsession and dreaming of her was his sanctuary. He intends to find her back, but doesn’t recognize her as his new neighbor. I must admit that I had to suspend disbelief, this non-recognition plays obviously a pivotal role in the story. Imogen’s status in society has drastically changed, she married one of her patients at the hospital and has become a dowager countess.
Cole’s captivity has altered him, he is bitter, cynical and tortured by fits of wrath and terror. In my mind, he is the definition of the tragic hero, betrayed, abandoned and broken. He is not a good man, he despises Imogen, threatens and humiliates her. She is tolerant and easygoing, but he pushes her past her limits. Obviously, they come from very different worlds and Imogen is convinced that, even if Cole did recognize her, they would never be able to overcome the divide between them.
Imogen is a strong woman who can do anything she sets her mind to, she is selfless, determined and is a free spirit. Despite his anger, Cole is attracted to Imogen like a moth to a flame, he craves her company, her sweetness and generosity. She is determined to save him from himself. I was happy to see that this character was redeemable, he was ashamed of his past actions. I definitely needed more groveling to make his path to redemption believable, though! Oh, and I would have enjoyed an epilogue, so much!
Cole and Imogen’s story was unforgettable and epic, with thrilling elements and stunning settings. This was my first read by Kerrigan Byrne, but I definitely want to catch up on her Victorian rebels series. This book can be read as a standalone.
I received an advanced copy of this book from the publisher, via NetGalley.
did-not-finish
January 9, 2017DNF at 65%
**If you are curious about this book, there’s a goodreads giveaway for the paperback
I got The Duke based on the reviews of this book and the series. I love a good historical romance book and I was really excited about this one.
This wasn’t a bad book, it just didn’t fit the mood or perception I thought the book was going to be about. I didn’t even read the summary.
The beginning started out really great and it felt like a five star read to me. I was into the story. Imogen (beautiful name) is a nurse by day, a respectable trade and a seductress at night. She is a bar maid and she lets men fondle over her, but she doesn’t go all the way.
Collin is royalty and has a mega chip on his shoulder. He’s an interesting and brooding character. I liked him at first, but as I got into the book I realized he’s a pretty big jerk. It was hard for me to find him redeemable.
This book reads a little bit suspenseful and not that much steam happens. I wanted a no fuss, super cute historical romance and so the overall plot didn’t work for me.
Also, the Heroine was really strong and as much as I love a strong Heroine, I wanted a damsel in distress. So I can see why everyone loved this book. I just didn’t think it jived with what I had planned in my head.
An ARC was provided
**If you are curious about this book, there’s a goodreads giveaway for the paperback
I got The Duke based on the reviews of this book and the series. I love a good historical romance book and I was really excited about this one.
This wasn’t a bad book, it just didn’t fit the mood or perception I thought the book was going to be about. I didn’t even read the summary.
The beginning started out really great and it felt like a five star read to me. I was into the story. Imogen (beautiful name) is a nurse by day, a respectable trade and a seductress at night. She is a bar maid and she lets men fondle over her, but she doesn’t go all the way.
Collin is royalty and has a mega chip on his shoulder. He’s an interesting and brooding character. I liked him at first, but as I got into the book I realized he’s a pretty big jerk. It was hard for me to find him redeemable.
This book reads a little bit suspenseful and not that much steam happens. I wanted a no fuss, super cute historical romance and so the overall plot didn’t work for me.
Also, the Heroine was really strong and as much as I love a strong Heroine, I wanted a damsel in distress. So I can see why everyone loved this book. I just didn’t think it jived with what I had planned in my head.
An ARC was provided
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