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12 Dukes of Christmas #4
Never Say Duke
Miss Virginia Underwood cannot resist rescuing a stray. Her latest find turns out to be a surly, reclusive war hero trying to recover from his wounds in peace. He doesn't want her help—and Virginia definitely doesn't want to fall in love. Not when a future with him would mean returning to the the same haut ton who laughed her out of Town during her very first Season.
Theodore O'Hanlon, Viscount Ormondton, sequestered himself far from London to heal in anonymity. For now, he can be himself. As soon as he returns, he's meant to wed the woman his father selected years before. But when Miss Underwood turns his carefully mapped life upside-down, Theo must decide which battles are truly worth fighting for.
Theodore O'Hanlon, Viscount Ormondton, sequestered himself far from London to heal in anonymity. For now, he can be himself. As soon as he returns, he's meant to wed the woman his father selected years before. But when Miss Underwood turns his carefully mapped life upside-down, Theo must decide which battles are truly worth fighting for.
186 pages, ebook
First published January 5, 2019
465 people are currently reading
776 people want to read
About the author
Erica Ridley
130 books2,196 followersGet freebies and 99¢ deals at: https://ridley.vip
Erica Ridley is a New York Times and USA Today best-selling author of historical romance novels, including THE DUKE HEIST, featuring the Wild Wynchesters. Why seduce a duke the normal way, when you can accidentally kidnap one in an elaborately planned heist?
In the 12 Dukes of Christmas series, enjoy witty, heartwarming Regency romps nestled in a picturesque snow-covered village. After all, nothing heats up a winter night quite like finding oneself in the arms of a duke!
Two popular series, the Dukes of War and Rogues to Riches, feature roguish peers and dashing war heroes who find love amongst the splendor and madness of Regency England.
When not reading or writing romances, Erica can be found eating couscous in Morocco, zip-lining through rainforests in Costa Rica, or getting hopelessly lost in the middle of Budapest.
Erica Ridley is a New York Times and USA Today best-selling author of historical romance novels, including THE DUKE HEIST, featuring the Wild Wynchesters. Why seduce a duke the normal way, when you can accidentally kidnap one in an elaborately planned heist?
In the 12 Dukes of Christmas series, enjoy witty, heartwarming Regency romps nestled in a picturesque snow-covered village. After all, nothing heats up a winter night quite like finding oneself in the arms of a duke!
Two popular series, the Dukes of War and Rogues to Riches, feature roguish peers and dashing war heroes who find love amongst the splendor and madness of Regency England.
When not reading or writing romances, Erica can be found eating couscous in Morocco, zip-lining through rainforests in Costa Rica, or getting hopelessly lost in the middle of Budapest.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 312 reviews
January 29, 2019
Never Say Duke is one of my absolute favorite books from Erica Ridley.
I pretty much know what I'm getting from an Erica Ridley book: low steam, unique female MCs, and, usually, a very sweet, easy story. Never Say Duke took me by surprise because I really, really liked it, and I had a hard time putting it down.
I adored the female MC. Though it isn't explicitly stated, Virginia Underwood seemed neuro-atypical to me, which was an unexpected pleasure. I love a unique MC, and Virginia's gentle, blunt nature and her quirks made her memorable and special to me. She had great chemistry with Theo, and also great chemistry with Duke, her feisty cat, who made the story even more fun.
I also love an interesting hero, and Theo's injuries, limp, and myriad of facial and bodily scars only increased his appeal for me. I felt very invested in his recovery, and I loved his gruff and grumpy demeanor and seeing how he softened to Virginia over time.
The story had a lot of weight to it, but it was kept light by Duke's (the cat) antics and the delightful banter between the MCs.
There was a little unnecessary drama in the last part of the story, which irritated me, but the author pulled it out in the end. It was a grand romance-y romance ending that all historical romance readers will swoon over.
*Copy provided in exchange for an honest review*
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I pretty much know what I'm getting from an Erica Ridley book: low steam, unique female MCs, and, usually, a very sweet, easy story. Never Say Duke took me by surprise because I really, really liked it, and I had a hard time putting it down.
I adored the female MC. Though it isn't explicitly stated, Virginia Underwood seemed neuro-atypical to me, which was an unexpected pleasure. I love a unique MC, and Virginia's gentle, blunt nature and her quirks made her memorable and special to me. She had great chemistry with Theo, and also great chemistry with Duke, her feisty cat, who made the story even more fun.
I also love an interesting hero, and Theo's injuries, limp, and myriad of facial and bodily scars only increased his appeal for me. I felt very invested in his recovery, and I loved his gruff and grumpy demeanor and seeing how he softened to Virginia over time.
The story had a lot of weight to it, but it was kept light by Duke's (the cat) antics and the delightful banter between the MCs.
There was a little unnecessary drama in the last part of the story, which irritated me, but the author pulled it out in the end. It was a grand romance-y romance ending that all historical romance readers will swoon over.
*Copy provided in exchange for an honest review*
goodreads|instagram|twitter|blog
June 23, 2024
⭐⭐💫
2½ stars.
➕ What I liked :
Funny moments.
The cat.
Country setting. (Mostly set in a small town and not in London.)
Interesting start to the plot/story.
Kind of unique heroine.
(A socially awkward or possibly neurodivergent/autistic heroine.)
The heroine loves animals and saves/rehabilitates injured animals.
The heroine helps the hero with his injuries and kind of rehabilitates him.
➖ What I disliked:
Kind of vague character description of both the main characters… especially about the heroine.
(Mostly about their hair color and eye color… not much else is mentioned….. other than that they both are attractive and the hero being muscular.)
The heroes character/characterization is underdeveloped and lacks some depth.
The heroines character/characterization was watered-down/adulterated but also subdued and changed compared to how she was portrayed in the other books in the series.
(Her unconventional and quirky personality but also intelligence did not shine through/shine bright in this book … her own book…. And the change of the heroine made her almost have Mary Sue vibes or/and manic pixie dream girl vibes… which was very disappointing.)
Rushed.
Disappointing.
There was no real steam … only kissing and no sex scene.
(The book is not labeled/marked as a clean/”sweet” or closed door romance but it very much felt like one.)
A tad bit too anachronistic in some parts.
Plot-holes.
Lacking/underdeveloped and rushed romance/romantic build-up.
The ending was rushed and abrupt.
Believability/plausibility issues.
(The heroine forgave her parents/family way too easily and too quickly… and also forgave her sisters willful ignorance and indifference about what happened to her and how she was treated by the Ton and their parents and other people...and that she was sent away and forgotten etc. She either did not want to see what they (her family) did to her …. or she did not understand the extent of the damage they caused or/and ignored it… Her parents/family were horrible and vile people even for that time period.
But also the heroine would have had deep emotional scars/psychological scars from her time at the place she was sent to…. And being ridiculed and shunned by the Ton… and being dismissed, ignored, shamed and disliked/despised by her own parents.
And she would Not have adapted so easily to re-entering society (The Ton) like it is portrayed in the book.)
Sensitive issues are glossed over and are written/handled in a rather tactless and thoughtless way.
(Emotional abuse, emotional neglect etc.)
Issues and problems are resolved way too easily and conveniently.
2½ stars.
➕ What I liked :
Funny moments.
The cat.
Country setting. (Mostly set in a small town and not in London.)
Interesting start to the plot/story.
Kind of unique heroine.
(A socially awkward or possibly neurodivergent/autistic heroine.)
The heroine loves animals and saves/rehabilitates injured animals.
