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Sons of the Marquess #1-3
Sons of the Marquess Collection
700 pages and hours of reading in one collection — books 1-3 of the Sons of the Marquess, a series of traditional Regency romances, drawing room rather than bedroom. Lord Reginald Marford needs a wealthy heiress to support his indulgent lifestyle. Spirited Miss Robinia Chamberlain looks perfect, but when he sets out to court her, he finds that his title and family connections aren’t nearly enough to entice the lady, and he has to become a little bit creative to attract her attention. Lord Humphrey Marford has a way with cards, dice and gambling of all forms. He’d love to start his own gaming house, but that takes a lot of money. His only solution is to marry an heiress, and he can’t be too choosy. Miss Hortensia Blythe seems perfect - pretty, charming and very, very rich. But even as he courts the ladylike but rather dull Miss Blythe, Humphrey is drawn to her companion, who isn’t nearly so ladylike, and isn’t the slightest bit dull. Lord Augustus Marford has only one interest in life - horses. It’s an expensive hobby, and Gus is happy to assess some stud horses for the eccentric Duke of Dunmorton. But Gus is drawn into the Duke’s family problems, and then there’s Amaryllis Walsh, the demure widow living quietly on the Duke’s estate. Gus is powerfully drawn to her, but her history is mysterious - who is she really? Books 1-3 of the 5 book series Sons of the Marquess. Each book is a complete story with a HEA, but read them all to find out all the secrets of Marford family!
801 pages, Kindle Edition
First published April 18, 2019
666 people are currently reading
215 people want to read
About the author
Mary Kingswood
69 books480 followersI live in the beautiful Highlands of Scotland with my husband. I like chocolate, whisky, my Kindle, massed pipe bands, long leisurely lunches, chocolate, going places in my campervan, eating pizza in Italy, summer nights that never get dark, wood fires in winter, chocolate, the view from the study window looking out over the Moray Firth and the Black Isle to the mountains beyond. And chocolate. I dislike driving on motorways, cooking, shopping, hospitals.
The lovely lady in my avatar is Archduchess Clementina of Austria (1798-1881), Princess of Salerno, painted around 1839.
NOTE: I read Regency romances as well as write them, and I review them all on my website, or you can find them right here on Goodreads on my real-name account at Pauline M. Ross.
The lovely lady in my avatar is Archduchess Clementina of Austria (1798-1881), Princess of Salerno, painted around 1839.
NOTE: I read Regency romances as well as write them, and I review them all on my website, or you can find them right here on Goodreads on my real-name account at Pauline M. Ross.
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Displaying 1 - 23 of 23 reviews
October 9, 2021
I finished reading Lord Gilbert, the fifth and last book of Mary Kingswood’s Sons of the Marquess series, and went looking for another Kingswood to read. I discovered two things. First, that I’ve read all of them, and second, that I may not have written a review of any of them. Too busy reading, maybe.
I’ve liked all of Ms. Kingswood’s books so rather than review just one (even though I particularly liked Lord Gilbert), I’ll just explain why I like them.
The stories are always interesting, and I am seldom able to guess how the mystery element will turn out. The characters are believable. They feel true to the Regency period, not only in the characters’ attitudes but also in speech. It’s annoying to read a historical novel and find the characters are really just 20th/21st century people in costume. Ms. Kingswood writes well. This is not always the case in historical romance novels. In some, the story is good but the writing is clunky. In others, the story and writing are good but there are irritating instances of modern slang or modern attitudes.
Yes, I’m picky. And I’m going to start rereading Mary Kingswood’s Daughters of Allamont Hall series.
I’ve liked all of Ms. Kingswood’s books so rather than review just one (even though I particularly liked Lord Gilbert), I’ll just explain why I like them.
The stories are always interesting, and I am seldom able to guess how the mystery element will turn out. The characters are believable. They feel true to the Regency period, not only in the characters’ attitudes but also in speech. It’s annoying to read a historical novel and find the characters are really just 20th/21st century people in costume. Ms. Kingswood writes well. This is not always the case in historical romance novels. In some, the story is good but the writing is clunky. In others, the story and writing are good but there are irritating instances of modern slang or modern attitudes.
Yes, I’m picky. And I’m going to start rereading Mary Kingswood’s Daughters of Allamont Hall series.
April 18, 2022
My favorite Kingswood novels yet!
The first three books in the series are so good, each one just gets better than the last. I am addicted to her work, and dazzled by Kingswood‘s talent. She is a superb storyteller, and I immediately start the next book as soon as I finish the last. This is the 4th series I’ve read by her, and I think it has to be my favorite. I can’t recommend this collection highly enough.
The first three books in the series are so good, each one just gets better than the last. I am addicted to her work, and dazzled by Kingswood‘s talent. She is a superb storyteller, and I immediately start the next book as soon as I finish the last. This is the 4th series I’ve read by her, and I think it has to be my favorite. I can’t recommend this collection highly enough.
July 15, 2019
Well...this was beautifully written. I had a few issues with it, but the writing makes it a 5-star for me. I love the thread of stories that continue through the books with the agent and the secretary. I will definitely continue the series!
