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Studies in Scandal #2
Duke with Benefits
LADY + DUKE = TRUE LOVE?
Lady Daphne Forsyth is a brilliant mathematician with a burning passion for puzzles. When she learns that the library belonging to her benefactress houses the legendary Cameron Cipher―an encrypted message that, once solved, holds the key to great riches―Daphne is on the case. Unfortunately, her race to unlock the cipher’s code is continually thwarted by a deliciously handsome distraction she hadn’t counted on. . .and cannot resist.
Dalton Beauchamp, the Duke of Maitland, is curious as to why Daphne is spending so much time snooping around his aunt’s bookshelves. He’s even more intrigued by her bold yet calculating manner: She is unapologetic about her secret quest. . .and the fiery attraction that develops between them both. But how can they concentrate on solving a perplexing enigma once the prospect of true love enters the equation?
Lady Daphne Forsyth is a brilliant mathematician with a burning passion for puzzles. When she learns that the library belonging to her benefactress houses the legendary Cameron Cipher―an encrypted message that, once solved, holds the key to great riches―Daphne is on the case. Unfortunately, her race to unlock the cipher’s code is continually thwarted by a deliciously handsome distraction she hadn’t counted on. . .and cannot resist.
Dalton Beauchamp, the Duke of Maitland, is curious as to why Daphne is spending so much time snooping around his aunt’s bookshelves. He’s even more intrigued by her bold yet calculating manner: She is unapologetic about her secret quest. . .and the fiery attraction that develops between them both. But how can they concentrate on solving a perplexing enigma once the prospect of true love enters the equation?
310 pages, Mass Market Paperback
First published June 27, 2017
117 people are currently reading
1386 people want to read
About the author
Manda Collins
38 books1,577 followersManda Collins grew up on a combination of Nancy Drew books and Jane Austen novels, and her own brand of Regency romantic suspense is the result. A former academic librarian, she holds advanced degrees in English Lit and Librarianship. Her books have been favorably reviewed in Entertainment Weekly, Library Journal, Booklist, Publisher's Weekly, Bookpage, and USA Today. A native of Alabama, she lives on the Gulf Coast with a very stubborn cat and more books than are strictly necessary.
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June 27, 2017
IT'S ALIVE!!
We’re going on a treasure hunt...
My first “big girl book” was The Treasure Hunters by Enid Blyton. I felt so grown up reading a hardcover book with chapters in it and I still remember feeling very accomplished after finishing it. Straight after finishing, I was consumed with the need to go treasure hunting. I needed a map, comfortable clothes, sturdy boots and a backpack. Luckily, I had all these things at hand and Mum was happy to help in my endeavours by making me sandwiches to pack in my bag. Now obviously, I was a kid, so my treasure hunt was limited to inside my house and out in the backyard. Misty, my dog, was my accomplice and the backyard and all the trees were the places I was sure the clues were hidden. Hours and hours of entertainment…and lucky for me, no murder, mayhem and kidnapping involved.
Duke with Benefits is my new The Treasure Hunters and this time I have accomplices in Daphne, Dalton and the Studies in Scandal gang. Now, we’ll have to be a wee bit more careful in this treasure hunt because we have competition. Someone else wants the treasure and he will kill to get it. Luckily, Daphne is really good at working out puzzles and codes. Her skills will come in handy because we don’t get a piece of paper with a map, the whole bloody thing has been hidden in code…and we can’t even find the bloody code to start with. We will have to put our heads together and see if all the clues can be combined to find that x marks the spot. Actually, in this case x = A + 0 + 15…or something like that. You’ll have to bale Daph up to get the logic…maths…cipher…code…whatever she goes on about, explained.
I really enjoyed reading Duke with Benefits. The storyline kept my attention from start to finish. The characters were original, intelligent (as Daphne will tell you…regularly) and lovable.
Daphne is a maths genius. Her father, who I could not stand, spent years using her abilities to make money playing cards at ton events. Daphne, knowing her father wouldn’t survive financially without her, blackmails him into hiring a maths tutor to further her education. Obviously, being a female at that time, it was highly irregular. Being the despicable man that he was, her father did not hesitate to hire the tutor if it kept his coffers full. The other thing about Daphne…she’s a little (LOT) blunt. It’s not unusual for Daphne to tell you exactly what she thinks of you, and it may not be favourable. This honesty comes at a cost. She’s considered weird and most don’t know how to deal with her. There is one man that finds her fascinating.
Dalton Beauchamp, Duke of Maitland, wants Daphne and she’s more than willing to give herself to him. Unfortunately, they’re not on the same page, though. See, Dalton is honourable. He learnt the hard way that women are hurt when they’re used and discarded. His father was a horrible man who treated his wife (Dalton’s mum) deplorably. With such a bad example witnessed in his childhood, he is determined to be a good man. When he meets Daphne and gets to know her, he wants nothing more than to offer his hand and make her his Duchess. Problem is, Daphne is afraid of leaving one man who controls her, to another who can also control her. It’s up to Dalton to convince her that he means to be her partner, not her owner.
Dalton and Daphne work well together. Daphne, in the first story, came across as rude and a little too forthright. In this story, we get to know her better and see how her extremely intelligent mind works. They’re cute together. I loved seeing Dalton work with her quirks and learn to judge by her expressions what she’s feeling and if she needs him.
Another great instalment to the series and I can’t wait to see who the Wallflower Most Wanted will be.
I’m an Aussie chick who loves to read and review romance, drink coffee, be a Style Setter and stalk David Gandy. To see more of my reviews, fashion, food and pervathons -
June 25, 2017
'Duke with Benefits' by Manda Collins is book Two in the "Studies in Scandal" series. This is the story of Lady Daphne Forsyth and Dalton Beauchamp, the Duke of Maitland. I have read the the previous book and Daphne and Dalton did meet in there. Also we learn some of Daphne's outspokenness that sometimes needed some censoring. But this can be a standalone book for sure. Daphne and three other ladies have inherited an estate from Lady Celeste Beauchamp who along with the other ladies was also a 'Bluestocking'. Although each lady has a different academic study they all are very smart and bookish. Dalton who has feelings for Daphne has gone into protective mode. It seems each lady has a quest set upon them by Lady Celeste that leads them into danger.
I must say this series has everything you could want. It has a mystery story mixed into this Bluestocking love story.
Loved this series and this book! Can't wait for the next story to come out!
"Studies in Scandal" series:
Book 1 Ready Set Rogue
Book 2 Duke with Benefits
Book 3 Wallflower Most Wanted
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I must say this series has everything you could want. It has a mystery story mixed into this Bluestocking love story.
Loved this series and this book! Can't wait for the next story to come out!
"Studies in Scandal" series:
Book 1 Ready Set Rogue
Book 2 Duke with Benefits
Book 3 Wallflower Most Wanted
"My honest review is for a special copy I voluntarily read."
https://www.amazon.com/gp/profile/A2H...
https://www.goodreads.com/user/show/1...
https://twitter.com/soapsrus68
https://www.facebook.com/RomanceBookR...
http://sissymaereads.blogspot.com/
http://booklikes.com/blog
https://romancebookreviewforyou.wordp...
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June 18, 2017
"I would think that finding a dead man's body in the library would do more damage to Beauchamp House's reputation than the hasty marriages of two of Aunt Celeste's proteges."
"You know full well that sex is far more scandalous than murder."
While my main issue with book one in the Studies in Scandal series was the romance and the murder mystery, I'm happy to report that DUKE WITH BENEFITS had a much more realistic love story than it's predecessor. Helped by the fact that the main characters were both more interesting and charming in their own rights.. as well as having the amusement of Daphne's honest and blunt and uber-rational approach to all things; even sex and marriage.
Her lessons in gentility had been abandoned in favour of higher maths. Which left her with the ability to solve complex equations more quickly than most Oxbridge fellows and almost no sense of how to speak without setting up the backs of those around her.
However it seems that each book in this series is each going to have it's own murder/mystery of the week, all centered around the late mysterious and scholarly Aunt Celeste, who has bequeathed her home and life works to the four bluestockings. Aaaand it was that, in particular, which bored me. Again. I mean, I liked the concept of the treasure hunt aspect of it all but by the time it was revealed and discovered.. well, considering how little importance the author made of this big find, I'm feeling like she might not have cared much about it, either.
