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Duke Dynasty #3
Who Wants to Marry a Duke
A sexy and distracting rake is tamed by a scholarly heroine with a penchant for the sciences in this dazzling and witty tale of Regency London.
A past kiss with adorably bookish Miss Olivia Norley should be barely a memory for Marlowe Drake, the Duke of Thornstock. After all, there are countless debutantes for a handsome rakehell to charm beyond a young lady whose singular passion is chemistry—of the laboratory type. But Thorn has not forgotten—or forgiven—the shocking blackmail scheme sparked by that single kiss, or the damage caused to both their names. Now Thorn’s half-brother, Grey, has hired the brilliant Miss Norley for her scientific expertise in solving a troubling family mystery. And the once-burned Thorn, suspicious of her true motives, vows to follow her every move . . .
For Olivia, determining whether arsenic poisoning killed Grey’s father is the pioneering experiment that could make her career—and Thorn’s constant presence is merely a distraction. But someone has explosive plans to derail her search. Soon the most unexpected discovery is the caring nature of the reputed scoundrel beside her—and the electricity it ignites between them . . .
A past kiss with adorably bookish Miss Olivia Norley should be barely a memory for Marlowe Drake, the Duke of Thornstock. After all, there are countless debutantes for a handsome rakehell to charm beyond a young lady whose singular passion is chemistry—of the laboratory type. But Thorn has not forgotten—or forgiven—the shocking blackmail scheme sparked by that single kiss, or the damage caused to both their names. Now Thorn’s half-brother, Grey, has hired the brilliant Miss Norley for her scientific expertise in solving a troubling family mystery. And the once-burned Thorn, suspicious of her true motives, vows to follow her every move . . .
For Olivia, determining whether arsenic poisoning killed Grey’s father is the pioneering experiment that could make her career—and Thorn’s constant presence is merely a distraction. But someone has explosive plans to derail her search. Soon the most unexpected discovery is the caring nature of the reputed scoundrel beside her—and the electricity it ignites between them . . .
286 pages, Mass Market Paperback
First published August 25, 2020
971 people are currently reading
3517 people want to read
About the author
Sabrina Jeffries
88 books4,800 followersSabrina Jeffries is the NYT bestselling author of over 50 novels and works of short fiction (some written under the pseudonyms Deborah Martin and Deborah Nicholas). Whatever time not spent writing in a coffee-fueled haze of dreams and madness is spent traveling with her husband and adult autistic son or indulging in one of her passions—jigsaw puzzles, chocolate, and music. With over 11 million books published in print and electronically in 25 different languages, the North Carolina author never regrets tossing aside a budding career in academics for the sheer joy of writing fun fiction, and hopes that one day a book of hers will end up saving the world.
She always dreams big.
She always dreams big.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 538 reviews
August 18, 2020
NB: Spoiler free ARC review – expected publication Aug 25th 2020
Who wants to marry a duke?
At least not this one.
*****
While I somewhat liked the character of Olivia and her interest/education in chemistry, and what someone might argue borderline autism/Asperger, I really did not like Thorn.
He was selfish, and single minded. Possessive, sulky and with less charm than a slug. F*ck the consequences and Olivia as long as he got her in the sack. No matter how much he “redeemed” himself, I am certain the world would be a better place without him. And so would Olivia.
- “You distract me, all right? You can’t help yourself. You enjoy flirting and dallying with women, and I happen to be handy.”
Olivia finished buttoning up her redingote before forcing herself to look at him in the eye. “But these experiments are too important for me. I refuse to make a hash of it simply because you are… being yourself.”
“You didn’t enjoy what we did?”
His eyes had gone cold, and she knew she had once again been too blunt in her speech.
- Leaning forward, Thorn fixed her with a dark look.
“You seem terribly concerned about Juncker’s feelings. Were you hoping he might stay longer? Shall I call him back so you can flirt with him some more?”
- He scoured her attire with blatant impudence. “Did you wear that gown to tempt Juncker? Or to torment me?”
- Damn. She really had only dismissed her maid out of kindness for the servant and not out of any eagerness to let him bed her. Meanwhile, he was in a fever pitch of excitement at just the possibility of taking her to bed.
- …”you and I both have hobbies we enjoy, so we’ll simply have to agree on how far we would allow eachother to take those hobbies.”
That was certainly a curious way of putting it. “I don’t consider what I do a ‘hobby’. I take my work very seriously.”
“Fine. Then call it pastime.”
“A profession,” she said.
“Duchesses don’t usually have professions,” he pointed out.
And the sex scenes ☹
- Then taking the hand she’d been caressing him with, he pulled it inside so she could stroke his bare flesh as he was stroking her.
“Grab it, I beg you.”
So she did. And his aroused member became even stiffer in her hand.
- Thorn’s thick rod of flesh thrusting boldly toward her from a nest of dark hair, with large bollocks hanging down, was another thing entirely. He was no statue for certain.
1.5 stars
I received an ARC from NetGalley and the publisher in exchange for an honest review.
Who wants to marry a duke?
At least not this one.
*****
While I somewhat liked the character of Olivia and her interest/education in chemistry, and what someone might argue borderline autism/Asperger, I really did not like Thorn.
He was selfish, and single minded. Possessive, sulky and with less charm than a slug. F*ck the consequences and Olivia as long as he got her in the sack. No matter how much he “redeemed” himself, I am certain the world would be a better place without him. And so would Olivia.
- “You distract me, all right? You can’t help yourself. You enjoy flirting and dallying with women, and I happen to be handy.”
Olivia finished buttoning up her redingote before forcing herself to look at him in the eye. “But these experiments are too important for me. I refuse to make a hash of it simply because you are… being yourself.”
“You didn’t enjoy what we did?”
His eyes had gone cold, and she knew she had once again been too blunt in her speech.
- Leaning forward, Thorn fixed her with a dark look.
“You seem terribly concerned about Juncker’s feelings. Were you hoping he might stay longer? Shall I call him back so you can flirt with him some more?”
- He scoured her attire with blatant impudence. “Did you wear that gown to tempt Juncker? Or to torment me?”
- Damn. She really had only dismissed her maid out of kindness for the servant and not out of any eagerness to let him bed her. Meanwhile, he was in a fever pitch of excitement at just the possibility of taking her to bed.
- …”you and I both have hobbies we enjoy, so we’ll simply have to agree on how far we would allow eachother to take those hobbies.”
That was certainly a curious way of putting it. “I don’t consider what I do a ‘hobby’. I take my work very seriously.”
“Fine. Then call it pastime.”
“A profession,” she said.
“Duchesses don’t usually have professions,” he pointed out.
And the sex scenes ☹
- Then taking the hand she’d been caressing him with, he pulled it inside so she could stroke his bare flesh as he was stroking her.
“Grab it, I beg you.”
So she did. And his aroused member became even stiffer in her hand.
- Thorn’s thick rod of flesh thrusting boldly toward her from a nest of dark hair, with large bollocks hanging down, was another thing entirely. He was no statue for certain.
1.5 stars
I received an ARC from NetGalley and the publisher in exchange for an honest review.
April 8, 2021
In the Duke Dynasty, a woman marries three dukes and gives birth to three more dukes. There are also an assortment of others including spare, twin, niece, nephew and cousin. These are their stories.
In Who Wants to Marry a Duke, the third installment of the Duke Dynasty, Marlowe Drake, the Duke of Thornstock finds himself once again in the presence of the woman who was part of a scheme nine years ago to blackmail Thornstock to into marriage. Thornstock goes by Thorn amongst his family and friends.
Thorn’s half brother, the Duke of Greycourt, better known as Grey has hired Miss Olivia Norley to determine if his father had been murdered by arsenic when Grey was a baby. Olivia is delighted by Grey’s faith in her tests to find arsenic in exhumed bodies as she is determined to make a name for herself as a chemist. As the book takes place in 1809, Olivia is a woman ahead of her time.
No wonder she doesn’t have time for Thorne’s nonsense now or nine years ago. Since then Olivia wonders what if she had only said yes to Thorne’s grudging proposal. Thorn has wondered the same thing for nine years, while also wondering if his suspicions of Olivia’s participation in her step-mother’s scheme might have been misplaced.
The possible murder of all three of the dukes, plus a few other duke uncles has been the intriguing mystery arc of the Duke Dynasty with the mystery heating up in Who Wants to Marry a Duke.
Now the Dukes and their spouses, have their causes of deaths and a list of possible suspects. There are also new attempts on the lives of the half-siblings and Olivia Norley. I really can’t guess the killer and I’m pretty good at figuring the murderer. Is it the obvious red herring who is not the red herring? Is it the woman we will all love to hate? Or is it someone from out in left field?
This series might be emphasizing the mysterious deaths more, but it does not neglect the romance and what a hot romance! High on the asbestos scale.
Once again a woman "done wrong" does not make the man grovel enough, but truly, when has it ever been any different in any historical romance? Ever. On the other hand, Thorn seems awfully forgiving of the step-mother who caused him such misery for nine years.
However what does set this book apart is Olivia’s determination to reach acceptance as a chemist and to have her tests finding arsenic in exhumed bodies also accepted. Usually the only women in the sciences in the early 1800’s were astronomers. FYI, Olivia’s work in finding arsenic is not a fantasy on the part of the author. Chemists in Germany were developing tests to find arsenic.
I was happy to be able to continue to read about the characters from the first two books. Who Wants to Marry a Duke can easily be read as a standalone but then you would be missing stories that also touch upon original characters who have had very real and serious backgrounds or problems not often touched up in HR books. I look forward to discovering the murderer, but not the end of the series.
Thank you to NetGalley for an ARC. The opinions of this review are my own.
In Who Wants to Marry a Duke, the third installment of the Duke Dynasty, Marlowe Drake, the Duke of Thornstock finds himself once again in the presence of the woman who was part of a scheme nine years ago to blackmail Thornstock to into marriage. Thornstock goes by Thorn amongst his family and friends.
Thorn’s half brother, the Duke of Greycourt, better known as Grey has hired Miss Olivia Norley to determine if his father had been murdered by arsenic when Grey was a baby. Olivia is delighted by Grey’s faith in her tests to find arsenic in exhumed bodies as she is determined to make a name for herself as a chemist. As the book takes place in 1809, Olivia is a woman ahead of her time.
No wonder she doesn’t have time for Thorne’s nonsense now or nine years ago. Since then Olivia wonders what if she had only said yes to Thorne’s grudging proposal. Thorn has wondered the same thing for nine years, while also wondering if his suspicions of Olivia’s participation in her step-mother’s scheme might have been misplaced.
