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Rules of the Rogue #3
Let Sleeping Dukes Lie
“Strait-laced. Ruthless. Arrogant.”
Alexander Westhide, the Duke of Rakecombe has no quarrel with such faint praise as he has forever shunned marriage, women and anything remotely resembling love. Indeed, the damning words merely serve to enhance his haughty façade. But beneath the controlled demeanour lies a duke beset by tragedy, a man turbulent and restless.
“Forthright. Impudent… Capricious saucebox.”
Miss Aideen Quinlan can’t quite express why she feels the need to taunt, tease and generally annoy the Duke of Rakecombe. Maybe it was for the heart-racing spar of words that always ensued, or maybe it was to see the duke’s broad fist clench on his ebony cane, green eyes glittering.
Or maybe it was because she was unable to erase the memory of his vehement kiss…
An unlikely couple.
Torn between his world of espionage and this unquenchable passion, the duke still refuses to lower his fierce defences.
If Aideen is to capture her resistant duke’s troubled heart, it is she who must follow the Rules of the Rogue.
Resistance is futile…
A sensual Regency Romance with warmth and wit, this story also includes unpalatable chefs, a darling of the Season with a secondary love story, deadly walking canes and sheep…
Alexander Westhide, the Duke of Rakecombe has no quarrel with such faint praise as he has forever shunned marriage, women and anything remotely resembling love. Indeed, the damning words merely serve to enhance his haughty façade. But beneath the controlled demeanour lies a duke beset by tragedy, a man turbulent and restless.
“Forthright. Impudent… Capricious saucebox.”
Miss Aideen Quinlan can’t quite express why she feels the need to taunt, tease and generally annoy the Duke of Rakecombe. Maybe it was for the heart-racing spar of words that always ensued, or maybe it was to see the duke’s broad fist clench on his ebony cane, green eyes glittering.
Or maybe it was because she was unable to erase the memory of his vehement kiss…
An unlikely couple.
Torn between his world of espionage and this unquenchable passion, the duke still refuses to lower his fierce defences.
If Aideen is to capture her resistant duke’s troubled heart, it is she who must follow the Rules of the Rogue.
Resistance is futile…
A sensual Regency Romance with warmth and wit, this story also includes unpalatable chefs, a darling of the Season with a secondary love story, deadly walking canes and sheep…
282 pages, Kindle Edition
First published May 21, 2018
1392 people are currently reading
446 people want to read
About the author
Emily Windsor
21 books531 followersEmily grew up in the north of England on a diet of historical romance and strong tea.
Unfortunately, you couldn’t study Regency slang, so she did the next best thing and gained a degree in Classics and History instead. This ‘led’ to an eight-year stint in engineering.
Having left city life, she now lives in a dilapidated farmhouse where her days are spent writing, fixing the leaky roof, battling the endless vegetation and finding pictures of well-tied cravats.
For details of new releases or to get in touch, find Emily on:
https://facebook.com/AuthorEmilyWindsor
https://www.bookbub.com/authors/emily...
https://uk.pinterest.com/EmilyWindsor...
Follow her Amazon Author Page, http://amazon.com/author/emilywindsor
https://www.instagram.com/emilywindso...
Or become a 'Lady of Windsor' and sign up for Emily's newsletter: http://eepurl.com/gehNKr
Unfortunately, you couldn’t study Regency slang, so she did the next best thing and gained a degree in Classics and History instead. This ‘led’ to an eight-year stint in engineering.
Having left city life, she now lives in a dilapidated farmhouse where her days are spent writing, fixing the leaky roof, battling the endless vegetation and finding pictures of well-tied cravats.
For details of new releases or to get in touch, find Emily on:
https://facebook.com/AuthorEmilyWindsor
https://www.bookbub.com/authors/emily...
https://uk.pinterest.com/EmilyWindsor...
Follow her Amazon Author Page, http://amazon.com/author/emilywindsor
https://www.instagram.com/emilywindso...
Or become a 'Lady of Windsor' and sign up for Emily's newsletter: http://eepurl.com/gehNKr
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 175 reviews
April 19, 2020
So so good till it wasn't! A 5ish that went straight to 3.
The impudent Irish and her supercilious duke ... one of the best Unlikely Couples ever and I was panting to read their book ever since meeting them in book #1.
Their hot and cool skirmishes were titillating enough to whet any romance reader's appetite.
And they start out strong with many a thrust and parry. It's the h who's ever ready to charge and the H who coolly deflects. Perfect!
Everything was going according to plan with an intense and crackling connection, then a timely compromise, with them marrying pronto-ish, consummating even quicker but then...
The H continues with his moronic hold her at bay strategy - to save her from himself and his enemies. So tedious!
Even this over-exploited trope can be worked with, but not when you serve tedium minus any relief - the reader does have more intellect than a hamster on his wheel!
And sadly, the bedroom activities were few and far between and then not as incendiary as one would expect from these two.
So a complete downhill trajectory.
*Sigh*
The impudent Irish and her supercilious duke ... one of the best Unlikely Couples ever and I was panting to read their book ever since meeting them in book #1.
Their hot and cool skirmishes were titillating enough to whet any romance reader's appetite.
And they start out strong with many a thrust and parry. It's the h who's ever ready to charge and the H who coolly deflects. Perfect!
Everything was going according to plan with an intense and crackling connection, then a timely compromise, with them marrying pronto-ish, consummating even quicker but then...
The H continues with his moronic hold her at bay strategy - to save her from himself and his enemies. So tedious!
Even this over-exploited trope can be worked with, but not when you serve tedium minus any relief - the reader does have more intellect than a hamster on his wheel!
And sadly, the bedroom activities were few and far between and then not as incendiary as one would expect from these two.
So a complete downhill trajectory.
