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Silver Linings Mysteries #6
The Duke
The dramatic conclusion to the series!
The sinking of the Brig Minerva results in many deaths, while for others, the future is suddenly brighter. But it’s not always easy to leave the past behind...
Lord Randolph Litherholm has spent a year coming to terms with the death of his twin brother, Gervase, the 7th Duke of Falconbury. Now it’s time to set aside his mourning and accept his role as the 8th Duke. It’s not the management of the vast Litherholm wealth that bothers him, for he’s been running the estate for years. No, his reluctance is all due to the marriage that was arranged for his brother, and the expectation that Ran will take on his brother’s bride as well as his title.
Lady Ruth Grenaby’s marriage was arranged when she was twelve. Now she’s twenty-one and still waiting for her wedding day. Her intended husband is dead, but to her father, the younger brother will do just as well. He’s a duke, after all, and his eldest daughter can’t possibly marry a less exalted man. She’s a dutiful daughter, so she’ll do as her father says and marry Ran, even if he only sees her as another inherited obligation. But shattering events cause her to re-evaluate everything she’s ever believed in, and she must decide between duty and love.
This is a complete story with a HEA. Book 6 of a 6 book series. A traditional Regency romance, drawing room rather than bedroom.
The sinking of the Brig Minerva results in many deaths, while for others, the future is suddenly brighter. But it’s not always easy to leave the past behind...
Lord Randolph Litherholm has spent a year coming to terms with the death of his twin brother, Gervase, the 7th Duke of Falconbury. Now it’s time to set aside his mourning and accept his role as the 8th Duke. It’s not the management of the vast Litherholm wealth that bothers him, for he’s been running the estate for years. No, his reluctance is all due to the marriage that was arranged for his brother, and the expectation that Ran will take on his brother’s bride as well as his title.
Lady Ruth Grenaby’s marriage was arranged when she was twelve. Now she’s twenty-one and still waiting for her wedding day. Her intended husband is dead, but to her father, the younger brother will do just as well. He’s a duke, after all, and his eldest daughter can’t possibly marry a less exalted man. She’s a dutiful daughter, so she’ll do as her father says and marry Ran, even if he only sees her as another inherited obligation. But shattering events cause her to re-evaluate everything she’s ever believed in, and she must decide between duty and love.
This is a complete story with a HEA. Book 6 of a 6 book series. A traditional Regency romance, drawing room rather than bedroom.
304 pages, Kindle Edition
First published September 12, 2020
495 people are currently reading
125 people want to read
About the author
Mary Kingswood
68 books479 followersI live in the beautiful Highlands of Scotland with my husband. I like chocolate, whisky, my Kindle, massed pipe bands, long leisurely lunches, chocolate, going places in my campervan, eating pizza in Italy, summer nights that never get dark, wood fires in winter, chocolate, the view from the study window looking out over the Moray Firth and the Black Isle to the mountains beyond. And chocolate. I dislike driving on motorways, cooking, shopping, hospitals.
The lovely lady in my avatar is Archduchess Clementina of Austria (1798-1881), Princess of Salerno, painted around 1839.
NOTE: I read Regency romances as well as write them, and I review them all on my website, or you can find them right here on Goodreads on my real-name account at Pauline M. Ross.
The lovely lady in my avatar is Archduchess Clementina of Austria (1798-1881), Princess of Salerno, painted around 1839.
NOTE: I read Regency romances as well as write them, and I review them all on my website, or you can find them right here on Goodreads on my real-name account at Pauline M. Ross.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 97 reviews
February 9, 2025
What a wonderful end to the series! Things come full circle as we see how life has gone on for the new Duke of Falconbury, Ran (short for Randolph). He’s been running the dukedom since his teens, but reluctantly takes his older twin brother’s title and betrothed. He’s loved Ruth for years and she feels the same for him, but neither has ever said anything.