Book 1: I was sure I would never like any of the brothers. They seemed so shallow, selfish and somewhat stupid to me. But I came to really like Connie and gradually like Reggie. This book was a 4.5 star for me.
Book 2: This story took twists and turns and was brilliantly maneuvered such that it was difficult to see how it would resolve. It forced me to think back through earlier conversations and view them very differently. This book was solidly a 5. Loved it!
Book 3: I saw the outcome on this wayyy early in the book and was a bit forlorn that this one would not be as good as the first two, but once again the book took twists and turns that I did not foresee in coming to the solution I anticipated. I must say that I am sorry that the brothers are not together and we learn of changes to them through Connie's letters or from the secretary (for they would make great reads), but I still very much enjoyed the read. This one was a 4.5 star read.
Book 1: I was sure I would never like any of the brothers. They seemed so shallow, selfish and somewhat stupid to me. But I came to really like Connie and gradually like Reggie. This book was a 4.5 star for me.
Book 2: This story took twists and turns and was brilliantly maneuvered such that it was difficult to see how it would resolve. It forced me to think back through earlier conversations and view them very differently. This book was solidly a 5. Loved it!
Book 3: I saw the outcome on this wayyy early in the book and was a bit forlorn that this one would not be as good as the first two, but once again the book took twists and turns that I did not foresee in coming to the solution I anticipated. I must say that I am sorry that the brothers are not together and we learn of changes to them through Connie's letters or from the secretary (for they would make great reads), but I still very much enjoyed the read. This one was a 4.5 star read.
July 12, 2021
Heyer with Mystery - Diamond of the first water
Regency romances that add detective and thriller elements with total believability and a light touch, and then combine slow-burning arcs across the stories of a linked set of characters - Brava!
I adore Georgette Heyer; she will always be the measure that others fall short of, and for her humorous style is still unbeaten. However, Mary Kingswood brings something extra in her mystery, while retaining compassion in the human interest elements woven throughout, providing intriguing insights into the contrasts between levels of society that are not usually found in this kind of story - all of it serving the plot so well!
If you love the Regency setting and romances you cannot fail to enjoy any of her books for those reasons alone. But you’ll find so much more in these addictive page-turners.
Regency romances that add detective and thriller elements with total believability and a light touch, and then combine slow-burning arcs across the stories of a linked set of characters - Brava!
I adore Georgette Heyer; she will always be the measure that others fall short of, and for her humorous style is still unbeaten. However, Mary Kingswood brings something extra in her mystery, while retaining compassion in the human interest elements woven throughout, providing intriguing insights into the contrasts between levels of society that are not usually found in this kind of story - all of it serving the plot so well!
If you love the Regency setting and romances you cannot fail to enjoy any of her books for those reasons alone. But you’ll find so much more in these addictive page-turners.
January 6, 2021
Slow start but ended up being a real page turner
I have owned this series of books for some time and are just now getting around to reading it. It started off a little slow but I soon was drawn into not just the individual lives of the sons of the marquess but also the saga of the agent and what was to come for them as a family. I love the stories and adventures it takes the reader on. All are very different and varied. I love the twists and surprises. Lots of shocking revelations! I’ve already bought the next two of the series to find out how the whole of it works out.
Rating: PG, clean
I have owned this series of books for some time and are just now getting around to reading it. It started off a little slow but I soon was drawn into not just the individual lives of the sons of the marquess but also the saga of the agent and what was to come for them as a family. I love the stories and adventures it takes the reader on. All are very different and varied. I love the twists and surprises. Lots of shocking revelations! I’ve already bought the next two of the series to find out how the whole of it works out.
Rating: PG, clean
May 29, 2020
I thoroughly enjoyed the three books in this series in which five brothers have to find a way to support their lifestyle by marrying an heiress. Each book tells a unique story about these brothers and their ladies. I loved that there is a greedy, deceitful steward who knows no bounds and has nearly caused the financial ruin of this family. I see there are more books in this series and I am eagerly looking forward to reading more about the other brothers and their quests for finding a rich young lady. I can’t wait to see the what will be the demise of the duplicitous steward, Mr. Sharp.
October 22, 2023
Cozy Read
Start one of Mary Kingswood's recency series, and I guarantee you'll keep reading due to the way characters and plot threads run not only from book to book, but also from series to series. One simply must find out what happens next and to whom. These are not high action page turners, but rather cozy romances with hints of mystery, perfect for a rainy day or even an extended binge. If, on reaching the end (book or series), you feel pleased and relaxed, just look for the next installment.
Start one of Mary Kingswood's recency series, and I guarantee you'll keep reading due to the way characters and plot threads run not only from book to book, but also from series to series. One simply must find out what happens next and to whom. These are not high action page turners, but rather cozy romances with hints of mystery, perfect for a rainy day or even an extended binge. If, on reaching the end (book or series), you feel pleased and relaxed, just look for the next installment.
