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The Spitfire Society #1
Never Have I Ever With a Duke
From the USA Today bestselling author of The Untouchables series comes your next Regency obsession: The Spitfire Society...
Meet the smart, independent women who've decided they don't need Society's rules, their families' expectations, or, most importantly, a husband. But just because they don't need a man doesn't mean they might not want one...
Graham Kinsley is shocked when he inherits a debt-ridden dukedom, and now he has just one month to repay a loan. He needs an heiress—or find a way to recoup the former duke's losses. When he meets the alluring Arabella, he's entranced. Unfortunately, she's as bankrupt as he is, but if they work together they may be able to recover their fortunes. Though if they keep stealing kisses, they may lose their hearts instead.
Arabella Stoke can't afford an attraction to the penniless duke who has vowed to help rescue her family from financial devastation. She needs to find a wealthy husband before her father succumbs to the stress of losing everything. However, as Graham brings them closer to finding the swindler who stole their money, the war between what they want and what they need may ruin them both.
Meet the smart, independent women who've decided they don't need Society's rules, their families' expectations, or, most importantly, a husband. But just because they don't need a man doesn't mean they might not want one...
Graham Kinsley is shocked when he inherits a debt-ridden dukedom, and now he has just one month to repay a loan. He needs an heiress—or find a way to recoup the former duke's losses. When he meets the alluring Arabella, he's entranced. Unfortunately, she's as bankrupt as he is, but if they work together they may be able to recover their fortunes. Though if they keep stealing kisses, they may lose their hearts instead.
Arabella Stoke can't afford an attraction to the penniless duke who has vowed to help rescue her family from financial devastation. She needs to find a wealthy husband before her father succumbs to the stress of losing everything. However, as Graham brings them closer to finding the swindler who stole their money, the war between what they want and what they need may ruin them both.
270 pages, Kindle Edition
First published August 27, 2019
600 people are currently reading
731 people want to read
About the author
Darcy Burke
206 books2,278 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 196 reviews
May 5, 2021
Many thanks for a free copy of this book. All opinions are expressed voluntarily.
Never Have I Ever With A Duke, first of all, that title just got me laughing out loud, the kind of connotations that I could imagine with it, giggly, giggly…...
This book came at a very opportune moment, the covid crisis in our country has kind of zapped all the energy and positivity in our hearts leaving everyone scampering and worrying to death about AIR to breathe. Tensions and stress levels are rocket-high so the only escape is thru books and this one provided a much-needed break from the constant anxiety-riddled state that I have been in.
Darcy Burke begins a new series, The Spitfire Society with Never Have I Ever With A Duke and the beginning couldn’t have been any better. The protagonists of the story Arabella and Graham are both destitute and desperate to marry for the sake of financial status, Arabella to save her parents, and Graham to save the mansion that has been the pride of their family for ages.
Graham is an accidental duke and it shows in every single action of his, he’s kind and caring towards everyone and is still learning the ropes of the debt-ridden dukedom he has inherited. The interactions between Arabella and Graham had some fun moments especially the ones in the park where Graham takes it upon himself to be Arabella’s fencing tutor. Love that blossoms between the two of them could have been more in action, most of the realization occurs thru the monologues that Arabella and Graham seem to be having and it is in fact the desire that spurs the relationship forward. I loved Arabella’s characterization as someone who has no qualms about taking risks and who is willing to go the extra mile to be happy for the moment.
There are other characters in the story like Ripley and Colton and Arabella’s friends like Jane and Phoebe, the series continues with their adventures and I am looking forward to reading them soon.
Fun and light-hearted historical romance that makes one feel good, exactly what I wanted right now and for that, A Huge THANK YOU to Darcy Burke and Erica Ridley!
This review is published in my blog https://rainnbooks.com/, Goodreads, Amazon India, Facebook, and Twitter.
Never Have I Ever With A Duke, first of all, that title just got me laughing out loud, the kind of connotations that I could imagine with it, giggly, giggly…...
This book came at a very opportune moment, the covid crisis in our country has kind of zapped all the energy and positivity in our hearts leaving everyone scampering and worrying to death about AIR to breathe. Tensions and stress levels are rocket-high so the only escape is thru books and this one provided a much-needed break from the constant anxiety-riddled state that I have been in.
Darcy Burke begins a new series, The Spitfire Society with Never Have I Ever With A Duke and the beginning couldn’t have been any better. The protagonists of the story Arabella and Graham are both destitute and desperate to marry for the sake of financial status, Arabella to save her parents, and Graham to save the mansion that has been the pride of their family for ages.
Graham is an accidental duke and it shows in every single action of his, he’s kind and caring towards everyone and is still learning the ropes of the debt-ridden dukedom he has inherited. The interactions between Arabella and Graham had some fun moments especially the ones in the park where Graham takes it upon himself to be Arabella’s fencing tutor. Love that blossoms between the two of them could have been more in action, most of the realization occurs thru the monologues that Arabella and Graham seem to be having and it is in fact the desire that spurs the relationship forward. I loved Arabella’s characterization as someone who has no qualms about taking risks and who is willing to go the extra mile to be happy for the moment.
There are other characters in the story like Ripley and Colton and Arabella’s friends like Jane and Phoebe, the series continues with their adventures and I am looking forward to reading them soon.
Fun and light-hearted historical romance that makes one feel good, exactly what I wanted right now and for that, A Huge THANK YOU to Darcy Burke and Erica Ridley!
This review is published in my blog https://rainnbooks.com/, Goodreads, Amazon India, Facebook, and Twitter.
September 6, 2019
Determined? Yes. Spitfire? Not so much.
This first in Darcy Burke's new series, The Spitfire Society, just didn't grab me. I quite liked Graham Kingsley, the new seventh Duke of Halstead, as the unacknowledged relative who became a Duke only to find everything mortgaged to the hilt. There is a deeper story behind this, but it's like looking through a dusty pane of glass trying to pull it all together. The former Duke had not only gambled heavily but had made suspect investments that never came through. Graham has to marry an heiress to bring everything about.
Arabella Stoke is in the same boat. Her father's gambling habits and less than stellar investments means she has to marry for money to save the family's fortunes.
Of course they fall for each other. However this is expressed in chancy illicit liaisons in doubtful places, not in declarations of love and marriage. It seems Arabella Stoke has had her previous moments of anticipation but too me it's all a bit too Thoroughly Modern Milly for the times.
Together Graham and Arabella pursue the identity of the swindler who'd beguiled their desperate relatives into ruin and things come to a HEA if somewhat differently to what they'd anticipated. The getting there is painful (for the characters and me as the reader). Despite the foundation for more depth, in the end I found the story somewhat thin.
A NetGalley ARC
This first in Darcy Burke's new series, The Spitfire Society, just didn't grab me. I quite liked Graham Kingsley, the new seventh Duke of Halstead, as the unacknowledged relative who became a Duke only to find everything mortgaged to the hilt. There is a deeper story behind this, but it's like looking through a dusty pane of glass trying to pull it all together. The former Duke had not only gambled heavily but had made suspect investments that never came through. Graham has to marry an heiress to bring everything about.
Arabella Stoke is in the same boat. Her father's gambling habits and less than stellar investments means she has to marry for money to save the family's fortunes.
Of course they fall for each other. However this is expressed in chancy illicit liaisons in doubtful places, not in declarations of love and marriage. It seems Arabella Stoke has had her previous moments of anticipation but too me it's all a bit too Thoroughly Modern Milly for the times.
Together Graham and Arabella pursue the identity of the swindler who'd beguiled their desperate relatives into ruin and things come to a HEA if somewhat differently to what they'd anticipated. The getting there is painful (for the characters and me as the reader). Despite the foundation for more depth, in the end I found the story somewhat thin.
A NetGalley ARC
February 14, 2021
Secretary Graham Kinsley never expected to inherit a dukedom, but now he finds himself saddled with one, and riddled with debt. He has one month to repay the bank loan or he'll lose the unentailed property lovingly designed by his great, great grandfather. The new Duke of Halstead is determined to prevent this and restore his legacy, and marrying an heiress is the best solution he can come up with. When he meets Miss Arabella Stoke, he finds himself enchanted. Unfortunately, she is also impoverished and in need of a wealthy suitor to save her family, and in a hurry given her father's failing health.