Meanwhile, the shipwreck survivor has established himself in Cornwall and has gotten Ginny pregnant.
We finally find out exactly what happened on the Brig Minerva and who the Benefactor is, the mystery that tied all the books in the series together.
Tw: depression, discussion of past suicide attempts
Meanwhile, the shipwreck survivor has established himself in Cornwall and has gotten Ginny pregnant.
We finally find out exactly what happened on the Brig Minerva and who the Benefactor is, the mystery that tied all the books in the series together.
Tw: depression, discussion of past suicide attempts
December 19, 2023
I was so disappointed with how badly written this book was compared with the rest of the series. It had no suspense or interesting story line. The big reveal is Ger, the real Duke of Falconberry is still alive, this huge moment is not exciting at all! All it does is show how badly Ran (the younger son) has been used by his brother. First, he is made a steward of his father’s estate where he has made it so much more money than it was previously worth. However, when Ran’s father dies, he is only left three estates that are only worth a $1000/year (he gets no part of the money for the investments he’s made)? Then his brother “dies” and he waits a year to take his title and his bride? If he knew something was wrong with the way his brother was found at the wreck of the Brig Minerva why didn’t he have anyone look into the strangers that where on the boat. Also, his brother Ger, believing the whole time he killed all the people on the boat was so unbelievable; however his becoming the benefactor makes some sense because of his guilt, but I don’t see how he possibly set it up when he was laid up in Ginny’s house half dead.
Once everyone finds out the real Duke is alive, Ruth’s parents expect her to marry Ger, when she is already formally betrothed to his twin, Ran. Additionally, Ruth has no real marriage agreement with Ger - who has a mistress that is with child who lives in the house, but her parents still insist they get married? Then the insipid plot line between Ran and Ruth - are they getting married - are they not getting married, do they love each other or not was supposed to make the story suspenseful, but it felt incredibly flat. Ruth’s parents, The Duke and Duchess are vehemently opposed to Ran and Ruth’s match, to the point where they say Ruth is no longer part of the family, but then decide to finally let them marry and give them $10,000 for her Dowry. Is it because they think Ger will marry Susan, who is engaged to Lord Crosby, a man she trapped into marriage? Also, what happened to the other $20,000 Ger was supposed to give Ran and Ruth to make sure they have enough money to live? Ger also promises to never marry, so that Ruth will still be mistress of Valmont and her sons will be the heirs to the Dukedom. But that whole plot line disappears, when after Ginny has made it absolutely clear she won’t be a duchess, she just changes her mind and everyone is fine with it? Also, the explanation of how Ballentine’s diamonds come to Ger and that he was going to kill himself over it, is incredibly insensitive to real people who struggle with suicide and Depression.
To wrap up my review, this book was poorly written compared to previous works by Mary Kingsford. The story was all over the place, it really had no plot at all and was a terrible end to an otherwise brilliant series. Don’t waste your time reading it!
Once everyone finds out the real Duke is alive, Ruth’s parents expect her to marry Ger, when she is already formally betrothed to his twin, Ran. Additionally, Ruth has no real marriage agreement with Ger - who has a mistress that is with child who lives in the house, but her parents still insist they get married? Then the insipid plot line between Ran and Ruth - are they getting married - are they not getting married, do they love each other or not was supposed to make the story suspenseful, but it felt incredibly flat. Ruth’s parents, The Duke and Duchess are vehemently opposed to Ran and Ruth’s match, to the point where they say Ruth is no longer part of the family, but then decide to finally let them marry and give them $10,000 for her Dowry. Is it because they think Ger will marry Susan, who is engaged to Lord Crosby, a man she trapped into marriage? Also, what happened to the other $20,000 Ger was supposed to give Ran and Ruth to make sure they have enough money to live? Ger also promises to never marry, so that Ruth will still be mistress of Valmont and her sons will be the heirs to the Dukedom. But that whole plot line disappears, when after Ginny has made it absolutely clear she won’t be a duchess, she just changes her mind and everyone is fine with it? Also, the explanation of how Ballentine’s diamonds come to Ger and that he was going to kill himself over it, is incredibly insensitive to real people who struggle with suicide and Depression.