*Sigh*
February 9, 2024
Now this is more like it. Loved the push and pull of the characters, their fun sparring and make up sessions. The last two historical romances I read were not good. This one was entertaining, humorous and swoon-worthy. I loved Aideen and Alex. The secondary characters were just as developed. Jack was particularly fun! Clearly, time and energy were put into the historical aspects (although, I saw someone comment about the likelihood of a duke as a spy being nil). I enjoyed this romp and certainly galloped my way through it.
January 28, 2019
Yes, definitely, this is one duke who should have been left sleeping. Awake he goes from hot to cold and back again in the blink of an eye and then gets way too repetitive with both his external and internal musings. The heroine is not too bad, although she tries too hard to be different and rebellious, to live up to her name meaning "fiery". The writing is not bad, but again the term "try hard" is applicable. There are too obvious attempts to insert humour into scenes. There are too obvious attempts to insert angst and too obvious attempts to insert quirky characters. It's hard to pinpoint, but it's like I can see the seams of the different elements that the author has merged. Someone needed to go through it all with sandpaper to smooth out the joints.
April 8, 2023
Looked forward to this couple’s story. As in book 1 you could see they would make a good match. Enjoyed reading Alex and Aideen, but it got a bit boring in parts. 3.5. Stars
June 16, 2018
I couldn't put this story down. I had been waiting for Alex The Duke of Rakecombe an Miss Aideen Quilan's story and it didn't disappoint . We meet this couple in Bk 1. An Earl In Wolfs Clothing.
Alex is the stern, snobbish titled Duke and Aideen is a smart mouth shrew!! They both take jabs at each other, but when caught kissing in the Gardens at a Ball. Well Alex announces to everyone that they Aideen is to be his wife. A few days later the couple is married.
Alex is a Spy for The Crown and his sister Gwen was killed. How does he keep Aideen safe and out of his world of spies. He decides to show no interest in her and basically ignores her. Well Aideen isn't having that. The banter between the couple was brilliantly written. They are both lovable characters. They are surrounded with a wonderful, fun and interesting cast of Secondary characters. Which I hope are in the next installment of this great series "Rules of the Rogue" I enjoyed the first book and the novella in this series.
Alex is the stern, snobbish titled Duke and Aideen is a smart mouth shrew!! They both take jabs at each other, but when caught kissing in the Gardens at a Ball. Well Alex announces to everyone that they Aideen is to be his wife. A few days later the couple is married.
Alex is a Spy for The Crown and his sister Gwen was killed. How does he keep Aideen safe and out of his world of spies. He decides to show no interest in her and basically ignores her. Well Aideen isn't having that. The banter between the couple was brilliantly written. They are both lovable characters. They are surrounded with a wonderful, fun and interesting cast of Secondary characters. Which I hope are in the next installment of this great series "Rules of the Rogue" I enjoyed the first book and the novella in this series.
June 9, 2024
The spy stuff wasn't all that interesting to me.
The hero and heroine had their first kiss in the previous installment of this series and the heroine was also kidnapped in that book. I haven't read the previous book and I was able to follow this storyline just fine, but I may read the previous book just to see more scenes of these two characters.
I enjoyed the opposites-attract romance and sexual tension 🔥🔥🔥. He was kind of a cold, starchy hero (I think he wears mostly black) and she, a spitfire of a heroine. The heroine is Irish and her name means "little fire," and she's exactly what he needs in his life. He's a duke and a spy carrying a cane with secret weapons inside. His so he never wanted to get married and put someone else in danger by association. Her uncle creates spy weapons so she's familiar with them and knows how to use them to defend herself. Oh, and he has a tattoo of the letter D. Not sure if we ever got the backstory for that tattoo or what the D stands for.
When he must marry to save the heroine's reputation, he distances himself after their wedding night. He pawns his wife off on his friend, Lord Winterborne, who in turn tells her to make him jealous. It takes the hero a long time to realize that he wants a true marriage. The next day, he hands her a list of 23 rules to follow for her safety. I thought that was kind of funny.
Notable side characters:
- Lord Winterborne (H's friend/colleague): What a charmer! He provides sensible advice to the hero (mostly unwanted advice) and comedic relief. He reminds me of Barney Stinson (played by Niel Patrick Harris) from How I Met Your Mother because Winterborne has his own set of rules--Rules for Rogues (or something similar). I don't think he plans on marrying either. His book is the next installment so I'm curious to see how he falls in love. I'm hesitant to read his book because he is a spy as well and I don't enjoy reading romances with espionage. See first sentence of this review.
- The hero's mother: She's also Irish and had a love match with the hero's father. I like how she casually reminds the heroine and heroine's friend (Cordelia) that they needn't marry and can travel to Egypt with her.
- Cordelia (h's friend): Sheltered by her mother and the diamond of the season. Engaged to a lord (forgot his name) who only kisses her on the forehead. There's a minor secondary romance between her and her fiance.
Other things:
- Each chapter begins with a quote. My favorite is from Chapter 19.
God defend me from my friends; from enemies I can defend myself.
- Sex
- Grand declaration of love at the end.
The hero and heroine had their first kiss in the previous installment of this series and the heroine was also kidnapped in that book. I haven't read the previous book and I was able to follow this storyline just fine, but I may read the previous book just to see more scenes of these two characters.
I enjoyed the opposites-attract romance and sexual tension 🔥🔥🔥. He was kind of a cold, starchy hero (I think he wears mostly black) and she, a spitfire of a heroine. The heroine is Irish and her name means "little fire," and she's exactly what he needs in his life. He's a duke and a spy carrying a cane with secret weapons inside. His so he never wanted to get married and put someone else in danger by association. Her uncle creates spy weapons so she's familiar with them and knows how to use them to defend herself. Oh, and he has a tattoo of the letter D. Not sure if we ever got the backstory for that tattoo or what the D stands for.
