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Rogues to Riches #4
A Duke by Any Other Name
A brooding duke finds his beautiful new neighbor way too intriguing for his liking in this delightful Regency romance."Grace Burrowes is terrific!" --Julia QuinnNathaniel, Duke of Rothhaven, lives in seclusion, leaving his property only to gallop his demon-black steed across the moors by moonlight. Exasperated mamas invoke his name to frighten small children, though Nathaniel is truly a decent man -- maybe too decent for his own good. That's precisely why he must turn away the beguiling woman demanding his help. Lady Althea Wentworth has little patience for dukes, reclusive or otherwise, but she needs Rothhaven's backing to gain entrance into Polite Society. She's asked him nicely, she's called on him politely, all to no avail -- until her prize hogs just happen to plunder the ducal orchard. He longs for privacy. She's vowed to never endure another ball as a wallflower. Yet as the two grow closer, it soon becomes clear they might both be pretending to be something they're not. BookPage Best Romance Novels of 2020
385 pages, Kindle Edition
First published April 28, 2020
828 people are currently reading
1276 people want to read
About the author
Grace Burrowes
182 books2,898 followersGrace Burrowes started writing as an antidote to empty nest and soon found it an antidote to life in general. She is the sixth out of seven children, raised in the rural surrounds of central Pennsylvania. Early in life she spent a lot of time reading romance novels and practicing the piano. Her first career was as a technical writer and editor in the Washington, DC, area, a busy job that nonetheless left enough time to read a lot of romance novels.
It also left enough time to grab a law degree through an evening program, produce Beloved Offspring (only one, but she is a lion), and eventually move to the lovely Maryland countryside.
While reading yet still more romance novels, Grace opened her own law practice, acquired a master's degree in Conflict Transformation (she had a teenage daughter by then) and started thinking about writing.... romance novels. This aim was realized when Beloved Offspring struck out into the Big World a few years ago. ("Mom, why doesn't anybody tell you being a grown-up is hard?")
Grace eventually got up the courage to start pitching her manuscripts to agents and editors. The query letter that resulted in "the call" started out: "I am the buffoon in the bar at the RWA retreat who could not keep her heroines straight, could not look you in the eye, and could not stop blushing--and if that doesn't narrow down the possibilities, your job is even harder than I thought." (The dear lady bought the book anyway.)
To contact Grace, email her at graceburrowes@yahoo.com.
It also left enough time to grab a law degree through an evening program, produce Beloved Offspring (only one, but she is a lion), and eventually move to the lovely Maryland countryside.
While reading yet still more romance novels, Grace opened her own law practice, acquired a master's degree in Conflict Transformation (she had a teenage daughter by then) and started thinking about writing.... romance novels. This aim was realized when Beloved Offspring struck out into the Big World a few years ago. ("Mom, why doesn't anybody tell you being a grown-up is hard?")
Grace eventually got up the courage to start pitching her manuscripts to agents and editors. The query letter that resulted in "the call" started out: "I am the buffoon in the bar at the RWA retreat who could not keep her heroines straight, could not look you in the eye, and could not stop blushing--and if that doesn't narrow down the possibilities, your job is even harder than I thought." (The dear lady bought the book anyway.)
To contact Grace, email her at graceburrowes@yahoo.com.
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September 3, 2022
A Duke by Any Name by Grace Burrowes
Rogues to Riches series #4. Historical romance. Can be read as a stand-alone.
Nathaniel lives mostly in exclusion regardless of his title of Duke. Lady Althea wants better access to society and after asking, and being denied, tries again for Nathan’s cooperation.
Amusing and quirky with wonderful banter. You don’t usually get servants in historical romances, yet this book has the life long service staff right in the middle and meddling with the best of intentions. They are part of the family, after all.
Rogues to Riches series #4. Historical romance. Can be read as a stand-alone.
Nathaniel lives mostly in exclusion regardless of his title of Duke. Lady Althea wants better access to society and after asking, and being denied, tries again for Nathan’s cooperation.
Amusing and quirky with wonderful banter. You don’t usually get servants in historical romances, yet this book has the life long service staff right in the middle and meddling with the best of intentions. They are part of the family, after all.
May 22, 2020
I've given this a B at AAR
This fourth book in Grace Burrowes’ Rogues to Riches series about the Wentworth family continues with A Duke by Any Other Name, a rather sweet story featuring possibly the grumpiest hero who ever grumped and the woman who engages his attention via a passel of wandering hogs. In typical Burrowes fashion, this is a gently moving story featuring two perfectly nice leads with emotional crosses to bear that should probably keep them apart, but whose chemistry and fascination with each other conspire to make that impossible. I haven’t read a book by Grace Burrowes for a while, and picking up this one served as a nice reminder of the things I enjoy about her work – her distinctive voice, her insight into what makes her characters tick and ability to write strong familial and romantic relationships – without too forceful a reminder of some of the things that can get a bit repetitive if one reads too many of her books in quick succession.
Lady Althea Wentworth, sister of the Duke of Walden, resides at Lynley Vale in Yorkshire, a home gifted to her by her brother when he unexpectedly acceded to the title (book one, My One and Only Duke). A duke’s sister should be taking part in the season and finding a suitable husband, but given her family circumstances – the Wentworths were born into poverty and their father was an abusive drunk – Althea quickly became the prime target of the ton’s cruellest gossips who have ensured she has been all but ostracised from society. Althea is no shrinking violet, but she has had enough of the constant bullying and has instead decided to make her home in Yorkshire, and find herself a husband there. But even that is not going to be easy; the local society’s leading light is Lady Phoebe Philpot, who is every bit as catty as the London ladies, and just as determined to snub Althea and make sure everyone knows her humble origins put her below their notice.
Nathaniel Rothmore, Duke of Rothaven, has a reputation as dark as the large stallion he gallops around the Yorkshire Moors at night. His neighbours have learned to give him a wide berth; he’s abrasive, unwelcoming and sarcastic, he doesn’t go into society, he certainly doesn’t invite others to his home and is all but a recluse, surrounded by ancient family retainers he should really have pensioned off by now and a house and grounds that could do with a bit of TLC. It’s clear early on that his reputation as a black-hearted recluse is one he’s cultivated himself – what isn’t clear, seeing as he’s not a cold man, is why.
The novel opens with Nathaniel discovering that a number of his neighbour’s prize hogs have invaded his orchard. Annoyed, he storms over to Lynley Vale to demand that Lady Althea arrange to have the animals removed immediately, only to find himself plied with tea, cake and the polite but – could it be gently scolding? - conversation of a woman he should absolutely not find intriguing… but definitely does. Her request for help in learning how to deal with the local society on her own terms is surprising – surely, the sister of a duke should have no problem on that score? - but he gives her a few tips on imperiousness anyway – and she agrees to have the pigs removed.
Nathaniel knows he’s asking for trouble by having anything more to do with Althea. He can’t court her, he certainly can’t marry her – and yet he’s drawn to her, sensing that in her, he may have found the companionship and understanding he longs for. But it can’t be, because Nathaniel is living a lie. This information is disclosed early in the book (so isn’t a spoiler, but if you don’t want to know, look away now!) – Nathaniel is not really the Duke of Rothaven. His older brother, Robert – Robbie – is epileptic and was sent away to an asylum when he was little more than a boy. The old duke told Nathaniel Robbie was dead, and he only discovered the truth after his father’s death, by which time he had been invested with the title and taken his place in the House of Lords. He was able to get Robbie away from the asylum and bring him home, but his brother was clearly not capable of assuming his responsibilities, so Nathaniel agreed to continue to fulfil the role of duke until Robbie was able to do so. Five years later, Robbie is much improved, but does not want to take on the responsibilities which are rightfully his. What is Nathaniel to do? Telling the truth will see him convicted of fraud against the Crown and could leave Robbie vulnerable to being locked away again. Nathaniel is stuck between a rock and a hard place and can see no way out. To make things worse, he’s begun to receive letters which indicate someone knows the truth – and he very much fears he is about to be blackmailed.
With so much on his plate, it’s not surprising Nathaniel is so dour. Grace Burrowes is very good at writing these sorts of characters, ones who are thoroughly decent but somewhat bowed by circumstances, and it’s easy to feel for him. His sadness, exhaustion and loneliness are palpable, and his conflicted emotions for Robbie – love, guilt, anger (for him and with him) and frustration – are equally well portrayed. Althea is a lovely heroine, strong and independent, but still haunted by a horrible childhood (there is a brief mention of sexual exploitation, but it’s not detailed) and, in her way, as beaten down as Nathaniel and just as despairing of being able to find someone to share her life with.
A Duke by Any Other Name doesn’t sugar-coat the facts with regard to the way people like Robbie were treated at this period (the author provides an interesting, extensive author’s note on the subject) but doesn’t sensationalise it either. The romance is a sweet, slow-burn and I enjoyed watching the friendship that develops between Althea and Nathaniel blossom into love – and felt their grief and sorrow at the knowledge they couldn’t be together as they both wanted. On the downside however, the blackmail plotline never really goes anywhere (and is wrapped up rather oddly) and although I enjoyed watching the dreadful Phoebe get her comeuppance, the ending is rushed, the sudden influx of the families – Althea’s brothers (and sister-in-law), Nathaniel’s mother – in Yorkshire feeling a tad too convenient and, if I’m honest, there as a way to shoe-horn in some cameo appearances.
But those criticisms aside, A Duke by Any Other Name is a low-angst, enjoyable story laced with the author’s unique brand of warmth and humour. Althea and Nathaniel are sensible, likeable individuals who make an exceptionally well-matched couple, and anyone looking for an undemanding, emotionally satisfying read could do worse than give this one a try.