To wrap up my review, this book was poorly written compared to previous works by Mary Kingsford. The story was all over the place, it really had no plot at all and was a terrible end to an otherwise brilliant series. Don’t waste your time reading it!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
September 20, 2020
Good series end, but something was missing
I'm used to Ms. Kingswood's slow pace, I know her books are to be savored, her characters develop through the book as well as the story and her surprising endings. I really like that. The Duke was the final in the Silver Linings series and of course we were all looking forward to find out all the misteries and the duke's love story as well. The first part of the book was very slow and although it picked up with the main discovery (don't want to spoil it for others) the love story of Ran took so long and sort of convoluted. Ruth need it to wake up, she was so passive and Ran too, allowing his brother (Ger) so much and Ger was so selfish, he does redeems himself towards the end. And speaking of the end, it was rushed with so much info packed into it. Again, being the final book it is a good closing up of the series which I really enjoyed as with all Ms. Kingswood's series so far.
I'm used to Ms. Kingswood's slow pace, I know her books are to be savored, her characters develop through the book as well as the story and her surprising endings. I really like that. The Duke was the final in the Silver Linings series and of course we were all looking forward to find out all the misteries and the duke's love story as well. The first part of the book was very slow and although it picked up with the main discovery (don't want to spoil it for others) the love story of Ran took so long and sort of convoluted. Ruth need it to wake up, she was so passive and Ran too, allowing his brother (Ger) so much and Ger was so selfish, he does redeems himself towards the end. And speaking of the end, it was rushed with so much info packed into it. Again, being the final book it is a good closing up of the series which I really enjoyed as with all Ms. Kingswood's series so far.
December 4, 2020
5 stars - Just lovely! Wrapped up both romance of The Clerk & the mystery of the shipwreck quite nicely. I really enjoyed it!!!
September 7, 2020
This was an engaging read and I thoroughly enjoyed it. handsome hero's, secrets, drama, mystery, scenes that'll tug on your heartstrings and moments that'll make you laugh and cry.
January 25, 2022
A Satisfying Conclusion to the series
The final installment of the Silver Linings mysteries neatly tied up loose ends and provided several HEA's. I couldn't ask for much more than that! A thoroughly enjoyable series that I will probably re-read at some point.
The final installment of the Silver Linings mysteries neatly tied up loose ends and provided several HEA's. I couldn't ask for much more than that! A thoroughly enjoyable series that I will probably re-read at some point.
July 8, 2020
Have you ever been a guest in someone’s home and very quickly been made to feel one of the family. You have wonderful times together, sharing new adventures as well as the humdrum chores of everyday life and before you know it you’re down to the final 24 hours of your visit and you feel so depressed. That’s how I felt as I was reading the final chapters of The Duke.
I never give away spoilers so any statements I make from here on will in no way ruin any of the stories for you. The Silver Lining Mysteries (6 in all) can be read in any order as they are stand-alone but do try at least to read The Clerk first to get an understanding of how it has all come about. This book is free on the author’s website. All the books in this series have HEA endings, there is no swearing or sex scenes and the only bedroom scenes are descriptions of the décor : ). The characters are always believable, some annoying (just like real life), some disagreeable, most are charming and some even funny – generally a good mix. I like the fact the female protagonist is not always an 18 year old beauty pageant winner but can sometimes be a quiet, sophisticated blue stocking or a plain but warm hearted soul with a mischievous smile and a twinkle in her eye – real people. Readers should never judge character’s actions by their own standards; books would be very boring if they had to reflect your own attitudes or actions. Just because a character does something different to how you would, should not interfere with your overall enjoyment of the entire story. Take everything else into account that is happening along the way and don’t get bogged down in one detail like, for example, someone’s indecision, especially when the author provides valid reasons for such.