The possible murder of all three of the dukes, plus a few other duke uncles has been the intriguing mystery arc of the Duke Dynasty with the mystery heating up in Who Wants to Marry a Duke.
Now the Dukes and their spouses, have their causes of deaths and a list of possible suspects. There are also new attempts on the lives of the half-siblings and Olivia Norley. I really can’t guess the killer and I’m pretty good at figuring the murderer. Is it the obvious red herring who is not the red herring? Is it the woman we will all love to hate? Or is it someone from out in left field?
This series might be emphasizing the mysterious deaths more, but it does not neglect the romance and what a hot romance! High on the asbestos scale.
Once again a woman "done wrong" does not make the man grovel enough, but truly, when has it ever been any different in any historical romance? Ever. On the other hand, Thorn seems awfully forgiving of the step-mother who caused him such misery for nine years.
However what does set this book apart is Olivia’s determination to reach acceptance as a chemist and to have her tests finding arsenic in exhumed bodies also accepted. Usually the only women in the sciences in the early 1800’s were astronomers. FYI, Olivia’s work in finding arsenic is not a fantasy on the part of the author. Chemists in Germany were developing tests to find arsenic.
I was happy to be able to continue to read about the characters from the first two books. Who Wants to Marry a Duke can easily be read as a standalone but then you would be missing stories that also touch upon original characters who have had very real and serious backgrounds or problems not often touched up in HR books. I look forward to discovering the murderer, but not the end of the series.
Thank you to NetGalley for an ARC. The opinions of this review are my own.
August 22, 2020
STILL LOVE THE SERIES, BUT THIS BOOK FELL SHORT OF THE OTHERS
This was still a good read, no doubt about it! It just didn't live up to the standart of the rest of the series. The chemistry of the two MC's didn't jump off the pages and the male lead Thorn let me down. However, I loved how the plot thickened and I am still very excited for the last in this series about Sheridan!
👍 WHAT I LIKED 👍
Plot: The siblings are delving deeper in the mysterious deaths of their fathers. I really liked how the plot slowly unraveled and still didn't offer any real leads. I was really drawn into the mystery and much as I tried, I couldn't figure it out (not yet anyway) so I am very much looking forward to the big reveal in the next book.
Olivia: Many Historical Romances have nerdy heroines who prefer books to social encounters. Olivia was, in that sense, not any different. Still, I liked how her nerdiness deviated from many others because it was more scientific and professional. She studied chemistry, wanted to experiment and publish her findings and even dreamed of making it a way of life. I particularly liked that she wanted to be a self-made woman.
👎 WHAT I DISLIKED 👎
Thorn: There was just something about Thorn that I couldn't like. I didn't get his motivations - I didn't understand why he was so guarded and cynical. Nine years before the events of this book, Olivia and Thorn are caught in a compromising embrace and he reluctantly proposes to her. When she refuses, in stead of being relieved, Thorn turns around and becomes angry, acting in a much childish and petulant way. I really didn't understand this side of his personality and it was very unattractive.
Chemistry: Olivia and Thorn have a second-chance love, which is something I usually enjoy. However, I just couldn't feel the chemistry between these two. I didn't feel their romance, I couldn't get into it. Probably because I didn't really like Thorn...
ARC provided by the publisher through NetGalley in exchange for an honest review
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This was still a good read, no doubt about it! It just didn't live up to the standart of the rest of the series. The chemistry of the two MC's didn't jump off the pages and the male lead Thorn let me down. However, I loved how the plot thickened and I am still very excited for the last in this series about Sheridan!
👍 WHAT I LIKED 👍
Plot: The siblings are delving deeper in the mysterious deaths of their fathers. I really liked how the plot slowly unraveled and still didn't offer any real leads. I was really drawn into the mystery and much as I tried, I couldn't figure it out (not yet anyway) so I am very much looking forward to the big reveal in the next book.
Olivia: Many Historical Romances have nerdy heroines who prefer books to social encounters. Olivia was, in that sense, not any different. Still, I liked how her nerdiness deviated from many others because it was more scientific and professional. She studied chemistry, wanted to experiment and publish her findings and even dreamed of making it a way of life. I particularly liked that she wanted to be a self-made woman.
👎 WHAT I DISLIKED 👎
Thorn: There was just something about Thorn that I couldn't like. I didn't get his motivations - I didn't understand why he was so guarded and cynical. Nine years before the events of this book, Olivia and Thorn are caught in a compromising embrace and he reluctantly proposes to her. When she refuses, in stead of being relieved, Thorn turns around and becomes angry, acting in a much childish and petulant way. I really didn't understand this side of his personality and it was very unattractive.
Chemistry: Olivia and Thorn have a second-chance love, which is something I usually enjoy. However, I just couldn't feel the chemistry between these two. I didn't feel their romance, I couldn't get into it. Probably because I didn't really like Thorn...
ARC provided by the publisher through NetGalley in exchange for an honest review
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Blog Post: 11 Crazy Literary Scandals
August 1, 2020
This is a series that should be read in order. There is a series long mystery going on that really picks up in this book. If you don't care about the series mystery, or only plan on reading this book then it's probably okay as a stand alone....there's characters from previous stories in this one and the mystery isn't super overwhelming or confusing.
This book takes place in 1809. Some in London and some at Grey's (Thorn's half brother) estate.
Olivia is a chemist. She's not interested in having a season and finding a husband. But when an innocent drink spilled on Thorn leads to her ruined reputation, she's facing a decision she wasn't ready for.
Give this book a try if you're looking for
-enemies to lovers – after their initial encounter, they dislike each other. Olivia thinks Thorn is a scoundrel rogue with zero principles and Thorn thinks Olivia is a scheming liar.
-second chance – these two share a kiss and are compromised and reunite 9 years later.
-working women/bluestocking heroine – while not a stable job, Olivia is a chemist and works to have her studies published
-murder/mystery – it really picks up in this book with the series long murder suspicions
-moderate steam – 2 full scenes with one being decently explicit, multiple short fondling scenes, and 2 kisses.
This has been my favorite book of the series so far I think. The mystery for the series (someone has murdered people close to Grey (book 1), Gwen (book 2), and Thorn's (this book) mother) starts really picking up in this book. I would say most of the plot points revolve around this. Grey has some suspicion about his father being poisoned so Olivia is asked to test his organs for arsenic. This is what brings Thorn and Olivia back together after 9 years apart. I liked that the heroine was a chemist, it was a bit different. I liked the talk about the plays written, those were some of my favorite scenes.
Yet, I just don't seem to be into this series. This book was a decent way to pass the time, it didn't make me angry, but it also didn't inspire any strong feelings either. It was a bit of instalust with the early kiss and the second kiss was pretty early too. I found Thorn as a hero quite similar to a large number of other Jeffries heroes. He just didn't stand out to me. I didn't feel a strong tension between the characters or fully get their pull to each other. And while I'm usually bored or annoyed with mystery plots, I didn't find that here. But I also wasn't super into it. I did think the whole beginning reaction by Thorn was over dramatic and ridiculous. The whole *hand to forehead* I can never love or trust because I was wronged! He took way too far. And I also hated how Olivia seemed to just forgive him and puckered up for his kisses. It just didn’t make SENSE. It didn’t seem like logical behavior. So that’s part of why stars were lowered.
Possible spoilers – including the kisses and sex scenes and what percentages they are found.
Thanks NetGalley for the ARC. All thoughts an opinions are my own.
This book takes place in 1809. Some in London and some at Grey's (Thorn's half brother) estate.
Olivia is a chemist. She's not interested in having a season and finding a husband. But when an innocent drink spilled on Thorn leads to her ruined reputation, she's facing a decision she wasn't ready for.
Give this book a try if you're looking for
-enemies to lovers – after their initial encounter, they dislike each other. Olivia thinks Thorn is a scoundrel rogue with zero principles and Thorn thinks Olivia is a scheming liar.
-second chance – these two share a kiss and are compromised and reunite 9 years later.
-working women/bluestocking heroine – while not a stable job, Olivia is a chemist and works to have her studies published
-murder/mystery – it really picks up in this book with the series long murder suspicions
-moderate steam – 2 full scenes with one being decently explicit, multiple short fondling scenes, and 2 kisses.
This has been my favorite book of the series so far I think. The mystery for the series (someone has murdered people close to Grey (book 1), Gwen (book 2), and Thorn's (this book) mother) starts really picking up in this book. I would say most of the plot points revolve around this. Grey has some suspicion about his father being poisoned so Olivia is asked to test his organs for arsenic. This is what brings Thorn and Olivia back together after 9 years apart. I liked that the heroine was a chemist, it was a bit different. I liked the talk about the plays written, those were some of my favorite scenes.
Yet, I just don't seem to be into this series. This book was a decent way to pass the time, it didn't make me angry, but it also didn't inspire any strong feelings either. It was a bit of instalust with the early kiss and the second kiss was pretty early too. I found Thorn as a hero quite similar to a large number of other Jeffries heroes. He just didn't stand out to me. I didn't feel a strong tension between the characters or fully get their pull to each other. And while I'm usually bored or annoyed with mystery plots, I didn't find that here. But I also wasn't super into it. I did think the whole beginning reaction by Thorn was over dramatic and ridiculous. The whole *hand to forehead* I can never love or trust because I was wronged! He took way too far. And I also hated how Olivia seemed to just forgive him and puckered up for his kisses. It just didn’t make SENSE. It didn’t seem like logical behavior. So that’s part of why stars were lowered.
Possible spoilers – including the kisses and sex scenes and what percentages they are found.
Thanks NetGalley for the ARC. All thoughts an opinions are my own.
May 20, 2020
Thanks to NetGalley for the ARC for an honest review.
ME
GUSTÓ
MUCHO!!!
Este es el segundo libro que leo de la autora y es que la otra serie se me olvidó continuarla pero si la voy a seguir leyendo.
Este es el tercer libro de la serie Duke Dynasty y yo navegando por NetGalley lo mire y sólo vi Duque y dije lo necesito sin contemplar que era parte de una serie y pues sí no leí los libros anteriores pero que si es necesario que lo lean ya que el estilo de la autora es como de romance/misterio y ese misterio se va desarrollando a lo largo de la serie y yo me confundía porque la autora da por sentado que ya sabemos algunas cosas.
De ahí en fuera el libro me gustó demasiado, los protagonistas tenían mucha química y le dio un plus que Olivia fuera de esas protagonistas atípicas que son quirky e inadaptadas sociales. Ella es una freak de la química y de ahí en fuera le cuesta un poco la interacción humana.
Thorn tiene la fama de ser un rakehell, un libertino pero sólo es fama.