The heroine helps the hero with his injuries and kind of rehabilitates him.
➖ What I disliked:
Kind of vague character description of both the main characters… especially about the heroine.
(Mostly about their hair color and eye color… not much else is mentioned….. other than that they both are attractive and the hero being muscular.)
The heroes character/characterization is underdeveloped and lacks some depth.
The heroines character/characterization was watered-down/adulterated but also subdued and changed compared to how she was portrayed in the other books in the series.
(Her unconventional and quirky personality but also intelligence did not shine through/shine bright in this book … her own book…. And the change of the heroine made her almost have Mary Sue vibes or/and manic pixie dream girl vibes… which was very disappointing.)
Rushed.
Disappointing.
There was no real steam … only kissing and no sex scene.
(The book is not labeled/marked as a clean/”sweet” or closed door romance but it very much felt like one.)
A tad bit too anachronistic in some parts.
Plot-holes.
Lacking/underdeveloped and rushed romance/romantic build-up.
The ending was rushed and abrupt.
Believability/plausibility issues.
(The heroine forgave her parents/family way too easily and too quickly… and also forgave her sisters willful ignorance and indifference about what happened to her and how she was treated by the Ton and their parents and other people...and that she was sent away and forgotten etc. She either did not want to see what they (her family) did to her …. or she did not understand the extent of the damage they caused or/and ignored it… Her parents/family were horrible and vile people even for that time period.
But also the heroine would have had deep emotional scars/psychological scars from her time at the place she was sent to…. And being ridiculed and shunned by the Ton… and being dismissed, ignored, shamed and disliked/despised by her own parents.
And she would Not have adapted so easily to re-entering society (The Ton) like it is portrayed in the book.)
Sensitive issues are glossed over and are written/handled in a rather tactless and thoughtless way.
(Emotional abuse, emotional neglect etc.)
Issues and problems are resolved way too easily and conveniently.
April 12, 2020
I WAS EXPECTING MORE VIRGINIA-NESS
Actual rating: 2.5⭐
In the previous books I so loved Virginia, her quirkiness and her special brand of intelligence. I was really looking forward to a completely book with those things. Sadly, she was oddly subdued and a little boring actually. That was quite disappointing.
Actual rating: 2.5⭐
In the previous books I so loved Virginia, her quirkiness and her special brand of intelligence. I was really looking forward to a completely book with those things. Sadly, she was oddly subdued and a little boring actually. That was quite disappointing.
March 19, 2022
This was one of the BOTM for HRBC for March’s trope “All is fair in love and war” It is #4 in the Dukes of Christmas series. The H is Viscount Ormondton aka Major Theodore O’ Hanlon (Theo) a war hero secluding himself in his friends cottage in the village of Christmas tucked away near the Scottish border. The h is Miss Virginia Underwood a talented young lady who lives at the Marlowe Castle. Among her talents she has a constant companion Duke the cat a stray she adopted plus she heals wounded birds and other animals including humans (wounded soldiers, Theo) They meet at the Duke of Azureford’s cottage when “Duke” the cat jumps in an open window. Virginia sees that Mr T needs her special brand of healing. She bribes him with ice cream his favourite food. They both have insecurities but each gaining the other’s friendship and trust they confide their secrets. They fall in love. He has a family obligation to marry another. The other woman shows up at the cottage demanding they get married. He tells her to find someone else. He proposes to Virginia in front of a crowd in the Castle Aviary.
12 DAYS OF Christmas attributes: The Duke is a cat. Virginia’s calling card is 4 calling birds.
Quotes from the book: Never Say Duke
Quote Ch.7 Would a kiss have been an option if he’d said “between the stacks” instead?
Quote: “You’re not wearing a fichu,” he said. “I can look down your bodice from this angle.”
Slap me,” he whispered. “That was an extremely impolite thing to say.”
“You can see down my bodice from that angle,” she said. “Do you like it?”
“I like your bosom from every angle,” he growled. “That’s not the point. The point is—”
First Kiss
Quote:”I was willing,” Virginia said. “I slapped you for stopping before it got better.”
This kiss was nothing like the first one. It was confident and real. Vulnerable and unapologetic. Now they both knew the truth. His only weakness was her. This kiss proved it.
Her lips were soft and yielding beneath his. Plump and inviting, as sweet and perfect as he had imagined. Yet he wanted more.
“I would spend every minute of my time here kissing you if I could,” he forced himself to admit. “But that’s all it could be.”
Watch this,” Theodore said. “Duke.”
Duke turned and hissed. “Thank you , Your Grace.”
Duke flopped over onto his spine. Purring loudly, he rubbed his back against the carpet in random patterns.
“There are two kinds of family.” Her voice lowered, and her gaze turned wistful. “The kind you are born with, and the one you make yourself.”
Proposal
“Miss Virginia Underwood,” he said “Please say that you will make me the happiest of men and become my wife, for richer, for poorer, in sickness and in health, to love and to cherish, now and forevermore.”
“Miss Virginia Underwood,” a familiar, gravelly voice boomed from the other side of the aviary. “This is not goodbye. I cannot leave whilst you still possess my heart.” “Wouldn’t it be easier to marry someone else?” Virginia called out, her voice shaking. “I’m not looking for easy,” Theodore answered, his voice ringing clear. “I’m looking for you.”
Her pulse skipped. “I don’t want temporary,” he called out. “Life won’t be worth living if it means leaving you behind. I want forever. I want you.”
She caught her breath.
“You’re as necessary to me as breathing.” He pressed a hand to his heart. “You make me whole.”
Her heart pounded.
“I love you,” he called out. “I’m here to prove it.”Theodore took one limping step closer. “I, Theodore O’Hanlon, Major Viscount Ormondton, want you, Miss Virginia Underwood…”
“To be my wife,” Theodore continued, striding forward as if his damaged limb was not screaming with pain. “From this day forward; for better, for worse…”
Gloria kicked Virginia’s other shin. “Go to him, you ninny!”
“For richer, for poorer…” Theodore took another uneven step.
Virginia summoned her courage and started through the crowd. “In sickness and in health…”
Theodore began to walk faster. “To love and to cherish…”
“Until death do us part.” Virginia ran the rest of the way until they stood less than a breath apart.
With a crooked smile, he took her hands in his. “Is that a yes?”
“I love you,” Virginia blurted, and lifted her lips to his.
“It’s a yes!” Gloria called out.
The crowd erupted into deafening shouts.
“Four colly birds,” he answered with a straight face. “And a cat. I didn’t want Duke to feel he wasn’t part of the family.
12 DAYS OF Christmas attributes: The Duke is a cat. Virginia’s calling card is 4 calling birds.
Quotes from the book: Never Say Duke
Quote Ch.7 Would a kiss have been an option if he’d said “between the stacks” instead?
Quote: “You’re not wearing a fichu,” he said. “I can look down your bodice from this angle.”
Slap me,” he whispered. “That was an extremely impolite thing to say.”
“You can see down my bodice from that angle,” she said. “Do you like it?”
“I like your bosom from every angle,” he growled. “That’s not the point. The point is—”
First Kiss
Quote:”I was willing,” Virginia said. “I slapped you for stopping before it got better.”
This kiss was nothing like the first one. It was confident and real. Vulnerable and unapologetic. Now they both knew the truth. His only weakness was her. This kiss proved it.
Her lips were soft and yielding beneath his. Plump and inviting, as sweet and perfect as he had imagined. Yet he wanted more.