Two books in this is feeling very formulaic (two abductions in two books, I mean c'mon) and it's a foregone conclusion that with two of the heiresses "compromised" and been made to wed, I can only guess that the same will happen to the remaining two. And seeing as the sisters have not yet been given much time to shine or show any semblance of personality -- Daphne was the only one who, from the beginning, stood out -- I'll be making a pass on the rest of the series.
Sometimes conversation was a trial for Daphne, who wished people would simply say what they meant instead of using metaphors and the like. Turns of phrase made life very frustrating for her.
The various elements that make up this series are fun and interesting in theory but it's a little too repetitive, a little too dull, too convenient, and unfortunately I didn't find any of the characters to be very compelling -- Daphne being the slight and sole exception, mostly because I love that she has a form of OCD/anxiety, even Aspergers. The fact that in addition to that Collins chose to make her beautiful instead of the typical awkward homely girl might be the best part.
"First Ivy was compromised into marrying Quill and now you, Maitland, my own brother, have faked a betrothal to Daphne in order to protect her from her father. At this rate, Sophia and Gemma will be embroiled in scandals with the vicar and his curate before the week is out. It's like living in a Sheridan play. With murder."
However, that being said, here was definite improvement in this installment vs the first (which I can only attribute to the MCs) and I did enjoy the continued trend of the tongue-in-cheek bits of humour that poked fun at some of the cliches that run rampant in this genre. I just think there are plenty of other historical romances that offer similar adventures or romances that, overall, are more enjoyable.
2.5 stars
** I received an ARC from NetGalley and the publisher (thank you!) in exchange for an honest review. **
"You know full well that sex is far more scandalous than murder."
While my main issue with book one in the Studies in Scandal series was the romance and the murder mystery, I'm happy to report that DUKE WITH BENEFITS had a much more realistic love story than it's predecessor. Helped by the fact that the main characters were both more interesting and charming in their own rights.. as well as having the amusement of Daphne's honest and blunt and uber-rational approach to all things; even sex and marriage.
Her lessons in gentility had been abandoned in favour of higher maths. Which left her with the ability to solve complex equations more quickly than most Oxbridge fellows and almost no sense of how to speak without setting up the backs of those around her.
However it seems that each book in this series is each going to have it's own murder/mystery of the week, all centered around the late mysterious and scholarly Aunt Celeste, who has bequeathed her home and life works to the four bluestockings. Aaaand it was that, in particular, which bored me. Again. I mean, I liked the concept of the treasure hunt aspect of it all but by the time it was revealed and discovered.. well, considering how little importance the author made of this big find, I'm feeling like she might not have cared much about it, either.
Two books in this is feeling very formulaic (two abductions in two books, I mean c'mon) and it's a foregone conclusion that with two of the heiresses "compromised" and been made to wed, I can only guess that the same will happen to the remaining two. And seeing as the sisters have not yet been given much time to shine or show any semblance of personality -- Daphne was the only one who, from the beginning, stood out -- I'll be making a pass on the rest of the series.
Sometimes conversation was a trial for Daphne, who wished people would simply say what they meant instead of using metaphors and the like. Turns of phrase made life very frustrating for her.
The various elements that make up this series are fun and interesting in theory but it's a little too repetitive, a little too dull, too convenient, and unfortunately I didn't find any of the characters to be very compelling -- Daphne being the slight and sole exception, mostly because I love that she has a form of OCD/anxiety, even Aspergers. The fact that in addition to that Collins chose to make her beautiful instead of the typical awkward homely girl might be the best part.
"First Ivy was compromised into marrying Quill and now you, Maitland, my own brother, have faked a betrothal to Daphne in order to protect her from her father. At this rate, Sophia and Gemma will be embroiled in scandals with the vicar and his curate before the week is out. It's like living in a Sheridan play. With murder."
However, that being said, here was definite improvement in this installment vs the first (which I can only attribute to the MCs) and I did enjoy the continued trend of the tongue-in-cheek bits of humour that poked fun at some of the cliches that run rampant in this genre. I just think there are plenty of other historical romances that offer similar adventures or romances that, overall, are more enjoyable.
2.5 stars
** I received an ARC from NetGalley and the publisher (thank you!) in exchange for an honest review. **
June 26, 2017
I enjoy Historical Romances. I particularly enjoyed Duke With Benefits. I enjoyed the characters. I enjoyed the intrigue. I really enjoyed Lady Daphne.
Now, here was a woman who knew her value, knew her capabilities but had no idea how to act in public. She was brash. When she had something to say, she said it. I loved how she made me laugh and embarrassed me with her little quips. But, she was put into a situation with people who understood her and accepted her just the way she was. She finally has friends that she knows that she can count on. She never felt that she could trust a man after her upbringing and the Duke of Maitland has taken her by surprise. He’s charming, understanding and she is so attracted to him that she just could help but proposition him. As I said, brash.
Dalton Beauchamp was extremely attracted to Lady Daphne from the first time that he met her. She was a challenge that he couldn’t help but take on. She was beautiful, intelligent and an enigma. He really couldn’t help but fall in love with her. They were a perfect match – he understood people and how to handle them … she was brilliant but totally awkward in public. Together, they could figure out who is behind the murders, who is trying to steal the Cipher. She could figure it out while he placated the people that they had to go to for help.
Duke With Benefits was such a fun story to read. The main characters, as well as the supporting ones, were just amusing. The writing was spot on. Manda Collins never really let us sit back and enjoy banter between them. There was always something going on to keep you turning the pages. You never knew what was going to happen next with any of them. I loved how this story started at the apex and she brought you full circle. From beginning to end, Manda Collins gave us a wonderful story of intrigue and love.
Review copy provided for a voluntary review.
June 12, 2018
*4.5 stars
I admit that I tried reading this book when it first came out and had trouble getting into it because of the leading lady, Daphne. I'm so glad that I picked this one up again! It's true that it takes time warming up to Daphne. She was raised without a mother and raised by a father that used her to make money playing cards. She's a mathematics genius so her way of thinking is very matter of fact and blunt, which can cause some insults towards those she speaks to. After awhile though, she does end up charming the reader. And, of course, Maitland is charming in every way and perfectly understands Daphne and is able to help her in ways she didn't know she needed help with. Loved the romance between those two. What I love about this series is that not only is there swoon worthy romance but there's a dash of mystery and intrigue. This time Daphne and the gang are trying to hunt for gold through Cameron's Cypher. Only Daphne can solve the cypher because of her math background. This book was very well done. The romance wasn't over the top and the mystery element keeps you hooked. I'm really loving Manda Collins as an author and will have no trouble reading more by her.
**Thank you to the publisher and Netgalley for an e-copy in exchange for an honest review.
I admit that I tried reading this book when it first came out and had trouble getting into it because of the leading lady, Daphne. I'm so glad that I picked this one up again! It's true that it takes time warming up to Daphne. She was raised without a mother and raised by a father that used her to make money playing cards. She's a mathematics genius so her way of thinking is very matter of fact and blunt, which can cause some insults towards those she speaks to. After awhile though, she does end up charming the reader. And, of course, Maitland is charming in every way and perfectly understands Daphne and is able to help her in ways she didn't know she needed help with. Loved the romance between those two. What I love about this series is that not only is there swoon worthy romance but there's a dash of mystery and intrigue. This time Daphne and the gang are trying to hunt for gold through Cameron's Cypher. Only Daphne can solve the cypher because of her math background. This book was very well done. The romance wasn't over the top and the mystery element keeps you hooked. I'm really loving Manda Collins as an author and will have no trouble reading more by her.
**Thank you to the publisher and Netgalley for an e-copy in exchange for an honest review.
June 17, 2017
I don't read a lot of romance but I needed something with a happy ending! This is part of a series but I didn't read book 1 and was fine. A bit of a flipped script where the lady is the awkward one who is good at math and the Duke is the one good with people (and always asks for consent.) There is a cipher to be solved, and it is given almost as much page time as the romance.