This fourth book in Grace Burrowes’ Rogues to Riches series about the Wentworth family continues with A Duke by Any Other Name, a rather sweet story featuring possibly the grumpiest hero who ever grumped and the woman who engages his attention via a passel of wandering hogs. In typical Burrowes fashion, this is a gently moving story featuring two perfectly nice leads with emotional crosses to bear that should probably keep them apart, but whose chemistry and fascination with each other conspire to make that impossible. I haven’t read a book by Grace Burrowes for a while, and picking up this one served as a nice reminder of the things I enjoy about her work – her distinctive voice, her insight into what makes her characters tick and ability to write strong familial and romantic relationships – without too forceful a reminder of some of the things that can get a bit repetitive if one reads too many of her books in quick succession.
Lady Althea Wentworth, sister of the Duke of Walden, resides at Lynley Vale in Yorkshire, a home gifted to her by her brother when he unexpectedly acceded to the title (book one, My One and Only Duke). A duke’s sister should be taking part in the season and finding a suitable husband, but given her family circumstances – the Wentworths were born into poverty and their father was an abusive drunk – Althea quickly became the prime target of the ton’s cruellest gossips who have ensured she has been all but ostracised from society. Althea is no shrinking violet, but she has had enough of the constant bullying and has instead decided to make her home in Yorkshire, and find herself a husband there. But even that is not going to be easy; the local society’s leading light is Lady Phoebe Philpot, who is every bit as catty as the London ladies, and just as determined to snub Althea and make sure everyone knows her humble origins put her below their notice.
Nathaniel Rothmore, Duke of Rothaven, has a reputation as dark as the large stallion he gallops around the Yorkshire Moors at night. His neighbours have learned to give him a wide berth; he’s abrasive, unwelcoming and sarcastic, he doesn’t go into society, he certainly doesn’t invite others to his home and is all but a recluse, surrounded by ancient family retainers he should really have pensioned off by now and a house and grounds that could do with a bit of TLC. It’s clear early on that his reputation as a black-hearted recluse is one he’s cultivated himself – what isn’t clear, seeing as he’s not a cold man, is why.
The novel opens with Nathaniel discovering that a number of his neighbour’s prize hogs have invaded his orchard. Annoyed, he storms over to Lynley Vale to demand that Lady Althea arrange to have the animals removed immediately, only to find himself plied with tea, cake and the polite but – could it be gently scolding? - conversation of a woman he should absolutely not find intriguing… but definitely does. Her request for help in learning how to deal with the local society on her own terms is surprising – surely, the sister of a duke should have no problem on that score? - but he gives her a few tips on imperiousness anyway – and she agrees to have the pigs removed.
Nathaniel knows he’s asking for trouble by having anything more to do with Althea. He can’t court her, he certainly can’t marry her – and yet he’s drawn to her, sensing that in her, he may have found the companionship and understanding he longs for. But it can’t be, because Nathaniel is living a lie. This information is disclosed early in the book (so isn’t a spoiler, but if you don’t want to know, look away now!) – Nathaniel is not really the Duke of Rothaven. His older brother, Robert – Robbie – is epileptic and was sent away to an asylum when he was little more than a boy. The old duke told Nathaniel Robbie was dead, and he only discovered the truth after his father’s death, by which time he had been invested with the title and taken his place in the House of Lords. He was able to get Robbie away from the asylum and bring him home, but his brother was clearly not capable of assuming his responsibilities, so Nathaniel agreed to continue to fulfil the role of duke until Robbie was able to do so. Five years later, Robbie is much improved, but does not want to take on the responsibilities which are rightfully his. What is Nathaniel to do? Telling the truth will see him convicted of fraud against the Crown and could leave Robbie vulnerable to being locked away again. Nathaniel is stuck between a rock and a hard place and can see no way out. To make things worse, he’s begun to receive letters which indicate someone knows the truth – and he very much fears he is about to be blackmailed.
With so much on his plate, it’s not surprising Nathaniel is so dour. Grace Burrowes is very good at writing these sorts of characters, ones who are thoroughly decent but somewhat bowed by circumstances, and it’s easy to feel for him. His sadness, exhaustion and loneliness are palpable, and his conflicted emotions for Robbie – love, guilt, anger (for him and with him) and frustration – are equally well portrayed. Althea is a lovely heroine, strong and independent, but still haunted by a horrible childhood (there is a brief mention of sexual exploitation, but it’s not detailed) and, in her way, as beaten down as Nathaniel and just as despairing of being able to find someone to share her life with.
A Duke by Any Other Name doesn’t sugar-coat the facts with regard to the way people like Robbie were treated at this period (the author provides an interesting, extensive author’s note on the subject) but doesn’t sensationalise it either. The romance is a sweet, slow-burn and I enjoyed watching the friendship that develops between Althea and Nathaniel blossom into love – and felt their grief and sorrow at the knowledge they couldn’t be together as they both wanted. On the downside however, the blackmail plotline never really goes anywhere (and is wrapped up rather oddly) and although I enjoyed watching the dreadful Phoebe get her comeuppance, the ending is rushed, the sudden influx of the families – Althea’s brothers (and sister-in-law), Nathaniel’s mother – in Yorkshire feeling a tad too convenient and, if I’m honest, there as a way to shoe-horn in some cameo appearances.
But those criticisms aside, A Duke by Any Other Name is a low-angst, enjoyable story laced with the author’s unique brand of warmth and humour. Althea and Nathaniel are sensible, likeable individuals who make an exceptionally well-matched couple, and anyone looking for an undemanding, emotionally satisfying read could do worse than give this one a try.
April 28, 2020
3.5 stars
I received this book for free in exchange for an honest review. This does not affect my opinion of the book or the content of my review.
“Lady Althea Wentworth is, without doubt, the most vexatious, bothersome, pestilential female I have ever had the misfortune to encounter.”
When her brother unexpectedly inherits a dukedom, Althea is thrust into the world of social splendor and social backstabbing. She spent most of her childhood trying to survive and protect her siblings, so the intricacies of navigating jealousy and competition for bachelors is beyond her. Having a duke next door, even if he is a recluse, could be the answer to her problems, though.
Nathaniel wasn't supposed to be the duke and he is starting to chafe at having to wear the mantle. When he finally descends on his neighbor to tell her to keep her pigs in her own yard, he can't help but finally feel alive when sparing with her.
Secrets that are starting to feel constraining and a chemistry that can't and doesn't want to be ignored, are heating up the Yorkshire moors.
Following the Wentworth family and their friends, the Rogues to Riches series delivers its fourth installment staring Althea, the oldest sister. In previous books, she was the straightforward sibling that could come off a little abrasive. In her own story we get a look at how she was left to take care of and protect her younger siblings from their alcoholic father while their elder brother Quinn (My One and Only Duke) went out to try and make money. When her family inherits the title, she becomes Lady Althea and not only gains the prestige but jealousy, with one particular enemy in a Lady Phoebe. With Phoebe making snide remarks and spreading innuendo about her, Althea needs help with learning how to navigate polite society as she does want a husband and family.
He was lonely.
Nathaniel is Althea's neighbor on their estates outside of York and is a recluse as he shuns society. At first he seems like a grumpy bear just wanting to hibernate but when we get a pov from his mother, that hasn't been back to the estate or seen her son in years, we get a tease that maybe Nathaniel is forced into keeping out of society. Then we are introduced to his brother Robbie, who supposedly died years ago, and learn that Robbie was the older brother and Nathaniel isn't the true duke. This is revealed in the first half and I don't count it as a huge spoiler as the majority of the book is about Nathaniel and Althea growing to love one another but Nathaniel not seeing a way they can be together because of the tangle it would cause and possibly revealing Robbie is still alive.
Anything for my only brother.
And now, anything had become everything.
Burrowes is always good at the subtle but sweet and loving emotions between her leads and Nathaniel and Althea wonderfully showcase that talent. When they have their first meeting you can almost feel Nathaniel coming alive as Althea snips and pushes back at him as he outright refuses her request to tutor her in the ways of polite society, while also slipping in advice to her. The angst to keep them apart, Nathaniel trying to protect his brother, added depth to the story, his character, and made you hurt for this family. Robbie looks to be the hero in the next book in the series and I'm looking forward to seeing how his connection to Althea's sister Constance occurred and see him get his happily ever after. The struggle and love between Nathaniel and Robbie was felt but their mother's struggle wasn't completely understood for me. She had a bad relationship with her husband so she hated the estate but how it felt like she suddenly just decided to go back and help felt rushed; her whole inclusion in the story felt a bit out of place.
I will always be that hungry girl.
Althea's background and how that shaped her was heartfelt and will have you feeling for her as Nathaniel tells her to never beg, at first not appreciating the strength and courage Althea displays in doing so. If you are a reader of the series, you'll appreciate the glimpses of the Wentworth clan and their strong and loving familial bonds, Lord Stephen, the younger brother makes his usual charismatic appearance and I can't wait until we finally get his book.
This is the woman I was meant for.
I did think the second half dragged for a bit as the threads of Nathaniel not thinking he could have a life in order to protect his brother and Lady Phoebe trying to force society to hate and shun Althea slowed down too much in their route to conclusion. I also thought that Nathaniel spilled the beans to Althea about Robbie a bit quickly and their first sex scene felt gently abrupt. However, if you're looking for a sweet comforting read, Althea willing to prod and poke at Nathaniel was great and this couple had a lovely charmingly amusing chemistry that will warm your heart.
I received this book for free in exchange for an honest review. This does not affect my opinion of the book or the content of my review.
“Lady Althea Wentworth is, without doubt, the most vexatious, bothersome, pestilential female I have ever had the misfortune to encounter.”
When her brother unexpectedly inherits a dukedom, Althea is thrust into the world of social splendor and social backstabbing. She spent most of her childhood trying to survive and protect her siblings, so the intricacies of navigating jealousy and competition for bachelors is beyond her. Having a duke next door, even if he is a recluse, could be the answer to her problems, though.
Nathaniel wasn't supposed to be the duke and he is starting to chafe at having to wear the mantle. When he finally descends on his neighbor to tell her to keep her pigs in her own yard, he can't help but finally feel alive when sparing with her.