“I would spend every minute of my time here kissing you if I could,” he forced himself to admit. “But that’s all it could be.”
Watch this,” Theodore said. “Duke.”
Duke turned and hissed. “Thank you , Your Grace.”
Duke flopped over onto his spine. Purring loudly, he rubbed his back against the carpet in random patterns.
“There are two kinds of family.” Her voice lowered, and her gaze turned wistful. “The kind you are born with, and the one you make yourself.”
Proposal
“Miss Virginia Underwood,” he said “Please say that you will make me the happiest of men and become my wife, for richer, for poorer, in sickness and in health, to love and to cherish, now and forevermore.”
“Miss Virginia Underwood,” a familiar, gravelly voice boomed from the other side of the aviary. “This is not goodbye. I cannot leave whilst you still possess my heart.” “Wouldn’t it be easier to marry someone else?” Virginia called out, her voice shaking. “I’m not looking for easy,” Theodore answered, his voice ringing clear. “I’m looking for you.”
Her pulse skipped. “I don’t want temporary,” he called out. “Life won’t be worth living if it means leaving you behind. I want forever. I want you.”
She caught her breath.
“You’re as necessary to me as breathing.” He pressed a hand to his heart. “You make me whole.”
Her heart pounded.
“I love you,” he called out. “I’m here to prove it.”Theodore took one limping step closer. “I, Theodore O’Hanlon, Major Viscount Ormondton, want you, Miss Virginia Underwood…”
“To be my wife,” Theodore continued, striding forward as if his damaged limb was not screaming with pain. “From this day forward; for better, for worse…”
Gloria kicked Virginia’s other shin. “Go to him, you ninny!”
“For richer, for poorer…” Theodore took another uneven step.
Virginia summoned her courage and started through the crowd. “In sickness and in health…”
Theodore began to walk faster. “To love and to cherish…”
“Until death do us part.” Virginia ran the rest of the way until they stood less than a breath apart.
With a crooked smile, he took her hands in his. “Is that a yes?”
“I love you,” Virginia blurted, and lifted her lips to his.
“It’s a yes!” Gloria called out.
The crowd erupted into deafening shouts.
“Four colly birds,” he answered with a straight face. “And a cat. I didn’t want Duke to feel he wasn’t part of the family.
January 9, 2019
This series never disappoints. It's light and fluffy, funny and heartwarming. True, it's fluff and every little thing is neatly wrapped up in the end, but on the plus side, there is very little drama, and just a story of two people who couldn't deserve happiness more finding their happily ever after. I loved that both protagonists were more than the cliché they seemed at first (tortured war hero meets young and eccentric/ "different" heroine). I loved that Virginia, who in the previous stories was forever saying the wrong thing, got her own book. She is one heroine who deserves the adjective "unique": shipped off to an asylum by parents who never understood her and her anxieties and wanted to be rid of an unmarriageable daughter, she has carved out a life for herself where she can be whatever she wants to be, and in Theo she finds the perfect person for her! I just wish her issues would have been explored more deeply and not everything had been so easily solved. If you're looking for lovely, short, cozy stories, give this series a chance.
*I received an ARC from the publisher via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review*
*I received an ARC from the publisher via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review*
February 11, 2019
This was my first book by Erica Ridley and what a fun read it was. I didn’t read the 3 previous books in this series but they appear to be about friends of Virginia who is the heroine in this book. Virginia has problems not fitting into society and prefers a simpler life away from London and crowds. Theo is back from war with injuries which make him self conscious. These 2 were made for each other - accepting each other for who they are as a person, not who they are in society. Very low steam - just a sweet, fun read.
*I received an ARC from the publisher via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review*
*I received an ARC from the publisher via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review*
January 18, 2019
Welcome back to Christmas, where the magic of the town is surpassed only by the magic of love!
NEVER SAY DUKE by Erica Ridley is one more sweet and sexy romance that brings two lonely souls together to find their surprise happily ever after! High on heartwarming interactions and actually low on drama, one injured soldier seeks a quiet and secluded place to recover only to find a quirky and delightful woman who won’t take no for an answer!
Theodore only wanted to be left alone, depressed, severely wounded and feeling “less” than what he was. Virginia was the family embarrassment, she danced to a different drum and escaped to Christmas to live the life she cared about, free of the pain her family inflicted.
When Virginia’s caring heart sees the hidden wounds Theodore carries, she begins her own campaign to break down his walls and help him heal, in spite of his attempts to push her away.
I loved Virginia! She is that diamond that only needs the right light to sparkle and sparkle she does!
And again, Erica Ridley makes historical romance just a little bit brighter, heartwarming and simply sweet!
I received a complimentary copy from WebMotion!
Series: 12 Dukes of Christmas - Book 4
Publisher: WebMotion (January 5, 2019)
Publication Date: January 5, 2019
Genre: Historical Romance
Available from: Amazon | Barnes & Noble
For Reviews, Giveaways, Fabulous Book News, follow: http://tometender.blogspot.com
NEVER SAY DUKE by Erica Ridley is one more sweet and sexy romance that brings two lonely souls together to find their surprise happily ever after! High on heartwarming interactions and actually low on drama, one injured soldier seeks a quiet and secluded place to recover only to find a quirky and delightful woman who won’t take no for an answer!
Theodore only wanted to be left alone, depressed, severely wounded and feeling “less” than what he was. Virginia was the family embarrassment, she danced to a different drum and escaped to Christmas to live the life she cared about, free of the pain her family inflicted.
When Virginia’s caring heart sees the hidden wounds Theodore carries, she begins her own campaign to break down his walls and help him heal, in spite of his attempts to push her away.
I loved Virginia! She is that diamond that only needs the right light to sparkle and sparkle she does!
And again, Erica Ridley makes historical romance just a little bit brighter, heartwarming and simply sweet!
I received a complimentary copy from WebMotion!
Series: 12 Dukes of Christmas - Book 4
Publisher: WebMotion (January 5, 2019)
Publication Date: January 5, 2019
Genre: Historical Romance
Available from: Amazon | Barnes & Noble
For Reviews, Giveaways, Fabulous Book News, follow: http://tometender.blogspot.com
January 2, 2019
When Theodore O'Hanlon, Major Viscount Ormondton arrives at the Duke of Azureford's cottage in Christmas, he expects to recover from his war injuries in peace and remain completely anonymous - but what he got was a cat named Duke who changed his entire life.
Virginia Underwood is a resident of Christmas and a nurturer by nature, she cannot resist rescuing strays or tending the wounded. So when her cat Duke invites himself into the Duke's cottage and she finds Theodore, she insists on helping him - despite his refusal. Virginia has secrets and suffers from what appears to be Asperger's Syndrome. She cannot abide crowds, bright light or loud noises.
Theodore is intrigued by Virginia and begins to look forward to her visits. They talk and she learns that he is expected to marry the daughter of his father's friend - he will do it, because Theodore always keeps his promises and does his duty. But why is he beginning to question that decision?
The more time they spend together, the more she pushes him and under her care, he begins to heal, both physically and mentally. He learns more about her past, which is as shocking as is it heartbreaking. She loves Theodore, but when she learns who he really is, isn't sure she could stand being part of his world, plus there is the little problem of the soon to be betrothed.
When it seems like they will finally have a HEA, a surprise visitor reminds Virginia why they can never be and a twist of fate gives her choices in her life - will she choose Theodore or will she let her past experiences ruin any chance for love?