Thanks to the publisher for providing me access through NetGalley.
Thanks to the publisher for providing me access through NetGalley.
July 23, 2017
I think I'm coming to the unfortunate conclusion that Manda Collins might not be for me; I've read at least four of her books now and I didn't give any of them higher than a 3.5-star rating. I'm disappointed, because she's written quite a bit and the crazy thing is that I usually really love her premises / book summaries and get very excited about them! They're the type of romance stories that are some of my favs, and sometimes they're unusual but not in an over-the-top way (Studies in Scandal series premise is admittedly out there, but I loved in
Good Earl Gone Bad
that the heroine is a talented curricle driver who wants to join a driving club as its first female member).
Unfortunately, the way that Collins ends up delivering these stories is just really not for me and the characters often end up getting on my nerves, because they come off as caricatures and over-the-top. There is no real complexity or depth—to the good characters, the bad characters, or the stories. And it's not for lack of trying—Collins will add family issues or challenges (Daphne has some form of Asperger's/autism and normally can't look people in the eyes), but they fall flat. With Daphne's, for example, it's not really mentioned much in either the first or second book, except for in scenes where Dalton wants her to look him in the eyes or something; most of the time I would forget that she even had this problem, until it would be randomly mentioned again. Not only does she have this socially awkward aspect of her, but she's also a very blunt, abrasive heroine—how often do we get that?? Answer: basically never! Again, something that could have been really awesome and made for a nice change from most other HR books, but Collins can never bring it all the way home (for me).
The best way for me to explain it is that it's similar to the reason I don't like Keira Knightley (and was therefore so pissed off when I discovered she was going to be Elizabeth in the P&P remake, but moving on). She's gorgeous, seems like a lovely and charming person, but I have never liked her as an actor because to me, she always comes off as if she's acting—I never believe she is whatever role she's playing, because it feels like acting to me; instead of being Elizabeth Bennett, she's an actor playing Elizabeth Bennett as she think Elizabeth should be depicted. I'm never able to make that last leap and forget that she's Keira Knightley the actress.
Collins has good structures, she has interesting backgrounds and potential with her characters, but it never gets off the ground for me. It's like Julia Quinn gone-wrong. I turn to Julia Quinn's books when I'm looking for something really light with good wit and humor, and I know that's what I'm getting with her books—there's an amazing lack of angst, there's not as much seriousness or complexity to the character or situations as Mary Balogh, there's not the heat and sensuality of Kleypas, and that's fine—she does what she does and she does it super well! Humor is not easy to write and she almost never fails with that; her characters' banter is fantastic. For Manda Collins, I can't tell if she is trying to fit into that style, and mistakenly wanders into other territories, or if she's trying to be something else, when this is actually more her natural style. Either way, I think I'm calling it quits on her. :-(
This ended up being more of a review of Manda Collins as an author than Duke With Benefits the book, but as can be surmised, the things I didn't like about this book are the things that keep on occurring for me with Collins's books and are described above. As always there was promise—such promise!—which made my disappointment all the keener.
Oh and one last thing: the guys fall in love quick and hard; I hate super ansty books or needless emotional obstacles thrown in, but with both this book and the first in the series, Ready Set Rogue , it was too quick and easy, making the love between the couples seem that much more lacking in depth and hard to believe.
*This review is of an ARC provided by Net Galley and the publisher in exchange for an honest review
Unfortunately, the way that Collins ends up delivering these stories is just really not for me and the characters often end up getting on my nerves, because they come off as caricatures and over-the-top. There is no real complexity or depth—to the good characters, the bad characters, or the stories. And it's not for lack of trying—Collins will add family issues or challenges (Daphne has some form of Asperger's/autism and normally can't look people in the eyes), but they fall flat. With Daphne's, for example, it's not really mentioned much in either the first or second book, except for in scenes where Dalton wants her to look him in the eyes or something; most of the time I would forget that she even had this problem, until it would be randomly mentioned again. Not only does she have this socially awkward aspect of her, but she's also a very blunt, abrasive heroine—how often do we get that?? Answer: basically never! Again, something that could have been really awesome and made for a nice change from most other HR books, but Collins can never bring it all the way home (for me).
The best way for me to explain it is that it's similar to the reason I don't like Keira Knightley (and was therefore so pissed off when I discovered she was going to be Elizabeth in the P&P remake, but moving on). She's gorgeous, seems like a lovely and charming person, but I have never liked her as an actor because to me, she always comes off as if she's acting—I never believe she is whatever role she's playing, because it feels like acting to me; instead of being Elizabeth Bennett, she's an actor playing Elizabeth Bennett as she think Elizabeth should be depicted. I'm never able to make that last leap and forget that she's Keira Knightley the actress.
Collins has good structures, she has interesting backgrounds and potential with her characters, but it never gets off the ground for me. It's like Julia Quinn gone-wrong. I turn to Julia Quinn's books when I'm looking for something really light with good wit and humor, and I know that's what I'm getting with her books—there's an amazing lack of angst, there's not as much seriousness or complexity to the character or situations as Mary Balogh, there's not the heat and sensuality of Kleypas, and that's fine—she does what she does and she does it super well! Humor is not easy to write and she almost never fails with that; her characters' banter is fantastic. For Manda Collins, I can't tell if she is trying to fit into that style, and mistakenly wanders into other territories, or if she's trying to be something else, when this is actually more her natural style. Either way, I think I'm calling it quits on her. :-(
This ended up being more of a review of Manda Collins as an author than Duke With Benefits the book, but as can be surmised, the things I didn't like about this book are the things that keep on occurring for me with Collins's books and are described above. As always there was promise—such promise!—which made my disappointment all the keener.
Oh and one last thing: the guys fall in love quick and hard; I hate super ansty books or needless emotional obstacles thrown in, but with both this book and the first in the series, Ready Set Rogue , it was too quick and easy, making the love between the couples seem that much more lacking in depth and hard to believe.
*This review is of an ARC provided by Net Galley and the publisher in exchange for an honest review
September 24, 2019
It was interesting to have a character that seemed to be on the spectrum. Other than that just run of the mill.
Want to read
March 5, 2017I did not like Daphne in the first book - being crude without a filter is not exactly an endearing trait - however, she seems to possess some ounce of self-awareness over her failures, yet she never tries to improve her social skills, and suddenly wants a duke...I'll see if she can surprise me.
April 6, 2019
2.5 stars but I rounded up because I was feeling generous.
I haven't put my finger on the issue but this felt amateurish? If it weren't for the little bit of sex I'd venture to say it was like young adult.
I haven't put my finger on the issue but this felt amateurish? If it weren't for the little bit of sex I'd venture to say it was like young adult.
June 1, 2017
This is one of the best suspense filled regency romance series I have ever had the pleasure to read. I loved the first book in the series and was eager to read the subsequent books so grabbed the opportunity to read this, via NetGalley, with absolute delight. The background is that four bluestocking, very talented young ladies have been brought together by being the heirs to Lady Celeste who they had also never previously met. The condition for them to receive their share of their inheritance is they must live together in Beauchamp House for a year and Lady Celeste has left letters for all of them. In her letter to Lady Daphne Forsyth she challenges her to find and solve the notorious Cameron Cipher and suggests that her nephew, Dalton Beauchamp, the Duke of Maitland, could assist her in this quest. However, they aren't the only ones seeking to discover the treasure in this brilliant, action packed novel!
The characters are complex but brought to life by this talented author. Lady Daphne is one of the foremost mathematicians of her age but she struggles with social conventions - often causing offence with her honest opinions and straightforward manner. This, however, endears her to the Duke of Maitland and the attraction between them rapidly grows. However, there are distractions from their endeavours as victims of their unknown competitor include someone being murdered, another seriously injured and there's even a kidnapping. The story has plenty of twists and turns, a real page turner that had me enthralled from the very beginning. I am so impressed with this author's skill at bringing her story to life in the imagination of the reader and, although this mystery is solved, I can't wait to read future novels in this series!
Whilst you await it becoming available, I recommend reading the first novel in this series, Ready Set Rogue before this one!
