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The Impossible Balfours #1
A Duke She Can't Refuse
Headstrong Miss Daisy Morton must make a choice: play the fiancée to a duke she doesn’t love, or face ruin.
Daisy’s loyalty to her friends is always getting her into awkward places. Unfortunately, those places include the bedroom of the stern young Duke of Loxwell, where she is caught hiding by one of society’s most notorious gossips.
For mysterious reasons of his own, the duke saves her reputation with a false engagement. There’s only one rule: she can't fall in love with him.
Simple enough. What are the chances that the true love Daisy has always dreamed of should turn out to be the strict, strait-laced, surprisingly tender duke with a devastating smile reserved especially for her?
Alexander Balfour, the new Duke of Loxwell, lives for honour and duty. The dukedom weighs as heavily on his shoulders as the responsibility of setting an example for his four unruly sisters.
And that honour has sealed his fate forever. A fatal mistake in his past means he cannot fall in love without betraying those he holds dearest.
Even if Daisy turns his world upside down in a hundred different ways, she cannot save him from his lonely penance.
Or can she?
Daisy’s loyalty to her friends is always getting her into awkward places. Unfortunately, those places include the bedroom of the stern young Duke of Loxwell, where she is caught hiding by one of society’s most notorious gossips.
For mysterious reasons of his own, the duke saves her reputation with a false engagement. There’s only one rule: she can't fall in love with him.
Simple enough. What are the chances that the true love Daisy has always dreamed of should turn out to be the strict, strait-laced, surprisingly tender duke with a devastating smile reserved especially for her?
Alexander Balfour, the new Duke of Loxwell, lives for honour and duty. The dukedom weighs as heavily on his shoulders as the responsibility of setting an example for his four unruly sisters.
And that honour has sealed his fate forever. A fatal mistake in his past means he cannot fall in love without betraying those he holds dearest.
Even if Daisy turns his world upside down in a hundred different ways, she cannot save him from his lonely penance.
Or can she?
186 pages, Kindle Edition
First published October 31, 2019
1128 people are currently reading
487 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 125 reviews
January 25, 2020
I see all the four and five star ratings and I am left wondering...did we all read the same book?
It wasn't...bad. But it also wasn't good. It was horrendously meh.
Clean, though, which I appreciate so I'll round it up to two stars instead of the one I was hovering around.
The problem is that the villain of the piece made no sense. I did not understand his motivation at all. In fact, the more I think about it, the more confused I feel.
The main couple was okay, I guess. They had very little personality outside of 'extrovert' and 'brooding introvert with dark past.' But the dark past thing wasn't even that...dark. So all the angst felt overblown and unnecessary.
Finally, the secondary characters all exist either because they already had their own book or because they will get their own. It creates a weirdly cookie-cutter situation. Like her sister-in-law in this novel, the heroine will fade to sweet obscurity and only seriously appear when she is needed to advise the next heroine about all the obstacles she overcame for romance.
It wasn't...bad. But it also wasn't good. It was horrendously meh.
Clean, though, which I appreciate so I'll round it up to two stars instead of the one I was hovering around.
The problem is that the villain of the piece made no sense. I did not understand his motivation at all. In fact, the more I think about it, the more confused I feel.
The main couple was okay, I guess. They had very little personality outside of 'extrovert' and 'brooding introvert with dark past.' But the dark past thing wasn't even that...dark. So all the angst felt overblown and unnecessary.
Finally, the secondary characters all exist either because they already had their own book or because they will get their own. It creates a weirdly cookie-cutter situation. Like her sister-in-law in this novel, the heroine will fade to sweet obscurity and only seriously appear when she is needed to advise the next heroine about all the obstacles she overcame for romance.
November 2, 2019
This was a very entertaining read with likeable characters, especially Daisy. She was unconventional, full of life and loyal to her friends. Alexander, Duke of Lowell was the complete opposite, he liked rules and was thought of as being staid. However, an event in his past has altered his thinking. Their growth of their relationship was endearing. There is also a mystery that Daisy has found herself involved in. This was a sweet romance. Alex’s sisters were also an interesting mix of characters and I look forward to reading more about them. I received a copy via Booksprout and have voluntarily reviewed it. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
November 2, 2019
I would like to thank the author for a free copy of the book in exchange for an honest review.
Daisy finds herself trapped in the Duke of Loxwell’s bedroom. Fortunately the Duke, Alexander steps forward and declares there engagement in order to save her reputation.
With a touch of mystery, A Duke she can’t refuse is the first book in the new The impossible Balfours series. I thoroughly enjoyed this and can’t wait for the next books.
