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The Untouchables #9
The Duke of Lies
Verity Beaumont has suffered domineering men most of her life, first with her father and then with her husband. Free from both men, she has finally found peace. Even meeting a kind and hard-working gentleman who just might be the perfect father her young son so desperately needs. But as she dares look to the future, her carefully ordered world is shattered when her dead husband returns.
Imprisoned in America during the war, Rufus Beaumont, Duke of Blackburn, wants nothing more than to return to his native England. He longs for comfort and safety away from the horrors of battle, only the life he returns to is not the life he left. He must convince his wife that their marriage is worth fighting for, that he’s not the man he was. But when the truth about what happened to him leaks out, he must prove that not everything about him, especially his love for her, is a lie.
Imprisoned in America during the war, Rufus Beaumont, Duke of Blackburn, wants nothing more than to return to his native England. He longs for comfort and safety away from the horrors of battle, only the life he returns to is not the life he left. He must convince his wife that their marriage is worth fighting for, that he’s not the man he was. But when the truth about what happened to him leaks out, he must prove that not everything about him, especially his love for her, is a lie.
304 pages, Paperback
First published May 29, 2018
491 people are currently reading
558 people want to read
About the author
Darcy Burke
208 books2,279 followersDarcy Burke is the USA Today Bestselling Author of sexy, emotional historical and contemporary romance. Darcy wrote her first book at age 11, a happily ever after about a swan addicted to magic and the female swan who loved him, with exceedingly poor illustrations. Join her Reader Club at http://www.darcyburke.com/readerclub.
A native Oregonian, Darcy lives on the edge of wine country with her guitar-strumming husband, their two hilarious kids who seem to have inherited the writing gene, two Bengal cats and a third cat named after a fruit. In her “spare” time Darcy is a serial volunteer enrolled in a 12-step program where one learns to say “no,” but she keeps having to start over. Her happy places are Disneyland and Labor Day weekend at the Gorge.
A native Oregonian, Darcy lives on the edge of wine country with her guitar-strumming husband, their two hilarious kids who seem to have inherited the writing gene, two Bengal cats and a third cat named after a fruit. In her “spare” time Darcy is a serial volunteer enrolled in a 12-step program where one learns to say “no,” but she keeps having to start over. Her happy places are Disneyland and Labor Day weekend at the Gorge.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 173 reviews
May 25, 2018
Well, this is Book 9 in The Untouchables Series & it is an outstanding story! I am never disappointed in Darcy's ability to catch her readers & pull us into the pages of her books. Captain Christopher "Kit" Powell our hero & the Duke of Lies is so lovable, kind, funny, smart & just downright sexy. Verity Beaumont, Duchess of Blackburn is our heroine who has been mistreated her whole life by her father & her deserting husband the Duke of Blackburn, who has been gone almost 7 years. She is a smart, loving mother, kind, lonely & an optimist. Kit & Verity are a wonderful couple with many trials to go through before their HEA & her 6 year old son Beau is a wonderful highlight to the story. There are twists & turns, lies, deception, extortion, embezzlement, fun, emotional moments, romance, love, spice & revisiting many of the past characters from previous books - what more could you ask for in a great read? I was gifted an ARC & I am so happy I was able to tell you how much I enjoyed it!
March 24, 2023
⭐⭐⭐
3 stars.
➕ What I liked :
Both main characters were quite interesting.
The kid was adorable.
A tiny bit “older” heroine (26)
➖ What I disliked:
Both main characters needed a little more depth and character development.
The chemistry and the romantic build up was somewhat lacking.
Rather generic/formulaic character description (appearance.)
Problems/issues were solved a little too easily.
3 stars.
➕ What I liked :
Both main characters were quite interesting.
The kid was adorable.
A tiny bit “older” heroine (26)
➖ What I disliked:
Both main characters needed a little more depth and character development.
The chemistry and the romantic build up was somewhat lacking.
Rather generic/formulaic character description (appearance.)
Problems/issues were solved a little too easily.
May 30, 2018
Series: The Untouchables #9
Publication Date: 5/29/18
Lies! Lies! Lies! There are enough lies to build a ladder to the moon. It seems everyone, except our lovely heroine, Verity, and her delightful son, Beau, are filled with lies, betrayals, and secrets. Can you build a life together when the relationship is filled with lies and deceit? Well – You’ll just have to read this finely crafted book to find your answer. This is a marvelously written roller-coaster ride of a book filled with more twists and turns than a Smoky Mountain highway. Just when you think you have one thing figure out – you discover yet another unexpected twist and turn.
Verity Beaumont, Duchess of Blackburn, suffered more in her short time with Rufus Beaumont, Duke of Blackburn, than most people suffer in a lifetime. Then, about three months into their marriage, he just disappeared from the face of the earth. Nobody had any clue what happened to him, where he went or if he’d return. Verity learned she was expecting soon after Rufus disappeared and she lived in fear for herself and her child. After a few years, her fear lessened and she began to relax and build a life for herself and her son.
One lovely afternoon, Verity caught the sound of hoof beats on the drive and looked up to see her worst nightmare. Her husband had returned. How could she protect herself and her son from him? Then he spoke to her in a kind manner. What kind of tricks was he playing on her? He soon told her how he had changed and how he had been kidnapped/conscripted to serve on a ship and how he was a better man. Verity couldn’t believe it – and she certainly didn’t trust him. If he could change from bad to good, then he could also change from good to bad.
You’ll just have to read this tale to see all of the twists for yourself. Also, you should know that you will get a nice visit with Diana and Simon and some of the other Untouchables from the series. Then, there is Beau – you’ll just fall in love with that delightful six-year-old who loves animals and wants to be a good duke someday.
I absolutely loved reading this book, but it is a nightmare to review because you can’t really say much without spoiling things for the reader. Just know that the book is well written, the plot is sensational and you won’t be able to put it down once you start with the first word. I’d say Ms. Burke has outdone herself this time.
Please check out my reviews at:
Blog: https://flippinpages.blog/
Facebook Page: https://www.facebook.com/flippinpages...
Twitter: https://twitter.com/FlippinPagesRev
Twitter: https://twitter.com/BarbBookReview
"I requested and received this e-book at no cost to me and volunteered to read it; my review is my honest opinion and given without any influence by the author or publisher."
Publication Date: 5/29/18
Lies! Lies! Lies! There are enough lies to build a ladder to the moon. It seems everyone, except our lovely heroine, Verity, and her delightful son, Beau, are filled with lies, betrayals, and secrets. Can you build a life together when the relationship is filled with lies and deceit? Well – You’ll just have to read this finely crafted book to find your answer. This is a marvelously written roller-coaster ride of a book filled with more twists and turns than a Smoky Mountain highway. Just when you think you have one thing figure out – you discover yet another unexpected twist and turn.
Verity Beaumont, Duchess of Blackburn, suffered more in her short time with Rufus Beaumont, Duke of Blackburn, than most people suffer in a lifetime. Then, about three months into their marriage, he just disappeared from the face of the earth. Nobody had any clue what happened to him, where he went or if he’d return. Verity learned she was expecting soon after Rufus disappeared and she lived in fear for herself and her child. After a few years, her fear lessened and she began to relax and build a life for herself and her son.
One lovely afternoon, Verity caught the sound of hoof beats on the drive and looked up to see her worst nightmare. Her husband had returned. How could she protect herself and her son from him? Then he spoke to her in a kind manner. What kind of tricks was he playing on her? He soon told her how he had changed and how he had been kidnapped/conscripted to serve on a ship and how he was a better man. Verity couldn’t believe it – and she certainly didn’t trust him. If he could change from bad to good, then he could also change from good to bad.
You’ll just have to read this tale to see all of the twists for yourself. Also, you should know that you will get a nice visit with Diana and Simon and some of the other Untouchables from the series. Then, there is Beau – you’ll just fall in love with that delightful six-year-old who loves animals and wants to be a good duke someday.
I absolutely loved reading this book, but it is a nightmare to review because you can’t really say much without spoiling things for the reader. Just know that the book is well written, the plot is sensational and you won’t be able to put it down once you start with the first word. I’d say Ms. Burke has outdone herself this time.
Please check out my reviews at:
Blog: https://flippinpages.blog/
Facebook Page: https://www.facebook.com/flippinpages...
Twitter: https://twitter.com/FlippinPagesRev
Twitter: https://twitter.com/BarbBookReview
"I requested and received this e-book at no cost to me and volunteered to read it; my review is my honest opinion and given without any influence by the author or publisher."
May 23, 2018
I received an advanced copy of this book and chose to submit a review
❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️
💋💋
Is it possible to build a relationship, a marriage ,on lies and deception?