If they work together, they may be able to recover their fortunes from the swindler who ruined them. If they can keep their hands off each other. As they get closer to finding the swindler, it becomes even more apparent that they'll both have to make some tough decisions, and risk broken hearts.
I loved that Arabella wasn't the typical simpering, blushing miss and Graham wasn't the typical impoverished, low born man elevated to luxury. These two had some unusual circumstances you don't read about much and that was refreshing. Their story was also very realistic in that there was no perfect, pretty solution and that was also refreshing. We're also left with a few loose ends to hold until the next book and I'm very much looking forward to it after how much I loved this one.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
If they work together, they may be able to recover their fortunes from the swindler who ruined them. If they can keep their hands off each other. As they get closer to finding the swindler, it becomes even more apparent that they'll both have to make some tough decisions, and risk broken hearts.
I loved that Arabella wasn't the typical simpering, blushing miss and Graham wasn't the typical impoverished, low born man elevated to luxury. These two had some unusual circumstances you don't read about much and that was refreshing. Their story was also very realistic in that there was no perfect, pretty solution and that was also refreshing. We're also left with a few loose ends to hold until the next book and I'm very much looking forward to it after how much I loved this one.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
August 19, 2019
Graham has inherited a debt-ridden dukedom, so he needs to enter in a marriage of convenience with a heiress to help him repay the loans. Some time later he meets Arabella and they both become very attached to each other, but as she is destitute and is also searching for a rich husband to help her with her family debts, both try to fight their growing feelings. Will they find a way to have their HEA?
I did not connect much with the characters, but i still think it is a good read for lovers of historical romance.
I received an ARC of this book from the author via NetGalley and all opinions here are my own.
I did not connect much with the characters, but i still think it is a good read for lovers of historical romance.
I received an ARC of this book from the author via NetGalley and all opinions here are my own.
February 23, 2020
3.5 stars.
This was lovely, if a tad short. But overall I really liked both Arabella and Graham as characters and as couple.
The story didn't do without some cliches, but it also had some very refreshing elements (like Arabella not being a virgin and not being oblivious when it comes to sex).
All in all, I am SO curious about Ripley's book!
This was lovely, if a tad short. But overall I really liked both Arabella and Graham as characters and as couple.
The story didn't do without some cliches, but it also had some very refreshing elements (like Arabella not being a virgin and not being oblivious when it comes to sex).
All in all, I am SO curious about Ripley's book!
August 15, 2019
Series: The Spitfire Society #1
Publication Date: 8/27/19
We first met our hero, Graham Kinsley, in the final book of The Untouchables series. Graham was the secretary of the Earl of St. Ives and he handled all of the betting on the races featured in the last few books of the series. Graham has now, very unexpectedly, inherited a title, Duke of Halstead – and that is all there is – a title. The estate is totally insolvent with the last Duke having been swindled out of a huge sum of money. The only way to begin to salvage anything is to either marry an heiress or sell Brixton Park. There is no contest with that – his great-great-grandfather designed and built Brixton Park and Graham just can’t let it go.
Arabella Stoke’s family is in the same situation as Graham. Her father was swindled by the same man and their family situation is now dire. They have sold off almost everything they own and Arabella is remaking her ballgowns in order to hide their penury. The family’s only salvation is for Arabella to marry someone who has a LOT of money.
So, of course, fate will intervene and have those two impoverished people meet and fall in love. Each of them hopes the other has money. What a rude awakening it was. Their road to a HEA isn’t an easy one and there are no fairy godmothers to show up and save them.
I liked Graham in the previous book he was in, but I didn’t really understand him in this book. He has a number of highly titled friends who are accustomed to running large estates, managing investments, etc. but when he inherits a destitute estate – through absolutely no fault of his own – he won’t ask these very good friends for advice or money. I can see not wanting to borrow money from them – but not seeking advice just didn’t make sense.
I’m so glad that there wasn’t a lot of angst in the book as page after page of angst just makes me insane. There was a bit of introspection and darkness, but not a lot.
It was an enjoyable read and I hope you’ll give it a try.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an Advanced Reader Copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
Publication Date: 8/27/19
We first met our hero, Graham Kinsley, in the final book of The Untouchables series. Graham was the secretary of the Earl of St. Ives and he handled all of the betting on the races featured in the last few books of the series. Graham has now, very unexpectedly, inherited a title, Duke of Halstead – and that is all there is – a title. The estate is totally insolvent with the last Duke having been swindled out of a huge sum of money. The only way to begin to salvage anything is to either marry an heiress or sell Brixton Park. There is no contest with that – his great-great-grandfather designed and built Brixton Park and Graham just can’t let it go.
Arabella Stoke’s family is in the same situation as Graham. Her father was swindled by the same man and their family situation is now dire. They have sold off almost everything they own and Arabella is remaking her ballgowns in order to hide their penury. The family’s only salvation is for Arabella to marry someone who has a LOT of money.
So, of course, fate will intervene and have those two impoverished people meet and fall in love. Each of them hopes the other has money. What a rude awakening it was. Their road to a HEA isn’t an easy one and there are no fairy godmothers to show up and save them.
I liked Graham in the previous book he was in, but I didn’t really understand him in this book. He has a number of highly titled friends who are accustomed to running large estates, managing investments, etc. but when he inherits a destitute estate – through absolutely no fault of his own – he won’t ask these very good friends for advice or money. I can see not wanting to borrow money from them – but not seeking advice just didn’t make sense.
I’m so glad that there wasn’t a lot of angst in the book as page after page of angst just makes me insane. There was a bit of introspection and darkness, but not a lot.
It was an enjoyable read and I hope you’ll give it a try.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an Advanced Reader Copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
August 16, 2019
I've read several of Darcy's other books, so I'm always interested in what she's writing. Especially when it's a new series.
I liked Arabella and Graham well enough. They're both good people who are loyal to their families and friends. I liked that they worked together to figure things out and that Graham was open to Arabella taking an active role. There are several characters from the previous series and it was fun to see them again.
Plot wise, it was a bit bland. There's a lot of inner monologue and some telling instead of showing. Sadly, I didn't really get the jump from friends to lust to love between Arabella and Graham and that left me wanting more. As much as I liked the characters, I didn't really care what happened to them outside of their HEA.
Overall, it was a good start to a new series and I'm definitely eager for Phoebe and Ripley's story.
**Huge thanks to Darcy Burke for providing the arc free of charge**
I liked Arabella and Graham well enough. They're both good people who are loyal to their families and friends. I liked that they worked together to figure things out and that Graham was open to Arabella taking an active role. There are several characters from the previous series and it was fun to see them again.
Plot wise, it was a bit bland. There's a lot of inner monologue and some telling instead of showing. Sadly, I didn't really get the jump from friends to lust to love between Arabella and Graham and that left me wanting more. As much as I liked the characters, I didn't really care what happened to them outside of their HEA.
Overall, it was a good start to a new series and I'm definitely eager for Phoebe and Ripley's story.
**Huge thanks to Darcy Burke for providing the arc free of charge**
August 11, 2019
Will two persons who have been wronged find a future together or be torn apart forever.
I do love Mrs Darcy Burke writing style, the words flow easily and her characters are always more complex than they appear at first, and they are the kind whom always try to save the day.
Arabella and Graham find themselves sharing the same circumstances, both reaching bankruptcy because of bad investments by their kin. And in London society when reaching destitution, wealthy spouses if often the answer, too bad their attraction can bring nothing to another as they are both in need of money.
Arabella who once loved a man her family considered not worthy of her, has now very few other choices left than find a willing rich husband-to-be, if only it could be the charming new titled Duke of Halstead.
Graham Kinsley inherited unexpectedly a dukedom his family has been banished generations ago. But it is not the prize he could have expected as it is debts ridden. He can only hope the lovely lady who bewitched him is the heiress is seeking after.
So when both learn of their common situation, will their combined efforts be enough to regain their family’s loss.
I loved both main characters, they were straightforward and true to themselves, and once their secret was known by the other, they left poise behind and work together, even take risk to protect another. Both will face danger and ruin to save another.
Arabella is not afraid to go for what she wants, even if I find her bit too bold for the period, she is one to be admired for her honesty.
Graham having been a commoner before coming to be titled, is a good man, he assumes his duties probably better than his predecessors and tries to set everything right. And he will without any gratification sacrifices himself if it can save the woman he came to love.
What I do love in Mrs Burke’s stories is that not everything resolve in the heroes’ way, as not everything is black and white.