The Duke is a great conclusion to an amazing series. All wrapped up neatly with some extra side helpings of various romances and nasty relations thrown in for good measure. You don’t need bedroom scenes to cause a potential scandal amongst the le beau monde in this novel, there is never a dull moment. Now we find out what really happened that night in the Irish Sea to the Brig Minerva and who was responsible. Not everyone was who they appeared to be, but which ones and why? Just as some mysteries were solved it seemed more mysteries appeared – this book certainly provides value for money for the grey matter to ponder over and a chance to see if your guesses were correct. There are so many remarkable characters in this story it was hard to decide on just one favourite. I think Ms Kingswood gave it her all to round off the series with a fireworks finale – so much happens!
Mary Kingswood is a great story teller and manages to keep hold of the hundreds of threads of the story as they weave and waft throughout the fabric of six books, not once losing the end-game. I genuinely feel deprived of good friends now I have come to the end of this series but I would highly recommend The Silver Lining Mysteries to every Regency lover and it would make an awesome Christmas gift. If you know someone who has read the other 5 then surprise them with The Duke and you won’t see them all weekend.
I acquired The Duke as a pre-release version but have given my honest and unbiased opinion of my enjoyment of this book.
I never give away spoilers so any statements I make from here on will in no way ruin any of the stories for you. The Silver Lining Mysteries (6 in all) can be read in any order as they are stand-alone but do try at least to read The Clerk first to get an understanding of how it has all come about. This book is free on the author’s website. All the books in this series have HEA endings, there is no swearing or sex scenes and the only bedroom scenes are descriptions of the décor : ). The characters are always believable, some annoying (just like real life), some disagreeable, most are charming and some even funny – generally a good mix. I like the fact the female protagonist is not always an 18 year old beauty pageant winner but can sometimes be a quiet, sophisticated blue stocking or a plain but warm hearted soul with a mischievous smile and a twinkle in her eye – real people. Readers should never judge character’s actions by their own standards; books would be very boring if they had to reflect your own attitudes or actions. Just because a character does something different to how you would, should not interfere with your overall enjoyment of the entire story. Take everything else into account that is happening along the way and don’t get bogged down in one detail like, for example, someone’s indecision, especially when the author provides valid reasons for such.
The Duke is a great conclusion to an amazing series. All wrapped up neatly with some extra side helpings of various romances and nasty relations thrown in for good measure. You don’t need bedroom scenes to cause a potential scandal amongst the le beau monde in this novel, there is never a dull moment. Now we find out what really happened that night in the Irish Sea to the Brig Minerva and who was responsible. Not everyone was who they appeared to be, but which ones and why? Just as some mysteries were solved it seemed more mysteries appeared – this book certainly provides value for money for the grey matter to ponder over and a chance to see if your guesses were correct. There are so many remarkable characters in this story it was hard to decide on just one favourite. I think Ms Kingswood gave it her all to round off the series with a fireworks finale – so much happens!
Mary Kingswood is a great story teller and manages to keep hold of the hundreds of threads of the story as they weave and waft throughout the fabric of six books, not once losing the end-game. I genuinely feel deprived of good friends now I have come to the end of this series but I would highly recommend The Silver Lining Mysteries to every Regency lover and it would make an awesome Christmas gift. If you know someone who has read the other 5 then surprise them with The Duke and you won’t see them all weekend.
I acquired The Duke as a pre-release version but have given my honest and unbiased opinion of my enjoyment of this book.