Daisy finds herself trapped in the Duke of Loxwell’s bedroom. Fortunately the Duke, Alexander steps forward and declares there engagement in order to save her reputation.
With a touch of mystery, A Duke she can’t refuse is the first book in the new The impossible Balfours series. I thoroughly enjoyed this and can’t wait for the next books.
November 2, 2019
Daisy’s loyalty to her friends is always getting her into awkward places. When her friend Edith breaks a vase Daisy finds herself in the bedroom of the Duke of Loxwell, where she is caught hiding by one of society’s most notorious gossips. For mysterious reasons of his own, the duke saves her reputation with a false engagement. There’s only one rule: she can't fall in love with him. Alexander Balfour, the new Duke of Loxwell, lives for honour and duty, he also wants to see his four sisters happily married.
A well written novel that I read in two sittings. There was a fake engagement but also a mystery about the vase, which led Daisy into danger. I love both Daisy & Alex, she was headstrong but also very caring & fiercely loyal to her friends. Alex appeared to be stern but cared for his sisters & was consumed by guilt. I loved their journey to a HEA which wasn't smooth but it was very entertaining. He start of a new series & I look forward to the rest of the Balfour siblings having their stories especially Selina I also loved that we caught up with Ralph & Jemima from The Baron's Inconvenient Bride
My honest review is for a special copy I voluntarily read
A well written novel that I read in two sittings. There was a fake engagement but also a mystery about the vase, which led Daisy into danger. I love both Daisy & Alex, she was headstrong but also very caring & fiercely loyal to her friends. Alex appeared to be stern but cared for his sisters & was consumed by guilt. I loved their journey to a HEA which wasn't smooth but it was very entertaining. He start of a new series & I look forward to the rest of the Balfour siblings having their stories especially Selina I also loved that we caught up with Ralph & Jemima from The Baron's Inconvenient Bride
My honest review is for a special copy I voluntarily read
November 4, 2019
When Daisy Morton is caught in Alexander Balfour, the Duke of Loxwell's bedroom, he does what any true gentleman would. He devises a fake engagement to save Daisy from ruination.
Daisy does not want to pretend a fake engagement to Alexander, she wishes to marry for love. Besides, Alexander has never given her a second look before even though she has been in his home countless times visiting her best friend Edith, the Duke's younger sister. Once Alexander explains to Daisy that it will be just long enough to get through the end of the Season to keep her from being ruined and to keep eager mother's from showing their daughters at him she decides to go along with it.
However, things do not go according to plan. Daisy had always held Alexander in high regard, but as she gets to know him better, she begins to fall in love with him. And Alexander is not quite sure what he is starting to feel towards Daisy. He can't fall in love with her, he will not allow it. Not after what he did to his sister Selina years ago.
As the Season draws near it's end, what will become of Daisy and Alexander. Can Daisy convince Alexander that they deserve happiness or will Alexander end the fake engagement?
I really enjoyed this book. It is a sweet and clean read and does have a happily ever after.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Daisy does not want to pretend a fake engagement to Alexander, she wishes to marry for love. Besides, Alexander has never given her a second look before even though she has been in his home countless times visiting her best friend Edith, the Duke's younger sister. Once Alexander explains to Daisy that it will be just long enough to get through the end of the Season to keep her from being ruined and to keep eager mother's from showing their daughters at him she decides to go along with it.
However, things do not go according to plan. Daisy had always held Alexander in high regard, but as she gets to know him better, she begins to fall in love with him. And Alexander is not quite sure what he is starting to feel towards Daisy. He can't fall in love with her, he will not allow it. Not after what he did to his sister Selina years ago.
As the Season draws near it's end, what will become of Daisy and Alexander. Can Daisy convince Alexander that they deserve happiness or will Alexander end the fake engagement?
I really enjoyed this book. It is a sweet and clean read and does have a happily ever after.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
January 18, 2024
Daisy has long held a fascination for her best friend's brother. Now the new Duke of Loxwell, he may be out of reach. But a compromise forces him to propose. It's a fake engagement, only Daisy has hope she can change his mind. When her life is in danger, he comes to her rescue, but he carries a secret and a promise to another not to marry. Keep the tissues handy. This is one stubborn duke. A clean romance with kisses only. A favorite trope.
January 4, 2020
An entertaining read
This is an entertaining romance with charming characters and a fine plot. It’s not too tough to imagine that things will work out in the end, as the title suggests. Recommended for romance fans.