Now I am very much eager to learn more about Ripley, there is something about him that calls me.
A 4.5 stars read.
I was granted an advance copy by the author but I had previously to It preppy own copy. Here is my true and unbiased opinion.
https://m.facebook.com/42983013427283...
I do love Mrs Darcy Burke writing style, the words flow easily and her characters are always more complex than they appear at first, and they are the kind whom always try to save the day.
Arabella and Graham find themselves sharing the same circumstances, both reaching bankruptcy because of bad investments by their kin. And in London society when reaching destitution, wealthy spouses if often the answer, too bad their attraction can bring nothing to another as they are both in need of money.
Arabella who once loved a man her family considered not worthy of her, has now very few other choices left than find a willing rich husband-to-be, if only it could be the charming new titled Duke of Halstead.
Graham Kinsley inherited unexpectedly a dukedom his family has been banished generations ago. But it is not the prize he could have expected as it is debts ridden. He can only hope the lovely lady who bewitched him is the heiress is seeking after.
So when both learn of their common situation, will their combined efforts be enough to regain their family’s loss.
I loved both main characters, they were straightforward and true to themselves, and once their secret was known by the other, they left poise behind and work together, even take risk to protect another. Both will face danger and ruin to save another.
Arabella is not afraid to go for what she wants, even if I find her bit too bold for the period, she is one to be admired for her honesty.
Graham having been a commoner before coming to be titled, is a good man, he assumes his duties probably better than his predecessors and tries to set everything right. And he will without any gratification sacrifices himself if it can save the woman he came to love.
What I do love in Mrs Burke’s stories is that not everything resolve in the heroes’ way, as not everything is black and white.
Now I am very much eager to learn more about Ripley, there is something about him that calls me.
A 4.5 stars read.
I was granted an advance copy by the author but I had previously to It preppy own copy. Here is my true and unbiased opinion.
https://m.facebook.com/42983013427283...
February 24, 2020
'Meet the smart, independent women who've decided they don't need Society's rules, their families' expectations, or, most importantly, a husband. But just because they don't need a man doesn't mean they might not want one...
Graham Kinsley is shocked when he inherits a debt-ridden dukedom, and now he has just one month to repay a loan. He needs an heiress—or find a way to recoup the former duke's losses. When he meets the alluring Arabella, he's entranced. Unfortunately, she's as bankrupt as he is, but if they work together they may be able to recover their fortunes. Though if they keep stealing kisses, they may lose their hearts instead.
Arabella Stoke can't afford an attraction to the penniless duke who has vowed to help rescue her family from financial devastation. She needs to find a wealthy husband before her father succumbs to the stress of losing everything. However, as Graham brings them closer to finding the swindler who stole their money, the war between what they want and what they need may ruin them both.'
_________________________
Never Have I Ever With a Duke is the first book in Darcy Burke's new The Spitfire Society series. I started by reading the second book in this series, A Duke is Never Enough, which I relly enjoyed and so I decided to go back and see how the series started.
I liked both Graham and Arabella as the main characters in this story. I loved that Graham was not born into nobility. A powerful man of the ton with humble beginnings is one of my favorite plot devices in a historical fiction.
Arabella was sweet and loyal. Most importantly she was willing to defy conventions to accomplish what needed to be done. Arabella was an interesting mix of bold and obedient. She defies the expectations of her day in regards to relationships with men and her conduct, which is awesome. But at the same time, when it comes to her family she is sure to follow her parents demands and wishes. She just didn't seem like much of a spitfire to me.
I did however find the both of them to frankly a bit naive in regards to the ease with which they woud be able to reverse their fortunes. I don't quite understand what lead them to believe that they would be able to so easily convince a duo known for swindling numerous people across class lies to simply return the money to them. What kind of con man would ever? All their planning hinged on pulling this plan off successfully and I found that to be quite foolish on their part.
The part of the book that bothered me was Arabella's father, he greatly infuriated me. He was careless enough to squander their money away, keeping from them how dire the situation was until it was far too late. Then he give into self weakness and illness due to the stress of the situation, thus making himself an even greater burned to the family, not only in the sense that they had to do eveything for him, but also in that a bed-ridden man can make no attempts to improve the situation the family is in. Even in illness, he refuses to divulge the extent of their circumstances until Arabella forces his hand. How can you keep your family in the dark? Only once Arabella begins taking actions toward helping the family's situation is he able to find the strength to raise himself from his bed and care for himself. At which point he seems to be in relatively perfect health...so he was just wallowing in his only self-pity all that time. Ugh, what a worthless man. Due to these reasons instead of feeling a great investment in her fathers recovery I mainly felt unmoved.
Overall I did not enjoy this book quite as much as the second in the series, but I was still invested in seeing how things would work out considering what I knew of Arabella and Graham from the following book. I really enjoy Darcy Burke's writing style and will be looking forward to the third in the series, A Duke Will Never Do as well as looking into some of her other books to read. I recommend The Spitfire Society series for Darcy Burke fans and fans of historical romance.
Graham Kinsley is shocked when he inherits a debt-ridden dukedom, and now he has just one month to repay a loan. He needs an heiress—or find a way to recoup the former duke's losses. When he meets the alluring Arabella, he's entranced. Unfortunately, she's as bankrupt as he is, but if they work together they may be able to recover their fortunes. Though if they keep stealing kisses, they may lose their hearts instead.
Arabella Stoke can't afford an attraction to the penniless duke who has vowed to help rescue her family from financial devastation. She needs to find a wealthy husband before her father succumbs to the stress of losing everything. However, as Graham brings them closer to finding the swindler who stole their money, the war between what they want and what they need may ruin them both.'
_________________________
Never Have I Ever With a Duke is the first book in Darcy Burke's new The Spitfire Society series. I started by reading the second book in this series, A Duke is Never Enough, which I relly enjoyed and so I decided to go back and see how the series started.
I liked both Graham and Arabella as the main characters in this story. I loved that Graham was not born into nobility. A powerful man of the ton with humble beginnings is one of my favorite plot devices in a historical fiction.
Arabella was sweet and loyal. Most importantly she was willing to defy conventions to accomplish what needed to be done. Arabella was an interesting mix of bold and obedient. She defies the expectations of her day in regards to relationships with men and her conduct, which is awesome. But at the same time, when it comes to her family she is sure to follow her parents demands and wishes. She just didn't seem like much of a spitfire to me.
I did however find the both of them to frankly a bit naive in regards to the ease with which they woud be able to reverse their fortunes. I don't quite understand what lead them to believe that they would be able to so easily convince a duo known for swindling numerous people across class lies to simply return the money to them. What kind of con man would ever? All their planning hinged on pulling this plan off successfully and I found that to be quite foolish on their part.
The part of the book that bothered me was Arabella's father, he greatly infuriated me. He was careless enough to squander their money away, keeping from them how dire the situation was until it was far too late. Then he give into self weakness and illness due to the stress of the situation, thus making himself an even greater burned to the family, not only in the sense that they had to do eveything for him, but also in that a bed-ridden man can make no attempts to improve the situation the family is in. Even in illness, he refuses to divulge the extent of their circumstances until Arabella forces his hand. How can you keep your family in the dark? Only once Arabella begins taking actions toward helping the family's situation is he able to find the strength to raise himself from his bed and care for himself. At which point he seems to be in relatively perfect health...so he was just wallowing in his only self-pity all that time. Ugh, what a worthless man. Due to these reasons instead of feeling a great investment in her fathers recovery I mainly felt unmoved.
Overall I did not enjoy this book quite as much as the second in the series, but I was still invested in seeing how things would work out considering what I knew of Arabella and Graham from the following book. I really enjoy Darcy Burke's writing style and will be looking forward to the third in the series, A Duke Will Never Do as well as looking into some of her other books to read. I recommend The Spitfire Society series for Darcy Burke fans and fans of historical romance.
August 24, 2019
Never Have I Ever With a Duke was a fantastic start to a new historical romance series with an amazing romance and a delightful group of characters.
As the son of a secretary, Graham Kinsley never imagined he’d inherit a dukedom, let alone a bankrupt one. With one month to repay a loan, Graham needs to marry an heiress fast. But after meeting the penniless Miss Arabella Stoke, Graham finds himself falling hard. After discovering the same scoundrel stole money from them both, the two begin working together on a plan to recover the money and fix their futures. If only the two could stop falling for each other long enough to accomplish their goal.