La primera vez que se conocieron fue nueve años antes y los encontraron de una manera muy comprometedora por lo que obligan a Thorn a proponerle matrimonio, él piensa que ella le tendió una trampa junto con su madre y cuando le llega a pedir matrimonio ella lo rechaza, él está molesto porque piensa que jugaron con él y nueve años después sigue molesto con ella pero con la convivencia la va llegando a conocer.
Me gustó mucho el libro y de seguro voy a continuar la serie, lo que si no estoy segura es de leer los anteriores.
ME
GUSTÓ
MUCHO!!!
Este es el segundo libro que leo de la autora y es que la otra serie se me olvidó continuarla pero si la voy a seguir leyendo.
Este es el tercer libro de la serie Duke Dynasty y yo navegando por NetGalley lo mire y sólo vi Duque y dije lo necesito sin contemplar que era parte de una serie y pues sí no leí los libros anteriores pero que si es necesario que lo lean ya que el estilo de la autora es como de romance/misterio y ese misterio se va desarrollando a lo largo de la serie y yo me confundía porque la autora da por sentado que ya sabemos algunas cosas.
De ahí en fuera el libro me gustó demasiado, los protagonistas tenían mucha química y le dio un plus que Olivia fuera de esas protagonistas atípicas que son quirky e inadaptadas sociales. Ella es una freak de la química y de ahí en fuera le cuesta un poco la interacción humana.
Thorn tiene la fama de ser un rakehell, un libertino pero sólo es fama.
La primera vez que se conocieron fue nueve años antes y los encontraron de una manera muy comprometedora por lo que obligan a Thorn a proponerle matrimonio, él piensa que ella le tendió una trampa junto con su madre y cuando le llega a pedir matrimonio ella lo rechaza, él está molesto porque piensa que jugaron con él y nueve años después sigue molesto con ella pero con la convivencia la va llegando a conocer.
Me gustó mucho el libro y de seguro voy a continuar la serie, lo que si no estoy segura es de leer los anteriores.
May 25, 2020
I loved Olivia. So much. She is brilliant and thoughtful and determined to forge her path as a chemist. She is wonderful! Thorn, however, is a jerk. One little kiss goes awry and he becomes this cynical, bitter man who hides his own genius (along with refusing to acknowledge Olivia's). Can he overcome his stubbornness to realize she is everything he wants in a partner? I read this book in one fell swoop and then was disappointed that it was over so quickly...I think I need to go read it again!
July 10, 2020
Holy hotness!!! This was absolutely one of the most sizzling historical romances I’ve read in forever!
I adore nerdy heroines and while Olivia wasn’t your typical nerd, she was definitely a heroine who had her nose stuck in chemical elements and experiments. She was more than capable of holding her own in society, but that was not where her interests laid. Her reaction to Thorn took her by surprise as she has not experienced the things he makes her feel upon first meeting him.
Thorn was initially a well rounded duke but after having his beliefs dashed and his character min-angled, he quickly learns to embrace his rakehell title. I loved watching him fall for Olivia even as he didn’t realize that was what he was doing. He was a fun hero as he grumbled and groused his way into Olivia’s life. With a lot of protectiveness and a bit of jealousy, it didn’t take much to make him a new favorite for me.
Together, this couple had me smiling, laughing, cursing, and cheering as they struggle to find their happy ever after. As the drama and action rolled across the pages, revealing new thoughts and ideas regarding this family and their past, I found myself growing more and more excited to learn who the ultimate villain is.
This has a great pace to it that kept me turning the pages as it never bogged down or repeated itself. The chemistry between Thorn and Olivia was absolutely delicious in all its wickedness, and I am once more reminded that this author has kept up with the times when it comes to giving the romance reader exactly what they’re looking for.
Dual POV
Safe
Triggers
I adore nerdy heroines and while Olivia wasn’t your typical nerd, she was definitely a heroine who had her nose stuck in chemical elements and experiments. She was more than capable of holding her own in society, but that was not where her interests laid. Her reaction to Thorn took her by surprise as she has not experienced the things he makes her feel upon first meeting him.
Thorn was initially a well rounded duke but after having his beliefs dashed and his character min-angled, he quickly learns to embrace his rakehell title. I loved watching him fall for Olivia even as he didn’t realize that was what he was doing. He was a fun hero as he grumbled and groused his way into Olivia’s life. With a lot of protectiveness and a bit of jealousy, it didn’t take much to make him a new favorite for me.
Together, this couple had me smiling, laughing, cursing, and cheering as they struggle to find their happy ever after. As the drama and action rolled across the pages, revealing new thoughts and ideas regarding this family and their past, I found myself growing more and more excited to learn who the ultimate villain is.
This has a great pace to it that kept me turning the pages as it never bogged down or repeated itself. The chemistry between Thorn and Olivia was absolutely delicious in all its wickedness, and I am once more reminded that this author has kept up with the times when it comes to giving the romance reader exactly what they’re looking for.
Dual POV
Safe
Triggers
September 19, 2020
2.5 stars
Sadly, while I was entertained, I think this book was a bit of a miss for me. Historical romances are so nice to read when I love the characters and can feel the romance through the pages. Unfortunately, this wasn't the case here and I didn't really like or care about Olivia & Thorn. Our hero wasn't the best and he didn't really make me swoon or anything. I think one of the reasons why I didn't feel the tension was because the two characters already kissed barely after they were introduced and for me in this moment, I think I was a bit disappointed because we didn't have enough time to feel the build-up.
Who wants to marry a Duke follows Olivia, a young girl who doesn't want to marry and prefer to study chemistry. When at one event she ends up being discovered kissing Thorn, he's expected to propose to her especially since Olivia's step-mother blackmails him. He does it reluctantly but when she refuses him to free them both, he acts like a petulant child and gets angry. His reaction was to go enjoy his "ruined reputation" with the ladies (married or unmarried).
When Thorn and side characters investigate their parents' death, Olivia is here to help and figure out if foul-play was involved. That's how the two of them will grow close together after so many years while still staying single. They won't stay single for long but again, it lacked emotion and feelings for me. -> Overall, not my favorite historical romance but I might try another book by this author someday.
(Thank you for letting me read and review an ARC via Netgalley)
Sadly, while I was entertained, I think this book was a bit of a miss for me. Historical romances are so nice to read when I love the characters and can feel the romance through the pages. Unfortunately, this wasn't the case here and I didn't really like or care about Olivia & Thorn. Our hero wasn't the best and he didn't really make me swoon or anything. I think one of the reasons why I didn't feel the tension was because the two characters already kissed barely after they were introduced and for me in this moment, I think I was a bit disappointed because we didn't have enough time to feel the build-up.
Who wants to marry a Duke follows Olivia, a young girl who doesn't want to marry and prefer to study chemistry. When at one event she ends up being discovered kissing Thorn, he's expected to propose to her especially since Olivia's step-mother blackmails him. He does it reluctantly but when she refuses him to free them both, he acts like a petulant child and gets angry. His reaction was to go enjoy his "ruined reputation" with the ladies (married or unmarried).
When Thorn and side characters investigate their parents' death, Olivia is here to help and figure out if foul-play was involved. That's how the two of them will grow close together after so many years while still staying single. They won't stay single for long but again, it lacked emotion and feelings for me. -> Overall, not my favorite historical romance but I might try another book by this author someday.
(Thank you for letting me read and review an ARC via Netgalley)
April 27, 2022
A disappointing Regency.
This had after-the-fact discussions of 4 mysterious
deaths: 2 dukes (1 the hero's step-da ) & 2 uncles. Also
the hero's father died in a carriage accident, 30 yrs ago,
but was it an accident? The amateur sleuths narrowed
the suspects down to 3 names by this story's end.
I liked that the heroine Olivia, learned chemistry from
her chemist uncle. She met a duke who went by his title
"Thorn." They kissed, she was 'compromised' w/ her step
-mom as witness. He accused the h of trapping him into
marriage. He proposed & she declined. They met again
9 yrs on.
Grey, the hero's 1/2 brother & also a duke planned to
exhume his late sire's body. Still single Olivia agreed to
check his late father's major organs for evidence of
arsenic poisoning. Then she planned to write a scientific
article on her discovery.
Olivia should have been on guard against arrogant &
childish Thorn. He wanted to find fault with her science
expertise + methods. He wanted to fondle her etc. What
a hypocrite Thorn was! Why did she cave-in to him? He
got on my nerves. Thorn's BIL Major Wolfe seemed more
mature, reliable and honorable than the hero. A real man,
married to Thorn's twin sis.
Thorn: not a hero in my book. Did he ever learn being a
man involved more than kissing, fondling and seducing
a woman? He needed to validate and listen to a woman's
thoughts, dreams and needs. And accept her as a brainy
scientist.
This had after-the-fact discussions of 4 mysterious
deaths: 2 dukes (1 the hero's step-da ) & 2 uncles. Also
the hero's father died in a carriage accident, 30 yrs ago,
but was it an accident? The amateur sleuths narrowed
the suspects down to 3 names by this story's end.
I liked that the heroine Olivia, learned chemistry from
her chemist uncle. She met a duke who went by his title
"Thorn." They kissed, she was 'compromised' w/ her step
-mom as witness. He accused the h of trapping him into
marriage. He proposed & she declined. They met again
9 yrs on.
Grey, the hero's 1/2 brother & also a duke planned to
exhume his late sire's body. Still single Olivia agreed to
check his late father's major organs for evidence of
arsenic poisoning. Then she planned to write a scientific
article on her discovery.
Olivia should have been on guard against arrogant &
childish Thorn. He wanted to find fault with her science
expertise + methods. He wanted to fondle her etc. What
a hypocrite Thorn was! Why did she cave-in to him? He
got on my nerves. Thorn's BIL Major Wolfe seemed more
mature, reliable and honorable than the hero. A real man,
married to Thorn's twin sis.
Thorn: not a hero in my book. Did he ever learn being a
man involved more than kissing, fondling and seducing
a woman? He needed to validate and listen to a woman's
thoughts, dreams and needs. And accept her as a brainy
scientist.
October 23, 2022
4.5 stars.
Marlowe Drake, the Duke of Thornstock, might’ve been able to forget a passionate kiss nine years ago with Miss Olivia Norley, but he can’t forget or forgive her stepmother’s attempt to blackmail him into marriage and the resulting damage to both of their reputations. He has had no contact with Miss Norley in the succeeding nine years, but that’s about to change since Thorn’s half-brother, Grey, has hired her to employ her expertise in chemistry to help them investigate a family mystery. Suspicious of her motives and protective of his family, Thorn is determined to shadow Olivia while she’s on Grey’s estate.