When he must marry to save the heroine's reputation, he distances himself after their wedding night. He pawns his wife off on his friend, Lord Winterborne, who in turn tells her to make him jealous. It takes the hero a long time to realize that he wants a true marriage. The next day, he hands her a list of 23 rules to follow for her safety. I thought that was kind of funny.
Notable side characters:
- Lord Winterborne (H's friend/colleague): What a charmer! He provides sensible advice to the hero (mostly unwanted advice) and comedic relief. He reminds me of Barney Stinson (played by Niel Patrick Harris) from How I Met Your Mother because Winterborne has his own set of rules--Rules for Rogues (or something similar). I don't think he plans on marrying either. His book is the next installment so I'm curious to see how he falls in love. I'm hesitant to read his book because he is a spy as well and I don't enjoy reading romances with espionage. See first sentence of this review.
- The hero's mother: She's also Irish and had a love match with the hero's father. I like how she casually reminds the heroine and heroine's friend (Cordelia) that they needn't marry and can travel to Egypt with her.
- Cordelia (h's friend): Sheltered by her mother and the diamond of the season. Engaged to a lord (forgot his name) who only kisses her on the forehead. There's a minor secondary romance between her and her fiance.
Other things:
- Each chapter begins with a quote. My favorite is from Chapter 19.
God defend me from my friends; from enemies I can defend myself.
- Sex
- Grand declaration of love at the end.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
May 18, 2018
Alexander Westhide, Duke of Rakecombe and Aideen Quinlan met in the previous book, when Alex saved her from a French kidnapper - they shared a kiss and he walked away.
Now almost a year later, they meet again and the passion is still simmering. Alex does not have time for a relationship, with Napoleon on the loose and possible traitors in the home office, he can't lose his focus. And even if he could - he won't. Aileen is a firebrand and not at all suitable for the position of duchess, even if he did want to marry, which he doesn't!
Aileen cannot forget the priggish duke that saved her, kissed her and then left without a backward glance. He is pompous, arrogant, priggish and not at all her type. But she wouldn't mind another kiss or two. When he sneaks up on her in the gardens of the ball she is attending, they trade taunts and she leaves.
The next day, she learns her dear friend Cordelia is being blackmailed and hatches a plan. Alex and Aideen meet again at the Gibbon's ball - in Lady Gibbon's bedchamber - they are each searching for information and share another kiss while hiding from Lady Gibbon. Alex leaves her again - but has forgotten his cane. Aideen holds it hostage and forces another meeting.
When they are caught in a compromising situation, Alex informs his mother that he came to the musicale to select his wife - Aideen.
They marry, but events in Alex's past prevent him from letting Aideen get too close - he tries to push her away, but she is no delicate flower and refuses to let him. She loves him and will find a way to win his heart. But when Alex becomes over protective and shuts down, she realizes, he doesn't need her and decides maybe it is time to go home to Ireland.
Alex will have to have to conquer his demons and make a grand gesture to win back his duchess. But old fears are holding him tight and his hesitation may cost him the love of his life.
This was another fabulous book by Ms. Windsor, the writing is wonderful, the characters entertaining, the love scenes steamy-ish, there is witty banter, incredible secondary characters (his mother and Jack are flat out hilarious), a secondary romance that in no way interferes or detracts from Alex & Aideen, some action, some heartache and finally an absolutely amazing ending complete with an epilogue.
This is the second book in the series and reading them in order would be best, but not necessary to enjoy this story.
*I am voluntarily leaving a review for an eARC that was provided to me*
Now almost a year later, they meet again and the passion is still simmering. Alex does not have time for a relationship, with Napoleon on the loose and possible traitors in the home office, he can't lose his focus. And even if he could - he won't. Aileen is a firebrand and not at all suitable for the position of duchess, even if he did want to marry, which he doesn't!
Aileen cannot forget the priggish duke that saved her, kissed her and then left without a backward glance. He is pompous, arrogant, priggish and not at all her type. But she wouldn't mind another kiss or two. When he sneaks up on her in the gardens of the ball she is attending, they trade taunts and she leaves.
The next day, she learns her dear friend Cordelia is being blackmailed and hatches a plan. Alex and Aideen meet again at the Gibbon's ball - in Lady Gibbon's bedchamber - they are each searching for information and share another kiss while hiding from Lady Gibbon. Alex leaves her again - but has forgotten his cane. Aideen holds it hostage and forces another meeting.
When they are caught in a compromising situation, Alex informs his mother that he came to the musicale to select his wife - Aideen.
They marry, but events in Alex's past prevent him from letting Aideen get too close - he tries to push her away, but she is no delicate flower and refuses to let him. She loves him and will find a way to win his heart. But when Alex becomes over protective and shuts down, she realizes, he doesn't need her and decides maybe it is time to go home to Ireland.
Alex will have to have to conquer his demons and make a grand gesture to win back his duchess. But old fears are holding him tight and his hesitation may cost him the love of his life.
This was another fabulous book by Ms. Windsor, the writing is wonderful, the characters entertaining, the love scenes steamy-ish, there is witty banter, incredible secondary characters (his mother and Jack are flat out hilarious), a secondary romance that in no way interferes or detracts from Alex & Aideen, some action, some heartache and finally an absolutely amazing ending complete with an epilogue.
This is the second book in the series and reading them in order would be best, but not necessary to enjoy this story.
*I am voluntarily leaving a review for an eARC that was provided to me*
December 8, 2025
I knew I was going to like this book
I liked them since they were secondary characters.
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🕮⋆˚࿔✎𓂃 𝐣𝐨𝐢𝐧 𝐦𝐲 𝐜𝐨𝐦𝐦𝐮𝐧𝐢𝐭𝐲 𝐟𝐨𝐫 𝐦𝐲 𝐟𝐮𝐥𝐥 𝐫𝐞𝐯𝐢𝐞𝐰
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I liked them since they were secondary characters.