After her family lost their money, Arabella has felt pressured to make a good match. With her father bedridden due to illness caused by stress, the family’s salvation has fallen to Arabella and you could feel how desperate she was to save them in the hopes her father would get better. I admired Arabella’s ingenuity in coming up with ways to keep anyone from finding out about their situation while at the same time feeling terrible for her due to the weight on her shoulders.
Graham had little to no contact with his family prior to inheriting his title as his side of the family was cut off several generations ago. Before he inherited, Graham worked as a secretary like his father and was comfortable with the direction his life was headed. Graham has no experience with being nobility and it was interesting watching him try and gain his footing in a world he was previously only on the fringes of.
Arabella and Graham’s relationship was full of banter with the two having fantastic chemistry. I loved their meetings in the park and watching them fight their attraction, knowing it was pointless. The fencing lessons in particular were some of my favorite scenes as the sexual tension in those scenes was off the charts. When their relationship does progress, it’s wonderfully done with some amazing scenes. I thought the way the money situation was resolved was well done and I was happy with the direction the author chose to go in.
This book is connected to the author’s other series, The Untouchables, with a number of characters from that series showing up in this one. I have not read any of The Untouchables books, but I am now very interested in picking them up as I want to know more about the characters that popped up in this book.
Overall Never Have I Ever With a Duke was an amazing read and I’m looking forward to the next book in the series. I will definitely be reading more from this author in the future.
**I received an advance copy of this book from Netgalley and the publisher in exchange for an honest review.**
As the son of a secretary, Graham Kinsley never imagined he’d inherit a dukedom, let alone a bankrupt one. With one month to repay a loan, Graham needs to marry an heiress fast. But after meeting the penniless Miss Arabella Stoke, Graham finds himself falling hard. After discovering the same scoundrel stole money from them both, the two begin working together on a plan to recover the money and fix their futures. If only the two could stop falling for each other long enough to accomplish their goal.
After her family lost their money, Arabella has felt pressured to make a good match. With her father bedridden due to illness caused by stress, the family’s salvation has fallen to Arabella and you could feel how desperate she was to save them in the hopes her father would get better. I admired Arabella’s ingenuity in coming up with ways to keep anyone from finding out about their situation while at the same time feeling terrible for her due to the weight on her shoulders.
Graham had little to no contact with his family prior to inheriting his title as his side of the family was cut off several generations ago. Before he inherited, Graham worked as a secretary like his father and was comfortable with the direction his life was headed. Graham has no experience with being nobility and it was interesting watching him try and gain his footing in a world he was previously only on the fringes of.
Arabella and Graham’s relationship was full of banter with the two having fantastic chemistry. I loved their meetings in the park and watching them fight their attraction, knowing it was pointless. The fencing lessons in particular were some of my favorite scenes as the sexual tension in those scenes was off the charts. When their relationship does progress, it’s wonderfully done with some amazing scenes. I thought the way the money situation was resolved was well done and I was happy with the direction the author chose to go in.
This book is connected to the author’s other series, The Untouchables, with a number of characters from that series showing up in this one. I have not read any of The Untouchables books, but I am now very interested in picking them up as I want to know more about the characters that popped up in this book.
Overall Never Have I Ever With a Duke was an amazing read and I’m looking forward to the next book in the series. I will definitely be reading more from this author in the future.
**I received an advance copy of this book from Netgalley and the publisher in exchange for an honest review.**
August 22, 2019
❤️❤️❤️❤️
💋
First in a brand new series, The Spitfire Society, from Darcy Burke .
As with the Untouchables, this is going to be another great set of stories.
Wonderful writing and in turn excellent reading .
Great for those quiet nights in .
Arabella has one failed betrothal behind her , even though it was an unwanted one .
Her family is quickly running out of funds and she needs a husband with plenty of money before her family ends up in Debtors Prison , bankrupt .
Now the search is on but who will she set her sights on .
Graham Kinsley is in a similar predicament.
His inheritance is not much of one .
This wasn’t the life he’d been Born to , he’s not Duke material, he’s a secretary, and running an estate doesn’t come easy .
Nevertheless he could not sell what was to him a part of his family.
A mortgaged estate , a bank threatening foreclosure, he needs a rich wife an soon .
This is a slow building romance , but good and addictive reading ,
Can’t wait for more in this series.
I received an Arc copy of this book and chose to post this review
💋
First in a brand new series, The Spitfire Society, from Darcy Burke .
As with the Untouchables, this is going to be another great set of stories.
Wonderful writing and in turn excellent reading .
Great for those quiet nights in .
Arabella has one failed betrothal behind her , even though it was an unwanted one .
Her family is quickly running out of funds and she needs a husband with plenty of money before her family ends up in Debtors Prison , bankrupt .
Now the search is on but who will she set her sights on .
Graham Kinsley is in a similar predicament.
His inheritance is not much of one .
This wasn’t the life he’d been Born to , he’s not Duke material, he’s a secretary, and running an estate doesn’t come easy .
Nevertheless he could not sell what was to him a part of his family.
A mortgaged estate , a bank threatening foreclosure, he needs a rich wife an soon .
This is a slow building romance , but good and addictive reading ,
Can’t wait for more in this series.
I received an Arc copy of this book and chose to post this review
Want to read
August 13, 2019What is with these modern-age titles these days?
August 19, 2019
For years it was assumed that Arabella Stoke would marry David, the Earl of St. Ives, as their fathers were best friends and while they had never formally betrothed them, hoped they would marry. But David fell in love and married another, leaving Arabella in a position of needing to marry before the ton learns that her family is on the brink of financial ruin.
Graham Kinsley, was introduced to reader in the Untouchable series as the secretary to St. Ives, but now through a series of unfortunate events, is the new Duke of Halstead, at title he never imagined he would inherit and one he is completely unprepared for. Graham takes over the dukedom and learns almost immediately that the estate is mortgaged to the hilt and the bank is threatening foreclosure. Further investigation reveals that his estranged Uncle made some very questionable investments and lost a fortune – leaving Graham with no way to repay the bank. He has three choices, marry a heiress, find the man who bilked his uncle and get the money back or sell Brixton Park, the unentailed property before the bank takes it. Selling is out of the question as the Park held sentimental value to Graham’s father who recently passed away – turns out the Park was designed and built by their direct descendant who was wrongfully accused of seducing his brother, the Duke’s wife, cast out of the family.
Graham and Arabella meet and soon learn they are both looking for a rich spouse and that both their relatives had been swindled by the same man. The attraction between them is strong, but neither can afford to marry for love – or can they? Working together Graham and Arabella set out to find the man who scammed their families and regain their lost fortunes. If they succeed, they can act on the feelings growing between them, but if they fail, they will have to walk away from what is possibly the love of a lifetime.
I thought this was cute story with some twists that I did not anticipate, some steamyish love scenes, some mystery and a bit of a cliffhanger ending for a secondary character who will be featured in the next installment.
Graham Kinsley, was introduced to reader in the Untouchable series as the secretary to St. Ives, but now through a series of unfortunate events, is the new Duke of Halstead, at title he never imagined he would inherit and one he is completely unprepared for. Graham takes over the dukedom and learns almost immediately that the estate is mortgaged to the hilt and the bank is threatening foreclosure. Further investigation reveals that his estranged Uncle made some very questionable investments and lost a fortune – leaving Graham with no way to repay the bank. He has three choices, marry a heiress, find the man who bilked his uncle and get the money back or sell Brixton Park, the unentailed property before the bank takes it. Selling is out of the question as the Park held sentimental value to Graham’s father who recently passed away – turns out the Park was designed and built by their direct descendant who was wrongfully accused of seducing his brother, the Duke’s wife, cast out of the family.
Graham and Arabella meet and soon learn they are both looking for a rich spouse and that both their relatives had been swindled by the same man. The attraction between them is strong, but neither can afford to marry for love – or can they? Working together Graham and Arabella set out to find the man who scammed their families and regain their lost fortunes. If they succeed, they can act on the feelings growing between them, but if they fail, they will have to walk away from what is possibly the love of a lifetime.
I thought this was cute story with some twists that I did not anticipate, some steamyish love scenes, some mystery and a bit of a cliffhanger ending for a secondary character who will be featured in the next installment.