Olivia is keen to help Grey and his family and also highly aware of the fact that determining whether Grey’s father was poisoned with arsenic can establish her as a respected chemist. But when she gets close to a result, it becomes clear that someone is keen to stop her research. Perhaps even more surprising is the lingering connection between Olivia and Thorn and the caring nature hidden beneath his layers of rakish artifice.
I really enjoyed this book, though not quite as much as its predecessors. Thorn was very jaded and rather arrogant and only really became likable for me closer to the end of the book, though very rapidly so at that point. It took me a little bit to warm up to Olivia as well, mostly because of how exagerratedly awkward she was at times, and yet at the same time this was oddly charming and relatable. Olivia didn’t cut Thorn any slack, but that was exactly what he needed to get his head on straight. I wound up loving these two as a very charmingly unconventional couple and the thread of mystery still running through this series is a delightful touch. I’ve always enjoyed a bit of suspense in my romance and now I can’t wait for Sheridan’s story and the culmination of the likely conspiracy against Lydia’s family.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
Blog link: https://mustreadalltheromance.blogspo...
Marlowe Drake, the Duke of Thornstock, might’ve been able to forget a passionate kiss nine years ago with Miss Olivia Norley, but he can’t forget or forgive her stepmother’s attempt to blackmail him into marriage and the resulting damage to both of their reputations. He has had no contact with Miss Norley in the succeeding nine years, but that’s about to change since Thorn’s half-brother, Grey, has hired her to employ her expertise in chemistry to help them investigate a family mystery. Suspicious of her motives and protective of his family, Thorn is determined to shadow Olivia while she’s on Grey’s estate.
Olivia is keen to help Grey and his family and also highly aware of the fact that determining whether Grey’s father was poisoned with arsenic can establish her as a respected chemist. But when she gets close to a result, it becomes clear that someone is keen to stop her research. Perhaps even more surprising is the lingering connection between Olivia and Thorn and the caring nature hidden beneath his layers of rakish artifice.
I really enjoyed this book, though not quite as much as its predecessors. Thorn was very jaded and rather arrogant and only really became likable for me closer to the end of the book, though very rapidly so at that point. It took me a little bit to warm up to Olivia as well, mostly because of how exagerratedly awkward she was at times, and yet at the same time this was oddly charming and relatable. Olivia didn’t cut Thorn any slack, but that was exactly what he needed to get his head on straight. I wound up loving these two as a very charmingly unconventional couple and the thread of mystery still running through this series is a delightful touch. I’ve always enjoyed a bit of suspense in my romance and now I can’t wait for Sheridan’s story and the culmination of the likely conspiracy against Lydia’s family.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
Blog link: https://mustreadalltheromance.blogspo...
August 24, 2020
Mysteries continue!
So the gaining of a spouse by a ducally family member despite all odds falls once more within the orbit revolving about Lydia Fletcher, the Dower Duchess. Not that Lydia is a party to this latest event
Indeed her son Marlowe Drake, the Duke of Thornstock managed and mismanaged the finding of a wife all by himself.
The first time around with the chemistry research fixated, Miss Olivia Norley he managed to misread her, kiss her in a library during a ball, be discovered, and do the right thing--propose. Two problems arose. Thorn believed that Olivia had deliberately trapped him. Not so! Secondly, Olivia was not looking for a husband despite the pressure being brought to bear on her. She was looking for acceptance as a serious scientist. The second time around with Olivia was equally as eventful.
Running apace of these happenings, the step siblings including Grey, Thorn, Gwyn and Sheridan are trying to find out if Grey's father, and possibly their own, had indeed been murdered without letting on to their mother Lydia.
And this is where the later meeting between Thorn and Olivia comes to pass, as Olivia starts those investigations . Grey has hired Olivia to test parts of his father's exhumed body for poisoning.
There's a fair amount of excitement on all fronts as this particular piece of the saga continues. Olivia becomes a target. There's drama and rekindled romance.
This is a reasonably satisfying addition to the overall arc, despite my losing patience with Thorn. I will say that I preferred Joshua and Gwyn's tale somewhat more.
A Kensington Books ARC via NetGalley
So the gaining of a spouse by a ducally family member despite all odds falls once more within the orbit revolving about Lydia Fletcher, the Dower Duchess. Not that Lydia is a party to this latest event
Indeed her son Marlowe Drake, the Duke of Thornstock managed and mismanaged the finding of a wife all by himself.
The first time around with the chemistry research fixated, Miss Olivia Norley he managed to misread her, kiss her in a library during a ball, be discovered, and do the right thing--propose. Two problems arose. Thorn believed that Olivia had deliberately trapped him. Not so! Secondly, Olivia was not looking for a husband despite the pressure being brought to bear on her. She was looking for acceptance as a serious scientist. The second time around with Olivia was equally as eventful.
Running apace of these happenings, the step siblings including Grey, Thorn, Gwyn and Sheridan are trying to find out if Grey's father, and possibly their own, had indeed been murdered without letting on to their mother Lydia.
And this is where the later meeting between Thorn and Olivia comes to pass, as Olivia starts those investigations . Grey has hired Olivia to test parts of his father's exhumed body for poisoning.
There's a fair amount of excitement on all fronts as this particular piece of the saga continues. Olivia becomes a target. There's drama and rekindled romance.
This is a reasonably satisfying addition to the overall arc, despite my losing patience with Thorn. I will say that I preferred Joshua and Gwyn's tale somewhat more.
A Kensington Books ARC via NetGalley
September 6, 2020
Not bad.
March 13, 2021
I received an Advance Reader Copy from the publisher via NetGalley. This in no way impacted on my view.
After a fateful meeting nine years ago that lead to being found in a compromising position, and a failed proposal, neither Olivia Norley, or Marlowe Drake, the Duke of Thornstock, have met. When Thorn's half brother, Fletcher, the Duke of Greycourt, hires Olivia to discover whether his late father for poisoned, Thorn can't help but be suspicious. He always believed Olivia had planned for them to be discovered, and was in cahoots with her stepmother about blackmailing Thorn, and doesn't want to see his brother hurt. So, he tags along with the group, and involves himself in Olivia's experiments, with an apparent purpose for him to keep an eye on her, but really he is more and more intrigued, and doesn't want to be away from her. After an incident in which it seems she is at risk, he whisks her off to his own estate, with a companion of course, and neither can deny their attraction any more.
Everything about this book just drew me in from the get go. I adored Olivia, who wasn't like most society misses, and after she refused Thorn's proposal all those years ago, she fared fairly well, but cared only about her love of chemistry. She wants to be a chemist, and by developing a test to detect arsenic in bodies, this would be the push she needs. Thorn, on his part, was standoffish at first, but as we learn more about him, and understand why he was so suspicious of Olivia, he definitely grew as a character. He's also a secret playwright, using his life in Germany, and his experience with Olivia as inspiration, but he doesn't want anyone to know the truth. Olivia adores those plays, and he gets a bit jealous when the 'named playwright' meets her, and she swoons. Both he and Olivia want to deny their chemistry, but it's clearly difficult, and they were made to be with one another. I loved them together, and can see how both characters will continue to grow in their future relationship. I hadn't realised this was the third book in a series when I requested it, but it wasn't necessary to read the others as we learn enough about all the characters here. I do think if I had read the other books in the Duke Dynasty series, I might have picked up some quirks of the different characters, and I will be trying to read them at some point. Sabrina's writing was flawless, and I look forward to book 4!
After a fateful meeting nine years ago that lead to being found in a compromising position, and a failed proposal, neither Olivia Norley, or Marlowe Drake, the Duke of Thornstock, have met. When Thorn's half brother, Fletcher, the Duke of Greycourt, hires Olivia to discover whether his late father for poisoned, Thorn can't help but be suspicious. He always believed Olivia had planned for them to be discovered, and was in cahoots with her stepmother about blackmailing Thorn, and doesn't want to see his brother hurt. So, he tags along with the group, and involves himself in Olivia's experiments, with an apparent purpose for him to keep an eye on her, but really he is more and more intrigued, and doesn't want to be away from her. After an incident in which it seems she is at risk, he whisks her off to his own estate, with a companion of course, and neither can deny their attraction any more.
Everything about this book just drew me in from the get go. I adored Olivia, who wasn't like most society misses, and after she refused Thorn's proposal all those years ago, she fared fairly well, but cared only about her love of chemistry. She wants to be a chemist, and by developing a test to detect arsenic in bodies, this would be the push she needs. Thorn, on his part, was standoffish at first, but as we learn more about him, and understand why he was so suspicious of Olivia, he definitely grew as a character. He's also a secret playwright, using his life in Germany, and his experience with Olivia as inspiration, but he doesn't want anyone to know the truth. Olivia adores those plays, and he gets a bit jealous when the 'named playwright' meets her, and she swoons. Both he and Olivia want to deny their chemistry, but it's clearly difficult, and they were made to be with one another. I loved them together, and can see how both characters will continue to grow in their future relationship. I hadn't realised this was the third book in a series when I requested it, but it wasn't necessary to read the others as we learn enough about all the characters here. I do think if I had read the other books in the Duke Dynasty series, I might have picked up some quirks of the different characters, and I will be trying to read them at some point. Sabrina's writing was flawless, and I look forward to book 4!
August 18, 2020
Review will be published soon
August 13, 2020
Series: Duke Dynasty #3
Publication Date: 8/25/20
Number of Pages: 352
Ah! The plot thickens! This is a series with an overarching mystery/villain and there has been nary a real hint about who that might be – until this book. There are still only hints and conjectures, but we can see the solution coming. While you could read this as a stand-alone book, you might have a bit of confusion about the overall storyline. I’ll give you a quick overview of the series scenario and you can decide whether reading this as a standalone is for you.
We meet – and love – the five children of a duchess who has had three husbands – all dukes. She had one child, Fletcher (Grey)(Project Duchess), with her first husband; two children – twins – Marlowe (Thorn)(Who Wants to Marry a Duke) and Gwyn (The Bachelor) with her second husband; two children, Sheridan and Heywood (in the anthology Seduction on a Snowy Night) with her last husband. The series revolves around the untimely deaths of those three husbands. Were they murdered or were all of them just horrible mishaps? We get some definite answers in this book – and maybe the solution will come in Sheridan’s book since I assume that will be the final book in the series.
