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The Cavensham Heiresses #4
The Good, the Bad, and the Duke
A lady with a noble mission. A duke looking for redemption. A forbidden love that cannot be denied…
Lady Daphne Hallworth is ready to celebrate the holidays with her family. But when they accidentally leave her home alone, Daphne uses the time to work on her dream—opening a home for unwed mothers. But her quest isn’t problem-free: She’s in a battle to win the property for the home against her brother’s best friend-turned-enemy, Paul Barstowe, Duke of Southart. And that’s not all: someone has stolen her personal diary, which holds secrets that could devastate her family. Daphne has always harbored private feelings for the man her family scorns…though perhaps striking a bargain with the handsome Duke will solve both their problems?
Paul, long considered good for nothing, aims to open a hospital to honor his brother and restore his reputation. So when a conflict over the land brings him straight into Daphne’s life, they make a deal: He will help her find her diary if Daphne can change her family’s opinion of him. But before he can win her family’s affection, he has to win hers first. Maybe love was the answer to their family feud all along?
Lady Daphne Hallworth is ready to celebrate the holidays with her family. But when they accidentally leave her home alone, Daphne uses the time to work on her dream—opening a home for unwed mothers. But her quest isn’t problem-free: She’s in a battle to win the property for the home against her brother’s best friend-turned-enemy, Paul Barstowe, Duke of Southart. And that’s not all: someone has stolen her personal diary, which holds secrets that could devastate her family. Daphne has always harbored private feelings for the man her family scorns…though perhaps striking a bargain with the handsome Duke will solve both their problems?
Paul, long considered good for nothing, aims to open a hospital to honor his brother and restore his reputation. So when a conflict over the land brings him straight into Daphne’s life, they make a deal: He will help her find her diary if Daphne can change her family’s opinion of him. But before he can win her family’s affection, he has to win hers first. Maybe love was the answer to their family feud all along?
356 pages, Mass Market Paperback
First published December 4, 2018
192 people are currently reading
708 people want to read
About the author
Janna MacGregor
30 books1,151 followersJanna MacGregor was born and raised in the bootheel of Missouri. She credits her darling mom for introducing her to the happily-ever-after world of romance novels. Janna writes stories where compelling and powerful heroines meet and fall in love with their equally matched heroes. She is the mother of triplets and lives in Kansas City with her very own dashing rogue, and two smug, but not surprisingly, perfect pugs. She loves to hear from readers.
Visit her at www.JannaMacGregor.com.
Twitter: @JannaMacGregor
Facebook: Janna MacGregor
Sign up for her newsletter at www.JannaMacGregor.com
Visit her at www.JannaMacGregor.com.
Twitter: @JannaMacGregor
Facebook: Janna MacGregor
Sign up for her newsletter at www.JannaMacGregor.com
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 375 reviews
November 24, 2018
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.
He’d been desired before, but never with that look. She thought him noble.
He stumbled back a step.
Fourth in the Cavensham Heiresses series, we finally get Paul Barstowe, the Duke of Southart's story. He is the friend of the previous heroes of the series who has become the outcast due to circumstances out of his control and of his own making. Our heroine Daphne is the younger sister to one of the previous heroes and she has always held a tendre for Paul. When Daphne ends up accidentally being home alone during Christmas time and desperately searching for her stolen diary, Paul ends up partnering her on the adventures.
Even if you haven't read the previous books in the series, there wouldn't much of a problem starting here. The author does a good job of relaying the how and why of past relationships, there would be a missed deeper connection but Daphne and Paul's relationship is the main focus of the story and that starts in this book. Paul's history is a little bit of wrong place, wrong time with some ill gotten luck, his father was cold to him and while he had a loving relationship with his brother, that brother is now deceased. His two closest friends are still wary and cold to him but since obtaining the title of Duke, he has been working hard to make something of himself.
Daphne is surrounded by happy marriages and is starting to get tired of hiding in the shadows as a way to not cause problems as she didn't want to upset anyone after her sister died. When she gets left alone, she finds it a perfect opportunity to get her life in order. I liked the premise of these two coming together, enjoyed a few flashbacks to how she and Paul interacted in their younger years but the physical attraction started immediately and was the focus throughout the vast majority of the story.
I feel like I'm beginning to notice a trend in historical romance where there is an insistence to feature blowjobs. The first one featured here isn't between the hero and heroine but the heroine's desire to watch and want and the heroine's second sexual encounter with the hero where she does the act, felt out of place in this. I, personally, read historicals for a different feel on the romance between the heroine and hero, I like the focus to be more on the words or feelings and not physical acts in the bedroom. I'm not saying this can never work for me but, here, it didn't.
I also like to read historicals for the time period feel and as Daphne and Paul never venture from about three locations, her house, a gaming hall, and his house, I couldn't even tell you within ten years when this story was supposed to take place. I like character driven stories, with the thread of wanting to find Daphne's diary, this story was mainly focused on Daphne and Paul but they never ventured from Paul finding Daphne gorgeous but constantly and morosely thinking he wasn't good enough for her and Daphne wanting Paul, with her wanting to stem only from him being nice to her when she was younger and his good looks. There was also a lot of repetitiveness, with Daphne being close to TSTL with insisting on putting herself in obviously dangerous (reputation wise) situations, Paul objecting but then eventually going along with her, so much rinse and repeat.
There just wasn't enough meat to this story to keep me actively involved, I felt like I was passively reading because all our main characters did was lust (kind of lukewarm meandering lust, at that) and our hero was a little bit of an Eeyore about how he wasn't good enough. I've read the first in the series (debut) by this author and thought she had good promise and then really enjoyed the second, but this one felt like a lackluster phone in. I do, however, find the cover to still be as gorgeous as ever.
He’d been desired before, but never with that look. She thought him noble.
He stumbled back a step.
Fourth in the Cavensham Heiresses series, we finally get Paul Barstowe, the Duke of Southart's story. He is the friend of the previous heroes of the series who has become the outcast due to circumstances out of his control and of his own making. Our heroine Daphne is the younger sister to one of the previous heroes and she has always held a tendre for Paul. When Daphne ends up accidentally being home alone during Christmas time and desperately searching for her stolen diary, Paul ends up partnering her on the adventures.
Even if you haven't read the previous books in the series, there wouldn't much of a problem starting here. The author does a good job of relaying the how and why of past relationships, there would be a missed deeper connection but Daphne and Paul's relationship is the main focus of the story and that starts in this book. Paul's history is a little bit of wrong place, wrong time with some ill gotten luck, his father was cold to him and while he had a loving relationship with his brother, that brother is now deceased. His two closest friends are still wary and cold to him but since obtaining the title of Duke, he has been working hard to make something of himself.
Daphne is surrounded by happy marriages and is starting to get tired of hiding in the shadows as a way to not cause problems as she didn't want to upset anyone after her sister died. When she gets left alone, she finds it a perfect opportunity to get her life in order. I liked the premise of these two coming together, enjoyed a few flashbacks to how she and Paul interacted in their younger years but the physical attraction started immediately and was the focus throughout the vast majority of the story.
I feel like I'm beginning to notice a trend in historical romance where there is an insistence to feature blowjobs. The first one featured here isn't between the hero and heroine but the heroine's desire to watch and want and the heroine's second sexual encounter with the hero where she does the act, felt out of place in this. I, personally, read historicals for a different feel on the romance between the heroine and hero, I like the focus to be more on the words or feelings and not physical acts in the bedroom. I'm not saying this can never work for me but, here, it didn't.
I also like to read historicals for the time period feel and as Daphne and Paul never venture from about three locations, her house, a gaming hall, and his house, I couldn't even tell you within ten years when this story was supposed to take place. I like character driven stories, with the thread of wanting to find Daphne's diary, this story was mainly focused on Daphne and Paul but they never ventured from Paul finding Daphne gorgeous but constantly and morosely thinking he wasn't good enough for her and Daphne wanting Paul, with her wanting to stem only from him being nice to her when she was younger and his good looks. There was also a lot of repetitiveness, with Daphne being close to TSTL with insisting on putting herself in obviously dangerous (reputation wise) situations, Paul objecting but then eventually going along with her, so much rinse and repeat.
There just wasn't enough meat to this story to keep me actively involved, I felt like I was passively reading because all our main characters did was lust (kind of lukewarm meandering lust, at that) and our hero was a little bit of an Eeyore about how he wasn't good enough. I've read the first in the series (debut) by this author and thought she had good promise and then really enjoyed the second, but this one felt like a lackluster phone in. I do, however, find the cover to still be as gorgeous as ever.
November 27, 2018
I was really excited for this book and while THE GOOD, THE BAD, AND THE DUKE wasn't a complete winner it had its charm. Let me start by telling you what I didn't like:
♦ Wordy and long-winded: the story was stretched out, the writing a little too descriptive and flowery for my taste and repetitive because:
♦ The hero, Paul, kept having glum inner thoughts about how he didn't deserve the heroine. He also blamed himself for things he couldn't influence, playing the martyr.
♦ The heroine, Daphne, had some very dumb ideas born from defiance. Going into a very dangerous area of London alone with an "escort" because Paul told her it would be better for her to stay away...and it wasn't only that one time. She kept doing it.
♦ Language: Now, I'm in no way a historical language pro but words like "Plus,..." instead of additionally and "full of yourself" don't feel very historical - the language felt a little to modern. Granted, we don't get any idea what era this is supposed to be set in so who knows...
♦ The hero's nickname for the heroine: Moonbeam? Really? I cringed everything he said it.
Daphne had a backbone I admired. She defended her love for the hero and stood up to her (idiotic) brother (who was the hero of Book #1). She also didn't accept that the hero kept belittling himself. She showed him his worth beyond his lineage and helped him carry the pain from his childhood with a cold father.
Paul was, despite his doomsday moods, incredibly sweet and very endearing. He was so blindsided by his love for Daphne and was ready to take on her brother, who used to be his best friend but despised him now (and I never really found out why exactly - a little more detail wouldn't have been unappreciated). I adored him for supporting her in every aspect of her life, how he made her believe in herself and taught her to deal with grief.
While I had some issues with the characters and the writing I actually enjoyed this Christmas story a lot. Janna MacGregor shows promise and I'd be happy to try another book by her!
November 18, 2018
There was more Good than Bad in this Duke…
I had something happen that has never (if my memory serves me right) happened in my romance reads. The hero getting snubbed made me cry. I suppose this was different because normally it’s the heroine that gets snubbed in my historical romance reads. In this case, the former Rake, Paul, is trying his hardest to overcome his past and turn over a new leaf. It’s a tricky one though. See, I know how hard he’s trying to be a better man. BUT, I’ve also seen him at his worst and shed a tear over his thoughtless and horrible deeds. The trials and tribulations of a romance reader…when the Rake is Reformed…forgetting the bad to see the good.