September 12, 2020
Mary Kingswood is a favorite author of mine, and “The Duke” is the satisfying conclusion to the Silver Linings Mysteries Series, in which the mystery of the Benefactor and other puzzles are revealed. “The Painter” was my favorite of the series, although I missed seeing Mr. Willerton-Forbes and his colleagues Captain Edgerton and Mr. Neate in that story. They are back in “The Duke,” and they put their considerable skills to discover what happened to the missing heir to the dukedom. The series began in “The Clerk,” which is available for free to subscribers of Kingswood’s mailing list subscribers. I recommend reading that first, because it sets up the subsequent stories about the survivors and victims of the sinking of the Brig Minerva. “The Duke” focuses on the brother of the missing duke, Randolph Litherholm. Lord Randolph has willingly taken over the business side of the dukedom, but he has not accepted that his brother is dead although a year has passed since the sinking. He has so many unanswered questions, and is also facing the expectation that he will marry his brother’s betrothed, Lady Ruth. Randolph is a wonderful hero, and I was rooting for him from the beginning.
It takes a long time for all the important conversations to take place that will enable the happy resolution the reader hopes for, but of course in those days they couldn’t write “Dear Amy” for assistance. In the blurb for her books, Kingswood always says she writes traditional Regency romances, “drawing room rather than bedroom.” There definitely is romance to enjoy, and I also appreciate that she makes a serious effort to make sure the books historically accurate. I’m eagerly awaiting her next series. I received a pre-release copy of “The Duke” and this is my honest opinion.
It takes a long time for all the important conversations to take place that will enable the happy resolution the reader hopes for, but of course in those days they couldn’t write “Dear Amy” for assistance. In the blurb for her books, Kingswood always says she writes traditional Regency romances, “drawing room rather than bedroom.” There definitely is romance to enjoy, and I also appreciate that she makes a serious effort to make sure the books historically accurate. I’m eagerly awaiting her next series. I received a pre-release copy of “The Duke” and this is my honest opinion.
April 25, 2021
Ended on a flat note
I have enjoyed this series and raced through them; but I was a bit let down by the ending. The tattoo was a bit over the top. I didn’t like Ruth as much as some of the other protagonists, Ginny was fine but a bit too good to be true. The depression of the Duke was handled well. The mystery of the woman dressed as a man could have been so much more interesting. The benefactor was predictable although I didn’t completely understand all the money issues, in either this book nor the last. Nor what Ran the s living on. I thought the twinness could have been played up more, but appreciated that they were not identical. Not a reason to skip this part; one has to finish. I appreciate meeting Mr. Chandry as I have read other books by the author. Would love to see a series focused more on the company of Willerton - Forbes.
I have enjoyed this series and raced through them; but I was a bit let down by the ending. The tattoo was a bit over the top. I didn’t like Ruth as much as some of the other protagonists, Ginny was fine but a bit too good to be true. The depression of the Duke was handled well. The mystery of the woman dressed as a man could have been so much more interesting. The benefactor was predictable although I didn’t completely understand all the money issues, in either this book nor the last. Nor what Ran the s living on. I thought the twinness could have been played up more, but appreciated that they were not identical. Not a reason to skip this part; one has to finish. I appreciate meeting Mr. Chandry as I have read other books by the author. Would love to see a series focused more on the company of Willerton - Forbes.
March 2, 2025
Look, I get what the author is doing. She's portraying dukes and duchesses and their lifestyle way more accurately than most HR by far- that they're the next thing to royalty, and in many cases ARE royalty, and thus they do not have the freedom that other gentility and nobility have, even to kind of marry where they want. In fact, it's really less freedom, and almost zero personal privacy.
And alongside that is portrayed that a dukedom does not necessarily convey true gentle-personlike-behavior - the FMC's parents have the appearance of gentility but frankly are a bit low class under the veneer - greedy, grasping, etc. and seem to have no sense of noblesse oblige.
And it's great writing. It's done well, and the plot(s) and characterizations of most of the characters of this series are great, and I extra love the two whats-their-names who've been distributing largesse for the "Benefactor" and have low-key shipped them as a platonic romantic couple haha.
All that said, this is such a frustrating book to read. The FMC is just boringly perfect. Boring and absolutely no seeming will or personality of her own.