Secrets that are starting to feel constraining and a chemistry that can't and doesn't want to be ignored, are heating up the Yorkshire moors.
Following the Wentworth family and their friends, the Rogues to Riches series delivers its fourth installment staring Althea, the oldest sister. In previous books, she was the straightforward sibling that could come off a little abrasive. In her own story we get a look at how she was left to take care of and protect her younger siblings from their alcoholic father while their elder brother Quinn (My One and Only Duke) went out to try and make money. When her family inherits the title, she becomes Lady Althea and not only gains the prestige but jealousy, with one particular enemy in a Lady Phoebe. With Phoebe making snide remarks and spreading innuendo about her, Althea needs help with learning how to navigate polite society as she does want a husband and family.
He was lonely.
Nathaniel is Althea's neighbor on their estates outside of York and is a recluse as he shuns society. At first he seems like a grumpy bear just wanting to hibernate but when we get a pov from his mother, that hasn't been back to the estate or seen her son in years, we get a tease that maybe Nathaniel is forced into keeping out of society. Then we are introduced to his brother Robbie, who supposedly died years ago, and learn that Robbie was the older brother and Nathaniel isn't the true duke. This is revealed in the first half and I don't count it as a huge spoiler as the majority of the book is about Nathaniel and Althea growing to love one another but Nathaniel not seeing a way they can be together because of the tangle it would cause and possibly revealing Robbie is still alive.
Anything for my only brother.
And now, anything had become everything.
Burrowes is always good at the subtle but sweet and loving emotions between her leads and Nathaniel and Althea wonderfully showcase that talent. When they have their first meeting you can almost feel Nathaniel coming alive as Althea snips and pushes back at him as he outright refuses her request to tutor her in the ways of polite society, while also slipping in advice to her. The angst to keep them apart, Nathaniel trying to protect his brother, added depth to the story, his character, and made you hurt for this family. Robbie looks to be the hero in the next book in the series and I'm looking forward to seeing how his connection to Althea's sister Constance occurred and see him get his happily ever after. The struggle and love between Nathaniel and Robbie was felt but their mother's struggle wasn't completely understood for me. She had a bad relationship with her husband so she hated the estate but how it felt like she suddenly just decided to go back and help felt rushed; her whole inclusion in the story felt a bit out of place.
I will always be that hungry girl.
Althea's background and how that shaped her was heartfelt and will have you feeling for her as Nathaniel tells her to never beg, at first not appreciating the strength and courage Althea displays in doing so. If you are a reader of the series, you'll appreciate the glimpses of the Wentworth clan and their strong and loving familial bonds, Lord Stephen, the younger brother makes his usual charismatic appearance and I can't wait until we finally get his book.
This is the woman I was meant for.
I did think the second half dragged for a bit as the threads of Nathaniel not thinking he could have a life in order to protect his brother and Lady Phoebe trying to force society to hate and shun Althea slowed down too much in their route to conclusion. I also thought that Nathaniel spilled the beans to Althea about Robbie a bit quickly and their first sex scene felt gently abrupt. However, if you're looking for a sweet comforting read, Althea willing to prod and poke at Nathaniel was great and this couple had a lovely charmingly amusing chemistry that will warm your heart.
November 28, 2021
4.5/5. I really enjoyed this book. Yes, the plot was slow-moving but the characterisations were wonderfully complex and the dialogue just outstanding. I rather enjoy the fact that the plot was not over-complicated but allowed the focus on the romance and the writing. For all his ducal formidableness and his hauteur designed to keep himself aloof and apart, Nathaniel hides a soft heart as evident by his willingness to sacrifice all for his brother and his concern for a lonely, abandoned damsel with only her impressive wit to keep her company. Of course, he himself is no stranger to loneliness and social isolation. Both Nathaniel and Althea made for highly sympathetic characters.
I thought the basis for the story was rather fascinating, the pickle that Nathaniel found himself in did appear so insurmountable. The cast of secondary characters were well portrayed, adding both substance and humour. GB delivered a well-researched and believable story, writing with an elegant and easy hand. She casually slips little colloquialisms relevant to the era in the dialogue. It is a joy to read, not just the clever wit but also the authentic-sounding prose. This can be read as a stand-alone without difficulty.
“Do not flatter yourself, Your Grace. Only a fool would seek to procreate with a petulant, moody, withdrawn, arrogant specimen such as you.
“You gallop everywhere,” she said, a judge reading out a list of charges, “because a sedate trot might encourage others to greet you, or worse, to attempt to engage you in conversation.”
“Some people choose solitude. Others are banished to it."
"She did, though, know the weariness of soul that came from wrestling a problem that had no solutions."
“Promise me you will save a little pleasure for yourself, Your Grace."
"...courtship ought to frighten anybody who can admit to human frailties. We are none of us lovable all the time"
"Begging was not always failure of dignity. Sometimes begging was the triumph of love and courage over pride."
I thought the basis for the story was rather fascinating, the pickle that Nathaniel found himself in did appear so insurmountable. The cast of secondary characters were well portrayed, adding both substance and humour. GB delivered a well-researched and believable story, writing with an elegant and easy hand. She casually slips little colloquialisms relevant to the era in the dialogue. It is a joy to read, not just the clever wit but also the authentic-sounding prose. This can be read as a stand-alone without difficulty.
“Do not flatter yourself, Your Grace. Only a fool would seek to procreate with a petulant, moody, withdrawn, arrogant specimen such as you.
“You gallop everywhere,” she said, a judge reading out a list of charges, “because a sedate trot might encourage others to greet you, or worse, to attempt to engage you in conversation.”
“Some people choose solitude. Others are banished to it."
"She did, though, know the weariness of soul that came from wrestling a problem that had no solutions."
“Promise me you will save a little pleasure for yourself, Your Grace."
"...courtship ought to frighten anybody who can admit to human frailties. We are none of us lovable all the time"
"Begging was not always failure of dignity. Sometimes begging was the triumph of love and courage over pride."
November 17, 2021
The book has many reviews so I am just writing my thoughts. I really enjoying the writing this author produces. Her characters hold my attention and they really come alive off the page. Now the down side. I read book 1 in the series and it was nice. I read this book and it just went in a loop...the ending says it all. There plot was not one that I enjoyed and the romance felt tepid.
November 30, 2021
3.5 Stars rounded off to 4
I read this book a part of the BOTM challenge for HRBC. It's #4 in the series but can be read as a standalone novel.
Plot Summary
A reclusive Duke with a terrible secret and a woman determined to gain his help. What could possibly go wrong? But, Yorkshire moors have a way of changing people, for it is a spectral place, you can be found or just as easily lost.
Good Thigs First
- This is my second Grace Burrowes, and it was leaps & bounds better than The Heir, which I remember not liking all that much.
- Let's start with the writing style. The book was beautifully written, the underlying emotional subtext was superbly demonstrated. The story had angst, humour, mystery, and a lovely romance.
- The plot was unique. I think Ms Burrows enjoys a legal dilemma in her stories without venturing into the courtroom drama. (The Heir had it, and from what I have read in the blurbs of the other books in this series, so do those books.)
- The romance had an amazing Heathcliff Moorish flavour with a dash of sunshine. I greatly admired the non-ballroom encounters and an unusual & informal courtship that Nathaniel and Althea shared.
- The desolation of isolation that brought these two together provided the layers of the aforementioned emotional subtext. There was a wonderful companionability in their seclusion and loneliness.
- Nathaniel and Althea shared a lot of similarities as characters. They were both strong, determined, crazy, quirky, broken by their past, honour-bound towards their family, trapped by their circumstances. The worst of all was that they longed for some semblance of normalcy, wanted someone whom they could call their own. It broke my heart.
- The similarities are what made the romance lovely and added a freshness to the story.
- The supporting characters intrigued me quite a bit, especially Quinn, Stephen and Robert. I am very inclined to read their stories.
The Disappointments
- If there is one thing I hate, it is wasted potential. This plot had me on the edge of my seat till about the halfway mark, and then I got to wondering where would it possibly go? Finally, the ending was rushed, abrupt, and predictable.
- The author spent too long building the dilemma and resolved it with such alacrity that it felt uncharacteristic and had me scoffing. She did drop a few lines about how the legal issue might be solved but from the deception standpoint, it needed more.
- No steam. It was basically a clean-ish closed-door romance. There was so much longing between these two that a few bodice ripper scenes would not have gone amiss. The sexual tension that was cleverly demonstrated, sadly, went underutilized.
- No epilogue. It essentially ended with
The truth needs to come out
We will deal with it together
I love you, marry me
I love you too, yes I will marry you
And they lived happily ever after
- It was unfair to the readers to not see Nathaniel & Althea get their due HEA chapter when I spent so much time invested in them.
My Recommendation
An angsty tale without a lot of darkness that brings to mind Kerrigan Byrne writing style. If you are okay with no steam and no epilogue this book is worth reading. I am very curious about Robert's story. I will eat humble pie and say this, I may have written off Grace Burrows too soon and without due consideration. I am planning on giving her books another go. (After reading a ton of reviews and doing my due diligence, I hate to be disappointed after all)
I read this book a part of the BOTM challenge for HRBC. It's #4 in the series but can be read as a standalone novel.
Plot Summary
A reclusive Duke with a terrible secret and a woman determined to gain his help. What could possibly go wrong? But, Yorkshire moors have a way of changing people, for it is a spectral place, you can be found or just as easily lost.
Good Thigs First
- This is my second Grace Burrowes, and it was leaps & bounds better than The Heir, which I remember not liking all that much.
- Let's start with the writing style. The book was beautifully written, the underlying emotional subtext was superbly demonstrated. The story had angst, humour, mystery, and a lovely romance.
- The plot was unique. I think Ms Burrows enjoys a legal dilemma in her stories without venturing into the courtroom drama. (The Heir had it, and from what I have read in the blurbs of the other books in this series, so do those books.)