The answer is here.
Darcy has given us another gem of a book , she’s pulled off a brilliant plot that twists and turns , it’s moving , fun and emotional, reading of the relationship that’s created between father and son is nothing short of heartbreaking, inspiring and a pleasure to witness.
I couldn’t shake the feelings of love and devotion between the two .
I loved Verity a strong woman , devoted mother and Duchess, you so wanted her to be happy , and she really deserved some love and tenderness.
This is a great book for those of us with tender romantic hearts ,
We love to see two , or in this case three people find their HEA.
Will we get our wish here ?
❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️
💋💋
Is it possible to build a relationship, a marriage ,on lies and deception?
The answer is here.
Darcy has given us another gem of a book , she’s pulled off a brilliant plot that twists and turns , it’s moving , fun and emotional, reading of the relationship that’s created between father and son is nothing short of heartbreaking, inspiring and a pleasure to witness.
I couldn’t shake the feelings of love and devotion between the two .
I loved Verity a strong woman , devoted mother and Duchess, you so wanted her to be happy , and she really deserved some love and tenderness.
This is a great book for those of us with tender romantic hearts ,
We love to see two , or in this case three people find their HEA.
Will we get our wish here ?
June 30, 2024
Review from 2018
I've given this an A- for narration and a B for content at AudioGals.
I’ve read and/or listened to a number of the books in Darcy Burke’s The Untouchables series and generally enjoyed them, but what attracted me specifically to The Duke of Lies was the fact that the premise is reminiscent of one of my favourite films, The Return of Martin Guerre. Set in medieval France, a man returns to his village – and his wife – after a long absence and is welcomed and accepted by all… until doubts begin to creep in as to whether he really is who he says he is. (The film was remade in the 1990s as Sommersby, and the setting shifted to the American Civil War).
In The Duke of Lies, the returning character is Rufus Beaumont, Duke of Blackburn, who has been absent for six-and-a-half years after disappearing without explanation during a visit to London. His wife, Verity, is not exactly heart-broken at her husband’s continued absence; he was a thoroughly unpleasant, boorish man who routinely ill-treated her and humiliated her, and she was actually relieved at the news of his sudden disappearance. At the beginning of the book, she is visiting an old retainer, the former steward of Beaumont Tower (Blackburn’s seat in the north of England), with her young son, Beau, whom she hadn’t known she was expecting until after she learned her husband had vanished without a trace. She has become concerned of late with the behaviour of the current steward – a man who was appointed by her interfering father – and has decided it’s time to do something about it and plans to dismiss him. Feeling lighter now that she’s made the decision, she returns home only to have her peace and happiness shattered by a completely unexpected – and unwelcome – arrival. Rufus.
It’s hard to say much more about the plot without spoilers, even though listeners are made privy to the answer to the question “is it really the duke?” in the third chapter. Rufus explains that he was kidnapped and impressed and has spent the last six-and-a-half years at sea – which Verity can accept as the reason for the changes to his physique; what is harder for her to fathom is why he is charming, kind, considerate and caring, things he never was before. She understands that being at war has no doubt wrought changes upon him and is prepared to give him at least the benefit of the doubt; but there’s no question that she’s unsettled and looking for the least sign that the Rufus she married is still inside somewhere.
Roughly the first two-thirds of the novel is spent on building the principal relationships in the story – between Rufus and Verity and Rufus and Beau, the son he never knew existed. Verity is cautious and doesn’t jump to conclusions, but she recognises that Rufus – or whoever he is – is (or has become) a respectable, honourable man who is slowly winning her trust – and that she is strongly attracted to him. If this man is her husband, then perhaps he really HAS changed for the better; and if not, well, he’s clearly going to make Beau a much better father and role model, and be a much better employer and landlord than Rufus ever showed signs of being, so… would it be such a bad thing if she were to accept him into her life – and her bed?
The “is he?/isn’t he?” plotline comes into play in a larger way in the final third, where we discover the truth behind the duke’s disappearance and Rufus uncovers some nasty, long-kept secrets. Verity realises that she has been horribly deceived and betrayed by someone close to her, and she and Rufus must stand together if they’re to secure their future happiness.
Ms. Burke creates a believable romantic relationship between the two principals, allowing their mutual attraction to develop slowly as Rufus wins Verity’s trust by word and deed, showing himself to be a decent, responsible man who genuinely cares about his lands and those who depend on him for their livelihoods. She builds a strong father-son relationship between Rufus and Beau and brings Rufus to the gradual realisation that at Blackburn – in Verity and Beau – he has found everything he never knew he wanted or needed. The last third of the novel is dedicated to the uncovering of murder, extortion and blackmail, but it feels rushed, which has the effect of making the novel as a whole feel unbalanced. And even though this part of the story is faster paced and more eventful, there seems not to be enough story to fill it, and it’s padded out with a number of sex scenes, at least two of which – while well-written and well-performed – feel superfluous. I was pleased with the time taken to develop the romance, but disappointed that everything after that felt like a rush to the finish line.
Marian Hussey has narrated all the books in this series, and her lovely voice and accomplished, confident performances have been a real highlight of those I’ve listened to so far. Her pacing is excellent, and she differentiates effectively between a relatively small cast of characters, employing a few regional accents where appropriate and providing clear distinctions between characters of different gender, age and station. I imagine portraying young children isn’t always an easy thing to do, but Ms. Hussey does a great job with young Beau; he doesn’t necessarily sound exactly like a six-year-old boy, but she conveys his enthusiasm and energy by means of a brightness of tone that suits him and serves to distinguish him from other characters. Verity’s father sounds suitably menacing and unpleasant, and both principals are convincingly portrayed by the use of subtle changes in tone, timbre and pitch. Ms. Hussey delivers another excellent performance that added considerably to my enjoyment of the audiobook, and The Duke of Lies earns a recommendation overall.
I've given this an A- for narration and a B for content at AudioGals.
I’ve read and/or listened to a number of the books in Darcy Burke’s The Untouchables series and generally enjoyed them, but what attracted me specifically to The Duke of Lies was the fact that the premise is reminiscent of one of my favourite films, The Return of Martin Guerre. Set in medieval France, a man returns to his village – and his wife – after a long absence and is welcomed and accepted by all… until doubts begin to creep in as to whether he really is who he says he is. (The film was remade in the 1990s as Sommersby, and the setting shifted to the American Civil War).
In The Duke of Lies, the returning character is Rufus Beaumont, Duke of Blackburn, who has been absent for six-and-a-half years after disappearing without explanation during a visit to London. His wife, Verity, is not exactly heart-broken at her husband’s continued absence; he was a thoroughly unpleasant, boorish man who routinely ill-treated her and humiliated her, and she was actually relieved at the news of his sudden disappearance. At the beginning of the book, she is visiting an old retainer, the former steward of Beaumont Tower (Blackburn’s seat in the north of England), with her young son, Beau, whom she hadn’t known she was expecting until after she learned her husband had vanished without a trace. She has become concerned of late with the behaviour of the current steward – a man who was appointed by her interfering father – and has decided it’s time to do something about it and plans to dismiss him. Feeling lighter now that she’s made the decision, she returns home only to have her peace and happiness shattered by a completely unexpected – and unwelcome – arrival. Rufus.
It’s hard to say much more about the plot without spoilers, even though listeners are made privy to the answer to the question “is it really the duke?” in the third chapter. Rufus explains that he was kidnapped and impressed and has spent the last six-and-a-half years at sea – which Verity can accept as the reason for the changes to his physique; what is harder for her to fathom is why he is charming, kind, considerate and caring, things he never was before. She understands that being at war has no doubt wrought changes upon him and is prepared to give him at least the benefit of the doubt; but there’s no question that she’s unsettled and looking for the least sign that the Rufus she married is still inside somewhere.
Roughly the first two-thirds of the novel is spent on building the principal relationships in the story – between Rufus and Verity and Rufus and Beau, the son he never knew existed. Verity is cautious and doesn’t jump to conclusions, but she recognises that Rufus – or whoever he is – is (or has become) a respectable, honourable man who is slowly winning her trust – and that she is strongly attracted to him. If this man is her husband, then perhaps he really HAS changed for the better; and if not, well, he’s clearly going to make Beau a much better father and role model, and be a much better employer and landlord than Rufus ever showed signs of being, so… would it be such a bad thing if she were to accept him into her life – and her bed?
The “is he?/isn’t he?” plotline comes into play in a larger way in the final third, where we discover the truth behind the duke’s disappearance and Rufus uncovers some nasty, long-kept secrets. Verity realises that she has been horribly deceived and betrayed by someone close to her, and she and Rufus must stand together if they’re to secure their future happiness.