I really struggled to remember the “bad” side of Paul Barstowe, the Duke of Southart. The Paul I just met, well, he was kind of sweet. There was a real vulnerability about him that made me want to reach into the book and give him a cuddle. His past relationship with his father ruined his life. His father made him feel unloved and insignificant. Paul’s way to get back at him and gain his attention is by acting up and getting into trouble. When his older brother dies and his father weeks later, the spare ignored and forgotten son, suddenly becomes important. It’s time for Paul to make up for his past and fulfil his brother’s dying wish…become the Good Duke.
Daphne has always had a crush on her older brother’s EX best friend. That’s a huge EX considering what Paul has done in his past. Daphne always saw the best in him and hoped that one day he would find happiness. She’s had some pretty lascivious thoughts about him, and considering Daphne is such a “good” girl, there’s no way she can share those feelings with anyone, let alone him. She does write them down in a journal that she keeps close…until the day it’s stolen.
I really enjoyed The Good, the Bad, and the Duke. The characters were interesting, the storyline kept my attention from start to finish and the emotions jumped off the pages. While there were plenty of sizzling moments, these were not the only emotions that had my heart pumping. I was also extremely mad at Paul’s father's terrible parenting. And, as I mentioned above, I was also shattered by the rejection that Paul dealt with. What made it even harder, I could completely understand why they rebuffed his attempts at peace. I can be pretty unforgiving when it comes to excusing a villain’s past dastardly deeds, especially when it has hurt a previous heroine I’ve liked. In this case, I need everyone to love Paul as much as I had come to.
This series has become one of my favourites in historical romance. The characters are loving and devoted to each other and the servants show loyalty, which is always a good sign. On a side note…I really love meeting the servants in a Lord or Lady’s house, like the loyal butlers, maids and footmen. But, I don’t like reading their love stories. Don’t I sound like a snob? It’s just that I see the hours they work and the dedication to their jobs that I can’t imagine they’d have time for love. Poor buggers, I’m dooming them to living lives without love. Sorry, butler, maids and footmen…
Anyways, if you’re looking for an entertaining historical romance with plenty of sizzle, a little angst and plenty of emotion, I definitely recommend The Cavensham Heiresses. I will be back for William’s story.
Stacey is Sassy, received a complimentary copy of this story. The copy provided is not the final copy and may be subject to edits and changes.
I had something happen that has never (if my memory serves me right) happened in my romance reads. The hero getting snubbed made me cry. I suppose this was different because normally it’s the heroine that gets snubbed in my historical romance reads. In this case, the former Rake, Paul, is trying his hardest to overcome his past and turn over a new leaf. It’s a tricky one though. See, I know how hard he’s trying to be a better man. BUT, I’ve also seen him at his worst and shed a tear over his thoughtless and horrible deeds. The trials and tribulations of a romance reader…when the Rake is Reformed…forgetting the bad to see the good.
I really struggled to remember the “bad” side of Paul Barstowe, the Duke of Southart. The Paul I just met, well, he was kind of sweet. There was a real vulnerability about him that made me want to reach into the book and give him a cuddle. His past relationship with his father ruined his life. His father made him feel unloved and insignificant. Paul’s way to get back at him and gain his attention is by acting up and getting into trouble. When his older brother dies and his father weeks later, the spare ignored and forgotten son, suddenly becomes important. It’s time for Paul to make up for his past and fulfil his brother’s dying wish…become the Good Duke.
Daphne has always had a crush on her older brother’s EX best friend. That’s a huge EX considering what Paul has done in his past. Daphne always saw the best in him and hoped that one day he would find happiness. She’s had some pretty lascivious thoughts about him, and considering Daphne is such a “good” girl, there’s no way she can share those feelings with anyone, let alone him. She does write them down in a journal that she keeps close…until the day it’s stolen.
I really enjoyed The Good, the Bad, and the Duke. The characters were interesting, the storyline kept my attention from start to finish and the emotions jumped off the pages. While there were plenty of sizzling moments, these were not the only emotions that had my heart pumping. I was also extremely mad at Paul’s father's terrible parenting. And, as I mentioned above, I was also shattered by the rejection that Paul dealt with. What made it even harder, I could completely understand why they rebuffed his attempts at peace. I can be pretty unforgiving when it comes to excusing a villain’s past dastardly deeds, especially when it has hurt a previous heroine I’ve liked. In this case, I need everyone to love Paul as much as I had come to.
This series has become one of my favourites in historical romance. The characters are loving and devoted to each other and the servants show loyalty, which is always a good sign. On a side note…I really love meeting the servants in a Lord or Lady’s house, like the loyal butlers, maids and footmen. But, I don’t like reading their love stories. Don’t I sound like a snob? It’s just that I see the hours they work and the dedication to their jobs that I can’t imagine they’d have time for love. Poor buggers, I’m dooming them to living lives without love. Sorry, butler, maids and footmen…
Anyways, if you’re looking for an entertaining historical romance with plenty of sizzle, a little angst and plenty of emotion, I definitely recommend The Cavensham Heiresses. I will be back for William’s story.
Stacey is Sassy, received a complimentary copy of this story. The copy provided is not the final copy and may be subject to edits and changes.
April 27, 2021
This is an entertaining, well-written, steamy, historical romance novel. It has likable, engaging characters, a search for a stolen diary, family secrets, a heart-warming romance, and a happily ever after ending. This is an excellent addition to Ms. MacGregor's outstanding Cavensham Heiresses series, and can easily be read and enjoyed as a stand alone. The series does not have to be read in order, but is more enjoyable if it is. I have read and thoroughly enjoyed each entry in this series, and I am looking forward to reading Ms. MacGregor's next one!
November 27, 2018
The Good, the Bad, and the Duke was a wonderful read featuring a forbidden romance, a stolen diary, and the chance of forgiveness for our hero.
Lady Daphne Hallworth is ready for the Christmas season with her family, but when she’s inadvertently left behind, she decides to use the time to work on her home for unwed mothers. One day on her was to see her solicitor, her personal diary containing damning information is stolen. Then she finds out the property she bid on for her charity has a higher bid from her brother’s former best friend, Paul Barstowe, Duke of Southart. Daphne decides to strike a bargain with the man to help retrieve her diary and gain the property she seeks. In return, Daphne will help Paul fix his relationship with her family. Neither of them counted on the swift attraction between them which ups the stakes to accomplish their goals.
Following the death of her sister Daphne has strived to be the perfect daughter but as a result she became invisible, both in society and within her own family. Daphne has things she wants out of life and after receiving an inheritance she’s able to make one of those dreams, a home for unwed mothers, a reality. I admired Daphne’s determination to make her charity succeed and that she refused to give up despite the resistance to her plans.
I have to admit I was surprised that Paul was the hero in this installment as I wasn’t sure he could be redeemed after his behavior in earlier books. I’m happy that I was wrong and that we got to learn more of Paul’s history which offered insight into his earlier behavior. Paul was never shown any love by his father and the animosity in their relationship led to Paul acting out which was one of the only ways his father paid any attention to him.
Daphne and Paul’s relationship isn’t easily won due to the animosity Daphne’s family, in particular her brother and step-brother, feels for Paul. Before Daphne’s family return after leaving her behind for Christmas, their relationship is a lot smoother as there’s no one trying to push their way in. I liked the rapport that developed between them in those days and enjoyed their opening up to one another. The physical progression of their relationship was well done and the two had amazing chemistry. The physical scenes were perfectly steamy with just the right frequency throughout the book.
The plot centered around recovering Daphne’s diary was interesting and I found myself eager to learn if the pair would find the diary before the contents were made public. I really enjoyed how this plot point was wrapped up even if there was a bit of unbelievability to some aspects of it. The mending of Paul’s relationship with Pembrooke and Somerton was well done and I liked that it wasn’t easily accomplished. Couples from the prior books returned and I was happy to see the characters again as I love getting glimpses of couples after their happily ever afters.
The Good, the Bad, and the Duke ended up being a very enjoyable read and is a solid addition to the series. I’m looking forward to the fifth book’s release next year and would definitely recommend this series for anyone looking for a new historical romance series to pick up.
**I received an advance copy of this book from Netgalley and the publisher in exchange for an honest review.**
Lady Daphne Hallworth is ready for the Christmas season with her family, but when she’s inadvertently left behind, she decides to use the time to work on her home for unwed mothers. One day on her was to see her solicitor, her personal diary containing damning information is stolen. Then she finds out the property she bid on for her charity has a higher bid from her brother’s former best friend, Paul Barstowe, Duke of Southart. Daphne decides to strike a bargain with the man to help retrieve her diary and gain the property she seeks. In return, Daphne will help Paul fix his relationship with her family. Neither of them counted on the swift attraction between them which ups the stakes to accomplish their goals.
Following the death of her sister Daphne has strived to be the perfect daughter but as a result she became invisible, both in society and within her own family. Daphne has things she wants out of life and after receiving an inheritance she’s able to make one of those dreams, a home for unwed mothers, a reality. I admired Daphne’s determination to make her charity succeed and that she refused to give up despite the resistance to her plans.
I have to admit I was surprised that Paul was the hero in this installment as I wasn’t sure he could be redeemed after his behavior in earlier books. I’m happy that I was wrong and that we got to learn more of Paul’s history which offered insight into his earlier behavior. Paul was never shown any love by his father and the animosity in their relationship led to Paul acting out which was one of the only ways his father paid any attention to him.
Daphne and Paul’s relationship isn’t easily won due to the animosity Daphne’s family, in particular her brother and step-brother, feels for Paul. Before Daphne’s family return after leaving her behind for Christmas, their relationship is a lot smoother as there’s no one trying to push their way in. I liked the rapport that developed between them in those days and enjoyed their opening up to one another. The physical progression of their relationship was well done and the two had amazing chemistry. The physical scenes were perfectly steamy with just the right frequency throughout the book.
The plot centered around recovering Daphne’s diary was interesting and I found myself eager to learn if the pair would find the diary before the contents were made public. I really enjoyed how this plot point was wrapped up even if there was a bit of unbelievability to some aspects of it. The mending of Paul’s relationship with Pembrooke and Somerton was well done and I liked that it wasn’t easily accomplished. Couples from the prior books returned and I was happy to see the characters again as I love getting glimpses of couples after their happily ever afters.
The Good, the Bad, and the Duke ended up being a very enjoyable read and is a solid addition to the series. I’m looking forward to the fifth book’s release next year and would definitely recommend this series for anyone looking for a new historical romance series to pick up.