- The romance had an amazing Heathcliff Moorish flavour with a dash of sunshine. I greatly admired the non-ballroom encounters and an unusual & informal courtship that Nathaniel and Althea shared.
- The desolation of isolation that brought these two together provided the layers of the aforementioned emotional subtext. There was a wonderful companionability in their seclusion and loneliness.
- Nathaniel and Althea shared a lot of similarities as characters. They were both strong, determined, crazy, quirky, broken by their past, honour-bound towards their family, trapped by their circumstances. The worst of all was that they longed for some semblance of normalcy, wanted someone whom they could call their own. It broke my heart.
- The similarities are what made the romance lovely and added a freshness to the story.
- The supporting characters intrigued me quite a bit, especially Quinn, Stephen and Robert. I am very inclined to read their stories.
The Disappointments
- If there is one thing I hate, it is wasted potential. This plot had me on the edge of my seat till about the halfway mark, and then I got to wondering where would it possibly go? Finally, the ending was rushed, abrupt, and predictable.
- The author spent too long building the dilemma and resolved it with such alacrity that it felt uncharacteristic and had me scoffing. She did drop a few lines about how the legal issue might be solved but from the deception standpoint, it needed more.
- No steam. It was basically a clean-ish closed-door romance. There was so much longing between these two that a few bodice ripper scenes would not have gone amiss. The sexual tension that was cleverly demonstrated, sadly, went underutilized.
- No epilogue. It essentially ended with
The truth needs to come out
We will deal with it together
I love you, marry me
I love you too, yes I will marry you
And they lived happily ever after
- It was unfair to the readers to not see Nathaniel & Althea get their due HEA chapter when I spent so much time invested in them.
My Recommendation
An angsty tale without a lot of darkness that brings to mind Kerrigan Byrne writing style. If you are okay with no steam and no epilogue this book is worth reading. I am very curious about Robert's story. I will eat humble pie and say this, I may have written off Grace Burrows too soon and without due consideration. I am planning on giving her books another go. (After reading a ton of reviews and doing my due diligence, I hate to be disappointed after all)
May 4, 2020
This is fourth in a series and it's good to know the family from the previous books, including Althea. Also: you'll have a good idea what to expect with the plot (which is the part that's hanging me up).
I'm abandoning this a bit over halfway and for reasons similar to abandoning the third. Indeed, I think I'm done with the series because I had the same issues with the first two and just hadn't come to recognize it as the template it is. The thing is, Burrowes does a great job giving me protagonists I care about and who I like together even more than I like them individually. That is very much the case here. I fell for both almost immediately and love seeing them grow in confidence and trust.
But then we get a plot with senseless villains who succeed despite being banal and malicious. Which might work if they weren't also kind of shallow and not smart enough to hide their open antagonism. Worse, we often get bits that illustrate just how banal and shallow they are, even if Burrowes has to jump into a third-party viewpoint to do it. Which I find kind of sloppy, but undeniably removes tension and mystery from the plot as everything is spelled out in vivid detail before our protagonists even know what's coming. You see this in (sub)genres where suspense plays a role, but I don't find these threats that . . . threatening. I mean, even if they succeed in their dastardly plots to ruin the protagonists socially, it doesn't actually threaten the relationship. Which is what I care about.
Also, Althea asking for a night of sex "just because" is just weird.
So yeah, I'm tacking on a second star because I was really into the two main characters and I loved seeing their relationship develop. But pretty much all the rest of this was various shades of offputting.
I have a review policy. Which is weird, I know. It turns out my first stab at it wasn't working out for me, so if you care, you might give it a look.
I'm abandoning this a bit over halfway and for reasons similar to abandoning the third. Indeed, I think I'm done with the series because I had the same issues with the first two and just hadn't come to recognize it as the template it is. The thing is, Burrowes does a great job giving me protagonists I care about and who I like together even more than I like them individually. That is very much the case here. I fell for both almost immediately and love seeing them grow in confidence and trust.
But then we get a plot with senseless villains who succeed despite being banal and malicious. Which might work if they weren't also kind of shallow and not smart enough to hide their open antagonism. Worse, we often get bits that illustrate just how banal and shallow they are, even if Burrowes has to jump into a third-party viewpoint to do it. Which I find kind of sloppy, but undeniably removes tension and mystery from the plot as everything is spelled out in vivid detail before our protagonists even know what's coming. You see this in (sub)genres where suspense plays a role, but I don't find these threats that . . . threatening. I mean, even if they succeed in their dastardly plots to ruin the protagonists socially, it doesn't actually threaten the relationship. Which is what I care about.
Also, Althea asking for a night of sex "just because" is just weird.
So yeah, I'm tacking on a second star because I was really into the two main characters and I loved seeing their relationship develop. But pretty much all the rest of this was various shades of offputting.
I have a review policy. Which is weird, I know. It turns out my first stab at it wasn't working out for me, so if you care, you might give it a look.
April 18, 2020
Series: Rogues To Riches #4
Publication Date: 4/28/20
Number of Pages: 368
** 4.5 Starts – Rounded up **
I couldn’t put this book down from the delightfully witty and entertaining first chapter through the exciting and eventful final chapter. I absolutely adored Lady Althea who longed for acceptance by society – but she just couldn’t help being herself. The plot is intriguingly unusual, the writing is excellent and the characters are robust, likable, relatable, and fully formed. I actually got to know each of the lead characters and would have been delighted to call them friends.
Lady Althea Wentworth has an unenviable past. She was born in abject poverty to a vile, hateful man who delighted in starving and abusing her and her siblings. Then, one day, like magic, her brother, Quinn, inherited a dukedom (My One and Only Duke). Quinn had riches beyond imagining through the dukedom and his own hard work and he wanted to share that with his family – so he gave each of them their own estate and plenty of money to go with it. Even as an heiress, Althea didn’t ‘take’ during the seasons she’s had in London so she’s decided to forego this year’s season and spend it at her estate, Lynley Vale Manor. It is her plan to gain social acceptance within local Yorkshire society and perhaps find a husband among them – because she dearly wants a child to love. To further that goal, she needs to gain acceptance by the local reclusive, ill-tempered duke. Since he allows absolutely nobody on his property, she devises an ingenious plan to make him come to her.
Nathaniel Rothmere, Duke of Rothhaven, is a lonely man who is keeping grave secrets. Secrets he can share with no one. He has carefully cultivated a reputation as a reclusive, ill-tempered, inhospitable man who will quickly prosecute anyone found trespassing on his property. His description of trespassing includes hapless visitors who knock on his door. None are welcome. That reputation hides the lonely, caring, and very honorable man Nathaniel really is and he suffers for it. The loneliness is sometimes overpowering – but his secrets must be kept at all costs.
Althea’s plan to meet Nathaniel is priceless and it will highly entertain you – and it also works great! I love that Althea is never anything other than who she is – wonderfully honest and straight forward. She doesn’t hide her feelings and she is always honest with herself about who she is and what she wants.
Nathaniel is drawn to Althea from the first moment he meets her – yet he knows he cannot further their acquaintance. Sometimes though, life has other plans for you – and it certainly had a rude awakening planned for Nathaniel. When it comes down to the final choice, will Nathaniel choose Althea or his secrets? You’ll just have to read the story to find out!
In my view, the only thing that would have made it better would have been an epilogue – or for the last chapter to be a bit longer. I never like it when romances end before the wedding – a lot can happen between whatever happens at the end and the actual wedding, so I like to be sure it actually happened. I would have loved an epilogue set six or so months in the future – showing them happy and maybe expecting – especially since a child is the one thing Althea really wanted.
Now, I can hardly wait until November for Robert’s story.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an Advanced Reader Copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
Publication Date: 4/28/20
Number of Pages: 368
** 4.5 Starts – Rounded up **
I couldn’t put this book down from the delightfully witty and entertaining first chapter through the exciting and eventful final chapter. I absolutely adored Lady Althea who longed for acceptance by society – but she just couldn’t help being herself. The plot is intriguingly unusual, the writing is excellent and the characters are robust, likable, relatable, and fully formed. I actually got to know each of the lead characters and would have been delighted to call them friends.
Lady Althea Wentworth has an unenviable past. She was born in abject poverty to a vile, hateful man who delighted in starving and abusing her and her siblings. Then, one day, like magic, her brother, Quinn, inherited a dukedom (My One and Only Duke). Quinn had riches beyond imagining through the dukedom and his own hard work and he wanted to share that with his family – so he gave each of them their own estate and plenty of money to go with it. Even as an heiress, Althea didn’t ‘take’ during the seasons she’s had in London so she’s decided to forego this year’s season and spend it at her estate, Lynley Vale Manor. It is her plan to gain social acceptance within local Yorkshire society and perhaps find a husband among them – because she dearly wants a child to love. To further that goal, she needs to gain acceptance by the local reclusive, ill-tempered duke. Since he allows absolutely nobody on his property, she devises an ingenious plan to make him come to her.
Nathaniel Rothmere, Duke of Rothhaven, is a lonely man who is keeping grave secrets. Secrets he can share with no one. He has carefully cultivated a reputation as a reclusive, ill-tempered, inhospitable man who will quickly prosecute anyone found trespassing on his property. His description of trespassing includes hapless visitors who knock on his door. None are welcome. That reputation hides the lonely, caring, and very honorable man Nathaniel really is and he suffers for it. The loneliness is sometimes overpowering – but his secrets must be kept at all costs.
Althea’s plan to meet Nathaniel is priceless and it will highly entertain you – and it also works great! I love that Althea is never anything other than who she is – wonderfully honest and straight forward. She doesn’t hide her feelings and she is always honest with herself about who she is and what she wants.
Nathaniel is drawn to Althea from the first moment he meets her – yet he knows he cannot further their acquaintance. Sometimes though, life has other plans for you – and it certainly had a rude awakening planned for Nathaniel. When it comes down to the final choice, will Nathaniel choose Althea or his secrets? You’ll just have to read the story to find out!