This is an entertaining romance with charming characters and a fine plot. It’s not too tough to imagine that things will work out in the end, as the title suggests. Recommended for romance fans.
April 1, 2020
Daisy and Alexander's love story. A sweet and clean romance with a little mystery. I enjoyed it except for the sad event that happened to Alexander's friend and Alexander's sister love- (the same guy).
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
November 17, 2019
Nett zu lesen, aber mehr auch nicht
January 20, 2020
2.5-3 stars - Historical Romance
October 1, 2024
A Duke She Can’t Refuse is book one in The Impossible Balfours series by Gemma Blackwood. I think this should actually be read after the last book in Blackwood’s Scandals of Scarcliffe Hall book 4 - The Baron’s Inconvenient Bride. Although A Duke She Can’t Refuse can be read as a stand alone, there are certainly plenty of references to the hero and heroine from book 4. This story is about Daisy Morton the sister of Lord Northmere (book 4’s hero). I loved Daisy right away. She is loyal and kind. I wished for more of a physical description of each of the characters. I like to picture characters like a movie as I read, and other than Daisy’s dark hair, I couldn’t find much of a physical description. Also the first chapter introduces a whole slew of people that left me baffled. But I pressed on. Alexander Balfour, Duke of Loxwell is a very well developed character. He is Daisy’s best friend’s big brother. Who hasn’t crushed on their best friends big brother? “Alexander had been a duke for a matter of months, but Daisy’s fascination with him had begun over a year before. There was something about a man with the broad shoulders of a prize-fighter and the impeccable dress of a gentleman, the tousled dark hair of a poet and the stern manners of a school master, that could not help but catch her attention.” I thought the pace was good and there were some twists and turns that kept me hooked. This is a clean sweet romance. I am looking forward to more by Blackwood.
September 17, 2020
4 stars
This is my first book by Gemma Blackwood and very nice surprise.
This book was good, worth reading in a few days. It hit pretty much most of my personal markers for a good read and well roundness of the book; it just lacked ‘something’ for 5 stars: In this case, I like more ‘ intimate scenes’...this book is totally PG rating.
The development and interest in main characters (Alexander and Daisy) and secondary characters (Alexander sisters and Daisy family) was totally enjoyable. It kept me wanting to know and read more.
I’m looking forward to reading the series (even though it’s a PG book and not usually my preferred writing). That’s how much I enjoyed these characters, very well written around the introductory of the 3 sisters.
The humorous moments, The give and take dialogue was wonderful. Movement of the book flowed for the most part. Book writing/conversation engaging.
Romance was throughout the book in the form of lovely written kissing scenes (no oral or love making scenes in this book).
Totally recommend author.
Will read the next book by the author and pervious books.
This is my first book by Gemma Blackwood and very nice surprise.
This book was good, worth reading in a few days. It hit pretty much most of my personal markers for a good read and well roundness of the book; it just lacked ‘something’ for 5 stars: In this case, I like more ‘ intimate scenes’...this book is totally PG rating.
The development and interest in main characters (Alexander and Daisy) and secondary characters (Alexander sisters and Daisy family) was totally enjoyable. It kept me wanting to know and read more.
I’m looking forward to reading the series (even though it’s a PG book and not usually my preferred writing). That’s how much I enjoyed these characters, very well written around the introductory of the 3 sisters.
The humorous moments, The give and take dialogue was wonderful. Movement of the book flowed for the most part. Book writing/conversation engaging.
Romance was throughout the book in the form of lovely written kissing scenes (no oral or love making scenes in this book).
Totally recommend author.
Will read the next book by the author and pervious books.
August 11, 2020
This story was simply meh. There was nothing that stood out from the countless other books of this genre already on the market. The sad thing is, the author had a good idea - she just didn't give herself enough space to really flesh it out and bring it to life. Because of this, not only does the relationship between Alexander and Daisy feels stilted, but the background characters feel more like cardboard cutouts than real people.
Then there were the other sub-plots that just seemed so overly dramatic that they were laughable instead of believable.
Despite these things, I have decided that I will continue on at least with the next in this series. Hopefully, the little annoyances from the first book are forgotten as the author gains her footing in this world that she has created.
Then there were the other sub-plots that just seemed so overly dramatic that they were laughable instead of believable.
Despite these things, I have decided that I will continue on at least with the next in this series. Hopefully, the little annoyances from the first book are forgotten as the author gains her footing in this world that she has created.
October 29, 2023
A Duke She Can’t Refuse is the first book in this series and can be read as a standalone story. There are secondary characters that you know are getting their own stories, but no cliffhangers. This is Alexander and Daisy’s story.