Ms. Burke creates a believable romantic relationship between the two principals, allowing their mutual attraction to develop slowly as Rufus wins Verity’s trust by word and deed, showing himself to be a decent, responsible man who genuinely cares about his lands and those who depend on him for their livelihoods. She builds a strong father-son relationship between Rufus and Beau and brings Rufus to the gradual realisation that at Blackburn – in Verity and Beau – he has found everything he never knew he wanted or needed. The last third of the novel is dedicated to the uncovering of murder, extortion and blackmail, but it feels rushed, which has the effect of making the novel as a whole feel unbalanced. And even though this part of the story is faster paced and more eventful, there seems not to be enough story to fill it, and it’s padded out with a number of sex scenes, at least two of which – while well-written and well-performed – feel superfluous. I was pleased with the time taken to develop the romance, but disappointed that everything after that felt like a rush to the finish line.
Marian Hussey has narrated all the books in this series, and her lovely voice and accomplished, confident performances have been a real highlight of those I’ve listened to so far. Her pacing is excellent, and she differentiates effectively between a relatively small cast of characters, employing a few regional accents where appropriate and providing clear distinctions between characters of different gender, age and station. I imagine portraying young children isn’t always an easy thing to do, but Ms. Hussey does a great job with young Beau; he doesn’t necessarily sound exactly like a six-year-old boy, but she conveys his enthusiasm and energy by means of a brightness of tone that suits him and serves to distinguish him from other characters. Verity’s father sounds suitably menacing and unpleasant, and both principals are convincingly portrayed by the use of subtle changes in tone, timbre and pitch. Ms. Hussey delivers another excellent performance that added considerably to my enjoyment of the audiobook, and The Duke of Lies earns a recommendation overall.
May 28, 2018
I had read and enjoyed some of Darcy’s contemporary books and had no idea that she was writing historical as well, so when I saw her name on NG, I had to request.
I loved Verity and Rufus. I loved her strength and her smarts and her want for things to have changed. Rufus is charming and sensitive. Their chemistry is not instant, which I enjoyed. I was so happy to see their relationship grow out of trust and friendship.
Plot wise, it wasn’t quite what I was expecting, it was better. The truth of what is going on is shared fairly early and it was intriguing to read the layered reveals. I kept waiting for the other shoe to drop, but I love that Verity and Rufus were always truthful and communicating.
Overall, it was quick and highly and enjoyable read. I’m disappointed that I somehow missed this entire series, but I’m planning on going back to read them.
**Huge thanks to Darcy Burke for providing the arc free of charge**
I loved Verity and Rufus. I loved her strength and her smarts and her want for things to have changed. Rufus is charming and sensitive. Their chemistry is not instant, which I enjoyed. I was so happy to see their relationship grow out of trust and friendship.
Plot wise, it wasn’t quite what I was expecting, it was better. The truth of what is going on is shared fairly early and it was intriguing to read the layered reveals. I kept waiting for the other shoe to drop, but I love that Verity and Rufus were always truthful and communicating.
Overall, it was quick and highly and enjoyable read. I’m disappointed that I somehow missed this entire series, but I’m planning on going back to read them.
**Huge thanks to Darcy Burke for providing the arc free of charge**
May 29, 2018
I think I had higher expectations for The Duke of Lies. I set myself up for a bit of disappointment. I really wanted Christopher Powell/Kit to be Rufus Beaumont Duke of Blackburn. You find out right away at the beginning of the story that he is Not. My expectation was that he had really changed from the cruel abusive husband that Verity had married to the new and humble Duke that returns after a 6 1/2 year absences.
I really like Verity Duchess of Blackburn an her wonderful son Beau. I was happy that Verity found someone to love her and her son and got there HEA.
This story does have plenty of twist and turns. A mystery romance you can say. I wasn't shocked at who the actual villains were. The story is fast paced and great characters. It's well written and will hold the readers attention!!
I really like Verity Duchess of Blackburn an her wonderful son Beau. I was happy that Verity found someone to love her and her son and got there HEA.
This story does have plenty of twist and turns. A mystery romance you can say. I wasn't shocked at who the actual villains were. The story is fast paced and great characters. It's well written and will hold the readers attention!!
May 27, 2018
The Duke of Lies is not always pretty. Darcy Burke paints a picture of some of life's ugliest moments for Verity and Rufus. Yet she finds the value in the experience. For this duo, love is about learning from past mistakes and rebuilding a stronger, equal foundation. Verity is spreading her wings after years of being tied down. She's learning to use her voice by speaking her mind and listening to her heart. All is going her way until her overbearing past reappears in her present. Rufus, her dead husband returns a changed man. Can they find the strength to give love another try? Life lessons abound in a tale of faith and second chances.
September 2, 2018
A safe 3/5 stars.
The heroine was quite interesting, and so was her son. The hero, while I like in general too much about him seemed to easy.
Overall while the romance is quite good, the plot just couldn't sit right with me. Not my favorite burke, but it definitely doesn't deter me from reading her in the future again.
The heroine was quite interesting, and so was her son. The hero, while I like in general too much about him seemed to easy.
Overall while the romance is quite good, the plot just couldn't sit right with me. Not my favorite burke, but it definitely doesn't deter me from reading her in the future again.
May 28, 2018
After eight books, you somewhat expect a series to have grown a little stale, well you better tell that to Darcy Burke, because book 9 of The Untouchables is spectacular! And it even stands perfectly on its own!
Just a few months shy of being declared dead, Rufus Beaumont, Duke of Blackburn, shocks his wife Verity with his unexpected return. Their short marriage had been unbearable for Verity, and she fears for her son Beau’s safety as well as her own. She had been considering marrying again, but all her hopes are dashed with Rufus’ appearance. However, he seems a changed man, but will it last?
My goodness, what a fabulous book! And without giving away any spoilers, well, I can only rave and gush! Darcy Burke has written a highly original and compelling book (again!), and THE DUKE OF LIES is superbly written, and brilliantly plotted. What a gamble this was from the author, because THE DUKE OF LIES is a minefield, one little misstep and it all goes downhill. I was almost holding my breath because I feared that it might crumble at some point, but not in the least! Everything is perfect! Apart maybe from a sex scene that was exceedingly long (so long in fact, that I’m not sure if there were one or two scenes; it went on for pages. Still they were exquisitely written, and at the right place and the right time.)
I was so pleased at Verity’s reaction to Rufus’ return. I applauded her calm, her stoicism, her intelligence, how she didn’t rush to conclusions, and I couldn’t wait to see how it would all unfold because this is one intricate plot! I kept wondering how Rufus would react, what would happen next. At first, I thought I had an idea of what had happened, and I was totally wrong – and ecstatic to be wrong! THE DUKE OF LIES is a work of genius! The characters are wonderfully complex, engaging; there is much mystery, and so many, many lies from so many people; I couldn’t wait to see it all uncovered.
Diana and Simon, from the previous books, also feature prominently, and they are as superb as ever. THE DUKE OF LIES was a perilous endeavour for Darcy Burke to undertake, and has succeeded beyond my wildest dreams! I was invested in the story from the beginning; THE DUKE OF LIES is perfectly paced, everything is perfectly timed, the romance is exquisite. Beau comes off as a normal child, Rufus is my kind of hero; he is fabulous, as is Verity, and every character is splendidly crafted, everything is wonderfully done. I am ecstatic and deliriously happy at how THE DUKE OF LIES turned out! Darcy Burke has truly written a masterpiece, five stars are not nearly enough!
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
Just a few months shy of being declared dead, Rufus Beaumont, Duke of Blackburn, shocks his wife Verity with his unexpected return. Their short marriage had been unbearable for Verity, and she fears for her son Beau’s safety as well as her own. She had been considering marrying again, but all her hopes are dashed with Rufus’ appearance. However, he seems a changed man, but will it last?
My goodness, what a fabulous book! And without giving away any spoilers, well, I can only rave and gush! Darcy Burke has written a highly original and compelling book (again!), and THE DUKE OF LIES is superbly written, and brilliantly plotted. What a gamble this was from the author, because THE DUKE OF LIES is a minefield, one little misstep and it all goes downhill. I was almost holding my breath because I feared that it might crumble at some point, but not in the least! Everything is perfect! Apart maybe from a sex scene that was exceedingly long (so long in fact, that I’m not sure if there were one or two scenes; it went on for pages. Still they were exquisitely written, and at the right place and the right time.)