This is a sweet story, that is well written and paced nicely. Theodore and Virginia are wonderful leads and Duke the cat is definitely a scene stealer, the love scenes are sweet (no heat) but there is a sizzling chemistry between them, there are lots of twists and turns, a hero that you will want for your own, a wonderful ending and an epilogue that will make you smile.
*I am voluntarily leaving a review of an eARC that was provided to me by NetGalley and the publisher.*
Virginia Underwood is a resident of Christmas and a nurturer by nature, she cannot resist rescuing strays or tending the wounded. So when her cat Duke invites himself into the Duke's cottage and she finds Theodore, she insists on helping him - despite his refusal. Virginia has secrets and suffers from what appears to be Asperger's Syndrome. She cannot abide crowds, bright light or loud noises.
Theodore is intrigued by Virginia and begins to look forward to her visits. They talk and she learns that he is expected to marry the daughter of his father's friend - he will do it, because Theodore always keeps his promises and does his duty. But why is he beginning to question that decision?
The more time they spend together, the more she pushes him and under her care, he begins to heal, both physically and mentally. He learns more about her past, which is as shocking as is it heartbreaking. She loves Theodore, but when she learns who he really is, isn't sure she could stand being part of his world, plus there is the little problem of the soon to be betrothed.
When it seems like they will finally have a HEA, a surprise visitor reminds Virginia why they can never be and a twist of fate gives her choices in her life - will she choose Theodore or will she let her past experiences ruin any chance for love?
This is a sweet story, that is well written and paced nicely. Theodore and Virginia are wonderful leads and Duke the cat is definitely a scene stealer, the love scenes are sweet (no heat) but there is a sizzling chemistry between them, there are lots of twists and turns, a hero that you will want for your own, a wonderful ending and an epilogue that will make you smile.
*I am voluntarily leaving a review of an eARC that was provided to me by NetGalley and the publisher.*
January 12, 2019
Nice, sweet, somewhat fluffy and totally christmassy, this story kept me reading and reading, and sighing and laughing. I really loved those characters. Our hero and our heroine seem to be some stereotypes but become so much more, the more you get to know them.
Virginia, who seems to suffer from some kind of autism, is so sweet, gentle and unique, as well as charming and witty, I love the way she cares about every stray that comes her way, no matter how many legs of wings it has. When we learned more about her past, I was furious and heart-broken for her.
Her cure of ice cream and bullying back to health works well for her (very reluctant) patient, our hero Theodore, who came to Christmas to lick his wounds in peace after having been severely wounded in the war.
Add a crazy, very independent cat named Duke and some serious chemistry and you've got a really sweet and captivating story that surprised me in a completely wonderful way.
Virginia, who seems to suffer from some kind of autism, is so sweet, gentle and unique, as well as charming and witty, I love the way she cares about every stray that comes her way, no matter how many legs of wings it has. When we learned more about her past, I was furious and heart-broken for her.
Her cure of ice cream and bullying back to health works well for her (very reluctant) patient, our hero Theodore, who came to Christmas to lick his wounds in peace after having been severely wounded in the war.
Add a crazy, very independent cat named Duke and some serious chemistry and you've got a really sweet and captivating story that surprised me in a completely wonderful way.
January 17, 2021
'Miss Virginia Underwood cannot resist rescuing a stray. Her latest find turns out to be a surly, reclusive war hero trying to recover from his wounds in peace. He doesn't want her help—and Virginia definitely doesn't want to fall in love. Not when a future with him would mean returning to the the same haut ton who laughed her out of Town during her very first Season.
Theodore O'Hanlon, Viscount Ormondton, sequestered himself far from London to heal in anonymity. For now, he can be himself. As soon as he returns, he's meant to wed the woman his father selected years before. But when Miss Underwood turns his carefully mapped life upside-down, Theo must decide which battles are truly worth fighting for.'
_________________________
4.5 stars, rounded down to 4 stars.
Never Say Duke is the fourth book in Erica Ridley's novella holiday series, 12 Dukes of Christmas set in the mythical Christmas wonderland of Cressmouth, loveingly know as 'Christmas' to its residents.
This has definitely been my favorite in the series. I have adored the little snippets of Virginia we have glimpsed so far in the series, so I have been looking forward to reading her novella. She is such a lovely and sweet character, assignig herelf as a nurse to a less than willing patient.
Things start off less than amicably between Virginia and Theodore as he resists her attempts to take care of him, but Virginia is nothing if not persistant.
This is a sweet novella and the pacing was perfect and I think the strongest from the series so far. I've enjoyed each book a little more than the previous in the series, so even though I was mainly just waiting for Virginia's novella, I think I'll be sticking with the series.
Theodore O'Hanlon, Viscount Ormondton, sequestered himself far from London to heal in anonymity. For now, he can be himself. As soon as he returns, he's meant to wed the woman his father selected years before. But when Miss Underwood turns his carefully mapped life upside-down, Theo must decide which battles are truly worth fighting for.'
_________________________
4.5 stars, rounded down to 4 stars.
Never Say Duke is the fourth book in Erica Ridley's novella holiday series, 12 Dukes of Christmas set in the mythical Christmas wonderland of Cressmouth, loveingly know as 'Christmas' to its residents.
This has definitely been my favorite in the series. I have adored the little snippets of Virginia we have glimpsed so far in the series, so I have been looking forward to reading her novella. She is such a lovely and sweet character, assignig herelf as a nurse to a less than willing patient.
Things start off less than amicably between Virginia and Theodore as he resists her attempts to take care of him, but Virginia is nothing if not persistant.
This is a sweet novella and the pacing was perfect and I think the strongest from the series so far. I've enjoyed each book a little more than the previous in the series, so even though I was mainly just waiting for Virginia's novella, I think I'll be sticking with the series.
June 6, 2019
Two-Sentence Review
(Just in case you’re feeling lazy to read a long one)
Simplicity at its best: neat, heartwarming, fluffy story line, likeable characters and fun dialogues. It knows what it is: A Romance Novel, and it knows what it wants: to entertain the reader.
This is fourth book in the series and features Theodore O’Hanlon, Viscount Ormondton and Virginia Underwood. Virginia loves saving strays, she even have a cat named Duke, who by the way, is the best cat in the world. This cat knows his name is Duke and loves being called Your Grace. (Just fantastic) Anyway, Theo is an injured war hero who chose seclusion until he gets better. He went to Christmas, a village literally covered in snow all year round. There, she met Virginia who at their first meeting decided to be her nurse. Though she ended up nursing not only Theo’s injury but more. (Aaaaw!)
Simplicity is indeed the best thing this novel have. I’m not saying this is mediocre, no. I’m saying, this novel don’t try really hard and still made me fall in love with it. It knows what it is-A romance book. And it knows what it wants:to entertain the reader. The story line is really neat. Boy meets girl, girl meets boy. Boy has a past, girl has a past. Boy has a future laid out and waiting for him, girl is contented with her present. The plot isn’t that complex that I’m into it from the very beginning. I didn’t have to think or decide if I love this book, I instantly know I would love this book. Sure the Main Character’s individual back stories are bit deep, especially Virginia, but still the author handled them really well.
The characters are very likeable-from main characters to the side characters. The dialogues are really fun to read. Like I said they’re not trying too hard. The author didn’t have to make our main hero too brooding and snub the main heroine for almost half the novel which is very common in this genre. No, the author just made the characters distinctive so I, the reader, knows who’s who. And I’m telling you, everyone is different and I like them all. Aside from the MCs and Duke the cat, my favorite would be Swinton, the butler. Even the other girl who’s supposedly hinder Theo and Virginia’s Happily Ever After, this other girl acted realistically without being a b*tch. That was a very realistic ending.