The characters are complex but brought to life by this talented author. Lady Daphne is one of the foremost mathematicians of her age but she struggles with social conventions - often causing offence with her honest opinions and straightforward manner. This, however, endears her to the Duke of Maitland and the attraction between them rapidly grows. However, there are distractions from their endeavours as victims of their unknown competitor include someone being murdered, another seriously injured and there's even a kidnapping. The story has plenty of twists and turns, a real page turner that had me enthralled from the very beginning. I am so impressed with this author's skill at bringing her story to life in the imagination of the reader and, although this mystery is solved, I can't wait to read future novels in this series!
Whilst you await it becoming available, I recommend reading the first novel in this series, Ready Set Rogue before this one!
January 18, 2020
Duke with Benefits by Manda Collins is the second story in her Studies in Scandal series but the first one I’ve read by this author. My reading resolutions for 2017 included reading more historical romances and new to me authors so this accomplishes both tasks nicely, and I’m very happy with this particular choice.
Lady Daphne Forsyth is a bit of an eccentric in her social circles. A brilliant mathematician, she also has some social anxiety issues and a plain outspokenness that sometimes puts her at odds with other people. But Dalton Beauchamp, the Duke of Maitland is far from put off by her – in fact he finds her quite fascinating.
Daphne is one of four women who’ve inherited an estate from Dalton’s aunt, the late Celeste Beauchamp. Her benefactress has given Daphne clues to a mystery on the estate, the Cameron cipher Daphne wants to decode that can lead her to a treasure. But there are others also interested in this treasure, and when an old acquaintance of Daphne’s winds up dead, she and Dalton must work together to identify the killer before it’s too late. While Daphne has indicated to Dalton that she’d be interested in a sexual relationship, Dalton insists on developing their friendship first. Friends, then lovers, can they catch a killer and ensure their own happy ever after?
What a delightful romance! I loved the contrast between Daphne and Dalton’s characters. Daphne has the brains, but difficulty relating to people. She trusts few due to her upbringing, but has made friends with the other women with whom she’s inherited the estate. She also finds that she can rely on Dalton, when from one day to the next he shows her that he’s on her side, that he’s willing to help her with the puzzle of the cipher, and that he respects and approves of her using her talents. What Dalton brings to their quest is the ability to relate to people and together they can investigate the clues to solve their mystery.
Dalton is a conscientious, thoughtful and friendly man. He worries about compromising Daphne’s reputation and takes things slowly with her. While Daphne at first feels his rejection keenly, she discovers the reasons for it and is able to get past that and develop a real friendship with him that soon turns into more. Their love scenes are sensual and emotionally charged, and they are a well-matched couple.
I enjoyed how the romance plays out along with the mystery, and I’m definitely intrigued by the concept of the series and the other women who are Daphne’s friends. Duke With Benefits is an entertaining and smooth flowing historical romance with a dash of mystery and intrigue to flavor the story.
A copy of this story was provided by the publisher via NetGalley for review.
Lady Daphne Forsyth is a bit of an eccentric in her social circles. A brilliant mathematician, she also has some social anxiety issues and a plain outspokenness that sometimes puts her at odds with other people. But Dalton Beauchamp, the Duke of Maitland is far from put off by her – in fact he finds her quite fascinating.
Daphne is one of four women who’ve inherited an estate from Dalton’s aunt, the late Celeste Beauchamp. Her benefactress has given Daphne clues to a mystery on the estate, the Cameron cipher Daphne wants to decode that can lead her to a treasure. But there are others also interested in this treasure, and when an old acquaintance of Daphne’s winds up dead, she and Dalton must work together to identify the killer before it’s too late. While Daphne has indicated to Dalton that she’d be interested in a sexual relationship, Dalton insists on developing their friendship first. Friends, then lovers, can they catch a killer and ensure their own happy ever after?
What a delightful romance! I loved the contrast between Daphne and Dalton’s characters. Daphne has the brains, but difficulty relating to people. She trusts few due to her upbringing, but has made friends with the other women with whom she’s inherited the estate. She also finds that she can rely on Dalton, when from one day to the next he shows her that he’s on her side, that he’s willing to help her with the puzzle of the cipher, and that he respects and approves of her using her talents. What Dalton brings to their quest is the ability to relate to people and together they can investigate the clues to solve their mystery.
Dalton is a conscientious, thoughtful and friendly man. He worries about compromising Daphne’s reputation and takes things slowly with her. While Daphne at first feels his rejection keenly, she discovers the reasons for it and is able to get past that and develop a real friendship with him that soon turns into more. Their love scenes are sensual and emotionally charged, and they are a well-matched couple.
I enjoyed how the romance plays out along with the mystery, and I’m definitely intrigued by the concept of the series and the other women who are Daphne’s friends. Duke With Benefits is an entertaining and smooth flowing historical romance with a dash of mystery and intrigue to flavor the story.
A copy of this story was provided by the publisher via NetGalley for review.
June 6, 2017
Duke with Benefits was a fantastic read with an intriguing mystery and a romance I couldn’t help but root for!
Daphne Forsyth, a brilliant mathematician, has come to Beauchamp House to find and decode the Cameron Cipher which is said to lead to great riches. Lady Celeste has left Daphne the cipher, hidden somewhere in the library at Beauchamp House and she need only find it. As Daphne begins her search for the cipher, she is quickly waylaid by the distraction that is Dalton Beauchamp, the Duke of Maitland. Soon the two are caught up in the search for the cipher while trying to deal with the growing attraction between them. However the search quickly turns perilous when they discover someone else is looking for the cipher and they’re willing to kill to find it.
Daphne was my favorite character in the first book, Ready Set Rogue, so I was very excited to read her book. She has no filter and says exactly what she’s thinking which has a tendency to get her in trouble. She doesn’t understand most social conventions and will usually choose to avoid people if possible. Dalton is a man of honor and believes in doing the right thing. After witnessing his father’s terrible treatment of women, he vowed never to do the same. He has a wonderful relationship with the rest of his family and has a generally positive outlook on life.
Daphne and Dalton work very well together both in their quest to find the Cameron Cipher and as a couple. While Daphne can be awkward, Dalton is quite charming and deals well with people. Daphne is definitely the brains behind their operation and Dalton is more than willing to defer to her expertise. He’s fascinated by Daphne and thinks it’s amazing the way her mind works. Their chemistry is off the charts and their relationship develops wonderfully throughout the book.
The mystery of the Cameron Cipher and the treasure was a lot of fun. I love anything dealing with treasure hunts and setting one in the Regency period was like pure gold for me. I loved how none of the clues were straightforward and how Daphne was the only one able to figure them out. I also really enjoyed how the author set up who else was searching for the cipher. She does a good job at keeping you guessing and while my guess at the suspect was correct, it was still a lot of fun watching everything unfold.
Overall, I enjoyed Duke with Benefits much more than the first book in the series, Ready Set Rogue, and will definitely be continuing on with the series.
I received an advance copy from Netgalley and the publisher in exchange for an honest review.
Daphne Forsyth, a brilliant mathematician, has come to Beauchamp House to find and decode the Cameron Cipher which is said to lead to great riches. Lady Celeste has left Daphne the cipher, hidden somewhere in the library at Beauchamp House and she need only find it. As Daphne begins her search for the cipher, she is quickly waylaid by the distraction that is Dalton Beauchamp, the Duke of Maitland. Soon the two are caught up in the search for the cipher while trying to deal with the growing attraction between them. However the search quickly turns perilous when they discover someone else is looking for the cipher and they’re willing to kill to find it.
Daphne was my favorite character in the first book, Ready Set Rogue, so I was very excited to read her book. She has no filter and says exactly what she’s thinking which has a tendency to get her in trouble. She doesn’t understand most social conventions and will usually choose to avoid people if possible. Dalton is a man of honor and believes in doing the right thing. After witnessing his father’s terrible treatment of women, he vowed never to do the same. He has a wonderful relationship with the rest of his family and has a generally positive outlook on life.