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🕮⋆˚࿔✎𓂃 𝐣𝐨𝐢𝐧 𝐦𝐲 𝐜𝐨𝐦𝐦𝐮𝐧𝐢𝐭𝐲 𝐟𝐨𝐫 𝐦𝐲 𝐟𝐮𝐥𝐥 𝐫𝐞𝐯𝐢𝐞𝐰
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April 30, 2020
This was a really cute and fun book. The humor of the book reminded me a bit of Miranda Davis's writing. So if you are a fan of hers, you might like this one. There was a lot of cant used and sometimes I struggled to understand what was being said, but overall I really enjoyed this NTM author. Contemplating the backlist, like I don't have the Kilimanjaro of a TBR already, but you can never have enough books. I liked Aileen and Alex, but Jack is a scene stealer and kept us entertained and half in love with him for most of the book...at least with his facade and his 32 rules for rakes. Glad his book is already out for me to grab. This is somewhat off the beaten path for historical romances, so if that is what you are looking for, give EW a shot.
August 11, 2018
2.5 stars.
This wasn't terrible, but neither was it memorable. It was told in the enjoyable style that I've come to expect from Ms. Windsor, but this story lacked something since I found myself a bit bored. Other than the utter lack of OP drama, this was filled with cliches. I appreciate an H who wasn't a manho, with only one small reference to his past, and an h who wasn't a doormat. Other than those two details, there wasn't much to set this apart from other books in this genre.
This wasn't terrible, but neither was it memorable. It was told in the enjoyable style that I've come to expect from Ms. Windsor, but this story lacked something since I found myself a bit bored. Other than the utter lack of OP drama, this was filled with cliches. I appreciate an H who wasn't a manho, with only one small reference to his past, and an h who wasn't a doormat. Other than those two details, there wasn't much to set this apart from other books in this genre.
May 21, 2018
This is the first book I have read my Emily Windsor and it is a marvellous introduction to her work. Let Sleeping Dukes Lie is book two in the ‘Rules of the Rogues’ Series, I didn’t read book one I found that didn’t affect my reading of this one. I read it very much as a stand-a-lone, and because of Ms Windsor’s articulated writing there are mentions of the first book’s story line, so I felt that I could very easily follow the series.
After a kidnapping month’s before, which brought Aideen Quinlan to the attention of the sinfully handsome; Alexander Westhide, the Duke of Rakecombe. Now she is back in her old life again going about her everyday business and yet the she can’t get the alluring and infuriating Rakecombe out of her mind, and worse still is that whenever she seems to think about him, there he is purposely riling her.
Aideen is a real firecracker, not averse to speaking her mind, strong, resourceful, fierce and very witty. The spark between her and Alexander when they are bantering is electric. She is also woman after my own heart, I love the scene when she is talking to Alexander and she says – that as long as there is lobster patties and scotch eggs at a party she is oblivious to what is going on. Very funny, I love it!
Spy to the crown; Alexander over the years has become cold and jaded, he has darkness and tragedy that has kept hold of him and so far, has been unwillingly to let go. Months earlier he saved beautiful Aideen and now he can’t get the woman with the sensual eyes out of his mind, but Alexander has been given a job by is handler. There is a traitor in their midst, and it is up to Alexander and junior agent; Jack Winterbourne to uncover who it is and stop them. But they don’t count on the twist and turns and shock that await them in their investigation.
Oh, my word! Rakecombe, what a character, I have always been drawn to a pair of sizzlingly sexy green eyes, but this man just blows your mind with just how devastatingly sexy he is. Beautiful, tormented, sinful, superior intelligent and highly protective. definitely the dominant male in the wolf pack, or maybe he is the lone wolf that doesn’t need or want a pack? And yet what an incredible turn around in him in the ending, leaping from the port on to a moving boat just to claim his woman…Swooning!
I found Ms Windsor’s writing to be smart and sassy, and I am looking forward to reading or from this author. The way she grabs your attention with every scene with your senses is wonderful. Not only describing what the characters are seeing but the aromas, what they hear and taste it makes very vivid and enjoyable reading. The plot is fast and intriguing, it’s fast and fluid I particularly liked the bantering between the character’s it’s fun and witty with some laugh out loud moments. There is a sexiness and a sweetness to this book, it promises of more to come.
I really enjoyed it, it has rogues, spies and dangerous, double-dealing with thrilling twists, spicy heroines and flawed heroes it all makes a page-turning engrossing story.
After a kidnapping month’s before, which brought Aideen Quinlan to the attention of the sinfully handsome; Alexander Westhide, the Duke of Rakecombe. Now she is back in her old life again going about her everyday business and yet the she can’t get the alluring and infuriating Rakecombe out of her mind, and worse still is that whenever she seems to think about him, there he is purposely riling her.
Aideen is a real firecracker, not averse to speaking her mind, strong, resourceful, fierce and very witty. The spark between her and Alexander when they are bantering is electric. She is also woman after my own heart, I love the scene when she is talking to Alexander and she says – that as long as there is lobster patties and scotch eggs at a party she is oblivious to what is going on. Very funny, I love it!
Spy to the crown; Alexander over the years has become cold and jaded, he has darkness and tragedy that has kept hold of him and so far, has been unwillingly to let go. Months earlier he saved beautiful Aideen and now he can’t get the woman with the sensual eyes out of his mind, but Alexander has been given a job by is handler. There is a traitor in their midst, and it is up to Alexander and junior agent; Jack Winterbourne to uncover who it is and stop them. But they don’t count on the twist and turns and shock that await them in their investigation.