August 28, 2019
An interesting plot with unusual characters. Graham has recently inherited a dukedom along with staggeringly debt. Arabella’s family is also in the same position and trying their best to keep the information from the rest of the Ton. Inevitably they develop strong feelings for each other while trying to flush out the scoundrel that had cheated countless people out of their money. The end is a bit surprising and it’s nice to see a HEA that doesn’t tie all the loose ends into a nice bow - sometimes reality is better and we all take love over all else!
May 7, 2020
It took me a moment (four and a half days) to get into this book. To be frank, the beginning is a bit tedious. The premise sounds interesting, instead of everyone being filthy rich, it was refreshing having both of the main characters be of limited or no means, but trying to hide it.
My problem with this book was the characters had really no chemistry. Their conversations were boring and I felt their physical attraction to each other wasn't genuine, more it was there because the author told us so. The story picks up a little once they start investigating things and you get to know the hero and heroine a little. That's when I started caring about them. At least I did for Arabella. I particularly liked Arabella. She had secrets and she had a kind personality, generally speaking though, she's a very modern heroine.
Graham just sucked. I mean, I understand why Arabella had to marry, her entire life and livelihood, actually, not only hers but of her parents as well, depended on Arabella making a good match. As for Graham, he was destitute because he didn't want to sell a house? He never lived in? He never even visited? He never even saw before he became a duke? He knew selling that house would solve most of his financial problems, yet he refused to do so and courted several women while at the same forming a relationship with Arabella. To some degree I could understand where comes from, but then he had to be extremely judgemental of Ripley who was nothing but a good friend to him. This really made me lose any consideration I had for Graham.
It's a meh book, I won't lie, but I am hooked enough to see what happens in the sequel. I loved both Phoebe and Ripley in this book and I think they could have an interesting story. Off to the next book.
My problem with this book was the characters had really no chemistry. Their conversations were boring and I felt their physical attraction to each other wasn't genuine, more it was there because the author told us so. The story picks up a little once they start investigating things and you get to know the hero and heroine a little. That's when I started caring about them. At least I did for Arabella. I particularly liked Arabella. She had secrets and she had a kind personality, generally speaking though, she's a very modern heroine.
Graham just sucked. I mean, I understand why Arabella had to marry, her entire life and livelihood, actually, not only hers but of her parents as well, depended on Arabella making a good match. As for Graham, he was destitute because he didn't want to sell a house? He never lived in? He never even visited? He never even saw before he became a duke? He knew selling that house would solve most of his financial problems, yet he refused to do so and courted several women while at the same forming a relationship with Arabella. To some degree I could understand where comes from, but then he had to be extremely judgemental of Ripley who was nothing but a good friend to him. This really made me lose any consideration I had for Graham.
It's a meh book, I won't lie, but I am hooked enough to see what happens in the sequel. I loved both Phoebe and Ripley in this book and I think they could have an interesting story. Off to the next book.
August 28, 2019
Never Have I Ever With a Duke is the first book in The Spitfire Society series by Darcy Burke. It can be read as stand-alone and the next books will feature Arabella's friends.
The most annoying thing about this book was the year it was set. It certainly didn't feel like I was reading a novel set in 1819 because the chaperons were a foreign idea to these characters. Who cares about them or the rules of society? I am tired of reading modernized historical romances. I have read more CR books with virgin heroines than HRs with virgin heroines this year and I am starting to think that there is something seriously wrong with that. Arabella had a lover in the past. She was in love with him and everything, but I mean wtf? Also, she and Graham had sex in a clearing where anyone could have passed by and they didn't give it a second thought. If this was CR I would have gone with 5 stars, but it's not. And before you start spouting things like misogyny, please remember that this is HR and certain things are expected. An unmarried woman running around more freely than a woman in the 21rst century is not one of them.
There plenty of mentions of characters from other series so the readers who are familiar with the author's work might see some familiar faces. The future main characters of the series appear for the right amount and the ladies are intriguing, so there is no doubt that I will read their books. I am just a little disappointed with this book. It had a good premise, but it wasn't good enough for me. I was also expecting a little more angst.
The most annoying thing about this book was the year it was set. It certainly didn't feel like I was reading a novel set in 1819 because the chaperons were a foreign idea to these characters. Who cares about them or the rules of society? I am tired of reading modernized historical romances. I have read more CR books with virgin heroines than HRs with virgin heroines this year and I am starting to think that there is something seriously wrong with that. Arabella had a lover in the past. She was in love with him and everything, but I mean wtf? Also, she and Graham had sex in a clearing where anyone could have passed by and they didn't give it a second thought. If this was CR I would have gone with 5 stars, but it's not. And before you start spouting things like misogyny, please remember that this is HR and certain things are expected. An unmarried woman running around more freely than a woman in the 21rst century is not one of them.
There plenty of mentions of characters from other series so the readers who are familiar with the author's work might see some familiar faces. The future main characters of the series appear for the right amount and the ladies are intriguing, so there is no doubt that I will read their books. I am just a little disappointed with this book. It had a good premise, but it wasn't good enough for me. I was also expecting a little more angst.
August 13, 2019
Never Have I Ever With a Duke is the first book in The Spitfire Society series by Darcy Burke.
Graham Kinsley and Arabella Stoke have something in common, their families have been swindled out of their money leaving them on the verge of bankruptcy. Graham has inherited a dukedom, so not only has he got to worry about himself but also all the family members who rely on handouts from the estate. Arabella's father has left them possibly facing debtors prison. There is only one way out for both Graham and Arabella...marriage to a rich wife/husband. They both wanted to marry for love, but it seems that it is just not meant to be. Unless that is, Graham can find the swindler and get their money back.
Graham first meets Arabella in a park where she is walking her mother's dog. There is an instant attraction between them, but it's something neither of them thinks much of considering their circumstances. When they meet again and Arabella learns that Graham is a Duke, and he learns that she could be a wealthy woman they both start hoping that their attraction, plus the other person's money will be the answer to their dreams and their problems. Sadly they soon learn the truth that both require rich spouses. It doesn't stop them sharing steamy moments though.
Graham is determined to get the money back for both himself and Arabella and between them both, they start looking into who the man was and how to find him. In the meantime, they both need to keep their eyes open for future rich saviours. Neither of them wants that but they have to be honest about their situations. Will they end up having to end their affair and marry other people, or is there a way out of the terrible debt both families have encountered?
This was a really moving story that had me smiling and laughing a lot as well as having the occasional big sigh because I couldn't see how our couple could have a happy ending. There was such a fabulous build-up to Arabella and Graham's first kiss that when they finally gave in to it I wanted to high five somebody. I loved the suspense waiting for them to give in! It was worth the wait. Yes, don't worry, they do have a happy ending. The epilogue was brilliant and paved the way for the next book in the series which already I cannot wait to read!
Graham Kinsley and Arabella Stoke have something in common, their families have been swindled out of their money leaving them on the verge of bankruptcy. Graham has inherited a dukedom, so not only has he got to worry about himself but also all the family members who rely on handouts from the estate. Arabella's father has left them possibly facing debtors prison. There is only one way out for both Graham and Arabella...marriage to a rich wife/husband. They both wanted to marry for love, but it seems that it is just not meant to be. Unless that is, Graham can find the swindler and get their money back.
Graham first meets Arabella in a park where she is walking her mother's dog. There is an instant attraction between them, but it's something neither of them thinks much of considering their circumstances. When they meet again and Arabella learns that Graham is a Duke, and he learns that she could be a wealthy woman they both start hoping that their attraction, plus the other person's money will be the answer to their dreams and their problems. Sadly they soon learn the truth that both require rich spouses. It doesn't stop them sharing steamy moments though.
Graham is determined to get the money back for both himself and Arabella and between them both, they start looking into who the man was and how to find him. In the meantime, they both need to keep their eyes open for future rich saviours. Neither of them wants that but they have to be honest about their situations. Will they end up having to end their affair and marry other people, or is there a way out of the terrible debt both families have encountered?
This was a really moving story that had me smiling and laughing a lot as well as having the occasional big sigh because I couldn't see how our couple could have a happy ending. There was such a fabulous build-up to Arabella and Graham's first kiss that when they finally gave in to it I wanted to high five somebody. I loved the suspense waiting for them to give in! It was worth the wait. Yes, don't worry, they do have a happy ending. The epilogue was brilliant and paved the way for the next book in the series which already I cannot wait to read!