Daphne and Dalton work very well together both in their quest to find the Cameron Cipher and as a couple. While Daphne can be awkward, Dalton is quite charming and deals well with people. Daphne is definitely the brains behind their operation and Dalton is more than willing to defer to her expertise. He’s fascinated by Daphne and thinks it’s amazing the way her mind works. Their chemistry is off the charts and their relationship develops wonderfully throughout the book.
The mystery of the Cameron Cipher and the treasure was a lot of fun. I love anything dealing with treasure hunts and setting one in the Regency period was like pure gold for me. I loved how none of the clues were straightforward and how Daphne was the only one able to figure them out. I also really enjoyed how the author set up who else was searching for the cipher. She does a good job at keeping you guessing and while my guess at the suspect was correct, it was still a lot of fun watching everything unfold.
Overall, I enjoyed Duke with Benefits much more than the first book in the series, Ready Set Rogue, and will definitely be continuing on with the series.
I received an advance copy from Netgalley and the publisher in exchange for an honest review.
October 6, 2021
Setting was England, after 1818. Romance with
mystery.
Allegedly murdered scholar Lady Celeste Beau-
champ willed 1/4 interest in her home/ estate to 4
female scholars: Daphne (heroine dtr of an earl),
Ivy & sisters Sophia and Gemma. Each lady had a
requirement to live at Lady C's former home at
least 1 year to keep her 1/4th interest.
"Maths"expert Daphne had numbers acumen
which her gambler father exploited her into using/
winning @cardgames for his profit.
Blunt Daphne befriended Lady C's nephew, Dalton
the hero. The 4 women sought the Cameron Riddle:
a hidden cipher noting the whereabouts of gold
hidden at the time of the Jacobite Rebellion.
Dalton to his credit, did not try to seduce the h, even
with their mutual attraction. In the Beauchamp home,
this couple discovered dead, Nigel, a man who haunted
Daphne's past. H+ H's male cous Kerr & heroine and
her friends tried to solve the murder mystery. (They
diverted the magistrate from considering h as a suspect).
Ironically there seemed to be no resolution to Lady C's
murder?!
I v. much enjoyed this couple. Dalton came across as
amusing, kind, even-tempered, and good at 'reading'
people & Daphne a know-it-all. Daphne rejoiced at
learning more about herself and others, & finally saw
her starchiness as a means of self-protection. She
validated Dalton's patience and love.
mystery.
Allegedly murdered scholar Lady Celeste Beau-
champ willed 1/4 interest in her home/ estate to 4
female scholars: Daphne (heroine dtr of an earl),
Ivy & sisters Sophia and Gemma. Each lady had a
requirement to live at Lady C's former home at
least 1 year to keep her 1/4th interest.
"Maths"expert Daphne had numbers acumen
which her gambler father exploited her into using/
winning @cardgames for his profit.
Blunt Daphne befriended Lady C's nephew, Dalton
the hero. The 4 women sought the Cameron Riddle:
a hidden cipher noting the whereabouts of gold
hidden at the time of the Jacobite Rebellion.
Dalton to his credit, did not try to seduce the h, even
with their mutual attraction. In the Beauchamp home,
this couple discovered dead, Nigel, a man who haunted
Daphne's past. H+ H's male cous Kerr & heroine and
her friends tried to solve the murder mystery. (They
diverted the magistrate from considering h as a suspect).
Ironically there seemed to be no resolution to Lady C's
murder?!
I v. much enjoyed this couple. Dalton came across as
amusing, kind, even-tempered, and good at 'reading'
people & Daphne a know-it-all. Daphne rejoiced at
learning more about herself and others, & finally saw
her starchiness as a means of self-protection. She
validated Dalton's patience and love.
June 30, 2017
The second book in the "Studies in Scandal Series" is a delightful read. I am so glad Maitland and Daphne got their own story. This story has a great mystery, a treasure hunt, murder, mayhem and a really nasty villain.
One of four young ladies to inherit an estate, Daphne is the mathematician who loves anything to do with numbers. When a cipher that will lead to lost gold is found Daphne is the only one who can solve it. She has always been an outsider to the world that she has lived in her whole life. She doesn't mean to be socially awkward but her straightforward approach tends to rub people the wrong way.
Until she meets Dalton Maitland, Dalton seems to understand her and is very attracted to her and would like to have a future with Daphne. Daphne is perfectly willing to become Dalton's lover but she has no interest in matrimony. Dalton will use all his Dukely wiles to convince Daphne to marry him.
Manda writes a fast paced exciting story that will have you reading non-stop. Her characters are wonderfully witty and intelligent. If you like adventure and a truly gorgeous love story, this is your kind of book.
One of four young ladies to inherit an estate, Daphne is the mathematician who loves anything to do with numbers. When a cipher that will lead to lost gold is found Daphne is the only one who can solve it. She has always been an outsider to the world that she has lived in her whole life. She doesn't mean to be socially awkward but her straightforward approach tends to rub people the wrong way.
Until she meets Dalton Maitland, Dalton seems to understand her and is very attracted to her and would like to have a future with Daphne. Daphne is perfectly willing to become Dalton's lover but she has no interest in matrimony. Dalton will use all his Dukely wiles to convince Daphne to marry him.
Manda writes a fast paced exciting story that will have you reading non-stop. Her characters are wonderfully witty and intelligent. If you like adventure and a truly gorgeous love story, this is your kind of book.
July 5, 2017
I always enjoy Manda Collins books. This is a new series for me, about female scholars who receive an inheritance that allows them to study their interests, and also find love in the process. Daphne is a math scholar who has trouble relating to people, but Dalton is the one man that she finds a connection to. They help solve a puzzle that people are willing to kill for. A satisfying romance with a good mystery thrown in.
Reviewed for Affaire de Coeur Magazine. http://affairedecoeur.com.
Reviewed for Affaire de Coeur Magazine. http://affairedecoeur.com.
July 31, 2017
2 helms
Please follow me on my blog :) Review originally posted on Vellum Voyages (www.vellumvoyages.com)
Damn.....I really thought I would enjoy Daphne's story :( Quite disappointed I couldn't get into it and I did try to give the book another chance by having a break and coming back to it but nope...still didn't work for me. So I skim read from 40% onwards...
Lady Daphne Forsyth is our ingenious mathematician from our group of Lady Celeste's bluestockings who live together at Beauchamp house. Daphne learns that the legendary Cameron Cipher (an encrypted message) is rumoured to be in their very library at Beauchamp house and once solved, holds the key to a treasure. Lady Celeste has entrusted Daphne to solve the mystery of this cipher with the help of her nephew, Dalton Beauchamp - the Duke of Maitland. Daphne's forthright nature and their mutual attraction was of great intrigue in the first book, and we get to see Daphne and Dalton explore their attraction further with a murder mystery and legendary treasure to help their romance along!
Daphne intrigued me immediately from the first book (Ready, Set, Rogue by Manda Collins) as I loved Daphne's forthright nature and public crudeness and it made her a very unforgettable character...but sadly my intrigue didn't last :( Admittedly, I was worried this was going to happen as unusual secondary characters really stand out to me, but once a whole book is dedicated to them, the follow through story sometimes doesn't meet my expectations and I end up disappointed. Another reason the novel didn't excite me was because this book was not that much different to the first.....Another murder mystery with a very clever, deceased match making aunt just didn't seem as plausible this time around....Felt a little unoriginal so I got bored quite early and I couldn't get out of my slump....If you are looking for a lighter romance with a mystery thrown in, then this might work for you as I'm definitely in the minority of liking "Ready Set Rogue" more than this one!
*Thank-you Manda Collins, Netgalley & St. Martin’s Press for the ARC.
Please follow me on my blog :) Review originally posted on Vellum Voyages (www.vellumvoyages.com)
Damn.....I really thought I would enjoy Daphne's story :( Quite disappointed I couldn't get into it and I did try to give the book another chance by having a break and coming back to it but nope...still didn't work for me. So I skim read from 40% onwards...
Lady Daphne Forsyth is our ingenious mathematician from our group of Lady Celeste's bluestockings who live together at Beauchamp house. Daphne learns that the legendary Cameron Cipher (an encrypted message) is rumoured to be in their very library at Beauchamp house and once solved, holds the key to a treasure. Lady Celeste has entrusted Daphne to solve the mystery of this cipher with the help of her nephew, Dalton Beauchamp - the Duke of Maitland. Daphne's forthright nature and their mutual attraction was of great intrigue in the first book, and we get to see Daphne and Dalton explore their attraction further with a murder mystery and legendary treasure to help their romance along!