(Please note that the OTHER girl is not really Theo’s girlfriend, I only meant there’s other girl in the story. I don’t want anyone thinking there’s some form of cheating in here. Theo is technically single when he met Virginia. )
My thanks to the publishers for giving me an ARC of this book via Netgalley. I don’t really recall requesting it so maybe this is one of those books I was invited to review. So double thanks to that.
(Just in case you’re feeling lazy to read a long one)
Simplicity at its best: neat, heartwarming, fluffy story line, likeable characters and fun dialogues. It knows what it is: A Romance Novel, and it knows what it wants: to entertain the reader.
This is fourth book in the series and features Theodore O’Hanlon, Viscount Ormondton and Virginia Underwood. Virginia loves saving strays, she even have a cat named Duke, who by the way, is the best cat in the world. This cat knows his name is Duke and loves being called Your Grace. (Just fantastic) Anyway, Theo is an injured war hero who chose seclusion until he gets better. He went to Christmas, a village literally covered in snow all year round. There, she met Virginia who at their first meeting decided to be her nurse. Though she ended up nursing not only Theo’s injury but more. (Aaaaw!)
Simplicity is indeed the best thing this novel have. I’m not saying this is mediocre, no. I’m saying, this novel don’t try really hard and still made me fall in love with it. It knows what it is-A romance book. And it knows what it wants:to entertain the reader. The story line is really neat. Boy meets girl, girl meets boy. Boy has a past, girl has a past. Boy has a future laid out and waiting for him, girl is contented with her present. The plot isn’t that complex that I’m into it from the very beginning. I didn’t have to think or decide if I love this book, I instantly know I would love this book. Sure the Main Character’s individual back stories are bit deep, especially Virginia, but still the author handled them really well.
The characters are very likeable-from main characters to the side characters. The dialogues are really fun to read. Like I said they’re not trying too hard. The author didn’t have to make our main hero too brooding and snub the main heroine for almost half the novel which is very common in this genre. No, the author just made the characters distinctive so I, the reader, knows who’s who. And I’m telling you, everyone is different and I like them all. Aside from the MCs and Duke the cat, my favorite would be Swinton, the butler. Even the other girl who’s supposedly hinder Theo and Virginia’s Happily Ever After, this other girl acted realistically without being a b*tch. That was a very realistic ending.
(Please note that the OTHER girl is not really Theo’s girlfriend, I only meant there’s other girl in the story. I don’t want anyone thinking there’s some form of cheating in here. Theo is technically single when he met Virginia. )
My thanks to the publishers for giving me an ARC of this book via Netgalley. I don’t really recall requesting it so maybe this is one of those books I was invited to review. So double thanks to that.
January 5, 2019
Delightful regency tale!
I was completely won over by the rather unusual Miss Virginia Theodore and her cat Duke. A satisfyingly lyrical story spread liberally with a crazy cat, a wounded warrior (Theodore O’Hanlon, Viscount Ormondton) hiding out from his perhaps betrothed, and a mysterious young woman who is totally unexpected in both thoughts and habits. Ice cream and kisses sprinkle the way and if the two lead characters have troubled pasts then so much the better. Healing is a wonderful journey.
I smiled a lot and I loved that crazy cat with its so independent nature. Whimsical moments are prompted by the unusual actions of the Duke of Azureford redoubtable butler Swinton.
A NetGalley ARC
I was completely won over by the rather unusual Miss Virginia Theodore and her cat Duke. A satisfyingly lyrical story spread liberally with a crazy cat, a wounded warrior (Theodore O’Hanlon, Viscount Ormondton) hiding out from his perhaps betrothed, and a mysterious young woman who is totally unexpected in both thoughts and habits. Ice cream and kisses sprinkle the way and if the two lead characters have troubled pasts then so much the better. Healing is a wonderful journey.
I smiled a lot and I loved that crazy cat with its so independent nature. Whimsical moments are prompted by the unusual actions of the Duke of Azureford redoubtable butler Swinton.
A NetGalley ARC
March 12, 2022
Definitely, my favorite from the series so far. I love Virginia and Theo dialogues and the bond between the two of them. I also enjoyed that her best friends didn't disappeared. I really hope the next story isn't so similar about the female role on the story as the previous ones.
January 2, 2019
Never Say Duke is the fourth book in the 12 Dukes of Christmas series by Erica Ridley. It can easily be read as a standalone book, but having read the other books in the series I have to tell you that if you haven't read them, you really should, no matter what order you read them in. This series is so uplifting, you won't be able to read any of the stories without ending up with a smile on your face.
This book is Virginia and Theodore's story. Virginia is a caring, gentle woman, misunderstood by society because of her social anxiety. Her parents even put her into an asylum because they themselves couldn't accept her as she was. Thankfully she got out of the asylum and took up residence in the town of Christmas. She fit in beautifully with the people there and it's there that thanks to her cat 'Duke' she comes across the most handsome man she'd ever met. He also happened to be very injured.
That man, know only to her as 'T' once they were introduced is actually a Viscount. He went to war against his father's wishes, and he is in Christmas recovering from terrible war wounds. He tells nobody except the friend whose house he is staying in that he is back. He wants to heal and then make his way to London, both to see his father and see the woman that he has been betrothed to by their fathers since birth. She wants to make the betrothal official. He isn't at all sure that is what he wants.
Virginia is used to taking care of strays, normally animals, but she deems that looking after an injured man who so desperately needs help just as easy to look after as her animals. Initially, Theodore is fuming at her interference, but the longer she spends with him and actually helps him, the more he begins not only to appreciate her but to find himself attracted to her too! As for Virginia, she's found him to be the most handsome man she's ever met, wounds and all. They get on so perfectly, but there is no way they can be together especially once Virginia finds out he is a Viscount. She is way below his station and besides that, she knows people find her strange. He can't possibly marry her when it will mean he is either going to be a laughing stock or shunned for his choice. Of course, he also has a bride to be waiting back in London.
Can they fight their attraction and more to the point, should they? You will need to read the story to find out.
Out of all of the stories I have read in this series, and believe me, I have loved them all, this really must be my very favourite. I love Virginia and Theo, and some of the scenes between them were fabulous, especially the ice cream scenes (nothing rude in them) but even more than that I love 'Duke' Virginia's cat. He is such a character and I just wanted to jump into the book and snatch him out so he could live with me. You will see what I mean when you read the story.
If you want to read a book that will have you smiling and feeling uplifted then this (and the whole series) will be perfect for you. I can't recommend it enough.
This book is Virginia and Theodore's story. Virginia is a caring, gentle woman, misunderstood by society because of her social anxiety. Her parents even put her into an asylum because they themselves couldn't accept her as she was. Thankfully she got out of the asylum and took up residence in the town of Christmas. She fit in beautifully with the people there and it's there that thanks to her cat 'Duke' she comes across the most handsome man she'd ever met. He also happened to be very injured.
That man, know only to her as 'T' once they were introduced is actually a Viscount. He went to war against his father's wishes, and he is in Christmas recovering from terrible war wounds. He tells nobody except the friend whose house he is staying in that he is back. He wants to heal and then make his way to London, both to see his father and see the woman that he has been betrothed to by their fathers since birth. She wants to make the betrothal official. He isn't at all sure that is what he wants.