These characters are very likable and their story keeps them interesting. Alexander is a newly minted Duke. He is so caught up with navigating his new role, his past and his sisters that he doesn’t have time for these marriage minded Mama’s who want to marry him off to their daughters. Daisy is ready for her Season and truly wants to marry, but only if it is a love match. She is best friends with the Duke’s sister, Edith who is constantly getting herself in trouble that Daisy seems to get her out of . She has fantasized about the Duke, but knows there is no hope for a love match with him.
These two become betrothed by a bargain. He keeps her reputation in tack after she is found in his bedroom and she saves him from the marriage hungry ton. Of course their feelings for one another develop through this charade and we get to go on the journey with them. He is hiding his reasons for not wanting to marry and she is determined to open his heart.
Daisy is refreshing because she has a silent toughness about her. She takes the ups and downs with Alexander admirably. Alexander has his reason for keeping love away and when it is finally disclosed you feel for him. These two truly love one another and the story was enjoyable. There was a bit of mystery, a few stolen kisses and interesting secondary characters. Some brought value to the story, but I found Daisy’s mother off putting. Overall this was an enjoyable read. I will add that I felt the ending was a bit quick and the epilogue was disappointing, hence the ⭐️⭐️⭐️.
These characters are very likable and their story keeps them interesting. Alexander is a newly minted Duke. He is so caught up with navigating his new role, his past and his sisters that he doesn’t have time for these marriage minded Mama’s who want to marry him off to their daughters. Daisy is ready for her Season and truly wants to marry, but only if it is a love match. She is best friends with the Duke’s sister, Edith who is constantly getting herself in trouble that Daisy seems to get her out of . She has fantasized about the Duke, but knows there is no hope for a love match with him.
These two become betrothed by a bargain. He keeps her reputation in tack after she is found in his bedroom and she saves him from the marriage hungry ton. Of course their feelings for one another develop through this charade and we get to go on the journey with them. He is hiding his reasons for not wanting to marry and she is determined to open his heart.
Daisy is refreshing because she has a silent toughness about her. She takes the ups and downs with Alexander admirably. Alexander has his reason for keeping love away and when it is finally disclosed you feel for him. These two truly love one another and the story was enjoyable. There was a bit of mystery, a few stolen kisses and interesting secondary characters. Some brought value to the story, but I found Daisy’s mother off putting. Overall this was an enjoyable read. I will add that I felt the ending was a bit quick and the epilogue was disappointing, hence the ⭐️⭐️⭐️.
November 4, 2019
Due to her best friend Edith’s carelessness in breaking an antique vase as she searched for secret panels in her brother’s new house, Daisy Morton stays behind to clean up and remove the broken pieces and is discovered in a very compromising position – hiding in the bedroom of Alexander Balfour, Duke of Loxwell. To save her reputation, Alexander immediately proposes a pretend engagement until things settle enough that they can go their separate ways without scandal.
These two are such opposites! Daisy was lively, daring, unconventional, and loyal to her friends to the point of getting herself in trouble. Alexander instead appeared aloof and disinterested, was stern and preferred following rules. He is Daisy’s best friend’s older brother. He feels undeserving of happiness, despite how he cares for Daisy who has been attracted to him for the past year. There is also a mystery that Daisy has found herself involved in when she hears something she shouldn’t while she was half-way under Alexander’s bed reaching for a key she had spotted. Will this put her in danger from the two men who had searched his room? And will Alexander and Daisy be unable to resist their growing feelings for each other?
This was a sweet romance and really well-written. The characters will draw the reader in, and the mystery will entice the reader to read on and find out what is happening. Grab your copy and enjoy a wonderful story.
These two are such opposites! Daisy was lively, daring, unconventional, and loyal to her friends to the point of getting herself in trouble. Alexander instead appeared aloof and disinterested, was stern and preferred following rules. He is Daisy’s best friend’s older brother. He feels undeserving of happiness, despite how he cares for Daisy who has been attracted to him for the past year. There is also a mystery that Daisy has found herself involved in when she hears something she shouldn’t while she was half-way under Alexander’s bed reaching for a key she had spotted. Will this put her in danger from the two men who had searched his room? And will Alexander and Daisy be unable to resist their growing feelings for each other?
This was a sweet romance and really well-written. The characters will draw the reader in, and the mystery will entice the reader to read on and find out what is happening. Grab your copy and enjoy a wonderful story.