Oh, my word! Rakecombe, what a character, I have always been drawn to a pair of sizzlingly sexy green eyes, but this man just blows your mind with just how devastatingly sexy he is. Beautiful, tormented, sinful, superior intelligent and highly protective. definitely the dominant male in the wolf pack, or maybe he is the lone wolf that doesn’t need or want a pack? And yet what an incredible turn around in him in the ending, leaping from the port on to a moving boat just to claim his woman…Swooning!
I found Ms Windsor’s writing to be smart and sassy, and I am looking forward to reading or from this author. The way she grabs your attention with every scene with your senses is wonderful. Not only describing what the characters are seeing but the aromas, what they hear and taste it makes very vivid and enjoyable reading. The plot is fast and intriguing, it’s fast and fluid I particularly liked the bantering between the character’s it’s fun and witty with some laugh out loud moments. There is a sexiness and a sweetness to this book, it promises of more to come.
I really enjoyed it, it has rogues, spies and dangerous, double-dealing with thrilling twists, spicy heroines and flawed heroes it all makes a page-turning engrossing story.
July 15, 2018
This book would've been a 5 starrer for me if it wasn't for Alex's exhausting pigheadedness. I just hate when authors drag the drama too long the last chapter of the page. The resolution could've came a lot earlier when common sense demanded it. Anyways I absolutely loved Aideen and her paragraph long curses.....some of the scenes were wonderful and the chemistry was sizzling and the romance hot. Definitely recommend it.
October 7, 2021
Bright, lively prose. Compelling main characters, ably supported by a cast of interesting friends and relatives. Scenes so hilarious I frequently laugh out loud. Really, this novel is a master class on how to write historical romance. Emily Windsor is my new favorite author, and I can’t seem to pull myself away from her books to live my actual life. Could be a problem, but perhaps not, as the world Ms. Windsor creates is far more fun than my own.
June 18, 2021
Amazing story of two so similar people that are too stubborn to see it. Alexander Westhide, the Duke of Rakecombe, is as strait-laced as they come. Miss Aideen Quinlan is a tart-tongued miss who can't seem to keep her eyes and insults from the Duke. The sparring between these two is hilarious, Alex's tragedy is heart breaking and the romance is steamy - the perfect combination for a great read.
September 1, 2018
Really liking this series
Really enjoyed this love story. The heroine was wonderful and I liked how she stood her ground. The duke was a man in love but not did he fight it. I understood his reasons though but I hated when he was so cold to her and trying to push away. There Is a missing spy that they are looking for and Winterborn is helping the Duke find him. There is a cute storyline about her friend Cordelia and her betrothed which I loved. Wish they had their own book.The Dukes Mom is wonderful too. Their is espionage, a little sex and a great romance. Their verbal sparring was funny too. Can't wait for Jack's book. Goodness good as The first two were.
Really enjoyed this love story. The heroine was wonderful and I liked how she stood her ground. The duke was a man in love but not did he fight it. I understood his reasons though but I hated when he was so cold to her and trying to push away. There Is a missing spy that they are looking for and Winterborn is helping the Duke find him. There is a cute storyline about her friend Cordelia and her betrothed which I loved. Wish they had their own book.The Dukes Mom is wonderful too. Their is espionage, a little sex and a great romance. Their verbal sparring was funny too. Can't wait for Jack's book. Goodness good as The first two were.
February 11, 2023
The bickering and name calling between the hero and the heroine was a bit too much.
August 21, 2025
In regard to a convo I had with my sister, liv: they argued a lot, but I actually believe they like each other.
July 26, 2018
This was my favorite of the series! I stayed up way too long trying to finish the book but it was worth it!
I loved these two and the fiery passion between them! Alex was occasionally a grumpy, overbearing duke but he had his reasons. And really, you love him for it. His experiences dictate the way he interacts with others and the way he guards his heart. His only problem is that he's falling in love with the one woman that has absolutely no filter. Aideen was the only person that could break down these walls Alex has constructed around himself.
This was definitely a little bit more spicy than the first two installments in this series...and it was so much better because of it! Alex was frustrating with the distance he forced onto Aideen but when those two were together...man, did the sparks fly! They have passion in every aspect of their relationship...even the banter and arguing. Aideen's curses were a personal favorite. They should sound absolutely horrible, but Aideen made them charming. It definitely made the hero smile from time to time.
Let's talk about the secondary characters for a second. I do not typically like the rouge/rake characters but Jack was freaking hilarious. He teases Alex relentlessly and it is so funny:
“Good Lord! You have a given name?” The rogue fell back, hand to brow. “I considered you born into this world a Rakecombe. Popped out with tight cravat and cane, gurgling your displeasure.”
Oh my gosh...he stole the scene every time he came onto the page. Every time I was laughing out loud at Jack. He was just hilarious. I'm thinking there is more to his character than his amorous history...so I'm very interested to see how his book turns out. Especially since he's been so "helpful" with his "rules" to the other gentlemen. It will be exciting to see what happens to him when the tables finally turn.
All in all...I loved it! A great story on so many levels. I loved the characters, I loved the passion and I loved the romance of it all! Definitely a series you don't want to miss!
I loved these two and the fiery passion between them! Alex was occasionally a grumpy, overbearing duke but he had his reasons. And really, you love him for it. His experiences dictate the way he interacts with others and the way he guards his heart. His only problem is that he's falling in love with the one woman that has absolutely no filter. Aideen was the only person that could break down these walls Alex has constructed around himself.
This was definitely a little bit more spicy than the first two installments in this series...and it was so much better because of it! Alex was frustrating with the distance he forced onto Aideen but when those two were together...man, did the sparks fly! They have passion in every aspect of their relationship...even the banter and arguing. Aideen's curses were a personal favorite. They should sound absolutely horrible, but Aideen made them charming. It definitely made the hero smile from time to time.