Daphne intrigued me immediately from the first book (Ready, Set, Rogue by Manda Collins) as I loved Daphne's forthright nature and public crudeness and it made her a very unforgettable character...but sadly my intrigue didn't last :( Admittedly, I was worried this was going to happen as unusual secondary characters really stand out to me, but once a whole book is dedicated to them, the follow through story sometimes doesn't meet my expectations and I end up disappointed. Another reason the novel didn't excite me was because this book was not that much different to the first.....Another murder mystery with a very clever, deceased match making aunt just didn't seem as plausible this time around....Felt a little unoriginal so I got bored quite early and I couldn't get out of my slump....If you are looking for a lighter romance with a mystery thrown in, then this might work for you as I'm definitely in the minority of liking "Ready Set Rogue" more than this one!
*Thank-you Manda Collins, Netgalley & St. Martin’s Press for the ARC.
May 23, 2017
I loved this newest book in the Studies in Scandal series. I love a good mystery but take that and wrap a delicious romance around it and you've got a great five star read. Daphne is socially oblivious and a brilliant mathematician. Her blunt manner often had me laughing out loud. She and Dalton were great together. Though this book can be read as a standalone, it was so much better as a part of this series.
August 21, 2017
Duke with Benefits was a delightful read. I really like unconventional heroine, and I loved Daphne with her oddities, wit, and unusual charm. Dalton was also a likeable and charming hero, and I found by the end of the book I was quite taken with him. I also enjoyed the romance along with the mystery in equal measure. The cast of characters was a wonderful addition to the richness of the overall story
April 22, 2017
*I am voluntarily reviewing an ARC provided to me by NetGalley and the publisher*
Release Date: 6/27/17
I thought that Ready, Set, Rogue was my new favorite Manda Collins book and it was, until I read Duke with Benefits! Sorry, Ivy and Quill - Dalton and Daphne's story has taken over as my favorite!
I loved the Duke of Maitland aka Dalton in the first book, he was charming, easy going and obviously head over heels for Daphne. Daphne was a bit off-putting in the first book, not unlikable - she kind of reminded me of Temperance Brennan aka Bones - brilliant, blunt and socially oblivious - not intentionally unkind but still somewhat obnoxious.
The prologue of this book starts shortly before the end of RSR, with Daphne propositioning Dalton and him refusing her. Chapter One starts about 3 months later. Daphne has been searching for the Cameron Cipher, which leads to the stash of gold that the Cameron clan hid after the uprising. The letter that Lady Celeste left for her made it clear that she wanted Daphne to find and solve the cipher. She didn't tell any of the others about her search and reasons that Ivy didn't tell her about her quest and she assumes that Sophia and Gemma have their secrets too. So when, Nigel Sommersby, someone from Daphne's past shows up and mentions the cipher, Daphne must reveal her secret. The others are all willing to help her, but she wants to do it on her own. That is until Sommersby turns up dead and someone takes a shot at Daphne.
Dalton goes into hyper protective mode and is determined to keep Daphne safe. Dalton is the only person that Daphne truly feels comfortable with and even though his rejection still hurts her, she enjoys his company and trusts him. She accepts his offer of protection and begins to open up about her past. The more Dalton hears, the more he wants to keep her safe. So when her father shows up and demands that she leave the estate with him, Dalton claims they are betrothed.
Daphne is stunned by this announcement, but plays along knowing that her father would never turn away a duke! And Dalton convinces her that being betrothed will enable them to spend more time together searching for the cipher without damaging her reputation. What she doesn't know is that Dalton has every intention of making their pretend engagement real.
While following up on a clue, they are caught in a storm and take shelter at an inn. Once inside they are spotted together by an old acquaintance of Dalton's who is a notorious gossip. When "Pinky" makes a rude insinuation about Daphne, Dalton claims that they are married. He later tells Daphne that they must marry and she agrees, if he will be her lover. She wants to make sure that her past will not interfere with their future and makes him promise to let her go if she can't be a true wife to him.
From here the story really takes off, there are more clues, more victims, more betrayal, more steamy love scenes, an abduction, treasure and finally a very sweet HEA.
Daphne really grew as a person in this book and that was due in large part to Dalton. She isn't perfect and is still a bit socially awkward, but it comes across as more endearing than annoying. The relationship between Daphne and Dalton was perfectly paced and believable, I felt the connection between them and it was much more than lust.
I would highly recommend this book and would strongly suggest reading Ready, Set, Rogue before starting this story. It is not 100% necessary, but it will give you a better understanding of the characters and why they are all at the estate. Not to mention it is a really awesome book!
Release Date: 6/27/17
I thought that Ready, Set, Rogue was my new favorite Manda Collins book and it was, until I read Duke with Benefits! Sorry, Ivy and Quill - Dalton and Daphne's story has taken over as my favorite!
I loved the Duke of Maitland aka Dalton in the first book, he was charming, easy going and obviously head over heels for Daphne. Daphne was a bit off-putting in the first book, not unlikable - she kind of reminded me of Temperance Brennan aka Bones - brilliant, blunt and socially oblivious - not intentionally unkind but still somewhat obnoxious.
The prologue of this book starts shortly before the end of RSR, with Daphne propositioning Dalton and him refusing her. Chapter One starts about 3 months later. Daphne has been searching for the Cameron Cipher, which leads to the stash of gold that the Cameron clan hid after the uprising. The letter that Lady Celeste left for her made it clear that she wanted Daphne to find and solve the cipher. She didn't tell any of the others about her search and reasons that Ivy didn't tell her about her quest and she assumes that Sophia and Gemma have their secrets too. So when, Nigel Sommersby, someone from Daphne's past shows up and mentions the cipher, Daphne must reveal her secret. The others are all willing to help her, but she wants to do it on her own. That is until Sommersby turns up dead and someone takes a shot at Daphne.
Dalton goes into hyper protective mode and is determined to keep Daphne safe. Dalton is the only person that Daphne truly feels comfortable with and even though his rejection still hurts her, she enjoys his company and trusts him. She accepts his offer of protection and begins to open up about her past. The more Dalton hears, the more he wants to keep her safe. So when her father shows up and demands that she leave the estate with him, Dalton claims they are betrothed.
Daphne is stunned by this announcement, but plays along knowing that her father would never turn away a duke! And Dalton convinces her that being betrothed will enable them to spend more time together searching for the cipher without damaging her reputation. What she doesn't know is that Dalton has every intention of making their pretend engagement real.
While following up on a clue, they are caught in a storm and take shelter at an inn. Once inside they are spotted together by an old acquaintance of Dalton's who is a notorious gossip. When "Pinky" makes a rude insinuation about Daphne, Dalton claims that they are married. He later tells Daphne that they must marry and she agrees, if he will be her lover. She wants to make sure that her past will not interfere with their future and makes him promise to let her go if she can't be a true wife to him.
From here the story really takes off, there are more clues, more victims, more betrayal, more steamy love scenes, an abduction, treasure and finally a very sweet HEA.
Daphne really grew as a person in this book and that was due in large part to Dalton. She isn't perfect and is still a bit socially awkward, but it comes across as more endearing than annoying. The relationship between Daphne and Dalton was perfectly paced and believable, I felt the connection between them and it was much more than lust.
I would highly recommend this book and would strongly suggest reading Ready, Set, Rogue before starting this story. It is not 100% necessary, but it will give you a better understanding of the characters and why they are all at the estate. Not to mention it is a really awesome book!
June 21, 2017
Duke with Benefits is a mystery driven regency romance that I found fun and cleverly plotted. It's the second in the Studies in Scandal series, and the first book by Manda Collins that I've read. Though it is a part of a series, I had no trouble in reading this as a standalone.