Virginia is used to taking care of strays, normally animals, but she deems that looking after an injured man who so desperately needs help just as easy to look after as her animals. Initially, Theodore is fuming at her interference, but the longer she spends with him and actually helps him, the more he begins not only to appreciate her but to find himself attracted to her too! As for Virginia, she's found him to be the most handsome man she's ever met, wounds and all. They get on so perfectly, but there is no way they can be together especially once Virginia finds out he is a Viscount. She is way below his station and besides that, she knows people find her strange. He can't possibly marry her when it will mean he is either going to be a laughing stock or shunned for his choice. Of course, he also has a bride to be waiting back in London.
Can they fight their attraction and more to the point, should they? You will need to read the story to find out.
Out of all of the stories I have read in this series, and believe me, I have loved them all, this really must be my very favourite. I love Virginia and Theo, and some of the scenes between them were fabulous, especially the ice cream scenes (nothing rude in them) but even more than that I love 'Duke' Virginia's cat. He is such a character and I just wanted to jump into the book and snatch him out so he could live with me. You will see what I mean when you read the story.
If you want to read a book that will have you smiling and feeling uplifted then this (and the whole series) will be perfect for you. I can't recommend it enough.
January 9, 2019
For the fourth Duke of Christmas, Erica Ridley gave to me… an autistic heroine.
Yep. An honest-to-goodness historical romance heroine who is very clearly on the spectrum, Virginia has trouble reading the emotions of other people unless they’re smiling or frowning. She hates crowds, loud noises, bright lights, anything sudden, and people who don’t say what they mean. She loves animals (especially Duke, her irascible and hilarious cat) and in her own way, she’s quite brilliant. It’s just that to most people, she appears extremely peculiar.
Of course, in the early 19th century, diagnosis for autism was a long way in the future, and what happened to Virginia was something which probably happened to all too many people, most especially powerless young women - her family put her in a lunatic asylum. Fortunate enough to escape and find her way to the tiny town of Christmas, she carved out a place for herself under the town’s benevolent guardian and vowed never to set foot in the society world which so utterly rejected her again.
Theodore is in Christmas to recover quietly from a serious injury he sustained on the battlefield, and Virginia takes him on much like one of her injured wildlife patients. The more time he spends with her, the better he comes to understand her. There’s a lovely line where he finally figures out why her cat is so irascible which is a perfect allegory for Virginia herself:
“The cat wasn’t the prickly, antisocial creature he had seemed. He had just been waiting to be treated like he mattered.”
Theodore is the first person in a long time to treat Virginia as though she matters, to be fascinated with her just as she is. He’s one of the nicest, most considerate heroes I’ve read in a long time, quickly coming to understand what she needs and careful of her special nature. This is a beautiful romance and probably my favourite of this genuinely charming series so far. Five stars.
Disclaimer: I received a copy of this book for review through NetGalley.
Yep. An honest-to-goodness historical romance heroine who is very clearly on the spectrum, Virginia has trouble reading the emotions of other people unless they’re smiling or frowning. She hates crowds, loud noises, bright lights, anything sudden, and people who don’t say what they mean. She loves animals (especially Duke, her irascible and hilarious cat) and in her own way, she’s quite brilliant. It’s just that to most people, she appears extremely peculiar.
Of course, in the early 19th century, diagnosis for autism was a long way in the future, and what happened to Virginia was something which probably happened to all too many people, most especially powerless young women - her family put her in a lunatic asylum. Fortunate enough to escape and find her way to the tiny town of Christmas, she carved out a place for herself under the town’s benevolent guardian and vowed never to set foot in the society world which so utterly rejected her again.
Theodore is in Christmas to recover quietly from a serious injury he sustained on the battlefield, and Virginia takes him on much like one of her injured wildlife patients. The more time he spends with her, the better he comes to understand her. There’s a lovely line where he finally figures out why her cat is so irascible which is a perfect allegory for Virginia herself:
“The cat wasn’t the prickly, antisocial creature he had seemed. He had just been waiting to be treated like he mattered.”
Theodore is the first person in a long time to treat Virginia as though she matters, to be fascinated with her just as she is. He’s one of the nicest, most considerate heroes I’ve read in a long time, quickly coming to understand what she needs and careful of her special nature. This is a beautiful romance and probably my favourite of this genuinely charming series so far. Five stars.
Disclaimer: I received a copy of this book for review through NetGalley.
December 14, 2019
This was my favorite of the four books in the series so far. Virginia was my favorite secondary character in the three preceding books, so to have her as the heroine in this book made me very happy. I like how she wasn't a sassy, take-no-prisoners too modern for the time period she is written in heroine. She wanted her independence and wasn't the "norm" for the day, but she wasn't constantly trying to fling her independent spirit into everyone's face. She felt real. She had issues, but she had friends and independence and talents of her own.
Also, the love interest wasn't an Alpha. Once in a while it's nice to read a man who is written as something other than Superman and perfect. He had his issues and talents too, and they complimented Virginia's. I really felt they worked as a couple. There were a few steamy kisses and desire for more, but it never got to more than the kisses, except off page after they were married. It was tasteful, which is fitting with who they were.
I completely loved this part of the 12 Dukes of Christmas. It doesn't hurt that the "Duke" in this was a sassy cat, lol! He was not 100% realistic, but since that was the only imagination stretch, it didn't break me out of the story. Completely loved this one. Recommended if you like Regency romances on the clean side. 5, who doesn't love a Duke, stars!
My thanks to NetGalley and WebMotion for an eARC copy of this book to read and review.
Also, the love interest wasn't an Alpha. Once in a while it's nice to read a man who is written as something other than Superman and perfect. He had his issues and talents too, and they complimented Virginia's. I really felt they worked as a couple. There were a few steamy kisses and desire for more, but it never got to more than the kisses, except off page after they were married. It was tasteful, which is fitting with who they were.
I completely loved this part of the 12 Dukes of Christmas. It doesn't hurt that the "Duke" in this was a sassy cat, lol! He was not 100% realistic, but since that was the only imagination stretch, it didn't break me out of the story. Completely loved this one. Recommended if you like Regency romances on the clean side. 5, who doesn't love a Duke, stars!
My thanks to NetGalley and WebMotion for an eARC copy of this book to read and review.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
January 10, 2019
Virginia, the arrow headed aviary keeper of Christmas, and her cat “Duke” unexpectedly meet up with a wounded war hero. Virginia decides to nurse him back to health, and after fairly little hesitation “Mr. T”, who thinks he is incognito, lets her. Of course they fall in love, but it is hopeless for both of them – or is it not?
Another very cute, romantic, and well written romance novella set in the town of Christmas, where the holiday cheer goes on all year round.
I'd give it 3.5 star, rounded up because, so far, the series has not disappointed me.
Another very cute, romantic, and well written romance novella set in the town of Christmas, where the holiday cheer goes on all year round.
I'd give it 3.5 star, rounded up because, so far, the series has not disappointed me.
September 16, 2019
Miss Virginia Underwood is my kind of character - quirky, kind and true to her own self despite what others think. Add in Mr T, and this was a gentle, sweet romance.
January 18, 2019
My favourite so far, although I have to say the cover bears little resemblance to the plot.
Theodore, Viscount Ormondton, has returned from the war scarred and unable to walk. Refusing to see friends and family he has hidden himself away at his friend the Duke of Azureford's cottage in the little village of Christmas with the servants sworn to absolute secrecy.