Let's talk about the secondary characters for a second. I do not typically like the rouge/rake characters but Jack was freaking hilarious. He teases Alex relentlessly and it is so funny:
“Good Lord! You have a given name?” The rogue fell back, hand to brow. “I considered you born into this world a Rakecombe. Popped out with tight cravat and cane, gurgling your displeasure.”
Oh my gosh...he stole the scene every time he came onto the page. Every time I was laughing out loud at Jack. He was just hilarious. I'm thinking there is more to his character than his amorous history...so I'm very interested to see how his book turns out. Especially since he's been so "helpful" with his "rules" to the other gentlemen. It will be exciting to see what happens to him when the tables finally turn.
All in all...I loved it! A great story on so many levels. I loved the characters, I loved the passion and I loved the romance of it all! Definitely a series you don't want to miss!
April 24, 2020
Arrogance or Folly
Alexander was cold, aloof and arrogant but also a spy! Aideen was Irish bold, beautiful and cursed like a sailor! Irish of course! Alex has suffered the loss of his sister and never quite recovered! Duke are normally cold and too lofty but he took it to the extreme with all the injuries on the job and death and destruction! Alex felt he needs to distance himself then no one else gets hurt! Aideen is brash and bold but is a Romantic at heart! These two can't seem to keep their hands off each other so lots of steam but real serious moments where they lay their heart bare! I have read this series before but with a greater understanding and appreciate for the raw, love and emotions involved and moments of humor make you know Alex does not understand women or his Duchess!!!
Alexander was cold, aloof and arrogant but also a spy! Aideen was Irish bold, beautiful and cursed like a sailor! Irish of course! Alex has suffered the loss of his sister and never quite recovered! Duke are normally cold and too lofty but he took it to the extreme with all the injuries on the job and death and destruction! Alex felt he needs to distance himself then no one else gets hurt! Aideen is brash and bold but is a Romantic at heart! These two can't seem to keep their hands off each other so lots of steam but real serious moments where they lay their heart bare! I have read this series before but with a greater understanding and appreciate for the raw, love and emotions involved and moments of humor make you know Alex does not understand women or his Duchess!!!
April 4, 2021
4.5 stars
July 30, 2019
Loved the writing style
Great characters, interesting plot, lol humor, stunning backdrop, lovely writing style. I am so very impressed with Emily Windsor! This is the first book I've read by her. I'm on to read every single one of her books!!!
Great characters, interesting plot, lol humor, stunning backdrop, lovely writing style. I am so very impressed with Emily Windsor! This is the first book I've read by her. I'm on to read every single one of her books!!!
March 7, 2019
Finally a great!!!!
I loved the characters in this book.
I loved the story.
I loved getting caught up In the lives of this couple!!
I loved the characters in this book.
I loved the story.
I loved getting caught up In the lives of this couple!!
November 14, 2024
The fiery spirit of an Irish lass and the tightly leashed passion of an English lord collide in yet another brilliant tale by Emily Windsor! I was eager to read the story of these two characters after their interactions in the first book. It's always entertaining to read historical romances where the heroine is not afraid to speak her mind, and we certainly get that in this book. The author did a great job of pulling you in with witty lines and a simmering passion that leaves you wanting more by the time you reach the last page.
Miss Aideen Quinlan tries very hard to be a true lady, but the restrictions placed on her by society make it difficult beyond belief. Driving her family crazy and causing many eye rolls among her friends, Aideen is used to keeping people on their toes. And there is no one she likes riling more than Alexander Westhide, the Duke of Rakecombe. Alex feels a lot of...something...for Aideen, but whether it lust or aggravation depends on the situation. Sometimes it's a little bit of both. After saving Aideen from a kidnapping a year ago, he hasn't been able to get her out of his mind, and now that she's back in his life again, he may not be able to let her go. Even if her life may very well depend on it.
Aideen was a riot throughout this book! I greatly enjoyed her personality, constantly giving the reader awesome comebacks to file away for when we might need to respond to a situation on the fly. I also loved her many Irish jokes and references, as I don't know very many personally, and it was great fun learning through her. Alex tried so hard to be stuffy, but in Aideen's presence, it just wasn't going to happen. Even when he pushes her away to the point where I thought for sure they were finished, her stubborn personality forces him to show his true feelings. He couldn't hide from her, and I think that's a great thing to have in a relationship. Too many secrets and it all falls apart - if couples love each other, they should also trust each other. Aideen and Alex definitely were a prime example of that.
I can't wait to read the next book in the series! It's sure to be a lot of fun.
**I received a free copy from the author and I have a relationship with the author as a paid beta reader for other books. This is my honest review.**
Miss Aideen Quinlan tries very hard to be a true lady, but the restrictions placed on her by society make it difficult beyond belief. Driving her family crazy and causing many eye rolls among her friends, Aideen is used to keeping people on their toes. And there is no one she likes riling more than Alexander Westhide, the Duke of Rakecombe. Alex feels a lot of...something...for Aideen, but whether it lust or aggravation depends on the situation. Sometimes it's a little bit of both. After saving Aideen from a kidnapping a year ago, he hasn't been able to get her out of his mind, and now that she's back in his life again, he may not be able to let her go. Even if her life may very well depend on it.
Aideen was a riot throughout this book! I greatly enjoyed her personality, constantly giving the reader awesome comebacks to file away for when we might need to respond to a situation on the fly. I also loved her many Irish jokes and references, as I don't know very many personally, and it was great fun learning through her. Alex tried so hard to be stuffy, but in Aideen's presence, it just wasn't going to happen. Even when he pushes her away to the point where I thought for sure they were finished, her stubborn personality forces him to show his true feelings. He couldn't hide from her, and I think that's a great thing to have in a relationship. Too many secrets and it all falls apart - if couples love each other, they should also trust each other. Aideen and Alex definitely were a prime example of that.
I can't wait to read the next book in the series! It's sure to be a lot of fun.