November 30, 2019
This is sweet, romantic, interesting and amusing. Daisy finds herself in a delicate position when her accident prone friend, Edith, begs for her to help after Edith broke a vase in her brother Alexander's room. While in the room alone cleaning up the pieces of the vase, Daisy gets caught hiding behind te bed. Alexander asks Daisy to pretend to be engaged so that her reputation isn't destroyed, and after the season they would say she broke it off. Daisy has been infatuated with Alexander for about a year, so she agrees. He warns her from the beginning to not fall in love because the engagement would never end in a marriage, but he ends up falling in love. Unfortunately there is a secret that keeps Alex from allowing himself to be happy. Alexander is charming and engaging when he wants to be, but most of the time he's a stiff and stoic Duke. Daisy is a free spirit, happy and bubbly most of the time, until Alexander starts adamantly shutting the door on her feelings. It's very sweet the way Alex gradually falls in love with Daisy, and the way they treat each other. I enjoyed reading this very much.
I received a complimentary copy of this book from the author. This is my honest and voluntary opinion of it.
I received a complimentary copy of this book from the author. This is my honest and voluntary opinion of it.
November 3, 2019
I really enjoyed reading “A Duke She Can’t Refuse.” I had read a few of Gemma Blackwood’s books previously, so when given the opportunity to read this book, I cleared my Saturday morning and settled in with a book full of fun, romance and enough suspense to keep me turning pages.
Miss Daisy Morton seems to find herself in some sticky situations with her friend Edith, the sister of the new Duke of Loxwell, but a broken vase leads to her being found in a scandalous situation. Duty-bound to protect the honor of Miss Morton, Alexander Balfour, the Duke of Loxwell proposes an engagement in name only. He promises to play the part of a doting fiancé in public, but Daisy must promise to tell the truth and not fall in love with him. At the end of the season, they will break the engagement and Daisy will be free to find her love match, but the broken vase held a secret that people are willing to kill for.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Miss Daisy Morton seems to find herself in some sticky situations with her friend Edith, the sister of the new Duke of Loxwell, but a broken vase leads to her being found in a scandalous situation. Duty-bound to protect the honor of Miss Morton, Alexander Balfour, the Duke of Loxwell proposes an engagement in name only. He promises to play the part of a doting fiancé in public, but Daisy must promise to tell the truth and not fall in love with him. At the end of the season, they will break the engagement and Daisy will be free to find her love match, but the broken vase held a secret that people are willing to kill for.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
November 10, 2019
This is my first Gemma Blackwood novel but it definitely won't be my last! This is the wonderful story of Lord Alexander Balfour, The Duke of Loxwell and Miss Daisy Morton.
I thoroughly enjoyed this book! Daisy is a loyal, sweet, vibrant and a genuine heroine who finds her self in a compromising position and Alexander is complex, noble and most assuredly swoon-worthy.
Alexander and Daisy are characters you root for. This was a fun, intriguing read with a strong heroine, and a damaged hero, who overcomes his past and his fears to realize and proclaim his love for Daisy.
I loved the story, it had a great plot that kept me turning the pages until the satisfying end. The characters are very engaging and the romance is delightful.
You won't want to miss the beginning of this new series. It's well worth the read and I for one can't wait for to read the love stories of Alexander's sisters.
Thank you so much Gemma for such a charmingly delightful and well written story.
I thoroughly enjoyed this book! Daisy is a loyal, sweet, vibrant and a genuine heroine who finds her self in a compromising position and Alexander is complex, noble and most assuredly swoon-worthy.
Alexander and Daisy are characters you root for. This was a fun, intriguing read with a strong heroine, and a damaged hero, who overcomes his past and his fears to realize and proclaim his love for Daisy.
I loved the story, it had a great plot that kept me turning the pages until the satisfying end. The characters are very engaging and the romance is delightful.
You won't want to miss the beginning of this new series. It's well worth the read and I for one can't wait for to read the love stories of Alexander's sisters.
Thank you so much Gemma for such a charmingly delightful and well written story.
November 2, 2019
Headstrong Miss Daisy Morton must make a choice; play the fiancée to a duke she has a secret love for, or face possible ruin.
Daisy’s loyalty to her friends is always getting her into awkward places. Unfortunately, those places include the bedroom of the stern young Duke of Loxwell, where she is caught hiding under the bed by one of society’s most notorious gossips.
For mysterious reasons of his own, the duke saves her reputation with a false engagement. There’s only one rule: she won't fall in love with him or will she?
This is one of the best books I have read by this author. It is a sweet type of story with no overt physical contact.
I gave this latest Gemma Blackwood book 4.25 of 5.0 stars for plot, story line and characterization.