Marlowe Drake (Thorn), the Duke of Thornstock, is the most secretive, skittish, and distrusting of the duchess’s children. He’d always felt separated from English society because he was raised more in Prussia than in England. When he was very young, his mother married the English Ambassador to Prussia and so, the children were mostly raised there. Marlowe’s mannerisms, phraseology, etc. were more Germanic than English, so he never felt he fit in. At twenty-one, he was newly in London and his older brother Grey warned him about grasping mama’s who would do anything to ensnare a handsome young duke for their equally grasping daughters. Immediately on the heels of that warning, he stepped into what he assumed was one of those very traps and ended up being forced to make an offer for a girl he’d just met. When the girl then refused him, he was incensed and he’s held a grudge against both of them for the last nine years. The blackmail used against him in that trap immediately soured his views on love and marriage.
Olivia Norley is a chemist. It is all she’s ever wanted to be. She has no interest in love or marriage. When she realized the young duke was being forced, by her mother, to offer for her, she immediately refused his offer. Her mother was furious with her, but Olivia was adamant. She certainly didn’t want any man who was forced to offer for her – especially not one who looked as thunderous as this one.
Thorn and Olivia never encountered each other again for nine years. Olivia felt as out of place in society as Thorn and she just didn’t participate. So, when she and Thorn are thrown together because Grey has engaged her services to determine if his late father was poisoned, sparks – both good and bad – fly.
I loved Thorn’s acceptance of Olivia and who she was. It didn’t bother him that she didn’t fit in – he didn’t either. I loved their working together to solve the question of the poisoning and I loved how protective Thorn was – even when he thought he didn’t like Olivia.
I have thoroughly enjoyed this series and this book and I hope you will as well. It is well-plotted, well written, and the characters are interesting and very likable.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an Advanced Reader Copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
Publication Date: 8/25/20
Number of Pages: 352
Ah! The plot thickens! This is a series with an overarching mystery/villain and there has been nary a real hint about who that might be – until this book. There are still only hints and conjectures, but we can see the solution coming. While you could read this as a stand-alone book, you might have a bit of confusion about the overall storyline. I’ll give you a quick overview of the series scenario and you can decide whether reading this as a standalone is for you.
We meet – and love – the five children of a duchess who has had three husbands – all dukes. She had one child, Fletcher (Grey)(Project Duchess), with her first husband; two children – twins – Marlowe (Thorn)(Who Wants to Marry a Duke) and Gwyn (The Bachelor) with her second husband; two children, Sheridan and Heywood (in the anthology Seduction on a Snowy Night) with her last husband. The series revolves around the untimely deaths of those three husbands. Were they murdered or were all of them just horrible mishaps? We get some definite answers in this book – and maybe the solution will come in Sheridan’s book since I assume that will be the final book in the series.
Marlowe Drake (Thorn), the Duke of Thornstock, is the most secretive, skittish, and distrusting of the duchess’s children. He’d always felt separated from English society because he was raised more in Prussia than in England. When he was very young, his mother married the English Ambassador to Prussia and so, the children were mostly raised there. Marlowe’s mannerisms, phraseology, etc. were more Germanic than English, so he never felt he fit in. At twenty-one, he was newly in London and his older brother Grey warned him about grasping mama’s who would do anything to ensnare a handsome young duke for their equally grasping daughters. Immediately on the heels of that warning, he stepped into what he assumed was one of those very traps and ended up being forced to make an offer for a girl he’d just met. When the girl then refused him, he was incensed and he’s held a grudge against both of them for the last nine years. The blackmail used against him in that trap immediately soured his views on love and marriage.
Olivia Norley is a chemist. It is all she’s ever wanted to be. She has no interest in love or marriage. When she realized the young duke was being forced, by her mother, to offer for her, she immediately refused his offer. Her mother was furious with her, but Olivia was adamant. She certainly didn’t want any man who was forced to offer for her – especially not one who looked as thunderous as this one.
Thorn and Olivia never encountered each other again for nine years. Olivia felt as out of place in society as Thorn and she just didn’t participate. So, when she and Thorn are thrown together because Grey has engaged her services to determine if his late father was poisoned, sparks – both good and bad – fly.
I loved Thorn’s acceptance of Olivia and who she was. It didn’t bother him that she didn’t fit in – he didn’t either. I loved their working together to solve the question of the poisoning and I loved how protective Thorn was – even when he thought he didn’t like Olivia.
I have thoroughly enjoyed this series and this book and I hope you will as well. It is well-plotted, well written, and the characters are interesting and very likable.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an Advanced Reader Copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
September 20, 2020
The newest edition of The Duke Dynasty Series by Sabrina Jeffries is just as exceptional as the first two in the series. Thorn the Duke of Thornstock has met his match. Olivia is a clever young lady who has no interest in becoming some neglected gentleman's wife. She is a chemistry scientist and determined to prove that she is as good as the men in her field. Both of them are stubborn, clever, and want nothing to do with each other. The only problem is that they can't seem to keep their hands off each other. Thrown together by circumstance in the mystery of who is killing off Dukes who were married to Thorn's mother. Mystery abounds with moments of peril and more questions than answers. The chemistry between Thorn and Olivia is palatable and the erotic. They get their happy ending but the mystery of the murderer is not resolved in this book.
I enjoy Sabrina's writing very much, that said all the Dukes and sons and stepsons were a little confusing for me. I had to refer to previous books in the Series to keep them straight. Overall this is a great read and I can recommend this book. It can be read as a stand-alone. However, I suggest reading the first two in the series then this one.
I enjoy Sabrina's writing very much, that said all the Dukes and sons and stepsons were a little confusing for me. I had to refer to previous books in the Series to keep them straight. Overall this is a great read and I can recommend this book. It can be read as a stand-alone. However, I suggest reading the first two in the series then this one.
May 14, 2020
Thank you NetGalley and Kensington Books for the advanced reading copy. I voluntarily read and reviewed this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
Much to my disappointment, I wasn't charmed by the story. My feet remained rooted when I expected them to be swept off by the chemistry between the main characters. Quite honestly, I don't really get the chemistry between Marlowe and Olivia. They are fine characters on their own, but together...they don't sizzle. I also find that the romance is somehow buried with the whole chemistry/science stuff in the story. Science is not my thing (hello, communication major!) so I have to admit that I skipped those parts in my reading.
As a whole, I think the story is fine. But it's definitely a far cry from Sabrina Jeffries's best.
Much to my disappointment, I wasn't charmed by the story. My feet remained rooted when I expected them to be swept off by the chemistry between the main characters. Quite honestly, I don't really get the chemistry between Marlowe and Olivia. They are fine characters on their own, but together...they don't sizzle. I also find that the romance is somehow buried with the whole chemistry/science stuff in the story. Science is not my thing (hello, communication major!) so I have to admit that I skipped those parts in my reading.
As a whole, I think the story is fine. But it's definitely a far cry from Sabrina Jeffries's best.
June 2, 2021
'A past kiss with adorably bookish Miss Olivia Norley should be barely a memory for Marlowe Drake, the Duke of Thornstock. After all, there are countless debutantes for a handsome rakehell to charm beyond a young lady whose singular passion is chemistry—of the laboratory type. But Thorn has not forgotten—or forgiven—the shocking blackmail scheme sparked by that single kiss, or the damage caused to both their names. Now Thorn’s half-brother, Grey, has hired the brilliant Miss Norley for her scientific expertise in solving a troubling family mystery. And the once-burned Thorn, suspicious of her true motives, vows to follow her every move . . .
For Olivia, determining whether arsenic poisoning killed Grey’s father is the pioneering experiment that could make her career—and Thorn’s constant presence is merely a distraction. But someone has explosive plans to derail her search. Soon the most unexpected discovery is the caring nature of the reputed scoundrel beside her—and the electricity it ignites between them . . .'
_______________________________
Who Wants to Marry a Duke is the third book in Sabrina Jefferies' Duke Dynasty series and is a historical mystery with a touch of murder mystery.
This has probably been my least favorite book in the series and that is due to Thorn. Who want to marry this duke? No one, I would think.
There is a very Pride and Prejudice theme to this book. Pride on the part of Olivia, she won't accept his proposal,even if it hurts her reputation because he hasn't offered it willingly. Prejudice on the part of Thorn, he gets the idea into his head that she spun a sinister web with he stepmother in order to trap him into marriage. And I must say, he does manages prejudice P&P style with far less charm than Darcy.
Nothing seemed to more correctly capture his behavior to me than when he is hoping to seduce Olivia and she asks him something along the lines of 'are you only interested because you like to dally with women and I am the only one nearby?' I found his character to be exceddingly tedious, he really bothered me. And I didn't feel that his character was all that redeemed so I wasn't super invested.
Olivia, who I really liked, and further exploring the mystery was what brought this book up to three stars for me. Olivia was really sweet and passionate about making a name for herself in the name of chemistry. I wish her experiments weren't so 'behind closed doors' because I would have been fascinated to read a brief description of her work and because I feel that this would have given an even clearer respresentation of how chemistry is a profession for her, not merely a hobby. It would have been nice to have some show, rather than tell there. Plus it would have been far more interesting to follow Olivia's progress in her experiments than to listen to Thorn whine about how long she had locked herself away in her lab to perform them.
Overall it was still an enjoyable read, but not a favorite of mine from this series.
For Olivia, determining whether arsenic poisoning killed Grey’s father is the pioneering experiment that could make her career—and Thorn’s constant presence is merely a distraction. But someone has explosive plans to derail her search. Soon the most unexpected discovery is the caring nature of the reputed scoundrel beside her—and the electricity it ignites between them . . .'
_______________________________
Who Wants to Marry a Duke is the third book in Sabrina Jefferies' Duke Dynasty series and is a historical mystery with a touch of murder mystery.
This has probably been my least favorite book in the series and that is due to Thorn. Who want to marry this duke? No one, I would think.
There is a very Pride and Prejudice theme to this book. Pride on the part of Olivia, she won't accept his proposal,even if it hurts her reputation because he hasn't offered it willingly. Prejudice on the part of Thorn, he gets the idea into his head that she spun a sinister web with he stepmother in order to trap him into marriage. And I must say, he does manages prejudice P&P style with far less charm than Darcy.
Nothing seemed to more correctly capture his behavior to me than when he is hoping to seduce Olivia and she asks him something along the lines of 'are you only interested because you like to dally with women and I am the only one nearby?' I found his character to be exceddingly tedious, he really bothered me. And I didn't feel that his character was all that redeemed so I wasn't super invested.
Olivia, who I really liked, and further exploring the mystery was what brought this book up to three stars for me. Olivia was really sweet and passionate about making a name for herself in the name of chemistry. I wish her experiments weren't so 'behind closed doors' because I would have been fascinated to read a brief description of her work and because I feel that this would have given an even clearer respresentation of how chemistry is a profession for her, not merely a hobby. It would have been nice to have some show, rather than tell there. Plus it would have been far more interesting to follow Olivia's progress in her experiments than to listen to Thorn whine about how long she had locked herself away in her lab to perform them.