**I received an advance copy of this book from Netgalley and the publisher in exchange for an honest review.**
May 20, 2020
UPDATE: DNF, 1.5 stars
REAAAAALLY tempted to DNF at 26% ... but will give it another chance for a few more chapters
I have had a love/hate relationship with this series, all of which I've received as ARCs. Given the previous pattern, this one should have hit it out of the ballpark for me, because my opinion of each book has progressively gotten better and better—in leaps and bounds. I really disliked the first in the series, The Bad Luck Bride and DNF'd it at 25% (read my review); the second book, The Bride Who Got Lucky, I rated 3 stars, which is just short of my being glad that I read it, so still not a great rating from me (read my review); and the third book, The Luck of the Bride, was a really fantastic and emotional read—and I don't usually get emotional with my romances—and I rated it a solid 4 stars (read my review).
Given this steady increase in ratings, I was hoping/expecting this one to be a total winner ... but I'm at 26% and really tempted to DNF it. Had I purchased it, and not received it as an ARC, I'm pretty sure I would. But because I received it from the publisher, I usually feel a sense of responsibility to read a good amount of the book before giving up (as you can see, that's not always the case—case in point being Book 1).
I'm telling you though, it's been really tough for me. And I kind of don't get it, because ALL of her books have SUCH high ratings! Now I will say that Janna MacGregor (or her publisher/publisher's marketing team) is/are very good at marketing her books—they give ARCs, she makes her rounds on the book blogs, she's all over bookstagram with each new book, etc. My experience, at least with the romance community (which is where my experience lies), has always been that people are really honest about their opinions of books, whether they receive them as ARCs or not, so I guess I'm COMPLETELY out of sync with the majority of readers. Now, I checked and Book 1's rating has gone down to 3.61, but Book 2-4 all have above 4.0 ratings.
Anyway, back to Book 4, between 24-26% I was rolling my eyes so much that as I put in an update, I'm surprised they didn't fall out of my head. Now, keep in mind they have barely spoken in years—think almost a decade—and he has been the "bad guy" in previous books and although he's now trying to redeem himself, he is basically persona non grata to her family and much of society. But all of a sudden, she can see through the veneer and deep inside his soul and blah di blah. Because ... why exactly? And then his adoration of her based on a hot second ... I mean, I just can't:
Update when I finally decided to stop:
I had to, I'm sorry, I just couldn't continue on:
The above excerpt is about a quarter of the way through, after they've spent a couple of hours together (not even actually). Like I've written below/before, everything has SUCH a forced feel to it and neither of the main characters are very compelling; they both could have been, but Daphne and Paul come off as such stereotypes. And holy crap can he STOP CALLING HER MOONBEAM?!
*This review is of an ARC provided by NetGalley and the publisher in exchange for an honest review. Some changes and/or edits may be made to the final published version.
I have had a love/hate relationship with this series, all of which I've received as ARCs. Given the previous pattern, this one should have hit it out of the ballpark for me, because my opinion of each book has progressively gotten better and better—in leaps and bounds. I really disliked the first in the series, The Bad Luck Bride and DNF'd it at 25% (read my review); the second book, The Bride Who Got Lucky, I rated 3 stars, which is just short of my being glad that I read it, so still not a great rating from me (read my review); and the third book, The Luck of the Bride, was a really fantastic and emotional read—and I don't usually get emotional with my romances—and I rated it a solid 4 stars (read my review).
Given this steady increase in ratings, I was hoping/expecting this one to be a total winner ... but I'm at 26% and really tempted to DNF it. Had I purchased it, and not received it as an ARC, I'm pretty sure I would. But because I received it from the publisher, I usually feel a sense of responsibility to read a good amount of the book before giving up (as you can see, that's not always the case—case in point being Book 1).
I'm telling you though, it's been really tough for me. And I kind of don't get it, because ALL of her books have SUCH high ratings! Now I will say that Janna MacGregor (or her publisher/publisher's marketing team) is/are very good at marketing her books—they give ARCs, she makes her rounds on the book blogs, she's all over bookstagram with each new book, etc. My experience, at least with the romance community (which is where my experience lies), has always been that people are really honest about their opinions of books, whether they receive them as ARCs or not, so I guess I'm COMPLETELY out of sync with the majority of readers. Now, I checked and Book 1's rating has gone down to 3.61, but Book 2-4 all have above 4.0 ratings.
Anyway, back to Book 4, between 24-26% I was rolling my eyes so much that as I put in an update, I'm surprised they didn't fall out of my head. Now, keep in mind they have barely spoken in years—think almost a decade—and he has been the "bad guy" in previous books and although he's now trying to redeem himself, he is basically persona non grata to her family and much of society. But all of a sudden, she can see through the veneer and deep inside his soul and blah di blah. Because ... why exactly? And then his adoration of her based on a hot second ... I mean, I just can't:
Something changed between them in those minutes. Like the stars in perfect alignment, his understanding grew that they both struggled in their losses, and they shared that bond together. Only she was pure and he was nothing but wicked. God, he shouldn't soil her beauty or pureness with all the sins he'd committed.And:
She nodded once, and a soulful sigh escaped, one that reminded him she was vulnerable and alone in a big house with only Tait and his mother in attendance. All he wanted to do was gather her in his arms until whatever it was that plagued her never bothered her again.And:
"Stop saying such derogatory comments," she hissed. "You drive me mad with your cavalier attitude and the way you belittle yourself. You're so much more than that."Now, they maybe don't seem that bad on their own, but given that they're within paragraphs of each other (and these are just three examples), it's way too much for me! Chill out dude; she's not some untouchable perfect goddess and even if she were, you only just reconnected with her and have spent about an hour in her company, a quarter of which was with your tongue down her throat, so ease up there buddy, seriously.
For once, he didn't have a "cavalier" response. No, she'd rendered him speechless. She couldn't actually think of him any other way than as a scoundrel, could she?
"Let me continue, please." She lifted her chin.
Good God, "magnificent" was the only word to describe her when her pique was high."
Update when I finally decided to stop:
I had to, I'm sorry, I just couldn't continue on:
She smiled for the first time since she arrived at home, causing her face to glow.This passage is not long after he's felt jealous because she's staring at her brother's desk (instead of at him? instead of at his desk? though they're at her brother's place ... but, ummm, I don't know, that whole thing was weird).
Something shifted within him. A crack opened up, allowing a want to crawl out of the depths of his soiled soul and emerge, shaking every manacle free. He didn't recognize it at first, but it was something uncontrollable. It resembled a yearning, a hunger that could consume him, and only she could satisfy it. If desire would destroy him, then he'd relish every minute of it. A lightness released within him that he hadn't felt in ages, maybe never. Like a heavy-linked chain had loosened and he experienced freedom for the first time.
The above excerpt is about a quarter of the way through, after they've spent a couple of hours together (not even actually). Like I've written below/before, everything has SUCH a forced feel to it and neither of the main characters are very compelling; they both could have been, but Daphne and Paul come off as such stereotypes. And holy crap can he STOP CALLING HER MOONBEAM?!
*This review is of an ARC provided by NetGalley and the publisher in exchange for an honest review. Some changes and/or edits may be made to the final published version.
September 28, 2018
❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️
💋💋
Oh , I’ve waited and hoped for Paul’s redemption, and him to be seen as he truly is , not how he believes he is .
Hoped that he could earn the respect and love of a good woman , someone who would fight for him , and who would see him for the strong , honourable man I knew him to be deep down.
Janna has given him a brilliant story an adventure with his perfect partner, a feisty woman who won’t let him back down and give up , She’s awesome.
Daphne is all I wanted to see and more ,in his life .
Paul needs her , and together they make for the best so far that I’ve read in The Cavensham Heiresses romances .
A wonderful and addictive book you really won’t want to finish .
I received an advance copy of this book and chose to submit a review
💋💋
Oh , I’ve waited and hoped for Paul’s redemption, and him to be seen as he truly is , not how he believes he is .
Hoped that he could earn the respect and love of a good woman , someone who would fight for him , and who would see him for the strong , honourable man I knew him to be deep down.
Janna has given him a brilliant story an adventure with his perfect partner, a feisty woman who won’t let him back down and give up , She’s awesome.
Daphne is all I wanted to see and more ,in his life .
Paul needs her , and together they make for the best so far that I’ve read in The Cavensham Heiresses romances .
A wonderful and addictive book you really won’t want to finish .
I received an advance copy of this book and chose to submit a review
December 15, 2018
This was my first book by Janna MacGreggor. I wanted to try a book by her, because while new to the HR scene, she seems to be gaining a fair amount of popularity. I thought the story easy to read and get through, but it didn’t leave a lasting impression on me. This book included many current HR trends; such as a Duke hero, Regency setting, and headstrong and independent heroine. So if you really like what most of what has been churned out in HR lately, this is probably a good option for you. If you, on the other hand, are like me and feel like these trends have been recycled and reused beyond their expiration point and feel it is high time to reduce, then this may not be the book for you.
I thought this had stronger promise in the beginning but fizzled out some about mid-way through. There were moments of open and honest exchanges between the h&h that I enjoyed and thought it touched on themes of grief and unworthiness in an honest way, but it didn’t go far enough to leave a lasting impression or push boundaries.
Overall, a nice but forgettable read for me. I may consider reading JM if she veers into new territory, but until then, I will continue to seek the less trendy HR reads.
*I received an ARC from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
I thought this had stronger promise in the beginning but fizzled out some about mid-way through. There were moments of open and honest exchanges between the h&h that I enjoyed and thought it touched on themes of grief and unworthiness in an honest way, but it didn’t go far enough to leave a lasting impression or push boundaries.
Overall, a nice but forgettable read for me. I may consider reading JM if she veers into new territory, but until then, I will continue to seek the less trendy HR reads.
*I received an ARC from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
November 18, 2018
This was a new author for me, but I liked the synopsis and was eager to try this series.
I really liked Daphne and Paul. She wants to be independent, he wants to be accepted. They both have big hearts, lots of loyalty, and fantastic chemistry. There are so many characters and titles in this story and I pretty much gave up on all of it right away.
Plot wise, it was a bit dramatic, but enjoyable. I would have liked more conversation and less inner monologue. There was a bit of push and pull, but Daphne definitely went after what she wanted and I really liked that she did.
Overall, it was a bit longer than it maybe needed to be as things got a little repetitive; however it was easy to root for these characters. I’ll definitely be looking into the rest of the series.
**Huge thanks to St. Martin’s Paperbacks for providing the arc free of charge**
I really liked Daphne and Paul. She wants to be independent, he wants to be accepted. They both have big hearts, lots of loyalty, and fantastic chemistry. There are so many characters and titles in this story and I pretty much gave up on all of it right away.