I would recommend this book even for the teenage fan of Historical Romance.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Daisy’s loyalty to her friends is always getting her into awkward places. Unfortunately, those places include the bedroom of the stern young Duke of Loxwell, where she is caught hiding under the bed by one of society’s most notorious gossips.
For mysterious reasons of his own, the duke saves her reputation with a false engagement. There’s only one rule: she won't fall in love with him or will she?
This is one of the best books I have read by this author. It is a sweet type of story with no overt physical contact.
I gave this latest Gemma Blackwood book 4.25 of 5.0 stars for plot, story line and characterization.
I would recommend this book even for the teenage fan of Historical Romance.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
November 3, 2019
My first book by Gemma Blackwood and let me just say I thoroughly enjoyed it. I enjoy books written during another time. But not all books are created equal. This story kept my attention from beginning to end and I enjoyed the well-balanced characters throughout the book.
Daisy is a young woman accomplishments and poise she is fantasized or dreamed about her potential made from an early age. She is a good friend of the Duke of Loxwell three sisters and has a small crush on him.
Alexander never expected to become a Duke and when it happens he is determined to be one of great solecism and poise. He is also determined never to have love in his life believing he is undeserving.
These two characters will balance each other out during the course of the story line and the secondary players make a well-rounded cast for lively story.
Looking forward to reading other books by this author in the future.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Daisy is a young woman accomplishments and poise she is fantasized or dreamed about her potential made from an early age. She is a good friend of the Duke of Loxwell three sisters and has a small crush on him.
Alexander never expected to become a Duke and when it happens he is determined to be one of great solecism and poise. He is also determined never to have love in his life believing he is undeserving.
These two characters will balance each other out during the course of the story line and the secondary players make a well-rounded cast for lively story.
Looking forward to reading other books by this author in the future.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
November 3, 2019
Daisy is hiding in Alexander Balfour's bedroom and this could lead to her being compromised if she is found. Needless to say, she is discovered by Alexander (the new Duke of Loxwell) and he decides that a proposal is in order, even if it is a false one, and she agrees to this.
There is also a mystery to be solved, as well as finding the 'bad' man and sorting hm out.
All this while these lovely characters really do fall head over heels for each other and very nearly make a total mess of their relationship.
I loved how this story is put together and all the angst that seems to go with falling in love.
This story is a great start to a new series and I look forward to finding out what beautiful love-adventures Alexander's sisters will find themselves in in each of their own stories, for I cannot imagine the rest of the series being about any other characters.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
There is also a mystery to be solved, as well as finding the 'bad' man and sorting hm out.
All this while these lovely characters really do fall head over heels for each other and very nearly make a total mess of their relationship.
I loved how this story is put together and all the angst that seems to go with falling in love.
This story is a great start to a new series and I look forward to finding out what beautiful love-adventures Alexander's sisters will find themselves in in each of their own stories, for I cannot imagine the rest of the series being about any other characters.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
November 7, 2019
Daisy Morton could only admire the beautiful room at the new home of her best friend Edith, whose brother, Alexander Balfour, the new Duke of Loxwell had just inherited. Daisy's fascination with him had begun over a year before though. "There was something about a man with the broad shoulders of a prize-fighter and the impeccable dress of a gentleman, the tousled dark hair of a poet and the stern manners of a schoolmaster, that could not help but catch her attention." Sigh.
Little did she know that shortly she would be in a "fake engagement" with His Grace due to being found in a compromising position in his bed chambers.
A wonderful story of two people brought together who were really different. She outgoing and honest and he more reserved, trying to hold up to the standards of his new title. Daisy only wanted to marry for love and he, due to the past, could never love. Or so he thought.
Loved it and so look forward to the next in this series!!
Little did she know that shortly she would be in a "fake engagement" with His Grace due to being found in a compromising position in his bed chambers.
A wonderful story of two people brought together who were really different. She outgoing and honest and he more reserved, trying to hold up to the standards of his new title. Daisy only wanted to marry for love and he, due to the past, could never love. Or so he thought.
Loved it and so look forward to the next in this series!!
November 2, 2019
A Duke, a mystery, and a pretend engagement lead to love. Daisy has known Alexander for years as her best friend is his younger sister Edith. She has secretly loved him but he always seems so stern. Now that he is a Duke it is worse. Then due to Edith’s carelessness, and Daisy’s trying to help her, Daisy is caught in Alexander’s bedroom. He immediately proposes a pretend engagement, until everything dies down and then Daisy can end the engagement. But there is a mystery they has to be solved, which puts Daisy in danger. Alexander is falling in love with her but due to a misguided sense of morality he believes he isn’t disserving of love. Daisy will have to change his mind and solve the mystery. I received a free copy of this book from Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
November 3, 2019
A Duke She Can’t Refuse is the first book in a new series by Gemma Blackwood.