In my view, the only thing that would have made it better would have been an epilogue – or for the last chapter to be a bit longer. I never like it when romances end before the wedding – a lot can happen between whatever happens at the end and the actual wedding, so I like to be sure it actually happened. I would have loved an epilogue set six or so months in the future – showing them happy and maybe expecting – especially since a child is the one thing Althea really wanted.
Now, I can hardly wait until November for Robert’s story.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an Advanced Reader Copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
December 21, 2020
3.5 stars. An interesting setup for this story. Two people from different worlds, falling deeply in love. It's set in the country, far from town, where Althea and Nathaniel are now neighbours. Althea is the sister of a duke, but she actually grew up in a very poor household, and her brother came into the title unexpectedly (in the first book of the series). She is unsure of herself in society, and has also been bullied in the past by some empty-headed snobs.
Nathaniel is an extremely reclusive man, and even though he's of the noble class, barely mixes with the neighbourhood. Once they meet, an attraction begins. Nathaniel helps Althea to gain in self-confidence, and Althea gets involved in Nathaniel's tricky family situation and supports him as it is unravelled and finally resolved.
I like Grace Burrowes' low-key writing style. Not too angsty or melodramatic. Overall I enjoyed the read and am working my way through the whole series. The next book will be about Nathaniel's brother Robbie and Althea's sister Constance. Robbie and Constance apparently already know each other from years ago. Could be interesting.
Nathaniel is an extremely reclusive man, and even though he's of the noble class, barely mixes with the neighbourhood. Once they meet, an attraction begins. Nathaniel helps Althea to gain in self-confidence, and Althea gets involved in Nathaniel's tricky family situation and supports him as it is unravelled and finally resolved.
I like Grace Burrowes' low-key writing style. Not too angsty or melodramatic. Overall I enjoyed the read and am working my way through the whole series. The next book will be about Nathaniel's brother Robbie and Althea's sister Constance. Robbie and Constance apparently already know each other from years ago. Could be interesting.
April 9, 2025
This book was a delightful surprise. Sharp banter, a heroine with a spine of steel and no time for aristocratic nonsense, and a hero who’s basically a grumpy hedgehog in human form. Their dynamic was chef’s kiss. She verbally bodied him every chance she got, and he liked it. But then the ball prep began, the plot took off its corset and decided to nap, and the ending felt rushed. I wanted closure, not a teaser trailer for the next book.
Still, 3.25 stars for vibes, sass, and Rothhaven’s grump-to-lover pipeline.
Still, 3.25 stars for vibes, sass, and Rothhaven’s grump-to-lover pipeline.
August 15, 2020
Readers of the Rogues to Riches series by Grace Burrowes met Lady Althea Wentworth in previous books in the series, especially in
Forever and a Duke,
the third book. It is almost unfair of me to be writing this review, because I gave that book only two stars, and this is not much better with three stars. I love historical romance and I love continuity, however, after giving the first two books in the series,
My One and Only Duke
and
When a Duchess Says I Do,
each five stars, these last two books fell rather flat for me.
As she is now the sister of a duke, Althea should have had good marriage prospects. Instead she is approaching spinsterhood. Conversely, another duke, Nathaniel, who is actually Althea's neighbor, discover they have more than a bit in common. They are sick of society and would rather avoid it, at any cost. They both have things they are dealing with, and it is these very things that end up drawing them together.
The history of Althea's family is rather interesting, especially as to how her brother Stephen became a duke. Will this be enough to lead her to a good marriage? Quite frankly, Althea doesn't care one with about clout and esteem. She has suddenly seen people for what they really are and they are not the sort she strives to be. However, Nathaniel is different.
But, the pair do knock heads, and for a rather humorous reason. The conflict they face leads them to be sparring partners as it were, thus raising a strong awareness between them. The story is satisfying, especially as there is a bit of drama involving Nathaniel and his dukedom. Quite naturally for just about any romance, conflict eventually leads to resolution and, and for Althea and Nathaniel in this story - love.
Because I really want Robert's story, which will be in The Truth About Dukes, set for release in November, I will be continuing with the series.
Many thanks to Forever and to NetGalley for this ARC for review. This is my honest opinion.
As she is now the sister of a duke, Althea should have had good marriage prospects. Instead she is approaching spinsterhood. Conversely, another duke, Nathaniel, who is actually Althea's neighbor, discover they have more than a bit in common. They are sick of society and would rather avoid it, at any cost. They both have things they are dealing with, and it is these very things that end up drawing them together.
The history of Althea's family is rather interesting, especially as to how her brother Stephen became a duke. Will this be enough to lead her to a good marriage? Quite frankly, Althea doesn't care one with about clout and esteem. She has suddenly seen people for what they really are and they are not the sort she strives to be. However, Nathaniel is different.
But, the pair do knock heads, and for a rather humorous reason. The conflict they face leads them to be sparring partners as it were, thus raising a strong awareness between them. The story is satisfying, especially as there is a bit of drama involving Nathaniel and his dukedom. Quite naturally for just about any romance, conflict eventually leads to resolution and, and for Althea and Nathaniel in this story - love.
Because I really want Robert's story, which will be in The Truth About Dukes, set for release in November, I will be continuing with the series.
Many thanks to Forever and to NetGalley for this ARC for review. This is my honest opinion.
August 30, 2021
3.5/5.0
What a lovely written story! The sentences flow beautifully from one to the next to create an absolute joy to experience. The characters come to life easily with personalities that are believable and sympathetic. I especially loved Althea's character. She is strong yet vulnerable, feisty yet insecure. Her troubles fitting in are achingly real and a reader can't help but hurt and hope for her as she works so very hard to overcome the prejudices and injustice others hurl her way.
Nathaniel is also a very intriguing character. While his situation wasn't quite as sympathetic, and one might prefer throttling him at times, his saving grace is his loyalty and honor to those he cares about. It's fun watching him struggle to stay away from Althea while everything in him is pushing him toward her and her kind, loving heart.
The biggest problem in the story is how casually the sex is addressed between Althea and Nathaniel . While their attitudes would be completely normal in 21st century society, in the pre-regency world, this laissez faire approach by two characters of the peerage was so far-fetched and hard to believe that it throws the reader out of the story.
There were also many mundane conversations and added on-dits that didn't have anything to do with the overall progression of the story and slowed the reading connection down considerably.
Still, the overall plot and characters were so endearing that one can't help but be completely entertained and satisfied as that last page turns!
What a lovely written story! The sentences flow beautifully from one to the next to create an absolute joy to experience. The characters come to life easily with personalities that are believable and sympathetic. I especially loved Althea's character. She is strong yet vulnerable, feisty yet insecure. Her troubles fitting in are achingly real and a reader can't help but hurt and hope for her as she works so very hard to overcome the prejudices and injustice others hurl her way.
Nathaniel is also a very intriguing character. While his situation wasn't quite as sympathetic, and one might prefer throttling him at times, his saving grace is his loyalty and honor to those he cares about. It's fun watching him struggle to stay away from Althea while everything in him is pushing him toward her and her kind, loving heart.
The biggest problem in the story is how casually the sex is addressed between Althea and Nathaniel . While their attitudes would be completely normal in 21st century society, in the pre-regency world, this laissez faire approach by two characters of the peerage was so far-fetched and hard to believe that it throws the reader out of the story.
There were also many mundane conversations and added on-dits that didn't have anything to do with the overall progression of the story and slowed the reading connection down considerably.
Still, the overall plot and characters were so endearing that one can't help but be completely entertained and satisfied as that last page turns!
January 29, 2021
I always enjoy Grace Burrowes’ books, and this was no exception. The grumpy hero is delicious.
April 27, 2020
Reviewed for
Wit and Sin
Two lonely souls find love among the Yorkshire moors in A Duke by Any Other Name . Every Rogues to Riches book I’ve read I’ve enjoyed more than the last and Althea and Nathaniel’s romance is my favorite to date.
Nathaniel is the kind of hero I adore. To all the world he’s a fierce, terrifying figure, but in reality he’s a total cinnamon roll. Nathaniel has a reason for his seclusion, for not allowing anyone near his home and frightening off anyone who would dare trespass, but to reveal why would be a spoiler. Suffice it to say he’s not doing it for kicks and giggles. But Althea isn’t one to be cowed by a fearsome reputation. Althea may be the sister of a duke, but she grew up in extreme poverty and has faced true evil, selfishness, and greed. She can see Nathaniel isn’t the horrible man he pretends to be and besides, she needs his help. Althea just about broke my heart. She survived a hellish (to put it mildly) childhood and grew up to be a strong, caring woman who does what she can to help others. All she wants is to find love and have a family but society resents her family’s wealth and title. Since they cannot take it out on her brother and sister-in-law because they are a duke and duchess, they target Althea. She’s been bullied to the point where she cannot bring herself to face another season and she hopes that as a duke and her neighbor Nathaniel can give her some tips to make her more successful on her quest to find happiness.
Althea and Nathaniel have fantastic chemistry from the start. She’s unfazed by his growling and blustering and he finds himself intrigued by her against his will. Both of them are unique, well-drawn characters who will grab your heart and not let go. Althea has a quiet dignity and an inner strength that makes her a heroine to cheer for. Nathaniel has a good heart and the mistakes he makes are because he loves so deeply. Individually, they’re fantastic characters. As a couple? They’re dynamite. I didn’t want to put A Duke by Any Other Name down because I so wanted Nathaniel and Althea to find their happily ever after. Getting there isn’t easy; the problems they face aren’t simply Yorkshire mean girls (though those are present and worthy of your loathing) but true obstacles I won’t spoil that cannot be overcome easily. But Althea and Nathaniel’s love is worth fighting for and I was captivated watching their romance unfold.