Plot wise, it was a bit dramatic, but enjoyable. I would have liked more conversation and less inner monologue. There was a bit of push and pull, but Daphne definitely went after what she wanted and I really liked that she did.
Overall, it was a bit longer than it maybe needed to be as things got a little repetitive; however it was easy to root for these characters. I’ll definitely be looking into the rest of the series.
**Huge thanks to St. Martin’s Paperbacks for providing the arc free of charge**
October 10, 2018
3 1/2 stars. Janna MacGregor is a first time author for me and I did enjoy this book. It just took a bit for me to get invested. I loved the plot (reformed reprobates that don't feel worthy are my kryptonite) and Daphne seemed to be a woman ahead of her time. The problem being, what time? This is a personal preference, but I like to know the year/timeframe for historical reference. There was no mention of the year that I could find. Also, I found this a bit "wordy". There was so much internal dialogue and not enough interaction for me. A bit more than half way through I felt more invested in Paul and Daphne's journey and finished quickly. I will definitely read this author again.
November 27, 2018
4.5 Stars
THE GOOD, THE BAD, AND THE DUKE by Janna MacGregor is book Four in The Cavensham Heiresses series. This is the story of Daphne Hallworth and Paul Barstowe, Duke of Southart. I have read and loved the previous books in this series, but feel you can make this a standalone book if you wish to do so. Paul used to be Daphne's brother best friend but now longer and is somewhat labeled as a enemy. But Daphne always had a crush on him but she always wish the good that she saw in him would be what he shows. Paul had a very abusive uncaring father which set him on a path that didn't do good or do the right thing but when his brother dies and then shortly after his father, he strives to become a better person. But his reputation is making it hard to move forward as he would like and his growing feelings for Daphne is helping him to strive to be a better man.
This has been a great series for me and look for more to come from this author.
THE GOOD, THE BAD, AND THE DUKE by Janna MacGregor is book Four in The Cavensham Heiresses series. This is the story of Daphne Hallworth and Paul Barstowe, Duke of Southart. I have read and loved the previous books in this series, but feel you can make this a standalone book if you wish to do so. Paul used to be Daphne's brother best friend but now longer and is somewhat labeled as a enemy. But Daphne always had a crush on him but she always wish the good that she saw in him would be what he shows. Paul had a very abusive uncaring father which set him on a path that didn't do good or do the right thing but when his brother dies and then shortly after his father, he strives to become a better person. But his reputation is making it hard to move forward as he would like and his growing feelings for Daphne is helping him to strive to be a better man.
This has been a great series for me and look for more to come from this author.
November 4, 2018
Rated 3.5 - THE GOOD, THE BAD, AND THE DUKE by Janna MacGregor romps through London with another of THE CAVENSHAM HEIRESSES. This one is book four.
Upon the death of his father and his oldest brother, Lord Paul Barstowe became the Duke of Southart. Always considered the spare heir by his father, Paul feels ill-prepared and not necessarily well-received for this new station in life, due to his past transgressions. He is trying to redeem himself through a hospital charity to advance treatment of rheumatic fever for those suffering like his late brother. And by apologizing to those he offended in the past.
In Paul’s defense, his father always treated him with disrespect, which probably attributed to his devil-may-care attitude. Even after his death, his father torments him with continuous small debts just to embarrass him. What more can he do to him from his deathbed? Time will tell.
But Lady Daphne Hallworth, one of the Cavensham heiresses, knew Paul as her brother’s best friend and has special memories of his kindness to her as a young girl. Even though Paul thinks of her fondly, and is grateful for her belief in him, her family hates him and will never approve of them together.
But fate is a funny thing. When almost spinster Lady Daphne is overlooked as the family leaves for the holidays, each thinking she has gone with another, she finds herself alone in London for Christmas. Not wanting to ruin her brother’s holiday by asking him to come back for her, she decides to celebrate alone. When a young thief steals her reticule in the park, he steals more than her money. Her reputation, as well as her family’s, is in jeopardy if a certain gossip rag reporter gets his hands on her journal. This is just the beginning of the trouble she gets into with and without Paul, who tries to help her.
I picked this book for review because I do love a Regency Christmas-themed romance. It wasn’t what I expected, as I was hoping for a house party full of family and friends. I do love a reformed rake, but I just never warmed up to this one and found his obsession with his lust irritating. Even though he acted like he wanted to do right by Daphne, he did things they both might regret. I didn’t feel he put her first as much as he thought he did.
Paul is very down on himself and what he’s done in his past. He wants approval of his peers, especially since he’ll be working with them in Parliament. But he struggles with good-guy/bad-guy syndrome, always a step away from falling back into his past. He seems like a real sad sack sometimes – not the self-assured guy I thought he would be.
Daphne, on the other hand, has always been the good girl. She’s ready to do what she wants without her family’s approval. I get that she’s seeking her independence, but she pushed the boundaries, even when Paul asked her to stay out of a situation that could be her ruin. I began to doubt her good sense when she wouldn’t listen to reason. But she also has her sister’s death haunting her, which helps her sympathize with Paul.
All this sounds like a good novel, but repetitive descriptions and situations made me think it would have worked better as a novella. I’ll be curious what fans of the series think, because I think I should have been more familiar with these characters to appreciate their story more. I really wanted to like this couple, but they continued to rub me indifferent with their behavior. I think the author did a good job explaining how all the characters were related to one another, so I didn’t get lost.
The villain is extra creepy and well thought out for this time period. His nasty gossip rag entitles him to do whatever he wants without thought to anyone’s feelings. Pretty much like cyber bullying today.
A catch-me-if-you-can romance, THE GOOD, THE BAD, AND THE DUKE takes readers on a merry chase through seedy locations a lady should never tread. Their battles over good and evil often elicit a good chuckle. Good girl Daphne wants to be a little bad with the right man who hopefully can keep her out of terrible trouble. The epilogue will make you smile.
Reviewed by Dorine, courtesy of Romance Junkies. Digital copy provided by the publisher through NetGalley for an honest review.
Upon the death of his father and his oldest brother, Lord Paul Barstowe became the Duke of Southart. Always considered the spare heir by his father, Paul feels ill-prepared and not necessarily well-received for this new station in life, due to his past transgressions. He is trying to redeem himself through a hospital charity to advance treatment of rheumatic fever for those suffering like his late brother. And by apologizing to those he offended in the past.
In Paul’s defense, his father always treated him with disrespect, which probably attributed to his devil-may-care attitude. Even after his death, his father torments him with continuous small debts just to embarrass him. What more can he do to him from his deathbed? Time will tell.
But Lady Daphne Hallworth, one of the Cavensham heiresses, knew Paul as her brother’s best friend and has special memories of his kindness to her as a young girl. Even though Paul thinks of her fondly, and is grateful for her belief in him, her family hates him and will never approve of them together.
But fate is a funny thing. When almost spinster Lady Daphne is overlooked as the family leaves for the holidays, each thinking she has gone with another, she finds herself alone in London for Christmas. Not wanting to ruin her brother’s holiday by asking him to come back for her, she decides to celebrate alone. When a young thief steals her reticule in the park, he steals more than her money. Her reputation, as well as her family’s, is in jeopardy if a certain gossip rag reporter gets his hands on her journal. This is just the beginning of the trouble she gets into with and without Paul, who tries to help her.
I picked this book for review because I do love a Regency Christmas-themed romance. It wasn’t what I expected, as I was hoping for a house party full of family and friends. I do love a reformed rake, but I just never warmed up to this one and found his obsession with his lust irritating. Even though he acted like he wanted to do right by Daphne, he did things they both might regret. I didn’t feel he put her first as much as he thought he did.
Paul is very down on himself and what he’s done in his past. He wants approval of his peers, especially since he’ll be working with them in Parliament. But he struggles with good-guy/bad-guy syndrome, always a step away from falling back into his past. He seems like a real sad sack sometimes – not the self-assured guy I thought he would be.
Daphne, on the other hand, has always been the good girl. She’s ready to do what she wants without her family’s approval. I get that she’s seeking her independence, but she pushed the boundaries, even when Paul asked her to stay out of a situation that could be her ruin. I began to doubt her good sense when she wouldn’t listen to reason. But she also has her sister’s death haunting her, which helps her sympathize with Paul.
All this sounds like a good novel, but repetitive descriptions and situations made me think it would have worked better as a novella. I’ll be curious what fans of the series think, because I think I should have been more familiar with these characters to appreciate their story more. I really wanted to like this couple, but they continued to rub me indifferent with their behavior. I think the author did a good job explaining how all the characters were related to one another, so I didn’t get lost.
The villain is extra creepy and well thought out for this time period. His nasty gossip rag entitles him to do whatever he wants without thought to anyone’s feelings. Pretty much like cyber bullying today.
A catch-me-if-you-can romance, THE GOOD, THE BAD, AND THE DUKE takes readers on a merry chase through seedy locations a lady should never tread. Their battles over good and evil often elicit a good chuckle. Good girl Daphne wants to be a little bad with the right man who hopefully can keep her out of terrible trouble. The epilogue will make you smile.
Reviewed by Dorine, courtesy of Romance Junkies. Digital copy provided by the publisher through NetGalley for an honest review.
October 20, 2018
I read Janna MacGregor’s debut novel last year, and commented that the author had talent, that the opening of the book was brilliant, but that it was a little confusing when it came to all the characters.
Because I liked the description of this one, and wanted to give MacGregor’s work another try, I picked up a review copy of this, the fourth book in the series. Again, I found the author's writing to be solid, but I also had some issues with the overall structure of the book.
For me, it’s always problematic when an author provides no date for the setting of their book. Even if I’m to assume The Good, the Bad, and the Duke is set in the nineteenth century – when? Is there a George on the throne, or Victoria? Are the characters’ portraits painted, or photographed? Can they travel by train or automobile, or is the carriage still their only option? Must they write to each other, or are telegrams and telephone calls available now? Has Napoleon been disposed of? Is there a war in Crimea?
As we were given no date, I have no idea.
Again, the prologue was very well-written. However, the heroine is nine in that scene, but came across as twenty-nine. Even so, it was a sweet little scene.
We then jump forwards about a decade and a half to pick up the main body of the story, and that’s where I started getting confused. This definitely isn’t a book that can be read as a standalone. There are characters I was unfamiliar with everywhere – and their offspring. Right from the first few pages there are references to things that happened in past books that I had no idea about. If they had to be mentioned, I don’t think it should have been so early on.
After several chapters, I realised my mind was wandering. Fans of past books in this series are probably going to really enjoy this one, too.
For me, however, it couldn’t hold my attention.
Review copy provided by NetGalley.