Overall it was still an enjoyable read, but not a favorite of mine from this series.
July 25, 2020
I don't know what it was about this novel, but I just couldn't get into the romantic aspect. When Thorn and Olivia meet for the first time in the prologue, there was an attraction there that was obvious - and then they get caught in what appears to be a very carefully laid trap (which I'm still not certain how that happened). However, when Thorn goes to propose the next day (after her mother blackmails him nonetheless) and Olivia refuses, he becomes angry with her. Why? Because she refused him when it was obvious he didn't want to propose in the first place? It made no sense.
But then NINE WHOLE YEARS PASS without them seeing so much as a glimpse of one another. Until, his step-brother Grey enlists her help in discovering whether or not his father was poisoned the way he believes. Of course at first Thorn is irritated that she has re-appeared in his life and goes out of his way to not only be rude to her, but to try and disprove her abilities as a chemist. At least until they finish unpacking what will be her laboratory in which case he "cannot help himself" and starts kissing and fondling her. Which of course, she allows because for all his declarations that she was a schemer, and hers that she is interested in no man, they just can't resist each other.
*sigh*
I absolutely HATE when authors do this. Please give us something to believe in this connection. Later on they have a conversation about what happened nine years ago anyway, and you're telling me that absolutely could not have happened before he practically takes her virginity on a table? As the story progresses you to get to see bits and pieces of what could be a love story, however it still comes off as more lust and marrying in order to be able to have sex whenever they want than from any great affection for each other. I like to see more interactions in my stories. More of a heart-felt connection (for example Thorn claims to care for/love Oliva to the point he wants to marry her and he still doesn't confide in her his own secret? Which really isn't all that bad, although he sure makes it seems that way.
Overall, I was more interested in the mystery aspect of the story that I was the romance. It seems they are getting closer to uncovering the truth of the matter, but of course once again, while more pieces to the puzzle are uncovered (yes, it would appear that the Dowager Duchesses three husbands were all murdered), we still don't know who did it or why.
Despite my feelings on this one, I will read more from this author, and I eagerly look forward to the next installment of this series as I simply HAVE to know who is behind everything!
DISCLAIMER: I received a complimentary copy of this novel in exchange for my honest review. This has not affected my review in any way. All thoughts and opinions expressed in this review are 100% my own.
But then NINE WHOLE YEARS PASS without them seeing so much as a glimpse of one another. Until, his step-brother Grey enlists her help in discovering whether or not his father was poisoned the way he believes. Of course at first Thorn is irritated that she has re-appeared in his life and goes out of his way to not only be rude to her, but to try and disprove her abilities as a chemist. At least until they finish unpacking what will be her laboratory in which case he "cannot help himself" and starts kissing and fondling her. Which of course, she allows because for all his declarations that she was a schemer, and hers that she is interested in no man, they just can't resist each other.
*sigh*
I absolutely HATE when authors do this. Please give us something to believe in this connection. Later on they have a conversation about what happened nine years ago anyway, and you're telling me that absolutely could not have happened before he practically takes her virginity on a table? As the story progresses you to get to see bits and pieces of what could be a love story, however it still comes off as more lust and marrying in order to be able to have sex whenever they want than from any great affection for each other. I like to see more interactions in my stories. More of a heart-felt connection (for example Thorn claims to care for/love Oliva to the point he wants to marry her and he still doesn't confide in her his own secret? Which really isn't all that bad, although he sure makes it seems that way.
Overall, I was more interested in the mystery aspect of the story that I was the romance. It seems they are getting closer to uncovering the truth of the matter, but of course once again, while more pieces to the puzzle are uncovered (yes, it would appear that the Dowager Duchesses three husbands were all murdered), we still don't know who did it or why.
Despite my feelings on this one, I will read more from this author, and I eagerly look forward to the next installment of this series as I simply HAVE to know who is behind everything!
DISCLAIMER: I received a complimentary copy of this novel in exchange for my honest review. This has not affected my review in any way. All thoughts and opinions expressed in this review are 100% my own.
August 25, 2020
Reviewed for
Wit and Sin
A stolen kiss that nearly lead to a scandal can’t be forgotten in Who Wants to Marry a Duke . Sabrina Jeffries’s third Duke Dynasty novel features Marlowe Drake, the secretive Duke of Thornstock. Thorn meets his match in Olivia, the young chemist he never forgot…and who he’s still both equally attracted to and suspicious of.
Even if I wasn’t already a Sabrina Jeffries fan, the idea of a Regency chemist heroine would have had me picking up Who Wants to Marry a Duke . I loved Olivia’s quick mind and determination to make her career. Thorn’s half-brother, Grey, has hired her to perform tests on the remains of his father. If she can prove the previous duke was poisoned with arsenic, it would give her the attention and respect of her fellow scientists. Thorn and his suspicions are merely a distraction from her goal… A very tempting distraction, she must admit.
But Thorn and his siblings aren’t the only ones interested in Olivia’s experiments. Someone is determined the truth stay forever buried and this puts Olivia in danger. Of course Thorn is on-hand to rescue her and his protectiveness takes over. Though Thorn can be frustrating with his stubbornness and wounded pride, once he gets past that he’s an interesting hero. Thorn has ambitions of his own outside the dukedom and projects he keeps secret from even those closest to him. I enjoyed seeing Thorn’s creative side come out and it made him a well-rounded character. He and Olivia are opposites in some ways, but they really click. The energy between them crackled and made the pages of their story practically fly by. Thorn and Olivia’s romance is passionate and sometimes prickly and I enjoyed it from beginning to end.
Thorn’s mother has been married and widowed three times and the overarching series mystery of who may have murdered her husbands truly picks up steam in this book. I loved the action and the dashes of excitement that sprang from this storyline. And I truly cannot wait to see how things turn out in the final Duke Dynasty book!
FTC Disclosure: I received this book for free from the publisher in exchange for an honest review. This does not affect my opinion of the book or the content of my review.
A stolen kiss that nearly lead to a scandal can’t be forgotten in Who Wants to Marry a Duke . Sabrina Jeffries’s third Duke Dynasty novel features Marlowe Drake, the secretive Duke of Thornstock. Thorn meets his match in Olivia, the young chemist he never forgot…and who he’s still both equally attracted to and suspicious of.
Even if I wasn’t already a Sabrina Jeffries fan, the idea of a Regency chemist heroine would have had me picking up Who Wants to Marry a Duke . I loved Olivia’s quick mind and determination to make her career. Thorn’s half-brother, Grey, has hired her to perform tests on the remains of his father. If she can prove the previous duke was poisoned with arsenic, it would give her the attention and respect of her fellow scientists. Thorn and his suspicions are merely a distraction from her goal… A very tempting distraction, she must admit.
But Thorn and his siblings aren’t the only ones interested in Olivia’s experiments. Someone is determined the truth stay forever buried and this puts Olivia in danger. Of course Thorn is on-hand to rescue her and his protectiveness takes over. Though Thorn can be frustrating with his stubbornness and wounded pride, once he gets past that he’s an interesting hero. Thorn has ambitions of his own outside the dukedom and projects he keeps secret from even those closest to him. I enjoyed seeing Thorn’s creative side come out and it made him a well-rounded character. He and Olivia are opposites in some ways, but they really click. The energy between them crackled and made the pages of their story practically fly by. Thorn and Olivia’s romance is passionate and sometimes prickly and I enjoyed it from beginning to end.
Thorn’s mother has been married and widowed three times and the overarching series mystery of who may have murdered her husbands truly picks up steam in this book. I loved the action and the dashes of excitement that sprang from this storyline. And I truly cannot wait to see how things turn out in the final Duke Dynasty book!
FTC Disclosure: I received this book for free from the publisher in exchange for an honest review. This does not affect my opinion of the book or the content of my review.
November 30, 2022
Er du vild med historisk romance, masser af spænding, humor og begær, så kan jeg varmt anbefale denne Duke Dynasty serie. Åh! Sikke en underholdende romance fyldt med intriger, drama og hede scener, hvor man ligeledes får et spændende indblik i datidens tankegang, strenge regler og skikke.
I denne 3.bog følger vi den ellers normalt kølige Thornstock, som engang for 9 år siden blev grebet i at kysse den unge Olivia. Men da han bliver tvunget til at fri til hende for at redde hendes omdømme, så afviser hun ham overraskende nok. De de tilfældigvis møder hinanden igen, viser det sig dog, at ingen af dem, har glemt den anden. Men Olivia vil gerne fokusere på sin karriere og bevise sit værd som kemiker i de uopklarede mordsager. Og man må sige, at hun får hænderne fulde!! Det ene spor efter det andet dukker op. Spændingen stiger mere og mere. Olivia kommer tættere og tættere på sandheden, men de skyldige forsøger at rydde beviserne af vejen. Der sker faretruende hændelser og ulykker. Olivia er i fare. Hvem er den skyldige? Hvad er motivet? Og hvem er den næste der bliver udryddet? Sideløbende øges den gnistrende kemi mellem og antallet af amoriner i luften. Tiltrækningen mellem Olivia og Thornstock kan ikke benægtes længere. Der er umuligt for dem at holde sig tilbage. Åh! Jeg er vild med kombinationen af krimi, mordefterforskning og historisk romance. Jeg var helt opslugt af denne bog fra start til slut og sad på kanten af stolen af bare spænding både pga udviklingen af romancen, men i høj grad også pga mordefterforskningen. Jeg kan slet ikke, hvem den skyldige er og jeg glæder mig helt vildt til bog 4. Jeg er helt vild med forfatterens skrivestil. Hun formår virkelig at fange sine læseres interesse med skønne karakterer, der har fremtidsplaner, ben i næsen og en stærk personlighed, masser ad humor, levende dialog med masser af ping pong spil, spændende viden, romance og mordefterforskning. Sabrina Jeffries er helt klart en ad mine favoritforfattere. 5/ 6 ⭐️ Anmeldereksemplar fra forlaget .
Læs hele min anmeldelse på min blog: www.youlooklikeabook.blogspot.com hvor der også er citater fra bogen.