September 7, 2019
Never Have I Ever With A Duke by Darcy Burke
The Spitfire Society #1
Having set themselves on the shelf but preferring the term spitfire to spinster a group of women created The Spitfire Club. In the club, from what I can deduce, Jane Pemberton and Phoebe Lennox are definite members with Arabella Stoke a friend and potential member...if she didn’t have to find a wealthy husband to right her father’s monetary woes.
When Arabella, in disguise walking her mother’s dog, meets Graham Kinsley, new Duke or Halstead, there is definitely attraction though neither realized who the other was nor knew they both were in need of money. They continue to meet throughout the book and eventually agree to work together to find the scoundrel that conned funds out of Arabella’s father and Graham’s uncle. They spend a bit of time together in the park, on a picnic, at parties and sleuthing. Not all of their time is innocent but neither really expects a future although both would choose to have one together if money were not an issue.
What I liked:
* Arabella: her loyalty to family and her ability to reach out for what she wanted.
* Graham: his willingness to look for the dastard who took the estate’s money and his ability to (eventually) see what was most important in his life
* The introduction to a new series with glimpses of who might show up in future books
* Glimpses of characters from previous books
* The HEA that the two eventually found with one another
* Ripley – I want to see more of him perhaps in the next book
What I didn’t like:
* Tibbord: the scoundrel that did not even use his own name and showed no remorse
* The weakness of Arabella’s father
* The feeling that I was being told the story rather than being in the midst of it
I am not sure that I fully believed that Arabella would have been as open and free and able to come and go as she did without a chaperone. I did enjoy the story and look forward to reading more in the series.
Thank you to the author for the ARC – This is my honest review.
3-4 Stars
The Spitfire Society #1
Having set themselves on the shelf but preferring the term spitfire to spinster a group of women created The Spitfire Club. In the club, from what I can deduce, Jane Pemberton and Phoebe Lennox are definite members with Arabella Stoke a friend and potential member...if she didn’t have to find a wealthy husband to right her father’s monetary woes.
When Arabella, in disguise walking her mother’s dog, meets Graham Kinsley, new Duke or Halstead, there is definitely attraction though neither realized who the other was nor knew they both were in need of money. They continue to meet throughout the book and eventually agree to work together to find the scoundrel that conned funds out of Arabella’s father and Graham’s uncle. They spend a bit of time together in the park, on a picnic, at parties and sleuthing. Not all of their time is innocent but neither really expects a future although both would choose to have one together if money were not an issue.
What I liked:
* Arabella: her loyalty to family and her ability to reach out for what she wanted.
* Graham: his willingness to look for the dastard who took the estate’s money and his ability to (eventually) see what was most important in his life
* The introduction to a new series with glimpses of who might show up in future books
* Glimpses of characters from previous books
* The HEA that the two eventually found with one another
* Ripley – I want to see more of him perhaps in the next book
What I didn’t like:
* Tibbord: the scoundrel that did not even use his own name and showed no remorse
* The weakness of Arabella’s father
* The feeling that I was being told the story rather than being in the midst of it
I am not sure that I fully believed that Arabella would have been as open and free and able to come and go as she did without a chaperone. I did enjoy the story and look forward to reading more in the series.
Thank you to the author for the ARC – This is my honest review.
3-4 Stars
August 19, 2019
4.25 Stars
Meet the smart, independent women who’ve decided they don’t need Society’s rules, their families’ expectations, or, most importantly, a husband. But just because they don’t need a man doesn’t mean they might not want one.
Graham Kinsley was quite happy with his life as secretary to the Earl of St Ives & is shocked when he inherits a debt-ridden dukedom, and now he has just one month to repay a loan or lose the lovely manor house his ancestor built. He needs an heiress or find a way to recoup the former duke’s losses. When he meets the alluring Arabella Stoke, he’s entranced. Unfortunately, she’s as bankrupt as he is, but if they work together they may be able to recover their fortunes.
Arabella Stoke can’t afford an attraction to the penniless duke who has vowed to help rescue her family from financial devastation. She needs to find a wealthy husband before her father succumbs to the stress of losing everything.
This is the first book in a new series but for those of us who loved The Untouchables this series is a spin off & does feature some characters from the former series. I liked both Graham & Arabella who ‘s attraction only grew & grew but then they also liked each other. However I couldn’t understand why Graham wouldn’t tell David, the Earl of St Ives that he’d inherited an almost bankrupt dukedom, after all Graham had done for him, he would have helped. So I found that Graham’s pride almost cost him dearly. I liked Arabella who was strong & feisty. The book was well paced & I read it in under a day as I was drawn in from the start. I look forward to the rest of the series especially with the teaser at the end.
My honest review is for a special copy I voluntarily read
Meet the smart, independent women who’ve decided they don’t need Society’s rules, their families’ expectations, or, most importantly, a husband. But just because they don’t need a man doesn’t mean they might not want one.
Graham Kinsley was quite happy with his life as secretary to the Earl of St Ives & is shocked when he inherits a debt-ridden dukedom, and now he has just one month to repay a loan or lose the lovely manor house his ancestor built. He needs an heiress or find a way to recoup the former duke’s losses. When he meets the alluring Arabella Stoke, he’s entranced. Unfortunately, she’s as bankrupt as he is, but if they work together they may be able to recover their fortunes.
Arabella Stoke can’t afford an attraction to the penniless duke who has vowed to help rescue her family from financial devastation. She needs to find a wealthy husband before her father succumbs to the stress of losing everything.
This is the first book in a new series but for those of us who loved The Untouchables this series is a spin off & does feature some characters from the former series. I liked both Graham & Arabella who ‘s attraction only grew & grew but then they also liked each other. However I couldn’t understand why Graham wouldn’t tell David, the Earl of St Ives that he’d inherited an almost bankrupt dukedom, after all Graham had done for him, he would have helped. So I found that Graham’s pride almost cost him dearly. I liked Arabella who was strong & feisty. The book was well paced & I read it in under a day as I was drawn in from the start. I look forward to the rest of the series especially with the teaser at the end.
My honest review is for a special copy I voluntarily read
August 26, 2019
Graham Kingsley, the new Duke of Halstead, needs to marry an heiress. Arabella Stoke, also needs to marry a wealthy man to aid her family. They both need money through no fault of their own. What a shame they were very attracted to each other, they wouldn’t be able to act on it! Arabella’s friends are trying to find a suitable wife for Graham. The characters are engaging, there is a mystery as to who is the villain and some very passionate moments. This was an enjoyable read and I look forward to reading about the other characters mentioned in the book.
August 26, 2019
I've been a huge fan of Darcy Burke and was really excited to reading this but I wasn't blow away like I usually am. Don't get me wrong it was quite enjoyable to read how the MC's were trying desperately to find a solution for their status. Them falling for each other didn't help the problem. I did liked Graham and Arabella together. They seemed to suit each other's characters. It was fun to see to what lengths he was willing to go to secure her future and how she didn't want to give him up without telling how she really feels.
Like said all in all it was a nice read and I'm definitely picking up another book by Darcy Burke in the future.
***Review copy requested and reviewed on behalf of OMGReads Blog***
Like said all in all it was a nice read and I'm definitely picking up another book by Darcy Burke in the future.
***Review copy requested and reviewed on behalf of OMGReads Blog***
September 9, 2019
Highly entertaining, sexy, fun and engaging romantic adventure filled with longing, love and undeniable passion..... was a great read from beginning to end. Really enjoyed this emotional thrill ride!
February 10, 2020
I'm so pleased to have discovered Darcy's books from reading the Wicked Dukes Club written with Erica Ridley, which I enjoyed immensely.
Loved the story of Graham and Arabella. I knew of the connection Ridley had to the bad guy early on. Darcy does not disappoint. She will always be an auto-buy and read author for me.
A Duke is Never Enough February 2020 is Phoebe and Ripley’s story. I can’t wait!!
I received this galley from Darcy E. Burke Publishing via Netgalley.
Loved the story of Graham and Arabella. I knew of the connection Ridley had to the bad guy early on. Darcy does not disappoint. She will always be an auto-buy and read author for me.
A Duke is Never Enough February 2020 is Phoebe and Ripley’s story. I can’t wait!!
I received this galley from Darcy E. Burke Publishing via Netgalley.
August 29, 2019
London - 1819
Arabella Stoke’s father is not well and their family’s financial circumstances have dropped significantly. Her father had made an unwise investment with a man and now finds himself swindled out of all of his money. Her mother spends a lot of time at her husband’s bedside.