I was so pleased at Verity’s reaction to Rufus’ return. I applauded her calm, her stoicism, her intelligence, how she didn’t rush to conclusions, and I couldn’t wait to see how it would all unfold because this is one intricate plot! I kept wondering how Rufus would react, what would happen next. At first, I thought I had an idea of what had happened, and I was totally wrong – and ecstatic to be wrong! THE DUKE OF LIES is a work of genius! The characters are wonderfully complex, engaging; there is much mystery, and so many, many lies from so many people; I couldn’t wait to see it all uncovered.
Diana and Simon, from the previous books, also feature prominently, and they are as superb as ever. THE DUKE OF LIES was a perilous endeavour for Darcy Burke to undertake, and has succeeded beyond my wildest dreams! I was invested in the story from the beginning; THE DUKE OF LIES is perfectly paced, everything is perfectly timed, the romance is exquisite. Beau comes off as a normal child, Rufus is my kind of hero; he is fabulous, as is Verity, and every character is splendidly crafted, everything is wonderfully done. I am ecstatic and deliriously happy at how THE DUKE OF LIES turned out! Darcy Burke has truly written a masterpiece, five stars are not nearly enough!
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
June 2, 2018
What would you do if your despised, missing husband suddenly returned after 6 ½ years? For Verity Beaumont it was almost soul crushing. Except this version of the man she loathes is vastly different than the man she married. Verity vows to watch his every move so she is not caught unaware if the man he was before surfaces. She must; not only for her self-preservation but that of her son. A son who completely adores this man.
Rufus Beaumont, Duke of Blackburn, returns home to find a lovely wife and boy. Much has changed since he’s been away and he soon comes to love the land and the people, especially his wife and son. Now all he has to do is prove to her that he may not be the man she remembers, she can trust him.
Wow! My heart dropped along with Verity’s when Rufus returned. And Verity’s ensuing turmoil jumped from the pages. While Rufus does what he must while wrestling with his conscious he soon won my heart over. Oh, and Verity’s domineering father – the slime oozed from every pore onto the pages. Secrets, danger, intrigue, and love fly off Darcy Burke’s pages. Add in the innocence and curiosity of a 6 year old and you have a well rounded story.
Rufus Beaumont, Duke of Blackburn, returns home to find a lovely wife and boy. Much has changed since he’s been away and he soon comes to love the land and the people, especially his wife and son. Now all he has to do is prove to her that he may not be the man she remembers, she can trust him.
Wow! My heart dropped along with Verity’s when Rufus returned. And Verity’s ensuing turmoil jumped from the pages. While Rufus does what he must while wrestling with his conscious he soon won my heart over. Oh, and Verity’s domineering father – the slime oozed from every pore onto the pages. Secrets, danger, intrigue, and love fly off Darcy Burke’s pages. Add in the innocence and curiosity of a 6 year old and you have a well rounded story.
June 11, 2018
Truths and untruths!
The return of a dead husband after six years is a hard thing, especially as the man who disappeared was not pleasant. The man who returns is the complete opposite. What happened to Rufus Beaumont, Duke of Blackburn, in those intervening years to change him so?
Verity has to somehow take this on board without risking her son, or Rufus' displeasure. Although on the surface that appears to be a thing of the past.
Verity finds herself in a difficult place. How to trust that the monster who left her will not be hidden somewhere inside this new aspect of Rufus. What is the true face of the man she called husband?
Plots, plans and dark deeds are afoot. Rufus has to use all his ingenuity to prove himself to Verity and his son. But will he be exposed? And will Verity accept him when the truth comes out?
A NetGalley ARC
The return of a dead husband after six years is a hard thing, especially as the man who disappeared was not pleasant. The man who returns is the complete opposite. What happened to Rufus Beaumont, Duke of Blackburn, in those intervening years to change him so?
Verity has to somehow take this on board without risking her son, or Rufus' displeasure. Although on the surface that appears to be a thing of the past.
Verity finds herself in a difficult place. How to trust that the monster who left her will not be hidden somewhere inside this new aspect of Rufus. What is the true face of the man she called husband?
Plots, plans and dark deeds are afoot. Rufus has to use all his ingenuity to prove himself to Verity and his son. But will he be exposed? And will Verity accept him when the truth comes out?
A NetGalley ARC
May 26, 2018
The Duke of Lies is the 9th book in The Untouchables series by Darcy Burke. It can be read as a standalone but having read the previous books I enjoyed catching up with some of the characters from them.
Verity Beaumont suffered at the hands of her husband Rufus who verbally and physically abused her. When he disappeared 6 years ago she finally started to enjoy a peaceful life. In the 6 years since then she gave birth to Rufus' son and everything she does is with his future in mind. She hasn't enjoyed always wondering if her missing husband will come back, but with just a couple of short months to go until he will be declared dead it seems that finally, luck is on Verity's side. So, it is a huge shock when her husband does indeed return with the very simple words, "I am home!"
Rufus has been at sea for the last 6 years, taken against his will into the Navy. When he managed to escape after a ship he was on went up in flames he made his way home as quickly as possible to take back his estate and to carry on in his role as the Duke of Blackburn. Life seems to have changed him because instead of being the very mean, angry, abusive man that he was before, now he is a thoughtful kind man. His whole physique has changed too, the man has muscles on muscles instead of being a weedy aristocrat. But time working at sea is bound to be the reason for his new well-built self. Is this new Rufus just an act, will he ease his way back into Verity and his son's lives only to show his rotten old self? Or is this new improved Rufus there for good? Verity could easily fall in love with her husband as he is now but worries her heart and that of her son will end up broken if she trusts her new emotions.
It is difficult to write this review without giving away some spoilers, suffice to say that there are untruths and twists and turns to this story. There are betrayal, thefts and murder to intrigue the reader, and of course the building relationship and romance between Rufus and Verity. Their passionate lovemaking was steamy hot, so not for those that like a nice sweet romance. For me seeing Verity finally being treated with respect by her husband was a delight, but even more so I enjoyed watching him meet his son and building a loving father/son relationship with him. I dreaded the lad getting hurt when I realised that Rufus had a secret that would crush both his son and Verity if it were to ever be told. How does the story end? Well, you will have to read for yourself to find out. You won't be disappointed. I know I wasn't.
I voluntarily reviewed an advance reader copy of this book.
Verity Beaumont suffered at the hands of her husband Rufus who verbally and physically abused her. When he disappeared 6 years ago she finally started to enjoy a peaceful life. In the 6 years since then she gave birth to Rufus' son and everything she does is with his future in mind. She hasn't enjoyed always wondering if her missing husband will come back, but with just a couple of short months to go until he will be declared dead it seems that finally, luck is on Verity's side. So, it is a huge shock when her husband does indeed return with the very simple words, "I am home!"
Rufus has been at sea for the last 6 years, taken against his will into the Navy. When he managed to escape after a ship he was on went up in flames he made his way home as quickly as possible to take back his estate and to carry on in his role as the Duke of Blackburn. Life seems to have changed him because instead of being the very mean, angry, abusive man that he was before, now he is a thoughtful kind man. His whole physique has changed too, the man has muscles on muscles instead of being a weedy aristocrat. But time working at sea is bound to be the reason for his new well-built self. Is this new Rufus just an act, will he ease his way back into Verity and his son's lives only to show his rotten old self? Or is this new improved Rufus there for good? Verity could easily fall in love with her husband as he is now but worries her heart and that of her son will end up broken if she trusts her new emotions.
It is difficult to write this review without giving away some spoilers, suffice to say that there are untruths and twists and turns to this story. There are betrayal, thefts and murder to intrigue the reader, and of course the building relationship and romance between Rufus and Verity. Their passionate lovemaking was steamy hot, so not for those that like a nice sweet romance. For me seeing Verity finally being treated with respect by her husband was a delight, but even more so I enjoyed watching him meet his son and building a loving father/son relationship with him. I dreaded the lad getting hurt when I realised that Rufus had a secret that would crush both his son and Verity if it were to ever be told. How does the story end? Well, you will have to read for yourself to find out. You won't be disappointed. I know I wasn't.
I voluntarily reviewed an advance reader copy of this book.
March 15, 2022
Reminded me of a movie I saw once
It was a good story and I don't want to give any spoilers but it's worth the read. The hero was everything you would want in a hero. The boy, Beau was so very precocious. I liked the parts with him better. I did skim over the intimate scenes because they were a little too much for me but that's just me. The epilogue was wonderful and I will definitely read this author again.
It was a good story and I don't want to give any spoilers but it's worth the read. The hero was everything you would want in a hero. The boy, Beau was so very precocious. I liked the parts with him better. I did skim over the intimate scenes because they were a little too much for me but that's just me. The epilogue was wonderful and I will definitely read this author again.