Because I liked the description of this one, and wanted to give MacGregor’s work another try, I picked up a review copy of this, the fourth book in the series. Again, I found the author's writing to be solid, but I also had some issues with the overall structure of the book.
For me, it’s always problematic when an author provides no date for the setting of their book. Even if I’m to assume The Good, the Bad, and the Duke is set in the nineteenth century – when? Is there a George on the throne, or Victoria? Are the characters’ portraits painted, or photographed? Can they travel by train or automobile, or is the carriage still their only option? Must they write to each other, or are telegrams and telephone calls available now? Has Napoleon been disposed of? Is there a war in Crimea?
As we were given no date, I have no idea.
Again, the prologue was very well-written. However, the heroine is nine in that scene, but came across as twenty-nine. Even so, it was a sweet little scene.
We then jump forwards about a decade and a half to pick up the main body of the story, and that’s where I started getting confused. This definitely isn’t a book that can be read as a standalone. There are characters I was unfamiliar with everywhere – and their offspring. Right from the first few pages there are references to things that happened in past books that I had no idea about. If they had to be mentioned, I don’t think it should have been so early on.
After several chapters, I realised my mind was wandering. Fans of past books in this series are probably going to really enjoy this one, too.
For me, however, it couldn’t hold my attention.
Review copy provided by NetGalley.
January 2, 2019
This review was originally posted on Addicted To Romance
I haven’t had the chance to read this author before, but when her latest book “The Good, The Bad and the Duke” was released a few months ago, I knew I wanted to pick up this book and it has such a charm to its Christmas toned cover and I will admit the cover is what really drew me to the story and I love unique titles that have me intrigued and so when I saw this book at my local library, I grabbed it right up. And sometimes with new author it can take me a while to get in the mood for them but I was really in the mood to read this one last night and from the first few pages I was beyond charmed by this witty writing.
Our story begins with seeing our couple when they are close to being teenagers, and that they are friends. Daphne and Paul are our protaganists of the story. Daphne is the sister of Paul’s best friend. We see a moment between them when Paul helps save a baby bird for Daphne and from that moment they both had a great affection for each other. But then they both grew up, and the friendship between Daphne’s brother and Paul fractured and broke apart and now its forbidden for them to spend any time together. Paul made lots of mistakes when he was younger and it cost him two of his closest friends and now with his brother and father’s death, he only has one friend, a vicar who is a bit unconventional. Paul wants to bring about change in himself and in others. He wants to be a better man and to try to fix the friendships that became broke because of his actions.
The time to Christmas is drawing near, and on Christmas Eve, both her mother and her brother leave her behind on accident and she is left with one servant who stays with her to make sure nothing happens to her. While out for a short walk at the park, her handbag is stolen with her journal by a child and as she chases him through the streets of London and she ends up at a gaming club and runs into Paul. He helps her out from being caught and creating a scandal, and she invites him and his vicar friend to Christmas. Even though there is a bond between them, Daphne is loyal to her brother and her heart is torn between the desire she feels for Paul and the love and respect she has for her brother.
The Good, The Bad and the Duke was such a sweet romance that gave me laughs and filled me with happy feels. This is a story that is light and charming but also still has a solid plot line. I loved the style of sensuality that flows in and out of the story, Which is not something you always see in a regency romance and I adored the chemistry between these two. It could have been a bit more focused at times, but I found that their relationship really grew on me. We see a mix of forbidden love and friends to lovers. I enjoy the plotline of Daphne losing her journal which unless found could cause a disaster for her family. And I will admit the tension between her brother and Paul is hilarious, I got so many laughs from their interactions but we see how Daphne holds true to her heart and what she has with Paul.
Both the hero and the heroine that we see grow in this story I fell in love with. I pretty much loved both of them. Daphne has her own passions and desires and stays true to herself. She is a bit more unconventional in that she shares her sexual desires in her journal and she embraces that side of herself and isn’t ashamed of it, but with how restrictive society is she also keeps it secret from anyone but herself. We see this side of herself really come through when she reconnects with him. I loved the intimacy that develops between these two. They have a friendship and a trust, but then we see the level of desire they have for each other and it wraps you up like a blanket on a cold winter’s night.
The hero is a character that you can admire so much. He has made mistakes with gambling, women and acting rashly. But he sobers up very quickly when his brother who has never lost faith in him, has always had his back but dies of a sickness and I love that he knows he wants a change and goes about making a better world for others. To make decisions out of honor and in the need of service to others and less thinking selfishly about his desires alone.
These two make a great team together and I had a blast seeing them discover what they have together and the obstacles that have to overcome to find their happy ever after and from beginning to end I had a fun time with this book and definitely one that is full of wit, adventure and sensuality!!!
I haven’t had the chance to read this author before, but when her latest book “The Good, The Bad and the Duke” was released a few months ago, I knew I wanted to pick up this book and it has such a charm to its Christmas toned cover and I will admit the cover is what really drew me to the story and I love unique titles that have me intrigued and so when I saw this book at my local library, I grabbed it right up. And sometimes with new author it can take me a while to get in the mood for them but I was really in the mood to read this one last night and from the first few pages I was beyond charmed by this witty writing.
Our story begins with seeing our couple when they are close to being teenagers, and that they are friends. Daphne and Paul are our protaganists of the story. Daphne is the sister of Paul’s best friend. We see a moment between them when Paul helps save a baby bird for Daphne and from that moment they both had a great affection for each other. But then they both grew up, and the friendship between Daphne’s brother and Paul fractured and broke apart and now its forbidden for them to spend any time together. Paul made lots of mistakes when he was younger and it cost him two of his closest friends and now with his brother and father’s death, he only has one friend, a vicar who is a bit unconventional. Paul wants to bring about change in himself and in others. He wants to be a better man and to try to fix the friendships that became broke because of his actions.
The time to Christmas is drawing near, and on Christmas Eve, both her mother and her brother leave her behind on accident and she is left with one servant who stays with her to make sure nothing happens to her. While out for a short walk at the park, her handbag is stolen with her journal by a child and as she chases him through the streets of London and she ends up at a gaming club and runs into Paul. He helps her out from being caught and creating a scandal, and she invites him and his vicar friend to Christmas. Even though there is a bond between them, Daphne is loyal to her brother and her heart is torn between the desire she feels for Paul and the love and respect she has for her brother.
The Good, The Bad and the Duke was such a sweet romance that gave me laughs and filled me with happy feels. This is a story that is light and charming but also still has a solid plot line. I loved the style of sensuality that flows in and out of the story, Which is not something you always see in a regency romance and I adored the chemistry between these two. It could have been a bit more focused at times, but I found that their relationship really grew on me. We see a mix of forbidden love and friends to lovers. I enjoy the plotline of Daphne losing her journal which unless found could cause a disaster for her family. And I will admit the tension between her brother and Paul is hilarious, I got so many laughs from their interactions but we see how Daphne holds true to her heart and what she has with Paul.
Both the hero and the heroine that we see grow in this story I fell in love with. I pretty much loved both of them. Daphne has her own passions and desires and stays true to herself. She is a bit more unconventional in that she shares her sexual desires in her journal and she embraces that side of herself and isn’t ashamed of it, but with how restrictive society is she also keeps it secret from anyone but herself. We see this side of herself really come through when she reconnects with him. I loved the intimacy that develops between these two. They have a friendship and a trust, but then we see the level of desire they have for each other and it wraps you up like a blanket on a cold winter’s night.
The hero is a character that you can admire so much. He has made mistakes with gambling, women and acting rashly. But he sobers up very quickly when his brother who has never lost faith in him, has always had his back but dies of a sickness and I love that he knows he wants a change and goes about making a better world for others. To make decisions out of honor and in the need of service to others and less thinking selfishly about his desires alone.
These two make a great team together and I had a blast seeing them discover what they have together and the obstacles that have to overcome to find their happy ever after and from beginning to end I had a fun time with this book and definitely one that is full of wit, adventure and sensuality!!!
November 27, 2018
Scandal and love!
Lady Daphne Hallworth finds herself left behind when her mother and brother depart for different locations before joining forces for the upcoming Christmas celebrations. Each thinks that Daphne has gone with the other. Her brother's ex best friend, now worst enemy, Paul Barstowe, Duke of Southart, along with the family's delightful under butler, come to her rescue. (Both in different ways.)
I adored both these leading characters, along with some delightful and some dastardly supporting personalities.
These are two people who find themselves encouraged by each other.
Barstowe is the proverbial bad boy with the damaged heart, Daphne is a hellion who has learned to effectively efface herself so as not to make trouble.
Now, at Christmas time their world becomes larger and for Daphne more daring.
A stolen journal with scandalous secrets is the key that starts it all, at this forgiving time of the year.
A NetGalley ARC
Lady Daphne Hallworth finds herself left behind when her mother and brother depart for different locations before joining forces for the upcoming Christmas celebrations. Each thinks that Daphne has gone with the other. Her brother's ex best friend, now worst enemy, Paul Barstowe, Duke of Southart, along with the family's delightful under butler, come to her rescue. (Both in different ways.)
I adored both these leading characters, along with some delightful and some dastardly supporting personalities.
These are two people who find themselves encouraged by each other.
Barstowe is the proverbial bad boy with the damaged heart, Daphne is a hellion who has learned to effectively efface herself so as not to make trouble.
Now, at Christmas time their world becomes larger and for Daphne more daring.
A stolen journal with scandalous secrets is the key that starts it all, at this forgiving time of the year.
A NetGalley ARC
November 27, 2018
First off, I really enjoyed this book, it was warm and human and the snappy conversation and such was entertaining BUT since I have only been indulging myself in historical romance for about 3 years or less I have read pretty much only the best by authors that made the effort to stay within some semblance of historical accuracy which this novel threw aside on several occasions in the relationship scenes.
The story is great and I did not scan anything but I did roll my eyes at the way the author took great liberties and allowed our heroine and hero to behave in a manner which even someone as poorly schooled in this period as myself knew would never have been tolerated.
The main thrust of the plot is the efforts to regain a journal that was stolen from our heroine which leads to more and more contact with our hero and sparks ensue.
Our couple are both a bit damaged in their opinions of themselves and how they have lived their lives but it was not done to the point of excessive navel gazing plus there is action of some sort enough to keep you interested so with all things considered I give this one 4 Stars and a great ending to the many threads this plots develops as we go along.
The story is great and I did not scan anything but I did roll my eyes at the way the author took great liberties and allowed our heroine and hero to behave in a manner which even someone as poorly schooled in this period as myself knew would never have been tolerated.
The main thrust of the plot is the efforts to regain a journal that was stolen from our heroine which leads to more and more contact with our hero and sparks ensue.