A Duke by Any Other Name is the fourth book in Grace Burrowes’s Rogues to Riches series but it can be read as a standalone. That being said, I feel that having read the first book, My One and Only Duke, gave me a better sense of the Wentworth family dynamic and made me enjoy this story even more. Althea’s siblings – in particular her intriguing, interfering younger brother – play supporting roles and add warmth and support to Althea’s journey. I love the uniqueness of this series, how harsh realities are woven into the fantasy. None of the main characters have been cardboard heroes or heroines in history, attitude, or behavior and that makes this series memorable. I loved A Duke by Any Other Name from beginning to end and I cannot wait to see what Ms. Burrowes has in store for Constance Wentworth!
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.
Two lonely souls find love among the Yorkshire moors in A Duke by Any Other Name . Every Rogues to Riches book I’ve read I’ve enjoyed more than the last and Althea and Nathaniel’s romance is my favorite to date.
Nathaniel is the kind of hero I adore. To all the world he’s a fierce, terrifying figure, but in reality he’s a total cinnamon roll. Nathaniel has a reason for his seclusion, for not allowing anyone near his home and frightening off anyone who would dare trespass, but to reveal why would be a spoiler. Suffice it to say he’s not doing it for kicks and giggles. But Althea isn’t one to be cowed by a fearsome reputation. Althea may be the sister of a duke, but she grew up in extreme poverty and has faced true evil, selfishness, and greed. She can see Nathaniel isn’t the horrible man he pretends to be and besides, she needs his help. Althea just about broke my heart. She survived a hellish (to put it mildly) childhood and grew up to be a strong, caring woman who does what she can to help others. All she wants is to find love and have a family but society resents her family’s wealth and title. Since they cannot take it out on her brother and sister-in-law because they are a duke and duchess, they target Althea. She’s been bullied to the point where she cannot bring herself to face another season and she hopes that as a duke and her neighbor Nathaniel can give her some tips to make her more successful on her quest to find happiness.
Althea and Nathaniel have fantastic chemistry from the start. She’s unfazed by his growling and blustering and he finds himself intrigued by her against his will. Both of them are unique, well-drawn characters who will grab your heart and not let go. Althea has a quiet dignity and an inner strength that makes her a heroine to cheer for. Nathaniel has a good heart and the mistakes he makes are because he loves so deeply. Individually, they’re fantastic characters. As a couple? They’re dynamite. I didn’t want to put A Duke by Any Other Name down because I so wanted Nathaniel and Althea to find their happily ever after. Getting there isn’t easy; the problems they face aren’t simply Yorkshire mean girls (though those are present and worthy of your loathing) but true obstacles I won’t spoil that cannot be overcome easily. But Althea and Nathaniel’s love is worth fighting for and I was captivated watching their romance unfold.
A Duke by Any Other Name is the fourth book in Grace Burrowes’s Rogues to Riches series but it can be read as a standalone. That being said, I feel that having read the first book, My One and Only Duke, gave me a better sense of the Wentworth family dynamic and made me enjoy this story even more. Althea’s siblings – in particular her intriguing, interfering younger brother – play supporting roles and add warmth and support to Althea’s journey. I love the uniqueness of this series, how harsh realities are woven into the fantasy. None of the main characters have been cardboard heroes or heroines in history, attitude, or behavior and that makes this series memorable. I loved A Duke by Any Other Name from beginning to end and I cannot wait to see what Ms. Burrowes has in store for Constance Wentworth!
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.
January 31, 2021
Nathaniel Rothmere, known as the Duke of Rothhaven, is a notorious, yet respected recluse among Yorkshire society. He eschews social interaction, only leaving his estate for reckless gallops across the moors in the fading light. Despite his fearsome reputation, Nathaniel is a truly good man, which is why he must turn away the lovely young woman demanding his help with navigating the treacherous world of English high society.
Lady Althea Wentworth grew up in abject poverty and is distinctly unimpressed by titles, but since her brother unexpectedly inherited a dukedom she has been thrust into a society that is determined to mock and exclude her. She seeks the advice of the reclusive neighborhood duke in an effort to learn how to make society respect her on her own terms, shattering the reclusive duke’s privacy. He tries to keep her at bay, but she won’t be so easily dissuaded and soon they realize they’re both pretending to be other than what they truly are and they have more in common than either could’ve imagined.
I loved this book. I found it to be charmingly witty and at times both hilarious and poignant. I loved the growth of the relationship between Althea and Nathaniel and their wholehearted acceptance of each other. Their banter was delightful and I especially enjoyed the secondary characters and the repartee between Nathaniel and Stephen. I loved how protective Nathaniel and Althea were of each other and their relationship, though more on the sensual side, worked here. The characters were well-drawn and I could really feel Nathaniel’s loneliness and frustration and cheered at Althea’s growth and determination on her journey to accepting herself. I loved Nathaniel as a sweet yet tragic hero trying desperately to keep everything together and Althea was just what he needed. I loved that the characters felt raw and real and I was sucked right into their world any time I picked up this book. My only wish was that there had been an epilogue just to solidify their happy ending, though they did still have quite a few legal challenges to overcome and I can see not wanting to step on the toes of the next book. I need to go back and read the other books in this series, but I can’t wait for Robbie’s story.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own. Blog link: https://mustreadalltheromance.blogspo...
Lady Althea Wentworth grew up in abject poverty and is distinctly unimpressed by titles, but since her brother unexpectedly inherited a dukedom she has been thrust into a society that is determined to mock and exclude her. She seeks the advice of the reclusive neighborhood duke in an effort to learn how to make society respect her on her own terms, shattering the reclusive duke’s privacy. He tries to keep her at bay, but she won’t be so easily dissuaded and soon they realize they’re both pretending to be other than what they truly are and they have more in common than either could’ve imagined.
I loved this book. I found it to be charmingly witty and at times both hilarious and poignant. I loved the growth of the relationship between Althea and Nathaniel and their wholehearted acceptance of each other. Their banter was delightful and I especially enjoyed the secondary characters and the repartee between Nathaniel and Stephen. I loved how protective Nathaniel and Althea were of each other and their relationship, though more on the sensual side, worked here. The characters were well-drawn and I could really feel Nathaniel’s loneliness and frustration and cheered at Althea’s growth and determination on her journey to accepting herself. I loved Nathaniel as a sweet yet tragic hero trying desperately to keep everything together and Althea was just what he needed. I loved that the characters felt raw and real and I was sucked right into their world any time I picked up this book. My only wish was that there had been an epilogue just to solidify their happy ending, though they did still have quite a few legal challenges to overcome and I can see not wanting to step on the toes of the next book. I need to go back and read the other books in this series, but I can’t wait for Robbie’s story.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own. Blog link: https://mustreadalltheromance.blogspo...
April 24, 2022
Another perfect addition to the romance world… I have just finished reading A Duke by Any Other Name by Grace Burrowes and I’m left with a goofy smile on my face ☺️!
In the fourth instalment of the Rogues to Rishes series we finally get an HEA for one of the Wentworth sisters, Althea! The sisters have been side characters for the run of the series thus far, but man, did Althea shine! She’s my new fictional BFF!
Althea Wentworth has decided to forego the London season this year after suppering through the last five. As the families easiest target she has been bullied since she hit the ballroom. She’s familiar with the torn hems, spilled drinks and trips she received and is hoping that in the smaller playing field of Yorkshire society she can achieve her dream: a husband and family of her own. Too bad she needs to get the resident reclusive duke to accept her and show her the hopes to make this dream come true. Thankfully she is a true Wentworth and not afraid of a challenge!
Nathaniel Rothmere, The Duke of Rothhave has secrets to hide and a unwelcoming demented and decrepit ancestral home to do it with. He can afford change and Althea is about to start making some big changes in the neighbourhood. Will Nathanial be able to adapt and follow his heart or will he keep that locked up in his crumbling home?
I have been loving this series from the beginning and A Duke by Any Other Name definitely held up to my regard! This story has a delightful forced meet cute, grumpy hero/ sunshine heroine, runaway hogs and haunted mansions!
A Rogue by Any Other Name by Grace Burrowes is scheduled to release April 28th, 2020.
I received a complimentary copy of this book from Berkley Publishing Group through NetGalley. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
Blog link: https://pinkcowlandreads.blogspot.com...
#ADukebyAnyOtherName #GraceBurrowes #Netgalley #pinkcowlandreads
In the fourth instalment of the Rogues to Rishes series we finally get an HEA for one of the Wentworth sisters, Althea! The sisters have been side characters for the run of the series thus far, but man, did Althea shine! She’s my new fictional BFF!
Althea Wentworth has decided to forego the London season this year after suppering through the last five. As the families easiest target she has been bullied since she hit the ballroom. She’s familiar with the torn hems, spilled drinks and trips she received and is hoping that in the smaller playing field of Yorkshire society she can achieve her dream: a husband and family of her own. Too bad she needs to get the resident reclusive duke to accept her and show her the hopes to make this dream come true. Thankfully she is a true Wentworth and not afraid of a challenge!
Nathaniel Rothmere, The Duke of Rothhave has secrets to hide and a unwelcoming demented and decrepit ancestral home to do it with. He can afford change and Althea is about to start making some big changes in the neighbourhood. Will Nathanial be able to adapt and follow his heart or will he keep that locked up in his crumbling home?
I have been loving this series from the beginning and A Duke by Any Other Name definitely held up to my regard! This story has a delightful forced meet cute, grumpy hero/ sunshine heroine, runaway hogs and haunted mansions!
A Rogue by Any Other Name by Grace Burrowes is scheduled to release April 28th, 2020.
I received a complimentary copy of this book from Berkley Publishing Group through NetGalley. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
Blog link: https://pinkcowlandreads.blogspot.com...
#ADukebyAnyOtherName #GraceBurrowes #Netgalley #pinkcowlandreads
August 24, 2020
Thank you Forever and Grand Central Pub for a complimentary copy. I voluntarily reviewed this book. All opinions expressed are my own.