April 12, 2025
Kobo+. HRBC Mad About Series Challenge 2024. Tropes: Regency Romance, Romance Mystery, Disguise, Knight in Shining Armour. Family/Friends.
MC's Duke (Rufus)(Christopher Powell illigitimate son of Augustus Beaumont) and Duchess (Verity) of Blackburn (son Beau,6). Story is after the disappearing Duke returns. This is a Mystery/Romance with a change of heart for both MC's. Blackburn is my maiden name. Blackburn Lancashire is where my ancestors came from.
Other Characters from other books:
1.Nora & Titus, Duke and Duchess of Kendal (Book 1)
2. Bran Crowther, Earl of Knighton (Book 5)
3. Violet & Nick Bateman, Duke and Duchess of Kilve (Book 7)
4. Diana & Simon Hastings, Duke and Duchess of Romsey ( Book 8)
*******************************************
Couples & Books
1 Forbidden Duke: Nora Lambert & Titus Kendal (Duke) (son and daughter)
2 The Duke of Daring: Lucinda Parnell & Andrew Wentworth, Earl of Dartford
3 The Duke of Deception: Aquila Knox & Edward Bishop, Earl of Sutton
4 The Duke of Desire: Ivy Breckenridge & Sebastian Westgate, Duke of Clare
5 The Duke of Defiance: Joanna Shaw & Bran Crowther, Earl of Knighton (daughter Evie)
6 The Duke of Danger: L. Emmaline Townsend & Lionel Maitland, Marquess of Axbridge
7 The Duke of Ice: Violet Pendleton (nee Caulfield) & Nick Bateman, Duke of Kilve (son Maurice)
8 The Duke of Ruin: Diana Kingman & Simon Hastings, Duke of Romsey(widower)
9The Duke of Lies: Verity & Rufus, Duke and Duchess of Blackburn (son Beau,5)
10 The Duke of Seduction:
11 The Duke of Kisses:
12 The Duke of Distraction:
*****************************************************************************
MC's Duke (Rufus)(Christopher Powell illigitimate son of Augustus Beaumont) and Duchess (Verity) of Blackburn (son Beau,6). Story is after the disappearing Duke returns. This is a Mystery/Romance with a change of heart for both MC's. Blackburn is my maiden name. Blackburn Lancashire is where my ancestors came from.
Other Characters from other books:
1.Nora & Titus, Duke and Duchess of Kendal (Book 1)
2. Bran Crowther, Earl of Knighton (Book 5)
3. Violet & Nick Bateman, Duke and Duchess of Kilve (Book 7)
4. Diana & Simon Hastings, Duke and Duchess of Romsey ( Book 8)
*******************************************
Couples & Books
1 Forbidden Duke: Nora Lambert & Titus Kendal (Duke) (son and daughter)
2 The Duke of Daring: Lucinda Parnell & Andrew Wentworth, Earl of Dartford
3 The Duke of Deception: Aquila Knox & Edward Bishop, Earl of Sutton
4 The Duke of Desire: Ivy Breckenridge & Sebastian Westgate, Duke of Clare
5 The Duke of Defiance: Joanna Shaw & Bran Crowther, Earl of Knighton (daughter Evie)
6 The Duke of Danger: L. Emmaline Townsend & Lionel Maitland, Marquess of Axbridge
7 The Duke of Ice: Violet Pendleton (nee Caulfield) & Nick Bateman, Duke of Kilve (son Maurice)
8 The Duke of Ruin: Diana Kingman & Simon Hastings, Duke of Romsey(widower)
9The Duke of Lies: Verity & Rufus, Duke and Duchess of Blackburn (son Beau,5)
10 The Duke of Seduction:
11 The Duke of Kisses:
12 The Duke of Distraction:
*****************************************************************************
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
May 30, 2018
4.5 stars
This book is a readers dream and a reviewers nightmare - it is a fantastic story that grabs you from the first page and doesn't let go until the last. There is no way to review this book in detail without ruining the story for potential readers, but I'm going to try :)
Verity Beaumont, the Duchess of Blackburn is raising her son Beau alone, her husband Rufus has been missing for 6 1/2 years. She believes he is dead and she doesn't mourn him. He was an awful man who made her life miserable. But she is finally ready to take control of her life and the first thing she is going to do is get rid of her husband's steward! She despises Cuddy, the steward her father recommended and her husband hired, so she offers the job to Thomas, grandson of the previous steward. Pleased with her decision, she vows to take control of her life and move on. But as soon as she makes that vow, everything changes, because trotting up the drive is her long lost husband!
This is Verity's worst nightmare, this man made her life a living hell and now he is back - WHY?? The duke who greets her is nothing like the man who left her over six years ago - yes, he looks like him, but his entire manner has changed. He is polite, considerate and seems unsure of himself - nothing like the beast she married. He explains that he was impressed into the navy and only managed to escape when the ship he was on burned and he made his way back to England and her.
This is a complex story with secrets, betrayal, lies, shocking revelations, twists, more revelations, steamy love scenes, another shocking twist and finally a seemingly impossible HEA. I will admit the book reminded me of Sommersby for probably the first half of the book, but then there is a twist that changes everything and I was completely enthralled - I literally couldn't read this book fast enough.
This is the ninth book in the series, but it could absolutely be read as a stand alone title. I loved this book and happily recommend it!
This book is a readers dream and a reviewers nightmare - it is a fantastic story that grabs you from the first page and doesn't let go until the last. There is no way to review this book in detail without ruining the story for potential readers, but I'm going to try :)
Verity Beaumont, the Duchess of Blackburn is raising her son Beau alone, her husband Rufus has been missing for 6 1/2 years. She believes he is dead and she doesn't mourn him. He was an awful man who made her life miserable. But she is finally ready to take control of her life and the first thing she is going to do is get rid of her husband's steward! She despises Cuddy, the steward her father recommended and her husband hired, so she offers the job to Thomas, grandson of the previous steward. Pleased with her decision, she vows to take control of her life and move on. But as soon as she makes that vow, everything changes, because trotting up the drive is her long lost husband!
This is Verity's worst nightmare, this man made her life a living hell and now he is back - WHY?? The duke who greets her is nothing like the man who left her over six years ago - yes, he looks like him, but his entire manner has changed. He is polite, considerate and seems unsure of himself - nothing like the beast she married. He explains that he was impressed into the navy and only managed to escape when the ship he was on burned and he made his way back to England and her.
This is a complex story with secrets, betrayal, lies, shocking revelations, twists, more revelations, steamy love scenes, another shocking twist and finally a seemingly impossible HEA. I will admit the book reminded me of Sommersby for probably the first half of the book, but then there is a twist that changes everything and I was completely enthralled - I literally couldn't read this book fast enough.
This is the ninth book in the series, but it could absolutely be read as a stand alone title. I loved this book and happily recommend it!
May 31, 2018
The duke is indeed lying. About a lot and important things, but his lie about the most important thing is this book is revealed to the reader from the very first part that's told from his point of view. It bugs me that I cannot say anything because the blurb doesn't reveal the truth and neither can I.I was wondering how could the author explain Rufus's past behavior and make us fall for that man and came up with 100 different scenarios, but only one of them came close to the truth. Another thing is Verity and the "hard-working gentleman who just might be the perfect father her young son so desperately needs". There isn't one. I thought that Verity would have found someone, but as it turns out the thought of marrying Thomas only passed her mind once. I was glad that we didn't have a suitor fighting for Verity's heart because it would only have caused friction.
The book was good and the relationship between the two main characters was better. I liked the main and the secondary characters and Beau acted as a kid his age should act. He was still adorable and I understand why he wanted a baby goat. I want one too! Overall, the book was enjoyable and I had a good time reading it, so I would recommend it.
The book was good and the relationship between the two main characters was better. I liked the main and the secondary characters and Beau acted as a kid his age should act. He was still adorable and I understand why he wanted a baby goat. I want one too! Overall, the book was enjoyable and I had a good time reading it, so I would recommend it.
June 13, 2018
Many wives would be delighted when the husband who has been missing for six years returns. Verity, Duchess of Blackburn, is most definitely not one of them. Rufus was cruel and violent. His return is her worst nightmare. Except… he's changed. So much so, she's wondering if he's actually the man she married at all.
Kit only wants what he was promised. Impersonating a duke could get him hanged… yet even when the opportunity presents, he can't make himself abandon Verity and her son Beau. The lies are beginning to add up, though, and sooner or later, someone's going to figure out he's an impostor.