Our couple are both a bit damaged in their opinions of themselves and how they have lived their lives but it was not done to the point of excessive navel gazing plus there is action of some sort enough to keep you interested so with all things considered I give this one 4 Stars and a great ending to the many threads this plots develops as we go along.
October 2, 2018
I've received an ebook via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
I know it’s early to be reading Christmas-related books, but really – is it ever too early to read Christmas stories? ❤️
Lady Daphne Hallworth quickly became one of my all-time favourite characters. She tried her best to be “the perfect daughter/sister/etc” and she shoved all her feelings in a diary. It actually sounds like something I would do, with the exception that I’ve tried to write a diary several times, but I always end up forgetting to write in it. I personally like to lay at night thinking about what I would write, and sometimes even say it out loud, in a whispered voice, just to put those feelings out there. So I can imagine what Daphne felt when her diary was stolen – as a result of a good action, which is even worse!
But, rest assure dear reader, she is not alone. In comes Paul Barstowe, Duke of Southart, former friend of Daphne’s brother, and her former (and current!) crush. Paul acted badly in the past and that caused him to alienate his friends, but Daphne never truly believed he was a horrible person, instead she believed he was someone who had made mistakes, but who was truly a good person (which, of course, it’s true).
Daphne is left alone at Christmas and Paul is the one that is going to make her company and help her retrieve her diary. Paul and his Moonbeam.
I loved their relationship, Paul was so sweet with Daphne, and all he wanted was to help her. Even the impediments that might have gotten in the way, it was all resolved and I loved how strong and determined Daphne was, and how Paul tried to be his best version, for himself, for Daphne and for those that now depended on him. That’s one of my favourite things about the book, Paul’s awakening to become someone… not different per se, but someone with new objectives and a different view of life and of what really matters. And that’s also what brings Daphne’s family and friends back to being friends with Paul. They see how he’s improved, and that he is trying, he’s doing his best to become better, and he deserves the vote of confidence.
After reading this book, I decided never to have a diary with me in public and, if I ever do write in a journal, to have it locked at all times, because I don’t know if I could handle the stress of losing or having it robbed, with all my private thoughts. Daphne’s fight and endurance to act the right way not just for her, but for her family and those that might be affected by what she had written, was inspiring.
The Christmas ambience helped the story’s redemption arc, and it was lovely to have the beautiful descriptions of winter and Christmas decorations. I do love a good Christmas romance.
I know it’s early to be reading Christmas-related books, but really – is it ever too early to read Christmas stories? ❤️
Lady Daphne Hallworth quickly became one of my all-time favourite characters. She tried her best to be “the perfect daughter/sister/etc” and she shoved all her feelings in a diary. It actually sounds like something I would do, with the exception that I’ve tried to write a diary several times, but I always end up forgetting to write in it. I personally like to lay at night thinking about what I would write, and sometimes even say it out loud, in a whispered voice, just to put those feelings out there. So I can imagine what Daphne felt when her diary was stolen – as a result of a good action, which is even worse!
But, rest assure dear reader, she is not alone. In comes Paul Barstowe, Duke of Southart, former friend of Daphne’s brother, and her former (and current!) crush. Paul acted badly in the past and that caused him to alienate his friends, but Daphne never truly believed he was a horrible person, instead she believed he was someone who had made mistakes, but who was truly a good person (which, of course, it’s true).
Daphne is left alone at Christmas and Paul is the one that is going to make her company and help her retrieve her diary. Paul and his Moonbeam.
I loved their relationship, Paul was so sweet with Daphne, and all he wanted was to help her. Even the impediments that might have gotten in the way, it was all resolved and I loved how strong and determined Daphne was, and how Paul tried to be his best version, for himself, for Daphne and for those that now depended on him. That’s one of my favourite things about the book, Paul’s awakening to become someone… not different per se, but someone with new objectives and a different view of life and of what really matters. And that’s also what brings Daphne’s family and friends back to being friends with Paul. They see how he’s improved, and that he is trying, he’s doing his best to become better, and he deserves the vote of confidence.
After reading this book, I decided never to have a diary with me in public and, if I ever do write in a journal, to have it locked at all times, because I don’t know if I could handle the stress of losing or having it robbed, with all my private thoughts. Daphne’s fight and endurance to act the right way not just for her, but for her family and those that might be affected by what she had written, was inspiring.
The Christmas ambience helped the story’s redemption arc, and it was lovely to have the beautiful descriptions of winter and Christmas decorations. I do love a good Christmas romance.
November 28, 2018
It can be quite a tall order to redeem a character who was a heel in an earlier book in the series - you have to make sure you don’t go overboard with the villainy if you want your readers to buy into this character becoming a hero or heroine in their own right. Janna MacGregor pulls it off very well here with Paul, Duke of Southton, a former rake now forced to amend his ways since the deaths of his father and brother landed him a title he never wanted.
Lady Daphne Hallworth always believed in Paul’s goodness, even though her brother now loathes his former best friend. So when a diary with intimate secrets which could destroy both her and her family is stolen and she has nobody else to turn to, she doesn’t hesitate to ask Paul for help. To his credit, he doesn’t hesitate either, vowing to do anything he can to protect her.
I really liked Daphne and her determination to make her own life, but to be honest I was bemused as to why there wasn’t a steady stream of suitors calling on her day and night. Yes, she’s 25, but she’s also beautiful, an heiress to some fifty thousand pounds, and connected to some of the best families in England. There’s no way a woman like that is treated as a spinster or on the shelf by anyone; there’d be desperate swains coming out of her ears. And similarly, Paul, as a duke, even one with a bad past reputation, should have young women throwing themselves at him left and right. Instead, Daphne was literally the only single, eligible female in the entire book.
If you haven’t read the previous books in the series, you might be a bit lost, because previous characters - and their children! - feature fairly heavily. On the other hand, if you have, you might struggle to recognize Paul from the character who featured as a heel in those earlier books, because he seems very different. His father treated him horribly, but even so, I always think that’s not much of an excuse to behave badly to other people, especially innocents who don’t deserve it. The Paul of this book acts with such honor you’d think he could never do anything awful ever, and he’s a perfect match for Daphne, but there’s a fair bit of soul-searching to be done first.
I did struggle a little bit with this one because there were just a few too many unlikely things all happening at once. Still, it was an enjoyable enough book to lose myself in for an afternoon. I’ll give it 4 stars.
Disclaimer: I received a copy of this book for review through NetGalley.
Lady Daphne Hallworth always believed in Paul’s goodness, even though her brother now loathes his former best friend. So when a diary with intimate secrets which could destroy both her and her family is stolen and she has nobody else to turn to, she doesn’t hesitate to ask Paul for help. To his credit, he doesn’t hesitate either, vowing to do anything he can to protect her.
I really liked Daphne and her determination to make her own life, but to be honest I was bemused as to why there wasn’t a steady stream of suitors calling on her day and night. Yes, she’s 25, but she’s also beautiful, an heiress to some fifty thousand pounds, and connected to some of the best families in England. There’s no way a woman like that is treated as a spinster or on the shelf by anyone; there’d be desperate swains coming out of her ears. And similarly, Paul, as a duke, even one with a bad past reputation, should have young women throwing themselves at him left and right. Instead, Daphne was literally the only single, eligible female in the entire book.
If you haven’t read the previous books in the series, you might be a bit lost, because previous characters - and their children! - feature fairly heavily. On the other hand, if you have, you might struggle to recognize Paul from the character who featured as a heel in those earlier books, because he seems very different. His father treated him horribly, but even so, I always think that’s not much of an excuse to behave badly to other people, especially innocents who don’t deserve it. The Paul of this book acts with such honor you’d think he could never do anything awful ever, and he’s a perfect match for Daphne, but there’s a fair bit of soul-searching to be done first.
I did struggle a little bit with this one because there were just a few too many unlikely things all happening at once. Still, it was an enjoyable enough book to lose myself in for an afternoon. I’ll give it 4 stars.
Disclaimer: I received a copy of this book for review through NetGalley.
November 27, 2018
The Good, The Bad, and The Duke is a wonderful love story that is tender and steamy and incredibly touching. Paul Barstowe, the Duke of Southart is a rogue and a gambler with a past that has left behind broken relationships, but underneath that brash exterior lies a big heart that’s left him wounded and vulnerable. Daphne has had a crush on him since she was a child, and their reunion starts off auspiciously, but the chemistry between the two is palpable. Watching their relationship develop was such a treat; each of them bears the pain of their pasts, wary of opening their hearts to another. This book is filled with an emotional intensity that is unexpected but so welcome. There are so many layers to this story, as well as to each of the characters and I found myself completely invested in what happened to them!
November 27, 2018
“Friendship is really the finest balm for the pangs of disappointed love.” –Jane Austen, Northanger Abbey
This review [**May Contains Spoilers**] features book 4 in The Cavensham Heiresses series. Rating: MA: mature audience, adult themes, explicit-graphic sex scenes between consenting adults
I LOVED book 3 ‘The Luck of the Bride.’ The Cavenshams were amazing. I loved the characters and even those returning from the previous books made me want to know more about them and their story. I was so looking forward to the next book in the series. While reading book 3, I CNPID [could-not-put-it-down], unfortunately, with book 4, I kept putting it down. That doesn’t usually happen. I could not stay with it. I’d pick it up and start at the beginning thinking I had missed something only to put it down… again. I finally gritted my teeth with a determination to finish the thing.
What I liked: the reformed rake Lord Paul Barstowe, who later became the Duke of Southart. I felt for him. His story was not a happy one. Dang!! I was so upset by his circumstances. Poor guy. We were pulled through the wringer with him in the highs and lows of his life. Then, the antics, created by the heroine, caused him any number of problems. It frustrated the time out of me. Bless his heart. I wanted to do something violent on his behalf, like shake someone [her], punch my pillow or throw my reading device. I couldn’t reach her, and since I like my device, I decided to keep it. Unfortunately, my pillow didn’t survive.
What I didn’t like: Whose story was this? I wasn’t sure and I certainly didn’t like any of these people. Especially the elder Lord Southart. That old-bastard can rot as far as I am concerned. He was evil. Then we have Lady whats-her-name. That would be the Lady Daphne Hallworth, who got on my last nerve. She’s one of those stupid-ditzy virgins that behaves in a way that puts everyone in jeopardy and then acts so innocent. She can’t think her way out of a wet-paper-bag, is blind to reason, and can’t seem to keep herself out of trouble. I wanted to shake her silly. If she had only trusted Southart to do what he promised, then they could have stayed out of trouble. But no, she had to do it her way and set that bull-dog of a reporter on her trail. What the crap was she about as she continued to go out of her way to cause a scandal?