Virginia Underwood has taken refuge in Christmas after fleeing a lunatic asylum. She has a fear of noise and crowds and keeps mainly to herself, tending to wounded animals she finds around the castle. Taking her cat Duke for his morning constitutional he jumps into an open window and meets Theo. Virginia knows that she can use her experience of healing animals to help Theo and slowly, with Theo's grudging assistance, she helps him strengthen his bad leg and start to use crutches.
As love blooms between our wounded hero and our reluctant heroine the real world intrudes, can true love overcome?
I loved this from start to finish. Although Virginia is socially awkward she is never so gauche that the reader loses sympathy for her. Although Theo wants to hide away he soon looks forward to Virginia's visit and learns to love her devil cat. Just a glorious romance from start to finish.
I received a free copy of this book from the author via NetGalley in return for an honest review.
Theodore, Viscount Ormondton, has returned from the war scarred and unable to walk. Refusing to see friends and family he has hidden himself away at his friend the Duke of Azureford's cottage in the little village of Christmas with the servants sworn to absolute secrecy.
Virginia Underwood has taken refuge in Christmas after fleeing a lunatic asylum. She has a fear of noise and crowds and keeps mainly to herself, tending to wounded animals she finds around the castle. Taking her cat Duke for his morning constitutional he jumps into an open window and meets Theo. Virginia knows that she can use her experience of healing animals to help Theo and slowly, with Theo's grudging assistance, she helps him strengthen his bad leg and start to use crutches.
As love blooms between our wounded hero and our reluctant heroine the real world intrudes, can true love overcome?
I loved this from start to finish. Although Virginia is socially awkward she is never so gauche that the reader loses sympathy for her. Although Theo wants to hide away he soon looks forward to Virginia's visit and learns to love her devil cat. Just a glorious romance from start to finish.
I received a free copy of this book from the author via NetGalley in return for an honest review.
August 7, 2021
3.75 stars rounded up
I was in Ridley's mood after having good experience with a couple of her books. This one was mentioned by Goodreads friend Heather K as one of her favorite Ridley's - I asked her whether it could be read as stand-alone and after she convinced me that it could, I went straight up to buy it.
And this one was DELIGHTFUL!!
Grumpy/brooding hero (who is secretly a softie) and direct heroine (who hides her vulnerability) is one of my jams. Ridley totally gets this right with Virginia and Theodore.
Virginia shows atypical behavior, with her inability to read social cues, with her total passion for animals. She hides her pain of being 'thrown' away by her parents and always left behind. Theodore is grumpy because of his scars and that he wants to please his father somewhat, but he totally wants to protect Virginia from all hurts of the world. SWOON!!!
Add a strong colorful character, in form of a cat called "Duke", this story totally won me over. It may feel a bit rushed near the end, and in one point I think has become Ridley's 'trademark' () which a bit tiresome because it appears in all of the books I read.
But hey, Theodore's was charming -- and I'm all about the happy ending. So yeah, rounded up this one to lovely 4-stars.
I was in Ridley's mood after having good experience with a couple of her books. This one was mentioned by Goodreads friend Heather K as one of her favorite Ridley's - I asked her whether it could be read as stand-alone and after she convinced me that it could, I went straight up to buy it.
And this one was DELIGHTFUL!!
Grumpy/brooding hero (who is secretly a softie) and direct heroine (who hides her vulnerability) is one of my jams. Ridley totally gets this right with Virginia and Theodore.
Virginia shows atypical behavior, with her inability to read social cues, with her total passion for animals. She hides her pain of being 'thrown' away by her parents and always left behind. Theodore is grumpy because of his scars and that he wants to please his father somewhat, but he totally wants to protect Virginia from all hurts of the world. SWOON!!!
Add a strong colorful character, in form of a cat called "Duke", this story totally won me over. It may feel a bit rushed near the end, and in one point I think has become Ridley's 'trademark' () which a bit tiresome because it appears in all of the books I read.
But hey, Theodore's was charming -- and I'm all about the happy ending. So yeah, rounded up this one to lovely 4-stars.
June 30, 2021
I enjoyed this one because I enjoy Virginia's character. She's been fun in previous books in the series and she deserved a happily ever after. There may have been a bit too much foisting help on Theo that he didn't want for his own good, but I'll get over it.
This installment in this series did what this series always does, which is make me smile.
This installment in this series did what this series always does, which is make me smile.
January 5, 2019
ssshwearereading.wordpress.com/2019/0...
This book was LOADS better than I expected it to be. I love Erica Ridley, I don’t know why I would ever have underestimated her, but I have learned my lesson. Never again!
Virginia was such a lovely heroine. I absolutely adored her. I love quirky heroines, and Virginia was among the best I’ve ever read. Theodore also was a wonderful character. He was honorable, dashing, understanding, and just… *swoon* Anyone that knows me knows that I have a weakness for those wounded war hero stories, this is absolutely no exceptions.
This entire book was fantastic. I fell into the story from page one, and did not put it down. I even loved the supporting characters! Even the cat! I spent the whole of this Saturday morning in Christmas. It was so fun! I cannot wait to return!
This book was LOADS better than I expected it to be. I love Erica Ridley, I don’t know why I would ever have underestimated her, but I have learned my lesson. Never again!
Virginia was such a lovely heroine. I absolutely adored her. I love quirky heroines, and Virginia was among the best I’ve ever read. Theodore also was a wonderful character. He was honorable, dashing, understanding, and just… *swoon* Anyone that knows me knows that I have a weakness for those wounded war hero stories, this is absolutely no exceptions.
This entire book was fantastic. I fell into the story from page one, and did not put it down. I even loved the supporting characters! Even the cat! I spent the whole of this Saturday morning in Christmas. It was so fun! I cannot wait to return!
January 11, 2019
Very good sweet historical romance where the two characters Theodore and Virginia slowly fall in love amongst a backdrop of an era which really brought the story together. Loved the cat!
January 5, 2019
I do love this series, each new book bringing a different couple together.
This time is Virginia’s, the shy and kind rescuer of any wounded strays in Christmas town. Life has been harsh for a young woman who suffers probably from a a form of Asperger’s syndrome, why she pains to be among crowd and dislikes loud noises. But has in her a raw talent she trained to rescue and heal, preferably from the animal kind.
Theodore is in hiding, licking his wounds, bad memories from the war before taking his place in Haute Society. He just never intended to fall for the peculiar nurse he found himself paired with, when she settled she was the one to help him.
To this duet, there is a third counterpart, Duke the cat, Virginia’s non official assistant.
It was a lovely story of a double healing and also finding who you really are and accept it.
It was a clean romance for those who had read Erica Ridley previous works.
A 4 stars rate raised to 4.5 stars because of the hissing and scratching Duke.
This time is Virginia’s, the shy and kind rescuer of any wounded strays in Christmas town. Life has been harsh for a young woman who suffers probably from a a form of Asperger’s syndrome, why she pains to be among crowd and dislikes loud noises. But has in her a raw talent she trained to rescue and heal, preferably from the animal kind.
Theodore is in hiding, licking his wounds, bad memories from the war before taking his place in Haute Society. He just never intended to fall for the peculiar nurse he found himself paired with, when she settled she was the one to help him.
To this duet, there is a third counterpart, Duke the cat, Virginia’s non official assistant.
It was a lovely story of a double healing and also finding who you really are and accept it.
It was a clean romance for those who had read Erica Ridley previous works.
A 4 stars rate raised to 4.5 stars because of the hissing and scratching Duke.