This is a really lovely story. Verity was obviously tormented during her brief period of marriage, though thankfully not too much of the abuse was spelled out. Kit's honorable nature made them a perfect match once the legal difficulties were resolved.
Though this is the ninth in this series, it stands well alone. Simon and Diana (from The Duke Of Ruin) feature as prominent side characters, but it's not at all necessary to have read that book to thoroughly enjoy this one. Five stars.
Disclaimer: I received a copy of this book for review through NetGalley.
Kit only wants what he was promised. Impersonating a duke could get him hanged… yet even when the opportunity presents, he can't make himself abandon Verity and her son Beau. The lies are beginning to add up, though, and sooner or later, someone's going to figure out he's an impostor.
This is a really lovely story. Verity was obviously tormented during her brief period of marriage, though thankfully not too much of the abuse was spelled out. Kit's honorable nature made them a perfect match once the legal difficulties were resolved.
Though this is the ninth in this series, it stands well alone. Simon and Diana (from The Duke Of Ruin) feature as prominent side characters, but it's not at all necessary to have read that book to thoroughly enjoy this one. Five stars.
Disclaimer: I received a copy of this book for review through NetGalley.
May 30, 2018
Verity Finds Her HEA
The Duke of Blackburn returns to everyone's chagrin. But my oh my, he's actually nice... and repentant? What fresh hell is this?
Verity, Duchess of Blackburn doesn't trust it for a minute. Not after the cruel treatment he meted out in the early days of their marriage. Seven years missing is just not enough time.
I enjoyed following Verity on her journey to HEA. She and Beau were my favorite secondary characters in the Duke of Ruin. No spoilers here. You will have to read the book. I will just say that I loved it and devoured it.
The Duke of Blackburn returns to everyone's chagrin. But my oh my, he's actually nice... and repentant? What fresh hell is this?
Verity, Duchess of Blackburn doesn't trust it for a minute. Not after the cruel treatment he meted out in the early days of their marriage. Seven years missing is just not enough time.
I enjoyed following Verity on her journey to HEA. She and Beau were my favorite secondary characters in the Duke of Ruin. No spoilers here. You will have to read the book. I will just say that I loved it and devoured it.
May 25, 2018
I can't get enough of these books in the Untouchable series. Duke of Lies is book 9. I believe that Darcy Burke does a wonderful job bringing her characters together to get to their HEA. I recommend this book. I received an advance readers copy and am voluntarily reviewing the book.
May 28, 2018
I might be tempted to read the whole series... definitely not my last book by Darcy Burke!
Review to come.
Darcy Burke is a new author to me. And I love to read a historical romance from time to time. Sounded like a great combination. And it really was.
What happened when a widow for so many years might have given the chance for happiness saw her world turning upside down, at the return of her supposedly « deceased » husband . A man who looked like him but so different at the same time.
Became a journey where both the Duke and his wife started over, not without a few mishaps, awkward and at times uncomfortable moments. I adored this story charged with a very tense past, a heavy atmosphere. Totally contrasting with the present when the heroine learnt to love again after living with someone she despised for years.
This second chance romance had this great hint of mystery and suspense that got me hooked until the end. A heroine not afraid to stand on her own, witty and protective of her family. I enjoyed this experience when things between the main characters were rediscovered, witnessing the built of a relationship and family, the way of two married people should be.
The author managed as well to give greater emphasis to the interactions between the two of them. In spite of the game of make-believe that seemed to be peddling, it was really interesting to see how honest and ingenious the characters were, to give a chance to each other and being stronger as ever together, facing adversities as a team.
It’s been a fabulous and emotional adventure, effective and lively, sweet and hot at the same time. I appreciated the supportive characters who provided a great balance to their story, showing a strong unit. Definitely not the last book from this author for sure!
Review to come.
*** ARC kindly provided for an honest review. ***
Darcy Burke is a new author to me. And I love to read a historical romance from time to time. Sounded like a great combination. And it really was.
What happened when a widow for so many years might have given the chance for happiness saw her world turning upside down, at the return of her supposedly « deceased » husband . A man who looked like him but so different at the same time.
Became a journey where both the Duke and his wife started over, not without a few mishaps, awkward and at times uncomfortable moments. I adored this story charged with a very tense past, a heavy atmosphere. Totally contrasting with the present when the heroine learnt to love again after living with someone she despised for years.
This second chance romance had this great hint of mystery and suspense that got me hooked until the end. A heroine not afraid to stand on her own, witty and protective of her family. I enjoyed this experience when things between the main characters were rediscovered, witnessing the built of a relationship and family, the way of two married people should be.
The author managed as well to give greater emphasis to the interactions between the two of them. In spite of the game of make-believe that seemed to be peddling, it was really interesting to see how honest and ingenious the characters were, to give a chance to each other and being stronger as ever together, facing adversities as a team.
It’s been a fabulous and emotional adventure, effective and lively, sweet and hot at the same time. I appreciated the supportive characters who provided a great balance to their story, showing a strong unit. Definitely not the last book from this author for sure!
December 13, 2018
I enjoyed this title. And, I didn't.
But, as the thing I disliked is something that is a personal dislike of mine, I am not really able to discuss it, and I am not really able to review the book without disclosing it.
The duke is lying. A lot. About a really big thing, and well, it makes his name as the Duke of Lies most accurate.
I did enjoy it overall. Verity and Rufus, and their connection, was interesting and compelling. And, even though he's lying, you like him.
It's just impossible to review without giving away the lie, and it is not in the blurb, so I am going to keep this short, say I do recommend the title (even though this particular trope isn't a favorite of mine) and hope that you enjoy it.
But, as the thing I disliked is something that is a personal dislike of mine, I am not really able to discuss it, and I am not really able to review the book without disclosing it.
The duke is lying. A lot. About a really big thing, and well, it makes his name as the Duke of Lies most accurate.
I did enjoy it overall. Verity and Rufus, and their connection, was interesting and compelling. And, even though he's lying, you like him.
It's just impossible to review without giving away the lie, and it is not in the blurb, so I am going to keep this short, say I do recommend the title (even though this particular trope isn't a favorite of mine) and hope that you enjoy it.
May 25, 2018
Originally posted on Adria's Musings and Reviews on 5/28
* A copy of this book was and provided by the publisher via NetGalley/Edelweiss for the purpose of an honest review. All conclusions are my own responsibility and I was not compensated for this review.
What’s it About? Verity, the Duchess of Blackburn has endured domineering and downright abusive men all of her life, her father and then her husband but when her husband disappears soon after they’re married Verity is relieved and feeling more free and at peace than she ever though possible. Until he returns six years later, a very different man that the one Verity married. Rufus Beaumont, Duke of Blackburn wants to claim his place and his family but he is determined not to be the man Verity remembers. Just as it seems that he may have the life he’s always wanted, the truth about him comes out and he finds he has to prove to Verity that not everything about them is a lie.
Overall reaction to the book? I do love the husband-thought-to-be-dead-but-suddenly-comes-back-different theme in romance because it can lead to one of two things: A bad man who has “seen the light” and is determined to fight an uphill battle to win back his wife, or a bad man who doesn’t come back and whose place is taken by an identical relative (twin, cousin, etc) for some reason or another and he ends up falling in love with said bad man’s wife.
The Duke of Lies takes it a bit further by weaving an interesting tale of greed, extortion, murder, and mystery into the romance between Verity and her not so dead husband. Darcy Burke was able to pull off both a mystery and romance in a way that had me up reading late into the night!
Poor Verity, I felt so bad for her at the moment she realized her husband was back from the dead and that her dreams of peace and freedom are going up in smoke. Though she doesn’t outright say it, she was abused by her husband early on in their marriage, verbally and I gather physically sometimes. She was treated little better than a broodmare and then abandoned when her husband decided he wanted to carry on his affairs and gamble and drink. Her relief at his disappearance had her battling some guilt over her thoughts but I liked that she didn’t try to act pious or saintly by feigning worry about the disappearance of a man who was definitely better off dead. Her honest reactions endeared her to me even as she tried to handle her situation with grace and dignity. I could literally feel her need to scream when her husband appeared again. I wouldn’t have blamed her if she had thrown herself on the floor and cried. She wasn’t a hysterical female though she sure had reason to be, and when several bombshells are dropped on her throughout the story, she soldiers onward without the slightest tantrum. I really liked her because of that and because she survived a husband who was a monster for sure.