October 29, 2023
Very convoluted
So many plot twist and dragging out the story. So much unnecessary nonsense. There was absolutely no reason to not tell the duck she was married and he had an heir. None!,, all the useless extra words of speculation about maybe this and maybe that. So boring. I enjoyed all or most of her other books. This really was maybe a 2/12 not a three star. Very disappointed.
So many plot twist and dragging out the story. So much unnecessary nonsense. There was absolutely no reason to not tell the duck she was married and he had an heir. None!,, all the useless extra words of speculation about maybe this and maybe that. So boring. I enjoyed all or most of her other books. This really was maybe a 2/12 not a three star. Very disappointed.
July 9, 2019
What a joy
I really enjoyed this set of books, there were so well written and evocative of the period with an underlying mystery that runs though the series, although each book can be read as a stand alone novel. Shades of Georgette Heyer and very nicely done. If you like regency romance that can take you there this is definitely for you.
I really enjoyed this set of books, there were so well written and evocative of the period with an underlying mystery that runs though the series, although each book can be read as a stand alone novel. Shades of Georgette Heyer and very nicely done. If you like regency romance that can take you there this is definitely for you.
August 29, 2019
All three books were very clean which was nice. The first book was not enjoyable for me I would give it 2 1/2 stars. The second book I very much enjoyed I felt like both characters were well-developed and we had a good idea of everything that was going on. 3 1/2 stars. The third book was fine. Three stars.
June 23, 2022
I think that this is her best collection so far. Each of the sons and brides are interesting and personable, with charming romances. However what made it stand out for me were the secondary characters. The development of Daniel Merton, first seen as a minor character in Amy; the hilarious references to the first secretary (we never talk about it) and the denouement to that storyline; but most of all the ongoing nefarious shenanigans of the land agent Sharpe.
January 12, 2023
Best "Son" ever!
I loved all of the stories in The Sons of the Marquess, by Mary Kingswood, especially the last one. Gus was the best son ever, a seemingly shallow horse-mad young man who turned out to have hidden depths. Who can resist a man who loves children? I loved the romance in this one too. I heartily recommend this entire collection.
I loved all of the stories in The Sons of the Marquess, by Mary Kingswood, especially the last one. Gus was the best son ever, a seemingly shallow horse-mad young man who turned out to have hidden depths. Who can resist a man who loves children? I loved the romance in this one too. I heartily recommend this entire collection.
January 13, 2024
Family honor, investigating financial status and property management are completed in this series.
The romance is only part of the story for these gentleman after the death of their father. Proprietary dictates how things are done. Great character development and storyline. Relatable people and situations.
The romance is only part of the story for these gentleman after the death of their father. Proprietary dictates how things are done. Great character development and storyline. Relatable people and situations.
July 29, 2019
Horses, cards and love
A delightful set of traditional historical romances, witty and a pleasure to read. Each member of the Malford family has his quirks which make them lovable. Nice and clean stories can be enjoyable as well. Highly recommended
A delightful set of traditional historical romances, witty and a pleasure to read. Each member of the Malford family has his quirks which make them lovable. Nice and clean stories can be enjoyable as well. Highly recommended
Want to read
July 5, 2019Free on Amazon 5th July 2019
July 5, 2019
Please see individual stories for review.
July 18, 2019
The first three historical romances in this family saga will keep you enthralled!
Sweet and clean with a separate cliffhanger mystery storyline running through but reasonably well written.
Sweet and clean with a separate cliffhanger mystery storyline running through but reasonably well written.
June 29, 2020
Great collection
I was never bored (skipping ahead just to get through). I'm hoping they get the "bad" guy and regain what was lost.
Going to find the rest of the story.
I was never bored (skipping ahead just to get through). I'm hoping they get the "bad" guy and regain what was lost.
Going to find the rest of the story.
December 15, 2021
Absolutely wonderful
I loved this trilogy. I didn’t even figure out all the twists and turns in advance. I can’t wait to read more!
I loved this trilogy. I didn’t even figure out all the twists and turns in advance. I can’t wait to read more!
May 19, 2022
Exhausting
What a wonderful story. There was so much action and uncertainties. I loved the characters even the duke. There is still more mystery to solve. I can't wait.
What a wonderful story. There was so much action and uncertainties. I loved the characters even the duke. There is still more mystery to solve. I can't wait.
May 27, 2022
Maybe 3.5
October 25, 2023
Delightful story
Wonderful stories about three brothers and their journey to find the loves of their lives. A backstory of a deceitful agent runs through out each of the stories.
Wonderful stories about three brothers and their journey to find the loves of their lives. A backstory of a deceitful agent runs through out each of the stories.
December 23, 2020
I've read two of the three books:
1 - Lord Reginald - July 11-12 - 3.55 stars
2 -Lord Humphrey - July 12 - 4.55 stars
3 - Lord Augustus - July 14 - 4.50
1 - Lord Reginald - July 11-12 - 3.55 stars
2 -Lord Humphrey - July 12 - 4.55 stars
3 - Lord Augustus - July 14 - 4.50
Displaying 1 - 23 of 23 reviews