**I received a free copy from the author and I have a relationship with the author as a paid beta reader for other books. This is my honest review.**
January 29, 2021
4⭐ - I really liked it
So this had the potential to be a 5⭐, but I wanted to punch Alexander in the face for about half of the book 😂
So, at the end of the previous book, I was sure that the next book would be about Aideen and Alex, I was excited because they were both giving me a lot of chemistry with their bickering. I loved the dynamic of their chemistry, with them both being an equal match for each other and constantly being toe to toe.
At the end of the previous book, they share a passionate kiss and he heads to France. This book begins a year later, Alex has been back in London for months but is avoiding Aideen. She finally sees him and they get caught up in a passionate embrace and are subsequently caught. He says he's going to marry her, but in his mind, he's keeping his distance to protect her. We have the wedding night, which was 🔥 but then comes the point where I continually want to punch him in the face 😂
Aideen Is a strong woman who can clearly hold her own but he tries to wrap her up in cotton wool by being a total d**k to her 🙄 I suppose, in his defense, his past experience has tainted his view of having people he lives alongside his profession as a spy, but I just want COMMUNICATION!! Way too much angst, way too much presuming her feelings instead of just letting her make her own decisions.
Like I said, I really rooted for them as a couple, the intimate scenes were 🔥🔥🔥, I was stanning the sort of angry passion 👌, and I was happy with the ending. I just wanted to strangle the hero 😂 because I felt heartbroken for Aideen.
Overall, if Alex being a d**k hadn't went on quite as long, it would have been a 5⭐
Also!!! Cordelia ends up with James?? Not gonna lie, I was reeeeeeeally hoping the next book would be her forming a relationship with Jack, but alas, it seems like it's not to be 😭
So this had the potential to be a 5⭐, but I wanted to punch Alexander in the face for about half of the book 😂
So, at the end of the previous book, I was sure that the next book would be about Aideen and Alex, I was excited because they were both giving me a lot of chemistry with their bickering. I loved the dynamic of their chemistry, with them both being an equal match for each other and constantly being toe to toe.
At the end of the previous book, they share a passionate kiss and he heads to France. This book begins a year later, Alex has been back in London for months but is avoiding Aideen. She finally sees him and they get caught up in a passionate embrace and are subsequently caught. He says he's going to marry her, but in his mind, he's keeping his distance to protect her. We have the wedding night, which was 🔥 but then comes the point where I continually want to punch him in the face 😂
Aideen Is a strong woman who can clearly hold her own but he tries to wrap her up in cotton wool by being a total d**k to her 🙄 I suppose, in his defense, his past experience has tainted his view of having people he lives alongside his profession as a spy, but I just want COMMUNICATION!! Way too much angst, way too much presuming her feelings instead of just letting her make her own decisions.
Like I said, I really rooted for them as a couple, the intimate scenes were 🔥🔥🔥, I was stanning the sort of angry passion 👌, and I was happy with the ending. I just wanted to strangle the hero 😂 because I felt heartbroken for Aideen.
Overall, if Alex being a d**k hadn't went on quite as long, it would have been a 5⭐
Also!!! Cordelia ends up with James?? Not gonna lie, I was reeeeeeeally hoping the next book would be her forming a relationship with Jack, but alas, it seems like it's not to be 😭
November 30, 2018
I've said it before and I'll say it again: I love a good dose of humor in historical romances and this one gave me just that; it's simply brilliant. :-)
June 23, 2019
Another great story from Ms Windsor
Starting the next in this series.
Starting the next in this series.
November 30, 2020
Despite all the spy intrigue, the secondary romance was far more interesting and convincing than the main leads. Maybe the timing was off but I was thoroughly bored.
March 18, 2022
Até agora o melhor livro da série
May 23, 2018
4.5 Stars as reviewed at Roses Are Blue: https://wp.me/p3QRh4-LB
Alexander Westhide, Duke of Rakecombe, was recruited by the government right out of school to serve his country as a spy. Very early in his career of espionage, someone dear to him suffered tragic consequences indirectly due to his job. From that day forward, Alex has adopted the persona of the arrogant, stuffy, toplofty duke, never letting anyone close, and certainly never courting love. It's so inconvenient that he is on fire for Aideen Quinlan, a woman he rescued almost a year ago, and can't seem to get out of his mind.
Aideen is a hot tempered Irish woman, who has a tendency to spew insulting Irish curses on any given occasion. She is not in awe of Alexander in the least, and is quick to stand up to him, which Alex secretly adores. Though she shared a kiss with Alex when he rescued her, he quickly disappeared from sight. When he returned, it was back to bickering and insults. Until one night when they are caught in a compromising position, and agree to marry.
Aideen is aware that Alex is a spy, as her cousin is married to one of his associates. She's a strong and feisty lady who can take care of herself, in fact, she's a better shot than Alex is. Still, Alex is torn, feeling that he has now placed Aideen in danger. The guilt he carries from that long ago incident still haunts him, causing him to run hot and cold in his new marriage. Their passion burns hot, and then he totally ignores her.
Alex is a complicated character - his coldness is a result of his trying to protect anyone from being hurt again because of him. Aideen is no shrinking violet, and won't accept Alex's inattention and rudeness. She's tasted the passion he feels for her, and is determined that they can build a strong future together. That is, until Alex rejects her one time too many. Now that Alex sees what he's lost, he's determined to win back the woman he realizes he loves - but is he too late?
LET SLEEPING DUKES LIE is fast paced, entertaining, romantic, sometimes amusing, and a great read all the way through. Aideen has a soft side which she keeps hidden behind her bravado and litany of curses and insults, and I grew to like her very much. I'm a fan of the strong, silent hero, and Alex filled the bill, though he did need to be taken down a peg or two, and Aideen is just the woman for the job. Their passion was steamy, and I can imagine a lifetime of their happily bickering and loving in equal parts. As in previous books in this series, the relationship between the spies is pure delight. There is a secondary romance, which is especially sweet, and the cast of characters, including Alex's mother are entertaining and smile inducing. LET SLEEPING DUKES LIE is one fabulous read that I highly recommend.