And then he wasn’t a monster anymore. Yep, the dearly not so departed husband did a complete 360 from the cruel monster Verity remembered to an unsure, respectful, and dare I say caring man who wanted to claim the life that he should have had, and that includes winning over a frightened, and suspicious Verity. There aren’t any flashbacks to Verity’s early days with her husband but from the little hints the author gives, he was something else. This “new” version of him couldn’t be more different. He’s almost in awe of his life, his wife and their son. He is considerate of her needs for once and I really had nothing to compare this guy to because there is a lack of flashbacks and no prologue so it was like getting to know him for the first time.
Here’s the thing about The Duke of Lies though, that huge secret that the duke is carrying around? It’s revealed early on, heck, if you’re paying close enough attention you can guess what it is on your own. At first I was a little disappointed that that bombshell was revealed so early because I love a good intrigue BUT, in the end there was a reason it happened that way and I did see that it gave Verity and her duke time to adjust and build a new relationship that was based on mutual respect, affection, and friendship. Not to mention that these two had to be a strong united front for the crap storm that was coming their way. And it is a BIG crap storm. So big points to Darcy Burke for handling everything not only in a timely manner, but in a way that gave these two characters a chance to fall in love and face conflicts together instead of using it tear them apart and create unnecessary drama. The circumstances were dramatic enough!
Click It or Skip It? Click It. I obviously missed out on what sounds like a good series. I could kick myself because I REALLY want to read the previous books now. Don’t pass up The Duke of Lies though or else you’ll end up kicking yourself.
* A copy of this book was and provided by the publisher via NetGalley/Edelweiss for the purpose of an honest review. All conclusions are my own responsibility and I was not compensated for this review.
What’s it About? Verity, the Duchess of Blackburn has endured domineering and downright abusive men all of her life, her father and then her husband but when her husband disappears soon after they’re married Verity is relieved and feeling more free and at peace than she ever though possible. Until he returns six years later, a very different man that the one Verity married. Rufus Beaumont, Duke of Blackburn wants to claim his place and his family but he is determined not to be the man Verity remembers. Just as it seems that he may have the life he’s always wanted, the truth about him comes out and he finds he has to prove to Verity that not everything about them is a lie.
Overall reaction to the book? I do love the husband-thought-to-be-dead-but-suddenly-comes-back-different theme in romance because it can lead to one of two things: A bad man who has “seen the light” and is determined to fight an uphill battle to win back his wife, or a bad man who doesn’t come back and whose place is taken by an identical relative (twin, cousin, etc) for some reason or another and he ends up falling in love with said bad man’s wife.
The Duke of Lies takes it a bit further by weaving an interesting tale of greed, extortion, murder, and mystery into the romance between Verity and her not so dead husband. Darcy Burke was able to pull off both a mystery and romance in a way that had me up reading late into the night!
Poor Verity, I felt so bad for her at the moment she realized her husband was back from the dead and that her dreams of peace and freedom are going up in smoke. Though she doesn’t outright say it, she was abused by her husband early on in their marriage, verbally and I gather physically sometimes. She was treated little better than a broodmare and then abandoned when her husband decided he wanted to carry on his affairs and gamble and drink. Her relief at his disappearance had her battling some guilt over her thoughts but I liked that she didn’t try to act pious or saintly by feigning worry about the disappearance of a man who was definitely better off dead. Her honest reactions endeared her to me even as she tried to handle her situation with grace and dignity. I could literally feel her need to scream when her husband appeared again. I wouldn’t have blamed her if she had thrown herself on the floor and cried. She wasn’t a hysterical female though she sure had reason to be, and when several bombshells are dropped on her throughout the story, she soldiers onward without the slightest tantrum. I really liked her because of that and because she survived a husband who was a monster for sure.
And then he wasn’t a monster anymore. Yep, the dearly not so departed husband did a complete 360 from the cruel monster Verity remembered to an unsure, respectful, and dare I say caring man who wanted to claim the life that he should have had, and that includes winning over a frightened, and suspicious Verity. There aren’t any flashbacks to Verity’s early days with her husband but from the little hints the author gives, he was something else. This “new” version of him couldn’t be more different. He’s almost in awe of his life, his wife and their son. He is considerate of her needs for once and I really had nothing to compare this guy to because there is a lack of flashbacks and no prologue so it was like getting to know him for the first time.
Here’s the thing about The Duke of Lies though, that huge secret that the duke is carrying around? It’s revealed early on, heck, if you’re paying close enough attention you can guess what it is on your own. At first I was a little disappointed that that bombshell was revealed so early because I love a good intrigue BUT, in the end there was a reason it happened that way and I did see that it gave Verity and her duke time to adjust and build a new relationship that was based on mutual respect, affection, and friendship. Not to mention that these two had to be a strong united front for the crap storm that was coming their way. And it is a BIG crap storm. So big points to Darcy Burke for handling everything not only in a timely manner, but in a way that gave these two characters a chance to fall in love and face conflicts together instead of using it tear them apart and create unnecessary drama. The circumstances were dramatic enough!
Click It or Skip It? Click It. I obviously missed out on what sounds like a good series. I could kick myself because I REALLY want to read the previous books now. Don’t pass up The Duke of Lies though or else you’ll end up kicking yourself.
May 8, 2021
I’m happy to report that I really liked this one. It’s my second foray into Darcy Burke territory, and thankfully, The Duke of Lies was much better than Romancing the Earl.
The premise was fun, (not something I’ve seen before either), the characters likable, and the reveals pretty cool. (She even managed to surprise me a couple of times, which rarely happens in mysteries).
Despite the fact that the plot is rather ludicrous and the characters a bit too perfect and wholesome, I would highly recommend this one. I don’t normally like kids in my romances that much, but Beau was super adorable and his relationship with his parents was lovely to read about.
I do have a couple of nitpicks, hence the four stars, so I’ll talk about them briefly.
Spoilers below:
-To an extent, I can understand people being fooled by Kit’s ruse. The servants and common people wouldn’t have any reason to complain about the fact their long lost master came back much nicer than before. Why look at a gift horse in the mouth right?
What bothered me was the fact that Rufus, a nobleman’s nephew didn’t reside in London prior to inheriting the title. Presumably he was a man of means, and would have many friends/lovers in town who would easily recognize Kit right away. I’m not saying it was impossible for him to be declared Blackburn, especially with his wife’s endorsement and his newfound friendship with Simon and his other high up buddies, but I wish the possibility of Rufus’s old acquaintances stepping up was addressed.
I honestly wish they gotten away with it, instead of everything being tied up neatly in the last chapter. There is no way in hell Kit would get off scot free after what he pulled, no matter the excuse he offered up as to why he did it in the first place.
It all worked up a bit too easily for them, and getting away with their lies and Cuddy’s murder, would’ve added a nice layer of moral ambiguity to our otherwise Mary Sue-ish protagonists.
Also, it made me laugh how the deus ex machina constable friend at the end waved off the poor footman’s concerns about a group of evil criminals suddenly having beef with him for blabbing about their activities. That guy is totally dead right? Organized crime isn’t successful by being merciful and understanding.
-The love scenes were on the bland side, the sexual chemistry between Verity and Kit somewhat lacking. Their emotional connection was great, but I wasn’t a fan of the repetitive, dispassionate sex.
The premise was fun, (not something I’ve seen before either), the characters likable, and the reveals pretty cool. (She even managed to surprise me a couple of times, which rarely happens in mysteries).
Despite the fact that the plot is rather ludicrous and the characters a bit too perfect and wholesome, I would highly recommend this one. I don’t normally like kids in my romances that much, but Beau was super adorable and his relationship with his parents was lovely to read about.
I do have a couple of nitpicks, hence the four stars, so I’ll talk about them briefly.
Spoilers below:
-To an extent, I can understand people being fooled by Kit’s ruse. The servants and common people wouldn’t have any reason to complain about the fact their long lost master came back much nicer than before. Why look at a gift horse in the mouth right?
What bothered me was the fact that Rufus, a nobleman’s nephew didn’t reside in London prior to inheriting the title. Presumably he was a man of means, and would have many friends/lovers in town who would easily recognize Kit right away. I’m not saying it was impossible for him to be declared Blackburn, especially with his wife’s endorsement and his newfound friendship with Simon and his other high up buddies, but I wish the possibility of Rufus’s old acquaintances stepping up was addressed.
I honestly wish they gotten away with it, instead of everything being tied up neatly in the last chapter. There is no way in hell Kit would get off scot free after what he pulled, no matter the excuse he offered up as to why he did it in the first place.
It all worked up a bit too easily for them, and getting away with their lies and Cuddy’s murder, would’ve added a nice layer of moral ambiguity to our otherwise Mary Sue-ish protagonists.