The story-line: predictable; the resolution: telegraphed; the ending: simply fell apart. That reporter was stupid when he had the story of the century in his hands. Anyone, that knows anything about reporters, knows that once they get a whiff of a story/scandal, they become a burr you cannot shake. That fire was out too quickly for the period. Half of London would have burned down, the whole building for sure or at least the print shop. Everything felt contrived and forced. And then we have… Plausibility: what was the size of this journal anyway? How big was her reticule? Things kept pulling me from the story.
This was a crowded mess as characters from the previous books returned to make an appearance. I think it was to just remind us that they were still around. Remember, in book three, I loved these people. However, I did not enjoy their presence in this story. They were awful. Their anger and resentment flowed throughout the story creating angst as the men postured and strutted about. The only problem was it didn’t ring true. It felt contrived and forced and then, all of a sudden, was resolved and then everyone made kissy-face. No way!! I didn’t believe it for a second.
“What happens this weekend stays between us. We set the rules.” –Jayson James, Summer Escape
Don’t even get me started on the sex scenes. Man, that ticked me off even more. This little virgin/trollop was not plausible in the least. She was way too aggressive for an innocent and it was just wrong. I didn’t like her, not one bit. The scenes were just plugged in to create drama and weren’t romantic.
I think I figured out part of my dislike. I was expecting a ‘Cavensham’ story and got a relative instead. I kept waiting for the Cavenshams to appear. When one finally arrived, I was so excited. I kept thinking, OK, now the story can start. Only they were there for like five minutes. I was so frustrated. I felt cheated with this watered-down relative. Yep, I wanted Rocky Road and was given Vanilla instead. It was a tease and the story did not produce. I’m sorry.
Book 1: The Bad Luck Bride: [Clair & Alex]
Book 2: The Bride Who Got Lucky: [Emma & Nick]
Book 3: The Luck of the Bride: [March & Michael] 5-stars
Book 4: The Good, the Bad, and the Duke: [Paul & Daphne] expected pub date Nov 27, 2018
Book 5: Rogue Most Wanted: expected pub date June 25, 2019
I volunteered to read an uncorrected digital galley from the publisher via NetGalley. The views expressed are my own. Projected publication date: 27 Nov 2018.
This review [**May Contains Spoilers**] features book 4 in The Cavensham Heiresses series. Rating: MA: mature audience, adult themes, explicit-graphic sex scenes between consenting adults
I LOVED book 3 ‘The Luck of the Bride.’ The Cavenshams were amazing. I loved the characters and even those returning from the previous books made me want to know more about them and their story. I was so looking forward to the next book in the series. While reading book 3, I CNPID [could-not-put-it-down], unfortunately, with book 4, I kept putting it down. That doesn’t usually happen. I could not stay with it. I’d pick it up and start at the beginning thinking I had missed something only to put it down… again. I finally gritted my teeth with a determination to finish the thing.
What I liked: the reformed rake Lord Paul Barstowe, who later became the Duke of Southart. I felt for him. His story was not a happy one. Dang!! I was so upset by his circumstances. Poor guy. We were pulled through the wringer with him in the highs and lows of his life. Then, the antics, created by the heroine, caused him any number of problems. It frustrated the time out of me. Bless his heart. I wanted to do something violent on his behalf, like shake someone [her], punch my pillow or throw my reading device. I couldn’t reach her, and since I like my device, I decided to keep it. Unfortunately, my pillow didn’t survive.
What I didn’t like: Whose story was this? I wasn’t sure and I certainly didn’t like any of these people. Especially the elder Lord Southart. That old-bastard can rot as far as I am concerned. He was evil. Then we have Lady whats-her-name. That would be the Lady Daphne Hallworth, who got on my last nerve. She’s one of those stupid-ditzy virgins that behaves in a way that puts everyone in jeopardy and then acts so innocent. She can’t think her way out of a wet-paper-bag, is blind to reason, and can’t seem to keep herself out of trouble. I wanted to shake her silly. If she had only trusted Southart to do what he promised, then they could have stayed out of trouble. But no, she had to do it her way and set that bull-dog of a reporter on her trail. What the crap was she about as she continued to go out of her way to cause a scandal?
The story-line: predictable; the resolution: telegraphed; the ending: simply fell apart. That reporter was stupid when he had the story of the century in his hands. Anyone, that knows anything about reporters, knows that once they get a whiff of a story/scandal, they become a burr you cannot shake. That fire was out too quickly for the period. Half of London would have burned down, the whole building for sure or at least the print shop. Everything felt contrived and forced. And then we have… Plausibility: what was the size of this journal anyway? How big was her reticule? Things kept pulling me from the story.
This was a crowded mess as characters from the previous books returned to make an appearance. I think it was to just remind us that they were still around. Remember, in book three, I loved these people. However, I did not enjoy their presence in this story. They were awful. Their anger and resentment flowed throughout the story creating angst as the men postured and strutted about. The only problem was it didn’t ring true. It felt contrived and forced and then, all of a sudden, was resolved and then everyone made kissy-face. No way!! I didn’t believe it for a second.
“What happens this weekend stays between us. We set the rules.” –Jayson James, Summer Escape
Don’t even get me started on the sex scenes. Man, that ticked me off even more. This little virgin/trollop was not plausible in the least. She was way too aggressive for an innocent and it was just wrong. I didn’t like her, not one bit. The scenes were just plugged in to create drama and weren’t romantic.
I think I figured out part of my dislike. I was expecting a ‘Cavensham’ story and got a relative instead. I kept waiting for the Cavenshams to appear. When one finally arrived, I was so excited. I kept thinking, OK, now the story can start. Only they were there for like five minutes. I was so frustrated. I felt cheated with this watered-down relative. Yep, I wanted Rocky Road and was given Vanilla instead. It was a tease and the story did not produce. I’m sorry.
Book 1: The Bad Luck Bride: [Clair & Alex]
Book 2: The Bride Who Got Lucky: [Emma & Nick]
Book 3: The Luck of the Bride: [March & Michael] 5-stars
Book 4: The Good, the Bad, and the Duke: [Paul & Daphne] expected pub date Nov 27, 2018
Book 5: Rogue Most Wanted: expected pub date June 25, 2019
I volunteered to read an uncorrected digital galley from the publisher via NetGalley. The views expressed are my own. Projected publication date: 27 Nov 2018.
November 27, 2018
What a fabulous book, especially at Christmas time. This is the 4th book in The Cavensham Heiresses series, but you can read them as standalones. Lady Daphne Hallworth has loved Paul Barstowe, Duke of Southart, most of her life. He was her brother Alex’s best friend and was always kind to her. After Paul and Alex severed their ties, she still cared for Paul, no matter his reputation.
Daphne doesn’t expect to wed and plans to use her money to build a home for unwed mothers. She is going to tell her family but gets left in London as they head for their estates to celebrate Christmas. Her mother and step-father go to their estate as Alex’s family goes to his, each thinking she’s with the other. While visiting the park a boy steals her bag with her journal in it. She chases the boy, not caring about money, only getting her journal back as she has written in it for many years and many secrets. She runs into Paul and he agrees to help her get the journal back.
Paul wants to build a hospital in memory of his deceased brother and is the other bidder for the property Daphne wants. While not happy about the land, she invites Paul and his friend Devan to have Christmas dinner with her. He wants to show her he’s not the rake he once was, and they spend time together. When her family returns, Alex is furious with her for seeing Paul. She reminds him she is of age and that is all I’m saying. I won’t ruin this wonderful story and can highly recommend it!
Note: Alex’s daughter, Lady Margaret, will have him prematurely gray. I love her scenes in this book. I can’t wait for her to grow up and get her own HEA!
Daphne doesn’t expect to wed and plans to use her money to build a home for unwed mothers. She is going to tell her family but gets left in London as they head for their estates to celebrate Christmas. Her mother and step-father go to their estate as Alex’s family goes to his, each thinking she’s with the other. While visiting the park a boy steals her bag with her journal in it. She chases the boy, not caring about money, only getting her journal back as she has written in it for many years and many secrets. She runs into Paul and he agrees to help her get the journal back.
Paul wants to build a hospital in memory of his deceased brother and is the other bidder for the property Daphne wants. While not happy about the land, she invites Paul and his friend Devan to have Christmas dinner with her. He wants to show her he’s not the rake he once was, and they spend time together. When her family returns, Alex is furious with her for seeing Paul. She reminds him she is of age and that is all I’m saying. I won’t ruin this wonderful story and can highly recommend it!
Note: Alex’s daughter, Lady Margaret, will have him prematurely gray. I love her scenes in this book. I can’t wait for her to grow up and get her own HEA!
March 16, 2019
This one was absolutely my favorite of the series. I loved Paul. He was sweet and kind and should be protected at all costs. Daphne was a good heroine, I liked her in the previous books and I liked her here. But for me this book is all about Paul. I hated that he had so little self worth and was glad he had Daphne to help him realize how wonderful he is. I also loved the kitten. I really hated the nickname Moonbeam though.
December 12, 2018
**2.5 Stars**
I wanted to love this book. Just look at the cover, it’s gorgeous! This was my first novel from Janna MacGregor, and as this is the fourth book in the series, I knew I ran the risk of it not standing alone well. For the most part, I wasn’t lost and I understood, basically, how everyone was related or knew each other. Unfortunately, I spent most of the book either annoyed by the characters or their actions.
Let’s start with the positives: I loved Janna’s use of language. Her descriptions were lovely and the prose was romantic. I can see why so many people enjoy her books and I will absolutely try another one in the future. I also liked how sweet the hero was when he wasn’t super depressed.
Now for the negatives: In general, I’m usually pretty good at suspending my disbelief with historical romance. It’s absolutely fiction, but this story stretched the bounds of my belief a little far. The heroine is left home alone by accident on Christmas (a nod to the iconic holiday movie) and basically uses that as an excuse to prance around by herself the majority of the book and make poor decisions. I like how self-assured the heroine was, but honestly, some of her choices made me want to shake my head, or maybe shake her.
Since I didn’t read the previous novels in the series, I didn’t get a chance to see how “bad” the hero was before he began his redemption arc. To be honest, nothing he did seemed that bad. To me, he was a weird mix of an Eeyore (he was super depressed and had no friends) and a lothario. He switched between these two personalities abruptly, and we spent a little too much time in his head. On top of that, I never really cared about his redemption.
Overall, because I couldn’t enjoy the characters in a character driven story, I didn’t like the book. Luckily, I am in the minority with my opinions about this story. It wasn’t for me, but many, many people enjoyed it.