Alexander Westhide, Duke of Rakecombe, was recruited by the government right out of school to serve his country as a spy. Very early in his career of espionage, someone dear to him suffered tragic consequences indirectly due to his job. From that day forward, Alex has adopted the persona of the arrogant, stuffy, toplofty duke, never letting anyone close, and certainly never courting love. It's so inconvenient that he is on fire for Aideen Quinlan, a woman he rescued almost a year ago, and can't seem to get out of his mind.
Aideen is a hot tempered Irish woman, who has a tendency to spew insulting Irish curses on any given occasion. She is not in awe of Alexander in the least, and is quick to stand up to him, which Alex secretly adores. Though she shared a kiss with Alex when he rescued her, he quickly disappeared from sight. When he returned, it was back to bickering and insults. Until one night when they are caught in a compromising position, and agree to marry.
Aideen is aware that Alex is a spy, as her cousin is married to one of his associates. She's a strong and feisty lady who can take care of herself, in fact, she's a better shot than Alex is. Still, Alex is torn, feeling that he has now placed Aideen in danger. The guilt he carries from that long ago incident still haunts him, causing him to run hot and cold in his new marriage. Their passion burns hot, and then he totally ignores her.
Alex is a complicated character - his coldness is a result of his trying to protect anyone from being hurt again because of him. Aideen is no shrinking violet, and won't accept Alex's inattention and rudeness. She's tasted the passion he feels for her, and is determined that they can build a strong future together. That is, until Alex rejects her one time too many. Now that Alex sees what he's lost, he's determined to win back the woman he realizes he loves - but is he too late?
LET SLEEPING DUKES LIE is fast paced, entertaining, romantic, sometimes amusing, and a great read all the way through. Aideen has a soft side which she keeps hidden behind her bravado and litany of curses and insults, and I grew to like her very much. I'm a fan of the strong, silent hero, and Alex filled the bill, though he did need to be taken down a peg or two, and Aideen is just the woman for the job. Their passion was steamy, and I can imagine a lifetime of their happily bickering and loving in equal parts. As in previous books in this series, the relationship between the spies is pure delight. There is a secondary romance, which is especially sweet, and the cast of characters, including Alex's mother are entertaining and smile inducing. LET SLEEPING DUKES LIE is one fabulous read that I highly recommend.
August 12, 2023
Windsor is a new to me author, and I am really enjoying this series and her writing style. I don't want to put her stories down (and stay up way too late trying to read more). This one has been my favorite so far, though really they have all been 5⭐️ reads.
She is lower steam for me (this one had 🔥🔥 &married early, but others have been 🔥), but this is no issue at all because she develops such wonderful chemistry, tension, and emotion between the characters. (I love the humor, too!) The scenes that are included, both full and partial, have so much passion that there's really no room for complaint for someone who might prefer higher steam but also suitable for those who don't.
Also, I love the fun and supportive relationships with friends and family in this series. Loving and supportive families can be kind of rare in HR, and they are done so well here. I especially loved his mother's acceptance and friendship with Aideen.
I don't always love push-pull stories, but given that we know the gist of Alex's issues here, it worked really well. Absolutely got me in the heartstrings several times. I loved how, even though they often clashed, they matched, even/especially with their traits that others may have found troublesome. Theirs was a somewhat rocky relationship, but there is also understanding, and they may fight but they also fight for each other. (NOTE: Can be read as stand-alone but would be enhanced by reading An Earl in Wolf's Clothing, Rules of the Rogue 1, as they meet and start their story within that one.)
Windsor is quickly becoming a favorite for me. I have burned through the first few, and I absolutely can't wait to start Winterbourne's book. He has been such fun throughout this series, but there are definitely depths to explore there. Plus, I've already gotten the previous series where some of the characters here were apparently introduced (though just same world, not direct spinoff here)
Lastly, it may be trivial to most, but I definitely pay attention to covers, and I love that a cane is featured on this cover with him, as it is such an essential part of his character (though I would have been thrilled if it could have had the dog head on too) 😍
She is lower steam for me (this one had 🔥🔥 &married early, but others have been 🔥), but this is no issue at all because she develops such wonderful chemistry, tension, and emotion between the characters. (I love the humor, too!) The scenes that are included, both full and partial, have so much passion that there's really no room for complaint for someone who might prefer higher steam but also suitable for those who don't.
Also, I love the fun and supportive relationships with friends and family in this series. Loving and supportive families can be kind of rare in HR, and they are done so well here. I especially loved his mother's acceptance and friendship with Aideen.
I don't always love push-pull stories, but given that we know the gist of Alex's issues here, it worked really well. Absolutely got me in the heartstrings several times. I loved how, even though they often clashed, they matched, even/especially with their traits that others may have found troublesome. Theirs was a somewhat rocky relationship, but there is also understanding, and they may fight but they also fight for each other. (NOTE: Can be read as stand-alone but would be enhanced by reading An Earl in Wolf's Clothing, Rules of the Rogue 1, as they meet and start their story within that one.)
Windsor is quickly becoming a favorite for me. I have burned through the first few, and I absolutely can't wait to start Winterbourne's book. He has been such fun throughout this series, but there are definitely depths to explore there. Plus, I've already gotten the previous series where some of the characters here were apparently introduced (though just same world, not direct spinoff here)
Lastly, it may be trivial to most, but I definitely pay attention to covers, and I love that a cane is featured on this cover with him, as it is such an essential part of his character (though I would have been thrilled if it could have had the dog head on too) 😍
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