When Arabella is out walking her mother’s dog one morning, he gets away from her. Running after him results in her accidentally knocking into a gentleman. She is dressed as a servant so people won’t know that she is reduced to walking her own dog. The gentleman she ran into very kindly helps her look for and find the dog.
Arabella is finding it difficult to be without money. She had loved being part of the Spitfire Society which is a group of young spinster women who prefer to stay single, live in a home of their own and live life as they want. Her two friends, Phoebe Lennox and Jane Pemberton are happy in their lives as young spinster women.
Arabella’s mother is urging her to find a wealthy man and get married right away as the family needs the money. That is certainly easier said than done.
Graham Kinsley, the seventh Duke of Halstead, inherited a pile of debt along with his title. Halstead Manor is not bringing in any money and the mortgage on Brixton Park, just outside London, will soon be foreclosed on. The previous duke had made some very bad investments and after going through the paperwork he left behind, it appears he had been swindled out of his money. Therefore, Graham has no other option but to marry an heiress.
Graham and Arabella meet again at a ball and she confides about her father. He confides that he, too, is poor. No matter, they are attracted to one another. Graham knows that without selling Brixton Park, he won’t have any money with which to fix up and keep Halstead Manor. He wants Arabella to have a good life and knows he cannot offer her much.
Graham has learned that the man who swindled the previous duke and also Arabella’s father, along with countless others is Piers Tibbord. Now, Graham has made it his mission to find this man and make him return the monies that he stole from people. However, he only wishes he had the money to offer for Arabella.
I really liked this story. Both Arabella and Graham are strong people and make a wonderful couple. Boo-Hiss to the man who swindled money from all those people. However, those people were stupid to fall for his get rich quick schemes. I wanted to plant my foot in Arabella’s father’s butt for lying in bed wasting away at his stupidity with his wife and daughter waiting on him. Gah! Get up and be a man! Take charge and get your money back, weakling! I guess my comments prove that the author’s story got my ire up! Well done, Darcy Burke!
Copy provided by NetGalley in exchange for a fair and honest review.
Arabella Stoke’s father is not well and their family’s financial circumstances have dropped significantly. Her father had made an unwise investment with a man and now finds himself swindled out of all of his money. Her mother spends a lot of time at her husband’s bedside.
When Arabella is out walking her mother’s dog one morning, he gets away from her. Running after him results in her accidentally knocking into a gentleman. She is dressed as a servant so people won’t know that she is reduced to walking her own dog. The gentleman she ran into very kindly helps her look for and find the dog.
Arabella is finding it difficult to be without money. She had loved being part of the Spitfire Society which is a group of young spinster women who prefer to stay single, live in a home of their own and live life as they want. Her two friends, Phoebe Lennox and Jane Pemberton are happy in their lives as young spinster women.
Arabella’s mother is urging her to find a wealthy man and get married right away as the family needs the money. That is certainly easier said than done.
Graham Kinsley, the seventh Duke of Halstead, inherited a pile of debt along with his title. Halstead Manor is not bringing in any money and the mortgage on Brixton Park, just outside London, will soon be foreclosed on. The previous duke had made some very bad investments and after going through the paperwork he left behind, it appears he had been swindled out of his money. Therefore, Graham has no other option but to marry an heiress.
Graham and Arabella meet again at a ball and she confides about her father. He confides that he, too, is poor. No matter, they are attracted to one another. Graham knows that without selling Brixton Park, he won’t have any money with which to fix up and keep Halstead Manor. He wants Arabella to have a good life and knows he cannot offer her much.
Graham has learned that the man who swindled the previous duke and also Arabella’s father, along with countless others is Piers Tibbord. Now, Graham has made it his mission to find this man and make him return the monies that he stole from people. However, he only wishes he had the money to offer for Arabella.
I really liked this story. Both Arabella and Graham are strong people and make a wonderful couple. Boo-Hiss to the man who swindled money from all those people. However, those people were stupid to fall for his get rich quick schemes. I wanted to plant my foot in Arabella’s father’s butt for lying in bed wasting away at his stupidity with his wife and daughter waiting on him. Gah! Get up and be a man! Take charge and get your money back, weakling! I guess my comments prove that the author’s story got my ire up! Well done, Darcy Burke!
Copy provided by NetGalley in exchange for a fair and honest review.
August 23, 2019
Never Have I Ever is book 1 in the Spitfire’s Society series by Darcy Burke. I thought this book started off very strong. Graham Kinsley has inherited an insolvent dukedom and he must find a wealthy heiress to rescue him. Arabella Stoke’s family has been financially devastated as well and she must also find a wealthy man to wed. But when sparks fly between Graham and Arabella what are they to do when being together means they lose everything. The trop of someone needing to be rescued from financial ruin through marriage is common enough and probably very common during this era of history. I liked the character of Graham. But not everything about him made sense. He’s employed himself for years as a trained secretary so managing an estate comes as second nature to him. The underlying mystery to me is why doesn’t he just instantly sell his estate Brixton Park? He claims that his attachment is very deep and very personal, but that doesn’t make sense when Graham’s ancestral line has been ignored for four generations. Another mystery is Graham’s relationship with his father. One of the reasons that Graham claims he wants to keep Brixton Park is because his father had cared about it. “Sell the one thing Graham’s father had cared about the most aside from his late wife and beloved son?” But then later in the book we find that his father didn’t care enough about Graham to prepare him to take over the bankrupt estate. Granted the villain in the story declares the following so it may not be true, “The money is gone. Furthermore, His Grace didn’t care. He suspected there would be no return, but as he was not long for this world, he said it would be your problem and he didn’t give a fig if you were bankrupted or not.” A father who loved his son but at the end of his life didn’t care to prepare him for the insolvency of his inherited estate? It didn’t make sense.
I liked the various male relationships that Graham has. A number of characters are from Burke’s other novels in the Untouchables series: The Duke of Seduction, The Duke of Kisses and The Duke of Distraction. Anthony The Viscount Colton is mentioned briefly in The Duke Distraction but he plays a more prominent role in this book as a friend of Grahams along with the Marquess of Ripley.
As for the romance between Graham and Arabella I felt it was too compressed and quite frankly too modern. There wasn’t enough sexual tension building up to the climax of the characters coming together. I felt more could have been done to enhance the relationship and their attraction for one another. There just didn’t feel like much depth there. I have enjoyed Burke’s Untouchables series immensely. I’m afraid this book fell a bit short for me.
I liked the various male relationships that Graham has. A number of characters are from Burke’s other novels in the Untouchables series: The Duke of Seduction, The Duke of Kisses and The Duke of Distraction. Anthony The Viscount Colton is mentioned briefly in The Duke Distraction but he plays a more prominent role in this book as a friend of Grahams along with the Marquess of Ripley.
As for the romance between Graham and Arabella I felt it was too compressed and quite frankly too modern. There wasn’t enough sexual tension building up to the climax of the characters coming together. I felt more could have been done to enhance the relationship and their attraction for one another. There just didn’t feel like much depth there. I have enjoyed Burke’s Untouchables series immensely. I’m afraid this book fell a bit short for me.
August 19, 2019
Spitfire Society is a small group whose women are proud to call themselves spinster, formed by Miss Phoebe Lennox - who had been inherited from an aunt after leaving her fiancé at the altar and running away - and Miss Jane Pemberton.
They considered Lady Arabella Stoke as one of them.
Arabella was only 23 years old, had a sick father and a bankrupt family. Her mother saw no other solution than Arabella getting married. But who would marry a penniless girl?
Everything could have been different if she had accepted the marriage proposal in her first Season, but her father refused because he had hopes that she would be proposed by the Earl of St Ives.
But the earl ended up falling in love and marrying another.
One day, while going for a walk in the park with her little dog, Biscuit, Arabella was helped by a gentleman who practiced fencing alone.
At first she thought he was some gentleman, but soon she finds out he was the new Duke of Halstead.
Graham Kinsley became duke after a series of misfortunes with previous dukes. Now he had a title and no money to take care of everything. The only solution was to marry an heiress.
So he decided to woo Miss Lennox, but then he met again the girl from the park, Arabella.
Although they were strongly attracted to each other, both were bankrupt and needed money urgently.
However, the possibility arises of exposing the gentleman that had deceived her father.