**I received an ARC of this book in order to provide an honest review**
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I wanted to love this book. Just look at the cover, it’s gorgeous! This was my first novel from Janna MacGregor, and as this is the fourth book in the series, I knew I ran the risk of it not standing alone well. For the most part, I wasn’t lost and I understood, basically, how everyone was related or knew each other. Unfortunately, I spent most of the book either annoyed by the characters or their actions.
Let’s start with the positives: I loved Janna’s use of language. Her descriptions were lovely and the prose was romantic. I can see why so many people enjoy her books and I will absolutely try another one in the future. I also liked how sweet the hero was when he wasn’t super depressed.
Now for the negatives: In general, I’m usually pretty good at suspending my disbelief with historical romance. It’s absolutely fiction, but this story stretched the bounds of my belief a little far. The heroine is left home alone by accident on Christmas (a nod to the iconic holiday movie) and basically uses that as an excuse to prance around by herself the majority of the book and make poor decisions. I like how self-assured the heroine was, but honestly, some of her choices made me want to shake my head, or maybe shake her.
Since I didn’t read the previous novels in the series, I didn’t get a chance to see how “bad” the hero was before he began his redemption arc. To be honest, nothing he did seemed that bad. To me, he was a weird mix of an Eeyore (he was super depressed and had no friends) and a lothario. He switched between these two personalities abruptly, and we spent a little too much time in his head. On top of that, I never really cared about his redemption.
Overall, because I couldn’t enjoy the characters in a character driven story, I didn’t like the book. Luckily, I am in the minority with my opinions about this story. It wasn’t for me, but many, many people enjoyed it.
**I received an ARC of this book in order to provide an honest review**
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October 4, 2018
A very enticing storyline from the Regency Period of England. The young Duke of Southart, Paul, is trying to deal with his grief as well as the new responsibilities of being the Duke of Southart.
His grief is from the death of his father and his brother. He is grieved. Not so much for his father but very grieved for his brother’s passing.
From his younger days he has been a free spirit whom spent his time gambling, seducing women and just generally acting poorly. But now he must reform his ways and establish himself as the Duke of Southart and thus gain respect from the community as he takes his place in society.
Then there is Lady Daphne Hallworth, a young woman who is dealing with her own grief and her own issues of society. Her sister has died and Lady Daphne is cut to her core with grief.
Both the Duke and Lady Daphne want to do something to honor their lost siblings. The Duke wants to establish a hospital to help fight the diseases that are decimating the population of England. Lady Daphne wants to open a home for unwed mothers.
The Dukes desire is “Noble,” but Lady Daphne’s desire to open this home is against all societal acceptance. But that is all the more reason to open a home.
The underlying current of the story is that Lady Daphne and the Duke of Southart have known each other their entire lives. The lady has loved the Duke the whole time. But the Duke has been blinded by his own misguided youth.
Will they both establish the charities they want to? Will they find love in each others presence? Will they be able to overcome the grief and issues of societal mistakes that seek to unravel their reputations?
The research is well done, the writing handles all the Regency decorum well and the love that grows between the two is very much true to life.
They are a few scandalous things that MacGregor includes, such as the sexual promiscuity of the time. But while that seems out of place it really isn’t. Sex has always been something that brings ruination to many a decent person.
All in all this is a delightful story, I trust you will enjoy it.
His grief is from the death of his father and his brother. He is grieved. Not so much for his father but very grieved for his brother’s passing.
From his younger days he has been a free spirit whom spent his time gambling, seducing women and just generally acting poorly. But now he must reform his ways and establish himself as the Duke of Southart and thus gain respect from the community as he takes his place in society.
Then there is Lady Daphne Hallworth, a young woman who is dealing with her own grief and her own issues of society. Her sister has died and Lady Daphne is cut to her core with grief.
Both the Duke and Lady Daphne want to do something to honor their lost siblings. The Duke wants to establish a hospital to help fight the diseases that are decimating the population of England. Lady Daphne wants to open a home for unwed mothers.
The Dukes desire is “Noble,” but Lady Daphne’s desire to open this home is against all societal acceptance. But that is all the more reason to open a home.
The underlying current of the story is that Lady Daphne and the Duke of Southart have known each other their entire lives. The lady has loved the Duke the whole time. But the Duke has been blinded by his own misguided youth.
Will they both establish the charities they want to? Will they find love in each others presence? Will they be able to overcome the grief and issues of societal mistakes that seek to unravel their reputations?
The research is well done, the writing handles all the Regency decorum well and the love that grows between the two is very much true to life.
They are a few scandalous things that MacGregor includes, such as the sexual promiscuity of the time. But while that seems out of place it really isn’t. Sex has always been something that brings ruination to many a decent person.
All in all this is a delightful story, I trust you will enjoy it.
September 21, 2018
This was another one of those stories about a Spinster. One that is not just on the Shelf but Under the Shelf by the standards of the era. I have gotten a bit tired of the Spinster storyline. These young lady's of this era were married off as very young girls. As early as 15. By 21 they were called a Spinster. At 25 You were not even thought of as a possible bride. Daphne was beautiful, rich in her own right and from a powerful rich titled family. So I didn't understand why she had to be a spinster. Why not just a young lady in her late teens to 21? That would have worked better. Then the story would have gotten 5 Stars from me.
So I guess you wonder why I gave it 4 stars. Well because I absolutely fell in love with these characters the H/H Paul Barstowe The Duke of Southart and Lady Daphne Hallsworth, Spinster! They are two lonely people who are looking for love and connection to someone or something in life. I felt there loneliness and lack of confidence in themselves. They were to very moving characters, that you will root for them to get there HEA.
Paul and Daphne have been friends since she was a very young girl. She was the sister of Paul's best friend Alex Hallsworth Marquess of Pembroke.
When Daphne is left alone and forgotten by her family at Christmas, she is rescued and reacquainted with Paul who is now the Duke of Southart. They both have common causes to help others and there romantic adventure begins. Both are lonely and alone at Christmas time.
The story is very romantic and Hot very sensual. There are surprise twist and turns. Lots of characters to come to love and you want to know more about.
The end of the story was perfect!!
I Received the ARC from The Author and St. Martins Press Publisher via Netgalley for an honest review.
This is a Very Well Done Story!!
So I guess you wonder why I gave it 4 stars. Well because I absolutely fell in love with these characters the H/H Paul Barstowe The Duke of Southart and Lady Daphne Hallsworth, Spinster! They are two lonely people who are looking for love and connection to someone or something in life. I felt there loneliness and lack of confidence in themselves. They were to very moving characters, that you will root for them to get there HEA.
Paul and Daphne have been friends since she was a very young girl. She was the sister of Paul's best friend Alex Hallsworth Marquess of Pembroke.
When Daphne is left alone and forgotten by her family at Christmas, she is rescued and reacquainted with Paul who is now the Duke of Southart. They both have common causes to help others and there romantic adventure begins. Both are lonely and alone at Christmas time.
The story is very romantic and Hot very sensual. There are surprise twist and turns. Lots of characters to come to love and you want to know more about.
The end of the story was perfect!!
I Received the ARC from The Author and St. Martins Press Publisher via Netgalley for an honest review.
This is a Very Well Done Story!!
October 7, 2018
I love this book series and I hope there will be more books. The story is about Lady Daphne Hallworth can't wait to celebrate the holiday but her family accidentally leaves her home alone. So Daphne uses the time to work on her dream of opening a home for unwed mothers. She is trying to purchase a house but her brother’s best friend-turned-enemy, Paul Barstowe, Duke of Southart wants the house too. Also, he stole her diary, which has family secrets in it as well. Paul aims to open a hospital to honor his brother and restore his reputation. So they both make a deal, he will help her find her diary if Daphne can change her family’s opinion of him. I very much enjoyed this book.
September 18, 2018
I just can't say enough about this book. I was hooked from the first page to the last. This was one of those books I couldn't put down.
You already get the gist of the story from the blurb so I don't need to go over that, I will say that this story has a gossip rag, stolen property, family secrets, mourning, learning how to deal with loss, second chances, family love, HEA and so much more.
Thank you to St Martin's Press for the chance to read an early copy.
You already get the gist of the story from the blurb so I don't need to go over that, I will say that this story has a gossip rag, stolen property, family secrets, mourning, learning how to deal with loss, second chances, family love, HEA and so much more.
Thank you to St Martin's Press for the chance to read an early copy.
October 4, 2018
I loved this book! Daphne was such a great main character, and I liked getting to see Paul slowly redeem himself. I haven't read the other books in the series, so it was hard to understand some of the family dynamics, but otherwise everything was great. I loved how passionate Daphne was, I only wish she'd kept a *little* more of her personality from her youth.
October 7, 2018
I really enjoyed reading this book. It is not your traditional historical romance. This book was captivating and a great read!
November 22, 2018
Lady Daphne Hallworth is ready to celebrate the holidays with her family at their country estate but when they accidentally leave her home alone, Daphne uses the time to work on her dream opening a home for unwed mothers. Her alone time isn’t problem-free: She’s in a battle to win the property for the home against her brother’s best friend-turned-enemy, Paul Barstowe, Duke of Southart. And an urchin has stolen her personal diary, which holds secrets that could devastate her family. Daphne has always harboured private feelings for the man her family scorns. Paul, long considered good for nothing, aims to open a hospital to honour his late brother Robbie and restore his reputation. They make a deal: He will help her find her diary if Daphne can change her family’s opinion of him.
This is the fourth book in the series, it could easily be read on its own however this debut series just keeps getting better. Paul has been portrayed as the villain in previous books but I’ve always felt he was misunderstood & wasn't given a proper chance to explain himself & I so wanted him to be redeemed. Daphne & Paul were friends when they were children & she’s always fantasised about him. He was abused as a child & his late father is still tormenting him from beyond the grave with weekly small debts that need paying. Paul wants to be a good duke but his self esteem is so low. I loved this book & found it a roller coaster of emotions, there was humour & also some parts especially a couple of letters had me reaching for the hankies. The characters have depth & the pace was good & I read into the early hours to finish it.
My honest review is for a special copy I voluntarily read
This is the fourth book in the series, it could easily be read on its own however this debut series just keeps getting better. Paul has been portrayed as the villain in previous books but I’ve always felt he was misunderstood & wasn't given a proper chance to explain himself & I so wanted him to be redeemed. Daphne & Paul were friends when they were children & she’s always fantasised about him. He was abused as a child & his late father is still tormenting him from beyond the grave with weekly small debts that need paying. Paul wants to be a good duke but his self esteem is so low. I loved this book & found it a roller coaster of emotions, there was humour & also some parts especially a couple of letters had me reaching for the hankies. The characters have depth & the pace was good & I read into the early hours to finish it.
My honest review is for a special copy I voluntarily read
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