I denne 3.bog følger vi den ellers normalt kølige Thornstock, som engang for 9 år siden blev grebet i at kysse den unge Olivia. Men da han bliver tvunget til at fri til hende for at redde hendes omdømme, så afviser hun ham overraskende nok. De de tilfældigvis møder hinanden igen, viser det sig dog, at ingen af dem, har glemt den anden. Men Olivia vil gerne fokusere på sin karriere og bevise sit værd som kemiker i de uopklarede mordsager. Og man må sige, at hun får hænderne fulde!! Det ene spor efter det andet dukker op. Spændingen stiger mere og mere. Olivia kommer tættere og tættere på sandheden, men de skyldige forsøger at rydde beviserne af vejen. Der sker faretruende hændelser og ulykker. Olivia er i fare. Hvem er den skyldige? Hvad er motivet? Og hvem er den næste der bliver udryddet? Sideløbende øges den gnistrende kemi mellem og antallet af amoriner i luften. Tiltrækningen mellem Olivia og Thornstock kan ikke benægtes længere. Der er umuligt for dem at holde sig tilbage. Åh! Jeg er vild med kombinationen af krimi, mordefterforskning og historisk romance. Jeg var helt opslugt af denne bog fra start til slut og sad på kanten af stolen af bare spænding både pga udviklingen af romancen, men i høj grad også pga mordefterforskningen. Jeg kan slet ikke, hvem den skyldige er og jeg glæder mig helt vildt til bog 4. Jeg er helt vild med forfatterens skrivestil. Hun formår virkelig at fange sine læseres interesse med skønne karakterer, der har fremtidsplaner, ben i næsen og en stærk personlighed, masser ad humor, levende dialog med masser af ping pong spil, spændende viden, romance og mordefterforskning. Sabrina Jeffries er helt klart en ad mine favoritforfattere. 5/ 6 ⭐️ Anmeldereksemplar fra forlaget .
Læs hele min anmeldelse på min blog: www.youlooklikeabook.blogspot.com hvor der også er citater fra bogen.
October 14, 2021
4 meno
Stavo giusto aspettando il terzo volume della Duke Dynasty per tornare a immergermi nelle intricate vicende che coinvolgono i figli di Lady Fletcher, già duchessa vedova tre volte e madre di altrettanti eredi ducali.
L'albero genealogico posto all'inizio è sempre utile, ma ormai credo di poter affermare di aver acquisito una sufficiente conoscenza dei legami.
Quindi, ricapitolando: nel primo volume, è stato Fletcher, duca di Greycourt a sposarsi con Beatrice Wolfe; nel secondo si è sposata Gwyn, sorella di Drake, duca di Thornstock; stavolta Cupido attende con la freccia incoccata proprio il duca di Thornstock, detto "Thorn".
Anche lui, come i vari fratellastri, è notevolmente bello, ma reticente a concedere il proprio cuore, e nutre forte diffidenza sul frequentare fanciulle che lo potrebbero "incastrare".
In effetti, nove anni prima, appena giunto da Berlino a Londra, è quasi caduto in un tranello e costretto a fare la proposta a Olivia, salvo essere da lei respinto. Anche se si è salvato, tuttavia, non ha smesso di nutrire poca fiducia nella ragazza e quindi si sente in dovere di intervenire quando scopre che la stessa è stata assunta dal fratello come esperta chimica per indagare su un presunto caso di veleno.
Ma Olivia non è certo una sprovveduta, così come era già ben sveglia durante il loro primo incontro e sa farsi desiderare anche in caso di una seconda opportunità.
Per quanto abbia trovato la trama un filo inferiore ai primi due volumi, riconosco che questa serie continua però a essere di ottimo livello, vivace, ben costruita e, soprattutto, ci presenta personaggi particolari e originali.
Prendiamo anche la coppia attuale: da parte sua, Drake, non è il solito nobile libertino e impenitente, ha una seconda professione-hobby segreto (leggete per scoprirla), è legato alla gemella, a Maman e ai suo familiari, è protettivo, intrepido, sa imparare dai propri errori.
Olivia è un piccolo portento, una vera "nerd" ottocentesca, capace di dedicarsi a studi ancora preclusi alle donne, senza timore di difendere le proprie idee e intuizioni.
Insomma, è lei che tiene sulla corda il povero Thorn, per nulla vittima del fatto di avere un duca come potenziale corteggiatore.
Anche la parte dell'intrigo prosegue e mi piace come si stia svelando un indizio alla volta: certo che Maman è una vera duchessa nell'anima. Solo duchi per lei, ma anche tanti nemici nell'ombra...
Stavo giusto aspettando il terzo volume della Duke Dynasty per tornare a immergermi nelle intricate vicende che coinvolgono i figli di Lady Fletcher, già duchessa vedova tre volte e madre di altrettanti eredi ducali.
L'albero genealogico posto all'inizio è sempre utile, ma ormai credo di poter affermare di aver acquisito una sufficiente conoscenza dei legami.
Quindi, ricapitolando: nel primo volume, è stato Fletcher, duca di Greycourt a sposarsi con Beatrice Wolfe; nel secondo si è sposata Gwyn, sorella di Drake, duca di Thornstock; stavolta Cupido attende con la freccia incoccata proprio il duca di Thornstock, detto "Thorn".
Anche lui, come i vari fratellastri, è notevolmente bello, ma reticente a concedere il proprio cuore, e nutre forte diffidenza sul frequentare fanciulle che lo potrebbero "incastrare".
In effetti, nove anni prima, appena giunto da Berlino a Londra, è quasi caduto in un tranello e costretto a fare la proposta a Olivia, salvo essere da lei respinto. Anche se si è salvato, tuttavia, non ha smesso di nutrire poca fiducia nella ragazza e quindi si sente in dovere di intervenire quando scopre che la stessa è stata assunta dal fratello come esperta chimica per indagare su un presunto caso di veleno.
Ma Olivia non è certo una sprovveduta, così come era già ben sveglia durante il loro primo incontro e sa farsi desiderare anche in caso di una seconda opportunità.
Per quanto abbia trovato la trama un filo inferiore ai primi due volumi, riconosco che questa serie continua però a essere di ottimo livello, vivace, ben costruita e, soprattutto, ci presenta personaggi particolari e originali.
Prendiamo anche la coppia attuale: da parte sua, Drake, non è il solito nobile libertino e impenitente, ha una seconda professione-hobby segreto (leggete per scoprirla), è legato alla gemella, a Maman e ai suo familiari, è protettivo, intrepido, sa imparare dai propri errori.
Olivia è un piccolo portento, una vera "nerd" ottocentesca, capace di dedicarsi a studi ancora preclusi alle donne, senza timore di difendere le proprie idee e intuizioni.
Insomma, è lei che tiene sulla corda il povero Thorn, per nulla vittima del fatto di avere un duca come potenziale corteggiatore.
Anche la parte dell'intrigo prosegue e mi piace come si stia svelando un indizio alla volta: certo che Maman è una vera duchessa nell'anima. Solo duchi per lei, ma anche tanti nemici nell'ombra...
January 1, 2021
I love this story of Olivia and Thorn. I like the main characters especially Olivia and her chemistry interest. I won this ebook on Goodreads giveaway. An enjoyable read with good plot. Oh...I didn’t like the character Thorn too much but other than that it was alright.
March 28, 2021
Best one yet
I like the regency period because of the hypocrisy and foolishness and lends itself to mockery, but I enjoy the fiction when it’s well written.
The third installment of this series combines love, mystery and intrigue. I thoroughly enjoy the female characters but found the Hero too much of a alpha dog and frankly stupid. At least the prior heroes had some reasoning behind their stubbornness, this guy was just butt dumb and arrogant.
I applaud the way the author continues the mysterious deaths of ALLLL the husbands of the mother throughout the series. Given the fact she manages to marry so well each time would make me suspect the mama but the story doesn’t really allow for that thought too long.
Any-woo, looking forward to the final installment.
I like the regency period because of the hypocrisy and foolishness and lends itself to mockery, but I enjoy the fiction when it’s well written.
The third installment of this series combines love, mystery and intrigue. I thoroughly enjoy the female characters but found the Hero too much of a alpha dog and frankly stupid. At least the prior heroes had some reasoning behind their stubbornness, this guy was just butt dumb and arrogant.
I applaud the way the author continues the mysterious deaths of ALLLL the husbands of the mother throughout the series. Given the fact she manages to marry so well each time would make me suspect the mama but the story doesn’t really allow for that thought too long.
Any-woo, looking forward to the final installment.
August 16, 2020
Who Wants to Marry a Duke
Duke Dynasty Series #3
Sabrina Jeffries
https://www.facebook.com/SabrinaJeffr...
Release date 08/25/2020
Publisher Kensington Zebra
Blurb :
A past kiss with adorably bookish Miss Olivia Norley should be barely a memory for Marlowe Drake, the Duke of Thornstock. After all, there are countless debutantes for a handsome rakehell to charm beyond a young lady whose singular passion is chemistry—of the laboratory type. But Thorn has not forgotten—or forgiven—the shocking blackmail scheme sparked by that single kiss, or the damage caused to both their names. Now Thorn’s half-brother, Grey, has hired the brilliant Miss Norley for her scientific expertise in solving a troubling family mystery. And the once-burned Thorn, suspicious of her true motives, vows to follow her every move . . .
For Olivia, determining whether arsenic poisoning killed Grey’s father is the pioneering experiment that could make her career—and Thorn’s constant presence is merely a distraction. But someone has explosive plans to derail her search. Soon the most unexpected discovery is the caring nature of the reputed scoundrel beside her—and the electricity it ignites between them .
My review :
Will the past stand between them and a future together...
I was curious about this third installment since I read the blurb.
I have a love for scholar and Olivia is definitely one, devoted to her research but still a woman. I loved she is still feminine and dresses well despite her occupation. She wants to make her own mark in her area if competence but it does not lessen the fact she is a woman, she might be a bit socially awkward, she is also a young woman with feelings.
While she wants to be successful as a chemist, she won’t renege a husband if he is one to let her indulge in her pursuit.
When Thorn is quite a jerk in this tale. One bump and he swore of love and branded Olivia with her stepmother a duet of vile tricksters. Yet he does not mind seducing her aven when he still hold a grudge against her, and it does not bother him she is a lady.
This story is a fast read with not many events but Olivia plays her role and brings a new turn to the background plot. Setting in motion the next and probably last book.
The enemy part was short and mostly on Thorn’s side as while he was angry at having been tricked as he thought, his pride was much more mortified when Olivia refused his proposal.
Olivia is very much too kind and forgiving, even more when he was not trustful with her. His hobby and what he does with it is easy to forgive, it is his lack of faith in her which is difficult to accept.
A cute second chance tale with a bit of steam.
4 stars
I was granted an advance copy by the publisher Kensington, here is my true and unbiased opinion.
https://www.facebook.com/429830134272...
Duke Dynasty Series #3
Sabrina Jeffries
https://www.facebook.com/SabrinaJeffr...