A Duke By Any Other Name
Rogues To Riches #4
By: Grace Burrowes
REVIEW ☆☆☆☆
I know nothing about the first three books of the Rogues To Riches series, but it is not necessary anyway. A Duke By Any Other Name by Grace Burrowes is Regency era historical fiction, and that just happens to be a favorite of mine. I started reading then zipped through the entire book in one sitting. It's such a charming and delightful story with plenty of shenanigans and secrets.
Nathaniel, Duke of Rothhaven, and Lady Althea Wentworth are both hiding something. The stakes are higher for Nathaniel, though, because he is responsible for himself and his household. He plays the role expected of him, and keeps everyone at bay. Then, Nathaniel meets Althea.
Lady Althea is more pretending than anything else. From despair and poverty to riches and comfort because her brother inherited a dukedom is a gigantic transformation. Althea wasn't born with a title, yet here she is with position and power, knowing she doesn't fit in with Society. Does she really want to belong with high society snobs?
Two lonely people living on the desolate moors who could both use a friend. Will Nathaniel and Althea become friends or something more? Circumstances are difficult to say the least, but anything can happen. I so adore this book! From beginning to end it was perfect and a joy to read. I can't wait to read more from Grace Burrowes!
A Duke By Any Other Name
Rogues To Riches #4
By: Grace Burrowes
REVIEW ☆☆☆☆
I know nothing about the first three books of the Rogues To Riches series, but it is not necessary anyway. A Duke By Any Other Name by Grace Burrowes is Regency era historical fiction, and that just happens to be a favorite of mine. I started reading then zipped through the entire book in one sitting. It's such a charming and delightful story with plenty of shenanigans and secrets.
Nathaniel, Duke of Rothhaven, and Lady Althea Wentworth are both hiding something. The stakes are higher for Nathaniel, though, because he is responsible for himself and his household. He plays the role expected of him, and keeps everyone at bay. Then, Nathaniel meets Althea.
Lady Althea is more pretending than anything else. From despair and poverty to riches and comfort because her brother inherited a dukedom is a gigantic transformation. Althea wasn't born with a title, yet here she is with position and power, knowing she doesn't fit in with Society. Does she really want to belong with high society snobs?
Two lonely people living on the desolate moors who could both use a friend. Will Nathaniel and Althea become friends or something more? Circumstances are difficult to say the least, but anything can happen. I so adore this book! From beginning to end it was perfect and a joy to read. I can't wait to read more from Grace Burrowes!
July 8, 2020
Good book about two likable people who are victims of their circumstances. Althea is the sister of a duke who chose to live at her estate in Yorkshire rather than subject herself to London society again. Althea and her siblings grew up in poverty with an abusive father. Althea spent her childhood protecting her younger siblings while her older brother worked to put food on the table. Years later, Quinn unexpectedly inherited a dukedom, thrusting the whole family into the limelight. Althea became the target of gossips making her Seasons miserable. Tired of the bullying, Althea decided to seek a husband in Yorkshire, only to find that the local gossips are just as bad. Althea decides that her only hope is to get the local duke on her side.
Nathaniel, Duke of Rothaven, is known in the county as an abrasive, unwelcoming recluse. He gallops his horse around the moors during the night, a habit that adds to his fearsome reputation. It becomes evident very quickly that Nathaniel fostered that reputation himself as a way to hide the truth. Far from being the black-hearted villain he portrays, Nathaniel is a kind-hearted man who loves his family and his lands. He plays the part of the duke to protect his older brother, an epileptic, who was sent to an asylum when they were boys. Told by their father that Robbie was dead, Nathaniel didn't discover the truth until after his father's death. It has taken five years for Robbie to recover even partially from the cruel treatment he received, and he still refuses to take his proper place. This leaves Nathaniel caught in a dilemma. He can't reveal the truth, which would put Robbie in danger, and open himself up to accusations of fraud. It also means that he is condemned to live his life alone.
I loved the first meeting between Althea and Nathaniel. She tried traditional methods of making his acquaintance but was turned away. So she purposely set her prize-winning hogs loose in his orchard, hoping to draw him out. Nathaniel's fuming arrival at her door is met with offers of tea, cakes, and conversation. He tries to refuse and is met with an iron-willed refusal to accept his rejection, complete with a gentle lecture on proper behavior. Her request for advice on dealing with local society surprises him, and he gives her a few hints before making his escape.
I enjoyed the development of their relationship. Nathaniel is intrigued by Althea and drawn to her in unexpected ways. She stirs emotions in him that he has locked away for years. He can't court her, he can't marry her - but he can't stay away from her. Althea discovers the truth early on, and her understanding further endears her to Nathaniel. Althea is impressed by the man under the reputation and drawn to his love for and loyalty to his family. A crisis throws them together, and their feelings for each other continue to grow. I ached for Nathaniel, who can't see any way for them to be together. His sadness, loneliness, and frustration are evident, as are his conflicting emotions of love, anger, and guilt toward Robbie. Althea is independent, stronger than she realizes, and also haunted by the events of her childhood. Not only is she protective of her own family, that protectiveness soon extends to Nathaniel and Robbie. Things become more complicated when an outsider makes trouble, and Althea's family gets involved. The situation is resolved brilliantly, and I laughed as the spiteful cat got her comeuppance at the same time Nathaniel receives his heart's desire.
I loved the secondary characters as they were portrayed. Robbie made my heart ache for everything he went through. The descriptions of the treatment of people with epilepsy were vivid and painful. It was surprising that Robbie had come as far as he had. That said, there were times that I felt he was unreasonably obstinate. I liked what I saw of Althea's brother, Stephen. He is another who suffered at the hands of his father in ways that affected his life permanently. He loves his family and is very protective of Althea. I liked seeing him go head-to-head with her as both were evenly matched in stubbornness. There is also a great scene between him and Nathaniel. The staff at Rothaven were also wonderful. They are old and valued retainers working well past when they would typically have retired. They take full advantage of their positions in some surprising ways.
Nathaniel, Duke of Rothaven, is known in the county as an abrasive, unwelcoming recluse. He gallops his horse around the moors during the night, a habit that adds to his fearsome reputation. It becomes evident very quickly that Nathaniel fostered that reputation himself as a way to hide the truth. Far from being the black-hearted villain he portrays, Nathaniel is a kind-hearted man who loves his family and his lands. He plays the part of the duke to protect his older brother, an epileptic, who was sent to an asylum when they were boys. Told by their father that Robbie was dead, Nathaniel didn't discover the truth until after his father's death. It has taken five years for Robbie to recover even partially from the cruel treatment he received, and he still refuses to take his proper place. This leaves Nathaniel caught in a dilemma. He can't reveal the truth, which would put Robbie in danger, and open himself up to accusations of fraud. It also means that he is condemned to live his life alone.
I loved the first meeting between Althea and Nathaniel. She tried traditional methods of making his acquaintance but was turned away. So she purposely set her prize-winning hogs loose in his orchard, hoping to draw him out. Nathaniel's fuming arrival at her door is met with offers of tea, cakes, and conversation. He tries to refuse and is met with an iron-willed refusal to accept his rejection, complete with a gentle lecture on proper behavior. Her request for advice on dealing with local society surprises him, and he gives her a few hints before making his escape.
I enjoyed the development of their relationship. Nathaniel is intrigued by Althea and drawn to her in unexpected ways. She stirs emotions in him that he has locked away for years. He can't court her, he can't marry her - but he can't stay away from her. Althea discovers the truth early on, and her understanding further endears her to Nathaniel. Althea is impressed by the man under the reputation and drawn to his love for and loyalty to his family. A crisis throws them together, and their feelings for each other continue to grow. I ached for Nathaniel, who can't see any way for them to be together. His sadness, loneliness, and frustration are evident, as are his conflicting emotions of love, anger, and guilt toward Robbie. Althea is independent, stronger than she realizes, and also haunted by the events of her childhood. Not only is she protective of her own family, that protectiveness soon extends to Nathaniel and Robbie. Things become more complicated when an outsider makes trouble, and Althea's family gets involved. The situation is resolved brilliantly, and I laughed as the spiteful cat got her comeuppance at the same time Nathaniel receives his heart's desire.
I loved the secondary characters as they were portrayed. Robbie made my heart ache for everything he went through. The descriptions of the treatment of people with epilepsy were vivid and painful. It was surprising that Robbie had come as far as he had. That said, there were times that I felt he was unreasonably obstinate. I liked what I saw of Althea's brother, Stephen. He is another who suffered at the hands of his father in ways that affected his life permanently. He loves his family and is very protective of Althea. I liked seeing him go head-to-head with her as both were evenly matched in stubbornness. There is also a great scene between him and Nathaniel. The staff at Rothaven were also wonderful. They are old and valued retainers working well past when they would typically have retired. They take full advantage of their positions in some surprising ways.
January 20, 2021
Loved the extended preview of this Regency romance, a glimpse at what looks to be a totally fab read!
5 of 5 Stars
Pub Date 28 Apr 2020
#ADukeByAnyOtherName #NetGalley
Thanks to the author, Forever (Grand Central Publishing), and NetGalley for the ARC in exchange for my honest review.
5 of 5 Stars
Pub Date 28 Apr 2020
#ADukeByAnyOtherName #NetGalley
Thanks to the author, Forever (Grand Central Publishing), and NetGalley for the ARC in exchange for my honest review.
August 23, 2022
Another enjoyable book in this series. Nicely crafted character arcs and interesting secondary characters. As with other series by Ms Burrows there is always the support of interesting family members.
May 21, 2022
Not bad.
October 16, 2021
This HR takes place in the 18th century in Yorkshire in the country. Two neighbouring landlords Nathaniel Rothmere (Duke of Rothhaven) a recluse, and Lady Althea Wentworth meet because her pigs were let loose in his pasture and he had to go to her home and ask her to remove them. She had tried various ways to meet him but this was finally the method that worked. Althea’s older brother Quinn recently inherited the Dukedom of Walden and because their family came from humble beginnings Althea needed to learn how to handle English aristocracy especially social snobs. She hoped the Duke of Rothhaven would give her some advice.