Also, it made me laugh how the deus ex machina constable friend at the end waved off the poor footman’s concerns about a group of evil criminals suddenly having beef with him for blabbing about their activities. That guy is totally dead right? Organized crime isn’t successful by being merciful and understanding.
-The love scenes were on the bland side, the sexual chemistry between Verity and Kit somewhat lacking. Their emotional connection was great, but I wasn’t a fan of the repetitive, dispassionate sex.
May 28, 2018
The Duke of Lies by Darcy Burke
The Untouchables #9
I didn’t want this book to end! I love this series and the addition of this book was a delight to read!
Verity has shaped a life for herself with her young much loved son she loves that will one day be Duke of Blackburn. To say she is happy her husband will soon be declared deceased is an understatement. She is eager to claim a life that has never really been her own as her father has always been more interested in himself than in her and her husband of three months was entirely despicable. Her plans for the future that do NOT include her husband Rufus…and then…who should appear on her doorstep but…Rufus…but…boy has he changed!
As the two get reacquainted she is more and more confused by how nice he is. How generous. How very much changed he seems to be. How could this have happened? Can it be true? And, why would she be attracted to the man she once loathed and wished dead?
Well, I really do not want to give away any of this delightful story beyond saying that I loved Verity, Kit, Beau and the rest of the cast both new and old. I was thrilled at the way the story worked out and am eager to read whatever comes next!
NOTE: As I read I was reminded of the movie Somersby with Richard Gere and Jodie Foster…thankfully the ending of this book was much happier than that movie!
Thank you to the author who bequeathed me an ARC through NetGalley – This is my honest review.
5 Stars
The Untouchables #9
I didn’t want this book to end! I love this series and the addition of this book was a delight to read!
Verity has shaped a life for herself with her young much loved son she loves that will one day be Duke of Blackburn. To say she is happy her husband will soon be declared deceased is an understatement. She is eager to claim a life that has never really been her own as her father has always been more interested in himself than in her and her husband of three months was entirely despicable. Her plans for the future that do NOT include her husband Rufus…and then…who should appear on her doorstep but…Rufus…but…boy has he changed!
As the two get reacquainted she is more and more confused by how nice he is. How generous. How very much changed he seems to be. How could this have happened? Can it be true? And, why would she be attracted to the man she once loathed and wished dead?
Well, I really do not want to give away any of this delightful story beyond saying that I loved Verity, Kit, Beau and the rest of the cast both new and old. I was thrilled at the way the story worked out and am eager to read whatever comes next!
NOTE: As I read I was reminded of the movie Somersby with Richard Gere and Jodie Foster…thankfully the ending of this book was much happier than that movie!
Thank you to the author who bequeathed me an ARC through NetGalley – This is my honest review.
5 Stars
May 28, 2018
Every once in a while you come upon a series that you KNOW will never disappoint you. Every book is amazing, and you cannot wait to get your hands on the next story."The Untouchables" is exactly that sort of series. Every single book is good. You don't have to read the previous stories, they each stand on their own two feet (Although I recommend that you do start at the beginning.) Far from turning stale, these stories are each more fantastic than the last.
I fell head over heels in love with Verity in the previous book "The Duke of Ruin". She and her young son are fantastic characters and easy to love. If you've read the rest of the series, you already know that Verity has had an excruciatingly difficult life. Her dastardly father and horrendous husband made sure of it. Verity and Beau deserve every good thing out of life. Let me tell you, they get it.
It is very difficult for me to say anything about the hero without accidentally dropping spoilers, so let me just say, you're going to love him. He's fantastic. Verity and Beau aren't the only ones who well deserve the Happily Ever After at the end of this story.
This story kept me on my toes, I could not put it down. I was ready to drop from exhaustion, but could not stop until I was done. I wholeheartedly recommend this story.
I fell head over heels in love with Verity in the previous book "The Duke of Ruin". She and her young son are fantastic characters and easy to love. If you've read the rest of the series, you already know that Verity has had an excruciatingly difficult life. Her dastardly father and horrendous husband made sure of it. Verity and Beau deserve every good thing out of life. Let me tell you, they get it.
It is very difficult for me to say anything about the hero without accidentally dropping spoilers, so let me just say, you're going to love him. He's fantastic. Verity and Beau aren't the only ones who well deserve the Happily Ever After at the end of this story.
This story kept me on my toes, I could not put it down. I was ready to drop from exhaustion, but could not stop until I was done. I wholeheartedly recommend this story.
June 15, 2021
I'm not sure how to rate this one. It wasn't bad, but it wasn't as good as I expected. If you're looking for shitty-husband-came-back-from-the-dead-with-a-360-degrees-personality-makeover trope, Stranger in My Arms by Lisa Kleypas would be the superior book, IMO. The mystery of the husband was given too early in this book. I remembered what kept me at the edge of my seat when I read 'Stranger in my arms' was the suspense and the mystery (the husband's identity was only revealed towards the end). I feel that everything was resolved too neatly as well. The general feeling of the book wasn't very intense. I also noticed an issue with the forms of address (there was a scene where the butler addressed the husband who happens to be a duke as 'my lord' or ( was it 'sir'?) which would be even worse since according to Google and the many historical romance novels that I've been devouring, he should be addressed as 'Your Grace'. Despite all this, I probably would give Ms. Burke's other books a chance. This was my first of hers and, usually, I'd read 3-5 book by a new-to-me author to see if the author's style suits me. Overall, I'd give this one 3.5 stars.
May 27, 2018
Darcy Burke always excels at creating compelling characters with strong emotions and suspense thrown in to make her stories page turners. Being book 9 of the Untouchables Series, the writing is fresh and intriguing. Having thought her husband dead after leaving for war in the America's, Verity Beaumont and her young son finally feel life is settling down. She had been under the thumb of her father and then her husband before he left and is determined to find peace. That is until her husband, Rufus shows back up alive.
But Rufus has changed. Having been imprisoned in America during the war, his only thoughts had been to return to England and live a calm life. But he finds Verity skeptical that he has changed so he sets out to convince her that they can have a good life. But he brought back a lot of pain and secrets of what happened to him during the war, and as secrets often do, they come out.
Can Rufus and Verify be happy and find an enduring love? There were so many emotions and the interaction with their son will bring a smile and a heart tug. Yes, my romantic heart could not help but be engaged and I sighed as I turned the last page.
What a wonderful series and although each book can be read as a standalone, I would not miss all the other great stories.
But Rufus has changed. Having been imprisoned in America during the war, his only thoughts had been to return to England and live a calm life. But he finds Verity skeptical that he has changed so he sets out to convince her that they can have a good life. But he brought back a lot of pain and secrets of what happened to him during the war, and as secrets often do, they come out.
Can Rufus and Verify be happy and find an enduring love? There were so many emotions and the interaction with their son will bring a smile and a heart tug. Yes, my romantic heart could not help but be engaged and I sighed as I turned the last page.
What a wonderful series and although each book can be read as a standalone, I would not miss all the other great stories.
May 29, 2018
The Duke of Lies by Darcy Burke is book nine in The Untouchables series. This is the story of Verity Beaumon and Rufus Beaumont, Duke of Blackburn. I have read the previous books but feel this can be a standalone book.
Verity went from an abusive father to a husband that seem to be nearing the same attitude towards her. They had only been married a few months when Rufus disappeared. Now in the present day she has a young son and just a short time away from her husband being declared dead. Thinking her freedom and peace are near by she is shocked to see her husband come back home. Rufus might have been a harsh man about town but being taken and having to live through what he did has changed him. Not just physically but mentally too. Wanting to get back what he lost he has to convince Verity he is that changed man....but will this time be their time to find each other.
Really enjoyed this book and seeing how their story would play out!
Verity went from an abusive father to a husband that seem to be nearing the same attitude towards her. They had only been married a few months when Rufus disappeared. Now in the present day she has a young son and just a short time away from her husband being declared dead. Thinking her freedom and peace are near by she is shocked to see her husband come back home. Rufus might have been a harsh man about town but being taken and having to live through what he did has changed him. Not just physically but mentally too. Wanting to get back what he lost he has to convince Verity he is that changed man....but will this time be their time to find each other.
Really enjoyed this book and seeing how their story would play out!
May 27, 2018
Another great book by Darcy Burke. I have really enjoyed this entire series. In Duke of lies we have Verity and her son Beau who are happy on their own after Veritys husband went missing six and a half years ago. It was no real loss since he was an abusive ass. Suddenly a man shows up who looks exactly like her missing husband but is a kind person. I’m not a huge fan of this trope and although there was nothing new here I still enjoyed it.
No safety issues with this book
No safety issues with this book
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