Release date 08/25/2020
Publisher Kensington Zebra
Blurb :
A past kiss with adorably bookish Miss Olivia Norley should be barely a memory for Marlowe Drake, the Duke of Thornstock. After all, there are countless debutantes for a handsome rakehell to charm beyond a young lady whose singular passion is chemistry—of the laboratory type. But Thorn has not forgotten—or forgiven—the shocking blackmail scheme sparked by that single kiss, or the damage caused to both their names. Now Thorn’s half-brother, Grey, has hired the brilliant Miss Norley for her scientific expertise in solving a troubling family mystery. And the once-burned Thorn, suspicious of her true motives, vows to follow her every move . . .
For Olivia, determining whether arsenic poisoning killed Grey’s father is the pioneering experiment that could make her career—and Thorn’s constant presence is merely a distraction. But someone has explosive plans to derail her search. Soon the most unexpected discovery is the caring nature of the reputed scoundrel beside her—and the electricity it ignites between them .
My review :
Will the past stand between them and a future together...
I was curious about this third installment since I read the blurb.
I have a love for scholar and Olivia is definitely one, devoted to her research but still a woman. I loved she is still feminine and dresses well despite her occupation. She wants to make her own mark in her area if competence but it does not lessen the fact she is a woman, she might be a bit socially awkward, she is also a young woman with feelings.
While she wants to be successful as a chemist, she won’t renege a husband if he is one to let her indulge in her pursuit.
When Thorn is quite a jerk in this tale. One bump and he swore of love and branded Olivia with her stepmother a duet of vile tricksters. Yet he does not mind seducing her aven when he still hold a grudge against her, and it does not bother him she is a lady.
This story is a fast read with not many events but Olivia plays her role and brings a new turn to the background plot. Setting in motion the next and probably last book.
The enemy part was short and mostly on Thorn’s side as while he was angry at having been tricked as he thought, his pride was much more mortified when Olivia refused his proposal.
Olivia is very much too kind and forgiving, even more when he was not trustful with her. His hobby and what he does with it is easy to forgive, it is his lack of faith in her which is difficult to accept.
A cute second chance tale with a bit of steam.
4 stars
I was granted an advance copy by the publisher Kensington, here is my true and unbiased opinion.
https://www.facebook.com/429830134272...
August 31, 2020
Absolutely do not pick up here if you haven’t read the first two books in the Duke Dynasty series, because the overarching plot about the deaths of Lydia’s three husbands is finally starting to get interesting, and if you haven’t read the previous two books, you’ll be quite lost.
If you HAVE read those two books, you’ll enjoy the way things are finally starting to come to a head, with the heroine of this book a chemist recruited to test the remains of one of the dead dukes to determine if his death was due to suspected arsenic poisoning. Sabrina Jeffries writes the best heroines, capable, confident women, and Olivia fits in perfectly here. A lady chemist, she is utterly disinterested in taking part in the marriage mart… even though she once turned down a proposal from none other than the Duke of Thornstock after being caught scandalizingly kissing him at a ball.
I loved Olivia, but Thorn… well, Thorn behaved absolutely horribly. From their first meeting where he made assumptions about Olivia despite the evidence being right in front of him that she was precisely what she claimed to be, to in the present day him making MORE assumptions about her basically so he could tell himself she was the one in the wrong, I thoroughly disliked him. Yes, he eventually did a grovel, but I couldn’t understand why, long before that, Olivia was even tolerating his presence, never mind allowing him to take all sorts of liberties with her.
There were parts about their relationship I liked; though Thorn doubted Olivia’s skills at first, once he recognised she really did know what she was doing, he respected what she said and didn’t question her. The scene where she ordered him out of her laboratory was one of my favourites, though it did mean we didn’t get a scene where he watched her work and admired her skills, something I always like to see when there’s a heroine with special skills in a story.
I was also slightly bemused with the sub-plot of Thorn being a playwright; I feel like this is something that’s going to prove important in the next book, but here it was just a distraction. There’s just a bit too much going on and we really needed the focus to be on less things; the romance between the two, Olivia’s chemistry skills, and the murder plots was plenty.
I really enjoyed the first two books in this series but I’m honestly a bit disappointed in this one. Several of the sex scenes felt shoehorned in at the expense of necessary plot and character development. I’ll keep reading because I’m invested in knowing the answers to the murder mystery, but I’ll hope for an improvement in the next one. This isn’t BAD - I don’t think Sabrina Jeffries knows how to write a bad book - but it’s not up to her usual amazing standard. I’ll give it four stars.
Disclaimer: I received a review copy of this title via NetGalley.
If you HAVE read those two books, you’ll enjoy the way things are finally starting to come to a head, with the heroine of this book a chemist recruited to test the remains of one of the dead dukes to determine if his death was due to suspected arsenic poisoning. Sabrina Jeffries writes the best heroines, capable, confident women, and Olivia fits in perfectly here. A lady chemist, she is utterly disinterested in taking part in the marriage mart… even though she once turned down a proposal from none other than the Duke of Thornstock after being caught scandalizingly kissing him at a ball.
I loved Olivia, but Thorn… well, Thorn behaved absolutely horribly. From their first meeting where he made assumptions about Olivia despite the evidence being right in front of him that she was precisely what she claimed to be, to in the present day him making MORE assumptions about her basically so he could tell himself she was the one in the wrong, I thoroughly disliked him. Yes, he eventually did a grovel, but I couldn’t understand why, long before that, Olivia was even tolerating his presence, never mind allowing him to take all sorts of liberties with her.
There were parts about their relationship I liked; though Thorn doubted Olivia’s skills at first, once he recognised she really did know what she was doing, he respected what she said and didn’t question her. The scene where she ordered him out of her laboratory was one of my favourites, though it did mean we didn’t get a scene where he watched her work and admired her skills, something I always like to see when there’s a heroine with special skills in a story.
I was also slightly bemused with the sub-plot of Thorn being a playwright; I feel like this is something that’s going to prove important in the next book, but here it was just a distraction. There’s just a bit too much going on and we really needed the focus to be on less things; the romance between the two, Olivia’s chemistry skills, and the murder plots was plenty.
I really enjoyed the first two books in this series but I’m honestly a bit disappointed in this one. Several of the sex scenes felt shoehorned in at the expense of necessary plot and character development. I’ll keep reading because I’m invested in knowing the answers to the murder mystery, but I’ll hope for an improvement in the next one. This isn’t BAD - I don’t think Sabrina Jeffries knows how to write a bad book - but it’s not up to her usual amazing standard. I’ll give it four stars.
Disclaimer: I received a review copy of this title via NetGalley.
July 17, 2020
Thank you NetGalley and Kensington Books for the advanced reading cop
I am a huge Sabrina Jeffries fan. I’ve been reading her books since her School for Heiresses series and I have been eagerly waiting for this one.
The Marlow Drake, the Duke of Thornstock, Thorn to his friends and family, was caught in a compromising position with a young lady almost ten years ago. After being blackmailed into proposing, and then being rejected, he decides to become the rakehell the gossips make him out to be. Olivia Norley is a woman of science. She wants to be a chemist, but agrees to debut for her parents sake. In her first season she’s compromised by a Duke, but turns down his proposal when it becomes clear how much he resents having to ask for her hand. Ten years later the two meet again when Thorn’s older brother, also a Duke, asks for Olivia’s help in determining if his father was poisoned with arsenic.
No one writes a romance series with an overarching murder mystery quite like Sabrina Jeffries. The Duke Dynasty books remind me so much of the Hellions of Halstead Hall series in all the best ways. All in all I felt very satisfied with Thorn and Olivia’s story, but can’t wait for the final book to see the mystery resolved and the last Duke in the Duke Dynasty meet his match!
I am a huge Sabrina Jeffries fan. I’ve been reading her books since her School for Heiresses series and I have been eagerly waiting for this one.
The Marlow Drake, the Duke of Thornstock, Thorn to his friends and family, was caught in a compromising position with a young lady almost ten years ago. After being blackmailed into proposing, and then being rejected, he decides to become the rakehell the gossips make him out to be. Olivia Norley is a woman of science. She wants to be a chemist, but agrees to debut for her parents sake. In her first season she’s compromised by a Duke, but turns down his proposal when it becomes clear how much he resents having to ask for her hand. Ten years later the two meet again when Thorn’s older brother, also a Duke, asks for Olivia’s help in determining if his father was poisoned with arsenic.
No one writes a romance series with an overarching murder mystery quite like Sabrina Jeffries. The Duke Dynasty books remind me so much of the Hellions of Halstead Hall series in all the best ways. All in all I felt very satisfied with Thorn and Olivia’s story, but can’t wait for the final book to see the mystery resolved and the last Duke in the Duke Dynasty meet his match!
August 25, 2020
Another fun read from Sabrina Jeffries. Who Wants to Marry a Duke is new series about an oft-widowed mother's grown children, and their quest for the truth about their fathers .Delightful characters whose chemistry is not just the laboratory type will keep you reading late into the night.
February 5, 2021
RATING: 4 STARS
2020; Zebra/Kensington Books
Who Wants to Marry a Duke? is a romance about second chances. When you are burned in love once, do you really want to trust that person again? Thorn, who is trying to help his brothers and sister figure out a family mystery, finds himself meeting the pretty bookish Olivia again. His older brother hired Olivia for her scientific expertise. Both are uncomfortable being together due to the sparks going on between them, but they can't stand to be apart either. Both will need to trust one another, but can they put the past behind them. I will start off by saying there is another book in the series, as the mystery is still left hanging. I am really enjoying this series and the characters. You see past characters popping up in all the books, so I totally recommend reading this one in order. Also, because each book adds to the mystery.
***I received a complimentary copy of this ebook/audiobook from the publisher through NetGalley. Opinions expressed in this review are entirely my own.***
2020; Zebra/Kensington Books
Who Wants to Marry a Duke? is a romance about second chances. When you are burned in love once, do you really want to trust that person again? Thorn, who is trying to help his brothers and sister figure out a family mystery, finds himself meeting the pretty bookish Olivia again. His older brother hired Olivia for her scientific expertise. Both are uncomfortable being together due to the sparks going on between them, but they can't stand to be apart either. Both will need to trust one another, but can they put the past behind them. I will start off by saying there is another book in the series, as the mystery is still left hanging. I am really enjoying this series and the characters. You see past characters popping up in all the books, so I totally recommend reading this one in order. Also, because each book adds to the mystery.
***I received a complimentary copy of this ebook/audiobook from the publisher through NetGalley. Opinions expressed in this review are entirely my own.***
September 13, 2020
4.25 stars
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