Will Daisy Morton face ruin or fake an engagement with the Duke of Loxwell?
While trying to help her best friend, Edith, Daisy gets caught laying on the floor on Alex Balfour’s bedroom. For reasons of his own, Alex proposes a fake engagement to save her reputation and to help keep the matchmaking mommas at bay.
Daisy overhears something that could potentially cause harm to others and herself and shares the info with Alex who decides to look into it.
Alex has feelings for Daisy but a fatal mistake from his last is holding him back from taking a chance on love.
Daisy finds she has more feelings for Alex then she thought possible.
Will this Duke be able to overcome his past to find the love of forever? .
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Will Daisy Morton face ruin or fake an engagement with the Duke of Loxwell?
While trying to help her best friend, Edith, Daisy gets caught laying on the floor on Alex Balfour’s bedroom. For reasons of his own, Alex proposes a fake engagement to save her reputation and to help keep the matchmaking mommas at bay.
Daisy overhears something that could potentially cause harm to others and herself and shares the info with Alex who decides to look into it.
Alex has feelings for Daisy but a fatal mistake from his last is holding him back from taking a chance on love.
Daisy finds she has more feelings for Alex then she thought possible.
Will this Duke be able to overcome his past to find the love of forever? .
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
December 24, 2019
ONE ENJOYABLE ADVENTURE!!!
Crap on toast! Gemma pulled out all the stops for this drama, suspense filled, Regency Era thrills and spills. She absolutely nailed the emotions swirling through this baby, running rampant unchecked, leaving you reeling and wanting more. She spins this baby with such refreshing realism that catapults this jewel to life effortlessly. Carefully treading through the trials and tribulations, testing our characters in ways they could have never anticipated. Twixt and twined and stretched to unbelievable limits until you feel everything the characters feel. The personalities are well matched and brought together smoothly. The scenes are so graphically detailed it paints an incredible backdrop that feels as though you're right there with them. Fantastic job Gemma, thanks for sharing this little gem with us
Crap on toast! Gemma pulled out all the stops for this drama, suspense filled, Regency Era thrills and spills. She absolutely nailed the emotions swirling through this baby, running rampant unchecked, leaving you reeling and wanting more. She spins this baby with such refreshing realism that catapults this jewel to life effortlessly. Carefully treading through the trials and tribulations, testing our characters in ways they could have never anticipated. Twixt and twined and stretched to unbelievable limits until you feel everything the characters feel. The personalities are well matched and brought together smoothly. The scenes are so graphically detailed it paints an incredible backdrop that feels as though you're right there with them. Fantastic job Gemma, thanks for sharing this little gem with us
December 29, 2019
Great new spinoff series; the fun continues
I enjoyed the Scarcliffe Hall series and was so pleased to see some of those characters make a reappearance here. Alexander Balfour has recently inherited the title Duke of Loxwell from his late uncle. During a small dinner party, he comes across Daisy (Northmere’s sister) hiding in his bedchamber. He concocts a fake engagement to save her reputation and she tells him about two men who were snooping around his room. They try to figure out what the men are up to and end up in danger. As Alexander and Daisy fall in love, while trying not to, we are treated to balls, parties, and more slightly-less-than-proper behaviour. I love the characters in this series. The author does a good job keeping the language and behaviour to the time period but nobody is perfectly behaved. I had a hard time putting it down. Looking forward to book 2.
I enjoyed the Scarcliffe Hall series and was so pleased to see some of those characters make a reappearance here. Alexander Balfour has recently inherited the title Duke of Loxwell from his late uncle. During a small dinner party, he comes across Daisy (Northmere’s sister) hiding in his bedchamber. He concocts a fake engagement to save her reputation and she tells him about two men who were snooping around his room. They try to figure out what the men are up to and end up in danger. As Alexander and Daisy fall in love, while trying not to, we are treated to balls, parties, and more slightly-less-than-proper behaviour. I love the characters in this series. The author does a good job keeping the language and behaviour to the time period but nobody is perfectly behaved. I had a hard time putting it down. Looking forward to book 2.