December 30, 2022
I loved this book. Cute sweet short grumpy sunshine read featuring a neurodivergent FMC and a scarred MMC war hero. This book was absolutely delightful. I think I’ve been sleeping on this author and will definitely aim to read more of her work in the new year. 😍
January 5, 2019
Never Say Duke is the fourth book in the 12 Dukes of Christmas regency romance series. I have to say that so far this one is my favorite. This is a very powerful story of two people who have endured great suffering and found each other through it. I love how Ridley even weaves poetry from an author of that time in her book. Matilda Betham ( 1776-1852) was a poetess and portrait painter in England. Ridley incorporates a book of poetry by Betham into this magical tale.The poem “The Heir” is a focal point.
“Long kept in exile by paternal pride,
He feels no joy beneath this splendid dome;
For, till the elder child of promise died,
He knew a dearer, though a humbler home.”
The hero Theodore O’Hanlon, Major Viscount Ormondton is vulnerable and believable as a character. “She tried not to notice. He was distractingly handsome. The strong jaw, she suspected he shaved himself. Well-defined muscles from riding horses into battle and rolling his chair across thick carpets. He wore no cravat and one leg of his breeches had been sliced to the knee. The state of semi-undress made him seem at once more powerful and more vulnerable.”
I especially liked the heroine’s character Virginia Underwood. She is a mixture of strong independent woman and suffering, fearful miss. Virginia is a complex character. I love one of her lines “Scars aren’t evidence of failure,”she said softly. “They are proof of survival.”
The romance is sweet and not steamy.
I think Ridley has knocked this one out of the park. I am sure I will be reading it again and again.
“Long kept in exile by paternal pride,
He feels no joy beneath this splendid dome;
For, till the elder child of promise died,
He knew a dearer, though a humbler home.”
The hero Theodore O’Hanlon, Major Viscount Ormondton is vulnerable and believable as a character. “She tried not to notice. He was distractingly handsome. The strong jaw, she suspected he shaved himself. Well-defined muscles from riding horses into battle and rolling his chair across thick carpets. He wore no cravat and one leg of his breeches had been sliced to the knee. The state of semi-undress made him seem at once more powerful and more vulnerable.”
I especially liked the heroine’s character Virginia Underwood. She is a mixture of strong independent woman and suffering, fearful miss. Virginia is a complex character. I love one of her lines “Scars aren’t evidence of failure,”she said softly. “They are proof of survival.”
The romance is sweet and not steamy.
I think Ridley has knocked this one out of the park. I am sure I will be reading it again and again.
July 7, 2019
What a great story!
Never say Duke is the 4th book in the 12 Dukes of Christmas series. I haven’t read any of the previous books however will be adding them to my list now.
I loved both the MCs. Theo an injured war hero determined to be a sullen recluse until he has healed and can return to fulfill his societal obligations. Virginia who has been rejected by her family due to her unique character traits and her awkwardness in polite society.
Virginia has been tossed aside yet shows the strength and courage to try and overcome her fears every day. When she stumbles upon Theo she resolves to help him in his recovery in a way that breaks down his sullen and stubborn barriers and also helps her to grow.
Their story is delightful to read and if all the books in the series are like this I can’t wait to read more.
#12dukes #NetGalley
Never say Duke is the 4th book in the 12 Dukes of Christmas series. I haven’t read any of the previous books however will be adding them to my list now.
I loved both the MCs. Theo an injured war hero determined to be a sullen recluse until he has healed and can return to fulfill his societal obligations. Virginia who has been rejected by her family due to her unique character traits and her awkwardness in polite society.
Virginia has been tossed aside yet shows the strength and courage to try and overcome her fears every day. When she stumbles upon Theo she resolves to help him in his recovery in a way that breaks down his sullen and stubborn barriers and also helps her to grow.
Their story is delightful to read and if all the books in the series are like this I can’t wait to read more.
#12dukes #NetGalley
January 6, 2019
Just when I think I have read the best book in this series, another one comes along that seems even better! Of course it is my favorite trope of the wounded hero who needs to find love and happiness. A cottage, a black cat and a town names Christmas finds Major Theodore, Viscount Ormondton, arriving in the town to stay in his friend's cottage and lay low. He has to recover from his mental and physical wounds from the war before he can return to society and take his position.
But who should find him but a cat named Duke and then to follow his owner, lovely Virginia Underwood who lives in the town. Virginia has her own past and wounds to deal with but she has a wonderful nurturing nature that immediately draws her to Theodore to help him heal.
As they get to know each other, truths are revealed about her background which just touch the heart. There are many twists and turns as these two find out about each other and it seems impossible for them to be together. Can they find their happy ending?
As all of the other stories in this series, there was humor, a zany cat and two wonderful characters that will reach out to you from the pages!!
But who should find him but a cat named Duke and then to follow his owner, lovely Virginia Underwood who lives in the town. Virginia has her own past and wounds to deal with but she has a wonderful nurturing nature that immediately draws her to Theodore to help him heal.
As they get to know each other, truths are revealed about her background which just touch the heart. There are many twists and turns as these two find out about each other and it seems impossible for them to be together. Can they find their happy ending?
As all of the other stories in this series, there was humor, a zany cat and two wonderful characters that will reach out to you from the pages!!
January 7, 2019
Never Say Duke is the 4rth book in the 12 dukes of Christmas series. It can be read as a complete stand-alone, but I got the impression that the couples from the previous books make an appearance. The title of the book is very fitting to the story and it was one of the reasons I laughed when I was reading it. The novella was heartwarming and I loved reading it on a very rare for me snowy afternoon. There was some drama with Beatrice aka the woman Theodore was supposed to marry because their fathers made a deal, but overall it was good and I don't see a reason why someone wouldn't like it. Virginia's past is heartbreaking and I felt so sad reading her story. Never say duke is a book you should (if not must) read. You won't regret it!
January 1, 2019
Never Say Duke by Erica Ridley
12 Dukes of Christmas #4
What an interesting tale this book proved to be! With an injured Viscount and a woman born to heal the match seems to be made in heaven...or...not? Theodore O’Hanlon, Viscount Ormondton arrives in Christmas to deal with wounds sustained on the battlefield. He has plans to hide out till he can return to society and take the position his father has created for him long ago...a position that includes a woman as wife that he really has no interest in. Little does he know that a black cat named Duke will change his life forever once Duke’s mistress arrives on the scene to collect him. Virginia Underwood has been away from society for almost a decade and lives to help injured animals whether feathered or furry. Meeting Theodore she realizes he will be her next challenge. As the two spend time together she helps him heal not only physically but also emotionally. How the two arrive at their HEA is a pleasure to read and the part Duke plays in their story provides that lighter element that eases their way.
Thank you to the author for the ARC – This is my honest review.
4 Stars
12 Dukes of Christmas #4
What an interesting tale this book proved to be! With an injured Viscount and a woman born to heal the match seems to be made in heaven...or...not? Theodore O’Hanlon, Viscount Ormondton arrives in Christmas to deal with wounds sustained on the battlefield. He has plans to hide out till he can return to society and take the position his father has created for him long ago...a position that includes a woman as wife that he really has no interest in. Little does he know that a black cat named Duke will change his life forever once Duke’s mistress arrives on the scene to collect him. Virginia Underwood has been away from society for almost a decade and lives to help injured animals whether feathered or furry. Meeting Theodore she realizes he will be her next challenge. As the two spend time together she helps him heal not only physically but also emotionally. How the two arrive at their HEA is a pleasure to read and the part Duke plays in their story provides that lighter element that eases their way.
Thank you to the author for the ARC – This is my honest review.
4 Stars
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