Regardless, Graham needed to save his estates... or start selling them. But most importantly, could he have Arabella's heart?
If you know the author's other series, The Untouchables, you'll love to meet some characters again. However, you do not need to read the previous books to understand this one.
4 stars
ARC provided by the author's review team
They considered Lady Arabella Stoke as one of them.
Arabella was only 23 years old, had a sick father and a bankrupt family. Her mother saw no other solution than Arabella getting married. But who would marry a penniless girl?
Everything could have been different if she had accepted the marriage proposal in her first Season, but her father refused because he had hopes that she would be proposed by the Earl of St Ives.
But the earl ended up falling in love and marrying another.
One day, while going for a walk in the park with her little dog, Biscuit, Arabella was helped by a gentleman who practiced fencing alone.
At first she thought he was some gentleman, but soon she finds out he was the new Duke of Halstead.
Graham Kinsley became duke after a series of misfortunes with previous dukes. Now he had a title and no money to take care of everything. The only solution was to marry an heiress.
So he decided to woo Miss Lennox, but then he met again the girl from the park, Arabella.
Although they were strongly attracted to each other, both were bankrupt and needed money urgently.
However, the possibility arises of exposing the gentleman that had deceived her father.
Regardless, Graham needed to save his estates... or start selling them. But most importantly, could he have Arabella's heart?
If you know the author's other series, The Untouchables, you'll love to meet some characters again. However, you do not need to read the previous books to understand this one.
4 stars
ARC provided by the author's review team
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May 15, 2023Sigo leyendo (es un decir) poco a poco esta antología de Dancing with desire.
Esta novela empezó de manera bastante atractiva, Arabella Stoke pasea al perro de su madre por el parque, cuando descubre a un atractivo maromo entrenándose en esgrima. Es Graham Kinsley, quien recientemente ha heredado un título. Creyendo que es una muchacha de clase baja, y que es el perro de su señora, la ayuda. Pronto descubrirá que es una señorita de buena familia.
Los dos necesitan casarse, por problemas económicos, con alguien que tenga parné. Se gustan, y cada vez más cuando se ven en bailes y soirées diversos. Sin embargo, dada su precariedad económica, dentro lo que es la clase alta en la Inglaterra de la regencia, no parece que sea muy sensato que piensen cada uno en el matrimonio con el otro. Como la situación de ambos se debe, hasta cierto punto, a un engaño o estafa, colaborarán en descubrir quien es el malo y que se les restituya la fortuna.
A pesar de que empezó de forma interesante, poco a poco perdí el interés. Es como si la novela no terminara de arrancar, carecía de gracia, chispa, era más bien aburridilla...
Más o menos a la mitad del libro, y cuando estos dos deciden ceder a la tentación y darse una alegría al cuerpo, aunque no puedan casarse... Entonces me dije que si ni siquiera funcionaba la parte sexi, «apaga y vámonos».
Otra autora que intento, de novela romántica histórica, y que me deja chafada. ¿Algún día encontraré una histórica que me enganche?
Esta novela empezó de manera bastante atractiva, Arabella Stoke pasea al perro de su madre por el parque, cuando descubre a un atractivo maromo entrenándose en esgrima. Es Graham Kinsley, quien recientemente ha heredado un título. Creyendo que es una muchacha de clase baja, y que es el perro de su señora, la ayuda. Pronto descubrirá que es una señorita de buena familia.
Los dos necesitan casarse, por problemas económicos, con alguien que tenga parné. Se gustan, y cada vez más cuando se ven en bailes y soirées diversos. Sin embargo, dada su precariedad económica, dentro lo que es la clase alta en la Inglaterra de la regencia, no parece que sea muy sensato que piensen cada uno en el matrimonio con el otro. Como la situación de ambos se debe, hasta cierto punto, a un engaño o estafa, colaborarán en descubrir quien es el malo y que se les restituya la fortuna.
A pesar de que empezó de forma interesante, poco a poco perdí el interés. Es como si la novela no terminara de arrancar, carecía de gracia, chispa, era más bien aburridilla...
Más o menos a la mitad del libro, y cuando estos dos deciden ceder a la tentación y darse una alegría al cuerpo, aunque no puedan casarse... Entonces me dije que si ni siquiera funcionaba la parte sexi, «apaga y vámonos».
Otra autora que intento, de novela romántica histórica, y que me deja chafada. ¿Algún día encontraré una histórica que me enganche?
August 28, 2019
The title alone made me start thinking about the possibilites that Darcy Burke would use to enchant me in this story. Oh yes, I always know when I start one of her books, I should make time because it will be hard to put down! An exciting start to a new series, The Spitfire Society, grabbed me quickly from the first page. An unexpected encounter between the main characters involving a sword and a biscuit had me smiling at what would happen next!
Isn't it always the case of a heir needing money for his bankrupt estate or a daughter needing to save her family by marrying for money that meet and find an attraction? Well such is the case with Graham Kinsley who had just inherited a dukedom. Well the title at least because the estate owes a lot of money and he needs to marry for money. Or recover the money the former duke had invested in a terrible scheme. But who was it?
Arabella Stoke is in the same situation with her father ill and only her mother and she trying to keep everything running with little funds due to somebody having swindled her father.
As these two find each other and eventually learn they have a lot in common due to having their funds taken by the same swindler, they set out to find him and try to set things right.
It seems though they may find more along the way than what they initally seek. But how could these two almost desitute people come together?
An exciting story that I highly recommend and cannot wait for more in this series!
Isn't it always the case of a heir needing money for his bankrupt estate or a daughter needing to save her family by marrying for money that meet and find an attraction? Well such is the case with Graham Kinsley who had just inherited a dukedom. Well the title at least because the estate owes a lot of money and he needs to marry for money. Or recover the money the former duke had invested in a terrible scheme. But who was it?
Arabella Stoke is in the same situation with her father ill and only her mother and she trying to keep everything running with little funds due to somebody having swindled her father.
As these two find each other and eventually learn they have a lot in common due to having their funds taken by the same swindler, they set out to find him and try to set things right.
It seems though they may find more along the way than what they initally seek. But how could these two almost desitute people come together?
An exciting story that I highly recommend and cannot wait for more in this series!
August 28, 2019
Never Have I Ever With a Dukd
The Spitfire Society book 1
by Darcy Burke
Once again Darcy Burke has hit a home run with her new series!
Arabella Stoke has no choice but to marry a man of means, it’s the only way to salvage their fortunes. Her father lost everything because of a swindler and her family is suffering because of it. Having no choice she tries to make the best of her situation. Until she meets Graham Kinsley.
Graham Kinsley never thought he’d one day become a Duke, his life has taken a spin. He’s a Duke with no money that needs to replenish the coffers. He needs to find the man that swindled the previous Duke or marry an heiress. Until he meets Arabella and he’s shocked to realize that their in the same boat . The attraction is mutual but both need a fortune to put things straight, they decide to help each other. But every time they’re together one kiss leads to another and their goal of recouping their losses takes second place. I loved Arabella and Graham their chemistry was real with witty dialogue. Loved to see them slowly fall in love and enjoyed the secondary characters. All in all this was a fantastic read that kept me engrossed in the plot. I’m never disappointed in anything Darcy Burke writes. Well done, and I highly recommend!
I recieved a complimentary copy from the author. This is my honest unbiased opinion.
The Spitfire Society book 1
by Darcy Burke
Once again Darcy Burke has hit a home run with her new series!
Arabella Stoke has no choice but to marry a man of means, it’s the only way to salvage their fortunes. Her father lost everything because of a swindler and her family is suffering because of it. Having no choice she tries to make the best of her situation. Until she meets Graham Kinsley.
Graham Kinsley never thought he’d one day become a Duke, his life has taken a spin. He’s a Duke with no money that needs to replenish the coffers. He needs to find the man that swindled the previous Duke or marry an heiress. Until he meets Arabella and he’s shocked to realize that their in the same boat . The attraction is mutual but both need a fortune to put things straight, they decide to help each other. But every time they’re together one kiss leads to another and their goal of recouping their losses takes second place. I loved Arabella and Graham their chemistry was real with witty dialogue. Loved to see them slowly fall in love and enjoyed the secondary characters. All in all this was a fantastic read that kept me engrossed in the plot. I’m never disappointed in anything Darcy Burke writes. Well done, and I highly recommend!
I recieved a complimentary copy from the author. This is my honest unbiased opinion.
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