June 14, 2020
OEnjoyable Read
An engaging start to a new series. Daisy Morton, lead female character is a sweet young lady, strong willed and unflappable, she is fiercely protective of her friend Edith Balfour the sister of the new Duke of Loxwell, who is quite an accident prone young lady and acts without thinking a lot of the time and as a consequence draws Daisy into all manner of misunderstandings, which happens in this book. Daisy has always had 'feelings' for Alexander, the Duke of Loxwell, and because of Edith's mishap Daisy and Alexander find themselves betrothed. An entertaining read with a mixture of laughter and some quite sad moments mainly due to Alexander's strong feelings of duty. Daisy believes she can win Alexander's affections but it proves very hard indeed.
I would thoroughly recommend this book.
An engaging start to a new series. Daisy Morton, lead female character is a sweet young lady, strong willed and unflappable, she is fiercely protective of her friend Edith Balfour the sister of the new Duke of Loxwell, who is quite an accident prone young lady and acts without thinking a lot of the time and as a consequence draws Daisy into all manner of misunderstandings, which happens in this book. Daisy has always had 'feelings' for Alexander, the Duke of Loxwell, and because of Edith's mishap Daisy and Alexander find themselves betrothed. An entertaining read with a mixture of laughter and some quite sad moments mainly due to Alexander's strong feelings of duty. Daisy believes she can win Alexander's affections but it proves very hard indeed.
I would thoroughly recommend this book.
July 17, 2021
An ok read with some good, unique highlights. I have three issues weighing down the score: first, there are several instances that refer to h's "coat" (not a pelisse) including her putting on her own "coat" despite being escorted to the door by the Duke's butler. This is so not in keeping with the time the story is set that it threw me out of the story more than once. Second, I didn't feel the process of the Duke's feelings changing or his attraction. I felt like I was reading the story and just having to take it at face value. Finally, the mystery, the villian and the issue for the Duke all just fell flat for me...none of them were reasonable or emotionally tugging.
I have read other books by the author (indeed, books with characters and families that are in this series, apparently) that I have enjoyed, so I'm not put off and will continue with the next book in the series!
I have read other books by the author (indeed, books with characters and families that are in this series, apparently) that I have enjoyed, so I'm not put off and will continue with the next book in the series!
August 3, 2025
This was a nice palate cleanser sort of read. It's fairly short at 186 pages but despite that it doesn't rush the romance and the build up feels believable.
The fake dating/engagement pulled me in initially but I completely wasn't expecting the more mystery/low level drama plot to appear which was a nice change of pace.
The side characters were all nicely developed as well which was a bonus as I understand they have their own books so that they were fleshed out in this one bodes well.
Overall, it was a decent historical romance with a deep romance and bonus side plot. Definitely one to read if this is the sort of genre addition you'd like.
Favourite Quote - Was he a simpering schoolgirl, to have his head turned by a love letter? Heaven help him, he hadn't even read it.
Favourite Character - Daisy
The fake dating/engagement pulled me in initially but I completely wasn't expecting the more mystery/low level drama plot to appear which was a nice change of pace.
The side characters were all nicely developed as well which was a bonus as I understand they have their own books so that they were fleshed out in this one bodes well.
Overall, it was a decent historical romance with a deep romance and bonus side plot. Definitely one to read if this is the sort of genre addition you'd like.
Favourite Quote - Was he a simpering schoolgirl, to have his head turned by a love letter? Heaven help him, he hadn't even read it.
Favourite Character - Daisy
November 2, 2019
I received a copy from BookSprout via the author; this is my honest review.
-I recognized Daisy, as well as her brother Ralph and wife Jemima from the Scandals of Scandals of Scarcliffe Hall series.
-It's also great to see characters from these other books.
-Alexander has a heavy weight on both his shoulders and his chest. Here comes a mystery that will trail along the story, right up until the near end.
-Daisy is carefree, joyous, planted and doesn't swoon, except when the duke is near.
-Adventure, mystery, romance, a bit of suspense, lots of fun and one Edith that should be spanked or something and one Lady Peyton that should be laughed at, but only in private.
-I always love it when the author introduces the next book.
-I recognized Daisy, as well as her brother Ralph and wife Jemima from the Scandals of Scandals of Scarcliffe Hall series.
-It's also great to see characters from these other books.
-Alexander has a heavy weight on both his shoulders and his chest. Here comes a mystery that will trail along the story, right up until the near end.
-Daisy is carefree, joyous, planted and doesn't swoon, except when the duke is near.
-Adventure, mystery, romance, a bit of suspense, lots of fun and one Edith that should be spanked or something and one Lady Peyton that should be laughed at, but only in private.
-I always love it when the author introduces the next book.
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