The two main characters in this story; the very independent and extremely smart Daphne Forsythe and Dalton Beauchamp. The Duke of Maitland. Daphne is the daughter of an earl and a recent benefactor to a Madam Albinia and has moved into the Beauchamp house as part of her inheritance. This is where the two are brought together. These two don't have immediate chemistry, but they are attracted to each other and from that a friendship, a relationship blooms. I really enjoy their banter and Daphne's indignation at Dalton's insistence they play by the rules of society. This story is driven by Daphne's treasure hunt for the Cameron Cipher and a mysterious death of an old acquaintance of Daphne's. There's a few villainous suspects for the murder, and the same contending in the hunt for the Cipher. The riddles presented take a very clever person to unravel and it seems Daphne was chosen for the task. And lucky for Daphne, Dalton is along to assists.
The story is really very well plotted and as Daphne and Dalton get closer, and the circumstances transpire towards a more meaningful relationship, their chemistry does shine through. 4 stars and Regency Romance recommendation!
*I was gifted a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review*
The two main characters in this story; the very independent and extremely smart Daphne Forsythe and Dalton Beauchamp. The Duke of Maitland. Daphne is the daughter of an earl and a recent benefactor to a Madam Albinia and has moved into the Beauchamp house as part of her inheritance. This is where the two are brought together. These two don't have immediate chemistry, but they are attracted to each other and from that a friendship, a relationship blooms. I really enjoy their banter and Daphne's indignation at Dalton's insistence they play by the rules of society. This story is driven by Daphne's treasure hunt for the Cameron Cipher and a mysterious death of an old acquaintance of Daphne's. There's a few villainous suspects for the murder, and the same contending in the hunt for the Cipher. The riddles presented take a very clever person to unravel and it seems Daphne was chosen for the task. And lucky for Daphne, Dalton is along to assists.
The story is really very well plotted and as Daphne and Dalton get closer, and the circumstances transpire towards a more meaningful relationship, their chemistry does shine through. 4 stars and Regency Romance recommendation!
*I was gifted a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review*
July 13, 2017
Manda Collins’ Studies in Scandal series focuses on four young women brought together as co-heiresses to an eccentric bluestocking’s estate. Lady Celeste Beauchamp never met the ladies before she died but had handpicked them for their achievements in academic fields normally dominated by men. It’s an interesting premise for a series and one that worked well in the first book Ready, Set, Rogue – one of my favorites so far this year – but may have already run its course by this second story. I wanted to be wowed by Duke with Benefits and instead feel a little underwhelmed.
Lady Daphne Forsyth is a mathematical genius with a special gift for cracking codes and seeing patterns in the simplest of tasks. Being named as one of Lady Celeste’s heirs was a surprise, but not an unwelcome one, because the terms of the will requiring Daphne to reside at Beauchamp House for a year has given her the chance to escape her father’s house and his schemes to use her talents to cheat at cards. Living alongside three other women has been a learning curve for Daphne as her way with numbers doesn’t necessarily translate into a way with words. Her direct manner of speaking has managed to shock and confuse her roommates on more than one occasion and remembering to filter her responses is something she’s yet to master. The only resident of the house who accepts Daphne’s pointed approach to things is Lord Dalton Beauchamp, Duke of Maitland.
Dalton originally came to Beauchamp House at the request of his cousin the Marquess of Kerr when the man believed all the spinsters-turned-heiresses had somehow manipulated Lady Celeste (their aunt) to name them in the will. While Kerr was more aggressive in challenging the women’s claim on Beauchamp House (and managed to fall in love with his main adversary), Dalton felt that getting to know them was the better way to understand why they had been chosen. He is very quickly drawn to the beautiful Lady Daphne and is more amused than offended by her plain way of stating things. That amusement quickly changes to shock when Daphne approaches Dalton to discuss her attraction to him and suggests that they embark on a sexual relationship with each other. Unwilling to take advantage of Daphne, Dalton takes a step back from his flirtations but still wants to have Daphne in his life. Remaining at Beauchamp House gives him the chance to convince the fiercely independent woman that their mutual feelings are worth more than just a fling.
Please read the full review at Romantic Historical Reviews
Lady Daphne Forsyth is a mathematical genius with a special gift for cracking codes and seeing patterns in the simplest of tasks. Being named as one of Lady Celeste’s heirs was a surprise, but not an unwelcome one, because the terms of the will requiring Daphne to reside at Beauchamp House for a year has given her the chance to escape her father’s house and his schemes to use her talents to cheat at cards. Living alongside three other women has been a learning curve for Daphne as her way with numbers doesn’t necessarily translate into a way with words. Her direct manner of speaking has managed to shock and confuse her roommates on more than one occasion and remembering to filter her responses is something she’s yet to master. The only resident of the house who accepts Daphne’s pointed approach to things is Lord Dalton Beauchamp, Duke of Maitland.
Dalton originally came to Beauchamp House at the request of his cousin the Marquess of Kerr when the man believed all the spinsters-turned-heiresses had somehow manipulated Lady Celeste (their aunt) to name them in the will. While Kerr was more aggressive in challenging the women’s claim on Beauchamp House (and managed to fall in love with his main adversary), Dalton felt that getting to know them was the better way to understand why they had been chosen. He is very quickly drawn to the beautiful Lady Daphne and is more amused than offended by her plain way of stating things. That amusement quickly changes to shock when Daphne approaches Dalton to discuss her attraction to him and suggests that they embark on a sexual relationship with each other. Unwilling to take advantage of Daphne, Dalton takes a step back from his flirtations but still wants to have Daphne in his life. Remaining at Beauchamp House gives him the chance to convince the fiercely independent woman that their mutual feelings are worth more than just a fling.
Please read the full review at Romantic Historical Reviews
July 28, 2017
2.5 Stars
I thought I should like this. I wanted to like this. Sadly I ended up being closer to indifferent. For a better more coherent review where I speak in full sentences check out my full review on Under the Covers.
April 19, 2017
Who wouldn't want to be on the receiving end of a sexy, honorable, ducal proposal? Exactly, no one. Which is why Lady Daphne Forsyth is my new role model. She's a bit socially awkward, far more concerned about her academic pursuits, than social graces. Yet, she's caught the eye of Dalton Beauchamp, the Duke of Maitland. No academic slouch, the Duke's real talent lies in understanding people. From the very beginning Dalton finds Daphne's blunt speaking charming. Their personalities compliment each other and their passion is undeniable. Their’s is a romance laced with a bit of danger and peppered with intrigue and betrayal.
It's an entertaining story and a satisfying read.
I received an ARC of this book, via Net Galley, in exchange for a fair and honest review.
It's an entertaining story and a satisfying read.
I received an ARC of this book, via Net Galley, in exchange for a fair and honest review.
April 20, 2017
I loved Dalton's honesty, “because I couldn’t bear the thought of some rich social climber with piles of money but no appreciation for how special you are to have you.” She didn’t know what to say. And didn’t need to, because he said finally, “I did it because I wanted you for myself, Daphne. I wanted you to be mine.” Both Daphne and Dalton are both quite matter of factly people, “I’ve heard there is some pain for the lady the first time,”he said against her ear, even as he caressed over her naked skin. “I will try to be gentle, but I don’t know if once I begin I’ll be able to…”She stopped his words with a kiss." I really enjoyed this book, I loved Dalton and Daphne.
April 19, 2017
I received this from Netgalley/Publisher in exchange for an honest review. This is book two in an new series from Manda Collins. I just thought it was okay. We first meet Daphne in book one where she and four others have inherited a house that comes with some stipulations. Daphne is a little bit odd. She just speaks her mind and is little bit rough around the edges. Her man is really uptight. The story was well done but just not a fan of her.
April 16, 2017
Duke With Benefits
The second book in Manda Collin's Studies in Scandals series has a unique quality and so is not like every other Regency Romance. The novel features four young ladies, who unexpectedly inherit a country estate. Lady Celeste Beauchamp, a woman of superior intelligence, wished to enable these four bluestockings to pursue their studies without the responsibilities they have regarding their families. To make sure the ladies have this opportunity Lady Beauchamp bequeathed them her home. A manor complete with artifacts and a fabulous library.
A Duke With Benefits can read as a stand-alone, but it is entertaining to watch these four young ladies begin their relationship as strangers to each other, and develop into a loving family of their own.