They are brought together by Nathaniels brother Robert (Master Robbie) who has been hiding out for many years due to epilepsy (falling sickness) at the Rothhaven Hall. Nathaniel has been protecting his brother by keeping people away. Over time Nathaniel and Althea fall in love but the responsibility of protecting his brother Robbie come between them.
A lady Phoebe sees Althea and Nathaniel kiss and wants to discredit Althea so society will shun her. Phoebe sees Althea as a threat to her nieces chances of catching a Viscount so plots her public set down through gossip. The only person who can save her respectability is Nathaniel. Will he rescue her?
Grace Burrowes has a similar writing style to Jane Austen. She truly is a wordsmith. Her tale is a family story with two abusive fathers one Nathaniels and one Altheas and how the children cope during childhood and what challenges they face as adults. It’s a story of society’s social set and how they treat people that are the “nouveau riche” in that time period.
This is the first book I have read in the series Rogues to Riches. I look forward to reading the rest of the series.
They are brought together by Nathaniels brother Robert (Master Robbie) who has been hiding out for many years due to epilepsy (falling sickness) at the Rothhaven Hall. Nathaniel has been protecting his brother by keeping people away. Over time Nathaniel and Althea fall in love but the responsibility of protecting his brother Robbie come between them.
A lady Phoebe sees Althea and Nathaniel kiss and wants to discredit Althea so society will shun her. Phoebe sees Althea as a threat to her nieces chances of catching a Viscount so plots her public set down through gossip. The only person who can save her respectability is Nathaniel. Will he rescue her?
Grace Burrowes has a similar writing style to Jane Austen. She truly is a wordsmith. Her tale is a family story with two abusive fathers one Nathaniels and one Altheas and how the children cope during childhood and what challenges they face as adults. It’s a story of society’s social set and how they treat people that are the “nouveau riche” in that time period.
This is the first book I have read in the series Rogues to Riches. I look forward to reading the rest of the series.
April 25, 2022
This is an adorable book! Althea and Nathaniel are wonderful, getting to also see a lot of the family dynamics—with Nathaniel's family, with Althea's, in how the two families interact—was so fun and those scenes all sparkled
Also, I keep thinking Jack Wentworth can't get any worse and then we learn more about him and wow was he a horrible father 😭 Which we knew, but also, getting to see into Althea's childhood was heartbreaking but handled so well
The end wrapped up rather neatly, which I understand why and there are still a lot of questions left open for the next book. But also, wow was that such a neat, convenient ending. But it also made me cry, so can I really complain too much?
All in all, a wonderful addition to this series. This series is slowly taking over my heart, and with each book I love the Wentworth's even more. They're such a great family and I'm excited to see where the next book takes us!
Also, I keep thinking Jack Wentworth can't get any worse and then we learn more about him and wow was he a horrible father 😭 Which we knew, but also, getting to see into Althea's childhood was heartbreaking but handled so well
The end wrapped up rather neatly, which I understand why and there are still a lot of questions left open for the next book. But also, wow was that such a neat, convenient ending. But it also made me cry, so can I really complain too much?
All in all, a wonderful addition to this series. This series is slowly taking over my heart, and with each book I love the Wentworth's even more. They're such a great family and I'm excited to see where the next book takes us!
March 17, 2025
There is a mystery surrounding Rothhaven Hall. Althea Wentworth was gifted Lynley Vale Manor by her brother, the Duke of Walden. The neighboring estate is Rothhaven Hall. The first meeting between Althea and Ravencroft, her neighbor, is a dispute over hogs. It's not long before she discovers the secret and the reason Ravencroft keeps pushing her away. They may give into passion, but there is no way to change the circumstances, until another secret is revealed. Mild descriptive sex.
November 12, 2021
This was just so unexpected. My first by this author and definitely a precursor to the entire series.
This is such a character driven plot. Both Althea and Nathaniel steal the show. The relationship between these two as well as with other , and with their individual family members as well as with the members of the local society is well portrayed.
But, its predictable and I didn't approve of the very tame ending to this book.She should have stood up and slayed her nemesis. Its a minor transgression.
Overall, I enjoyed it and a definitely recommend it.
Recommended: 👍👍
This is such a character driven plot. Both Althea and Nathaniel steal the show. The relationship between these two as well as with other , and with their individual family members as well as with the members of the local society is well portrayed.
But, its predictable and I didn't approve of the very tame ending to this book.She should have stood up and slayed her nemesis. Its a minor transgression.
Overall, I enjoyed it and a definitely recommend it.
Recommended: 👍👍
November 11, 2023
H and h both live insolated from family and it's damaging. He cannot reveal the truth without causing major issues, and the h is doing her best to survive. A sad story with a clever couple who are too close to see their way out. Liked it but found characters frustrating in their 'need' to sacrifice themselves.
May 13, 2020
Nathaniel Rothmere, Duke of Rothhaven, is not amused. His orchard has been invaded by a herd of pigs, Yes, pigs; the 400 -pound variety! And they belong to his neighbor- the pesky Althea Wentworth. Lady Althea needs the Duke’s help. She has written him, visited him but has not met him. Nathaniel Rothmere’s reputation proceeds him. He’s antisocial, grumpy and rude. Althea needs the Duke’s help to learn how to fit into local society.
I adored the pairing of the strong- willed, proud Althea with the reclusive, compassionate Nathaniel Rothmere. The pigs in the orchard scene was fabulously written and entertaining. It drew me into the story immediately. Althea was thrust into polite society when her brother unexpectedly inherited a dukedom. She was not welcomed by her peers and has decided to retreat to her country estate. Althea’s desire for a husband, family and home resonated with me. She wanted something that most people take for granted.
It took me a few chapters to warm up to Nathaniel. I adored the servants Treegum, Elgin and Thatcher who took care of Nathaniel, his run down estate and kept his secrets. The trio of servants added a lot of love and laughter to the story. Loved Nathaniel’s secret visits to Lynley Vale. The friendship and ensuing romance which developed between Althea and the Nathaniel is perfectly paced. Nathaniel can’t help himself; he desires Althea. But, Nathaniel has is keeping a secret- a secret that prevents him from pursuing his own happiness.
Grace Burrowes is a gifted storyteller who creates memorable characters that are relatable. I emphasized Althea’s desire for a child, her determination to not be bullied by her peers and her love for Nathaniel. I understood why Nathan and his servants were so dedicated in keeping their secret. Loved the family bonds between both the Wentworths and Rothmeres. Stephen Wentworth is featured in this novel—loved his nosy conversations with Milly, Althea’s companion. He loves to be in the middle of family drama.
A Duke by Any Other Name can be read as a stand-alone novel. It’s an entertaining read filled with secrets, surprises and romance. The conclusion to this novel is fast-paced and perfectly written. As Nathaniel struggles with an important decision, Althea hosting a dinner for the local gentry attended by the town’s biggest gossip who has set her sights on her. Will Nathaniel support Althea and attend her event?
Grace Burrowes choice to set up a fantastic story for Constance and Robert instead of writing the usual six month happily ever after epilogue was fabulous! I was so intrigued by the pairing of Constance and Robert that I preordered the Truth About Dukes!
I adored the pairing of the strong- willed, proud Althea with the reclusive, compassionate Nathaniel Rothmere. The pigs in the orchard scene was fabulously written and entertaining. It drew me into the story immediately. Althea was thrust into polite society when her brother unexpectedly inherited a dukedom. She was not welcomed by her peers and has decided to retreat to her country estate. Althea’s desire for a husband, family and home resonated with me. She wanted something that most people take for granted.
It took me a few chapters to warm up to Nathaniel. I adored the servants Treegum, Elgin and Thatcher who took care of Nathaniel, his run down estate and kept his secrets. The trio of servants added a lot of love and laughter to the story. Loved Nathaniel’s secret visits to Lynley Vale. The friendship and ensuing romance which developed between Althea and the Nathaniel is perfectly paced. Nathaniel can’t help himself; he desires Althea. But, Nathaniel has is keeping a secret- a secret that prevents him from pursuing his own happiness.
Grace Burrowes is a gifted storyteller who creates memorable characters that are relatable. I emphasized Althea’s desire for a child, her determination to not be bullied by her peers and her love for Nathaniel. I understood why Nathan and his servants were so dedicated in keeping their secret. Loved the family bonds between both the Wentworths and Rothmeres. Stephen Wentworth is featured in this novel—loved his nosy conversations with Milly, Althea’s companion. He loves to be in the middle of family drama.
A Duke by Any Other Name can be read as a stand-alone novel. It’s an entertaining read filled with secrets, surprises and romance. The conclusion to this novel is fast-paced and perfectly written. As Nathaniel struggles with an important decision, Althea hosting a dinner for the local gentry attended by the town’s biggest gossip who has set her sights on her. Will Nathaniel support Althea and attend her event?
Grace Burrowes choice to set up a fantastic story for Constance and Robert instead of writing the usual six month happily ever after epilogue was fabulous! I was so intrigued by the pairing of Constance and Robert that I preordered the Truth About Dukes!
April 26, 2020
Although this is a series this book can easily be read as a stand alone, since this is 1st book I've read. This was an enjoyable romance. I loved that it had even more than romance and actually discussed a character to had, "shocker" seizures! Needless to say I cannot wait to read Robert's book! Nathaniel was a pretty good guy too and his and Althea's love story was a cute one. Thank you Read Forever publishing for the book to read and review.
May 15, 2020
The major flaw with this series is Burrowes' need to draw such cartoonish, two-dimensional villains, then foist their shallow perspectives upon readers via unnecessary chapters told from their point of view.
Other than that, this book was wonderful. The two leads were charming, their love story felt real, and their families were realistic but ultimately supportive. Lovely.
Other than that, this book was wonderful. The two leads were charming, their love story felt real, and their families were realistic but ultimately supportive. Lovely.
July 27, 2020
The story took way too long to give the reader a chance to figure out what was going on ...
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