The hero and heroine, Dalton Beauchamp, the Duke of Maitland and Lady Daphne Forsyth share witty dialog while trying not enjoy themselves. The passion level between Dalton and Daphne is not combustible, but it is believable. The memorable journey they share is packed with adventures, villains, dark deeds and hidden treasures. I enjoyed reading the tale of Dalton and Daphne as they earn their HEA.
The second book in Manda Collin's Studies in Scandals series has a unique quality and so is not like every other Regency Romance. The novel features four young ladies, who unexpectedly inherit a country estate. Lady Celeste Beauchamp, a woman of superior intelligence, wished to enable these four bluestockings to pursue their studies without the responsibilities they have regarding their families. To make sure the ladies have this opportunity Lady Beauchamp bequeathed them her home. A manor complete with artifacts and a fabulous library.
A Duke With Benefits can read as a stand-alone, but it is entertaining to watch these four young ladies begin their relationship as strangers to each other, and develop into a loving family of their own.
The hero and heroine, Dalton Beauchamp, the Duke of Maitland and Lady Daphne Forsyth share witty dialog while trying not enjoy themselves. The passion level between Dalton and Daphne is not combustible, but it is believable. The memorable journey they share is packed with adventures, villains, dark deeds and hidden treasures. I enjoyed reading the tale of Dalton and Daphne as they earn their HEA.
July 19, 2017
Lady Daphne Forsyth is brilliant. With Math's and puzzles. However, she has always had trouble with other people, the combination of blunt speaking and difficulty with recognising social cues has never made her very popular. However, none of that seems to bother the charming and handsome Duke of Maitland. And when they must work together to solve a mysterious cipher and with try and solve a murder at the same time, things start to heat up.I normally love a super intelligent yet socially awkward/incompetent heroine, it makes such a nice difference to the beautiful debutantes you find scattered around historical romance. I was especially intrigued by this heroine as she seemed not just to be shy and awkward but I believe that Collins was describing someone with Asperger's. And, although this can pop in heroes within the romance genre, I haven't seen many books where this is something the heroine suffers from. However, Duke with Benefits just didn't hook me in.
I tried to immerse myself in to the book, but I just wasn't that interested in Daphne and even less so in Maitland. As for the cipher mystery, it was all a bit anticlimactic. Everything was very...nice. The romance was nice. The friendships were nice. The cipher hunt plodded slowly onwards. Where was the excitement? Where was the intrigue? I don't think it was helped by the way it seemed to read as a list of events they did that day...in the morning they were in the library talking about the cipher and then the afternoon over dinner they did this and then in the evening they all spoke about that. I just didn't draw me in.
Although I have enjoyed Collin's books in the past, Duke with Benefits just didn't hit the right spot with me.
*ARC provided by publisher
Reviewed by Suzanne❤ ♡ Don't want to miss any of our posts? Subscribe to our blog by email! ♡ ❤
April 27, 2018
Duke with Benefits ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ written by Amanda Collins
(Study in Scandals #2)
While I did not read the first book of this series I did find this a throughly enjoyable romance/mystery.
Lady Daphne Forsyth is renowned mathematician she has a true passion for puzzles and alike. It is her gift that brings her to the attention of Lady Celeste. Celeste upon her untimely death bequests her estate the Beauchamp House to four great female minds. Her nephew Dalton Beauchamp upon meeting Lady Daphne is quite intrigued by her abilities and her less than proper struggles to get along with others. Although, Daphne hides a secret from them all about her once almost suffering a rape attack as she becomes close to them she reveals her circumstances.
It is the hidden cypher that truly draws the reader into the story. The cunning way both Dalton and Daphne hunt down clues and become closes and begins to fall in love. The cypher has the reader making assumption as to what the actual treasure is as well as trying to find out who is the murderer.
Here lies my disappointment in this story. Once the treasure box is uncovered we are never told of its contents. Why did the author leave us hanging.
I found the romance lovely both seemed to compliment each other even though Daphne had a long way to travel learning to interact with others. I do believe she succeeded. I received this book from Netgalley for an honest review.
(Study in Scandals #2)
While I did not read the first book of this series I did find this a throughly enjoyable romance/mystery.
Lady Daphne Forsyth is renowned mathematician she has a true passion for puzzles and alike. It is her gift that brings her to the attention of Lady Celeste. Celeste upon her untimely death bequests her estate the Beauchamp House to four great female minds. Her nephew Dalton Beauchamp upon meeting Lady Daphne is quite intrigued by her abilities and her less than proper struggles to get along with others. Although, Daphne hides a secret from them all about her once almost suffering a rape attack as she becomes close to them she reveals her circumstances.
It is the hidden cypher that truly draws the reader into the story. The cunning way both Dalton and Daphne hunt down clues and become closes and begins to fall in love. The cypher has the reader making assumption as to what the actual treasure is as well as trying to find out who is the murderer.
Here lies my disappointment in this story. Once the treasure box is uncovered we are never told of its contents. Why did the author leave us hanging.
I found the romance lovely both seemed to compliment each other even though Daphne had a long way to travel learning to interact with others. I do believe she succeeded. I received this book from Netgalley for an honest review.
April 17, 2017
I received this book from net galley for an honest review. Thank you!!
This novel was a good continuation about the next woman at the Beauchamp house that Lady Celeste gave to 4 bluestocking women who have great abilities. This novel contains romance, adventure, and mystery.
Lady Daphne Forsyth is a brilliant mathematician, but says exactly what is on her mind. This causes problem with other people due to her bluntness. She is given a cipher by Lady Celeste. She heard about this cipher in her childhood and Lady Celeste wants her to solve it and seek help from her nephew.
Dalton Beauchamp, the Duke of Maitland, has an immediate interest and attraction to Daphne. He knows he is not as intelligent as she is, but he has a way with people. When Daphne offers to have an affair with her, he turns her down.
Daphne has had a troubled childhood, involving her father. Her father used her abilities to pursue his own interests. When Daphne is confronted by a man from her past that winds up dead, it sets into motion the need to solve the mystery of the cipher Lady Celeste gave to Daphne. As Daphne and Maitland follow the clues left by his aunt, their attraction for each other grows. Maitland would do anything to protect Daphne and after meeting her father, he tells them they are betrothed to keep her safe. However, Daphne has no desire to marry. Daphne and Maitland have to keep one step ahead of others who want to have the treasure for themselves. There are potential suspects, but I did not realize who the main instigator was until this person revealed themselves. Part of the enjoyment of this novel is the mystery of the cipher and the journey to find it. When Daphne is kidnapped, will Maitland be able to save her or will the villain use her to find the treasure and destroy anyone who gets in the way?
This novel was a good continuation about the next woman at the Beauchamp house that Lady Celeste gave to 4 bluestocking women who have great abilities. This novel contains romance, adventure, and mystery.
Lady Daphne Forsyth is a brilliant mathematician, but says exactly what is on her mind. This causes problem with other people due to her bluntness. She is given a cipher by Lady Celeste. She heard about this cipher in her childhood and Lady Celeste wants her to solve it and seek help from her nephew.
Dalton Beauchamp, the Duke of Maitland, has an immediate interest and attraction to Daphne. He knows he is not as intelligent as she is, but he has a way with people. When Daphne offers to have an affair with her, he turns her down.
Daphne has had a troubled childhood, involving her father. Her father used her abilities to pursue his own interests. When Daphne is confronted by a man from her past that winds up dead, it sets into motion the need to solve the mystery of the cipher Lady Celeste gave to Daphne. As Daphne and Maitland follow the clues left by his aunt, their attraction for each other grows. Maitland would do anything to protect Daphne and after meeting her father, he tells them they are betrothed to keep her safe. However, Daphne has no desire to marry. Daphne and Maitland have to keep one step ahead of others who want to have the treasure for themselves. There are potential suspects, but I did not realize who the main instigator was until this person revealed themselves. Part of the enjoyment of this novel is the mystery of the cipher and the journey to find it. When Daphne is kidnapped, will Maitland be able to save her or will the villain use her to find the treasure and destroy anyone who gets in the way?
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