I feel like I'm reading about one of the Other Women in a regular HR novel- the competition to the female lead who is too perfect and boring and has no desires of her own. Now, I haven't finished the book, so if there is a realistic awakening of her own personality that occurs (and that would be very difficult to pull off what with wrapping up the entire series, tying up loose ends, AND solving not one but two romantic tanglements, addressing the MMCs' issues adapting to the changes, etc) I'll eat my words, but she is just boring. MMC 1 is less boring than she is, but still frustratingly proper even in his mindset and really too good for his own good.
The secondary romance is way more interesting. They honestly have way more of an obstacle to overcome, because you can see and feel the love they have for each other.
Anyway, this main couple is frankly not nearly as interesting as any of the couples in the rest of the series, and it's frustrating just reading about them passively, weakly kinda waiting to see if things are gonna go their way and being resigned to those things not going their way, plus near-zero interactions, instead of you know taking agency for their own lives and doing something about it.
Hard to root for a couple that's so apathetic about their own outcome, in other words.
And alongside that is portrayed that a dukedom does not necessarily convey true gentle-personlike-behavior - the FMC's parents have the appearance of gentility but frankly are a bit low class under the veneer - greedy, grasping, etc. and seem to have no sense of noblesse oblige.
And it's great writing. It's done well, and the plot(s) and characterizations of most of the characters of this series are great, and I extra love the two whats-their-names who've been distributing largesse for the "Benefactor" and have low-key shipped them as a platonic romantic couple haha.
All that said, this is such a frustrating book to read. The FMC is just boringly perfect. Boring and absolutely no seeming will or personality of her own.
I feel like I'm reading about one of the Other Women in a regular HR novel- the competition to the female lead who is too perfect and boring and has no desires of her own. Now, I haven't finished the book, so if there is a realistic awakening of her own personality that occurs (and that would be very difficult to pull off what with wrapping up the entire series, tying up loose ends, AND solving not one but two romantic tanglements, addressing the MMCs' issues adapting to the changes, etc) I'll eat my words, but she is just boring. MMC 1 is less boring than she is, but still frustratingly proper even in his mindset and really too good for his own good.
The secondary romance is way more interesting. They honestly have way more of an obstacle to overcome, because you can see and feel the love they have for each other.
Anyway, this main couple is frankly not nearly as interesting as any of the couples in the rest of the series, and it's frustrating just reading about them passively, weakly kinda waiting to see if things are gonna go their way and being resigned to those things not going their way, plus near-zero interactions, instead of you know taking agency for their own lives and doing something about it.
Hard to root for a couple that's so apathetic about their own outcome, in other words.
September 12, 2020
The Duke is the long-awaited conclusion to Mary Kingswood’s Silver Lining Series.
The sinking of a ship leaves a few survivors, but thanks to a mysterious benefactor who grants each victim’s family one thousand pounds, and the unexpected ways that lives are changed for the better through the tragedy of the ship wreck, this final book in a six-part series is a fun and fabulous read.
The seventh Duke of Falconbury is one of the victims of the shipwreck and, after a year of mourning and looking for any unexpected children from the Duke’s time in America, the Duke’s brother Randolph (Ran) prepares to take over the title and fiancé. Ran never wanted the title, but he always wanted the girl, who was betrothed to his brother when she was a young girl.
There are a lot of plot twists, to wrap up several loose ends, but “The Duke” never strays (too far) beyond what is credible. I had a little trouble with Lady Ruth, the late Duke and now Ran’s fiancé, who takes most of the book before she’s able to stand on her own. But Ran is very nuanced, as a young man who is mourning the loss of his brother.
You don’t have to read the whole series in order, each book stands alone. Mary Kingswood’s books are always focused on the drawing room and clever conversation over the bedroom, and a HEA is a sure thing.
I was provided an advance copy of this book, in exchange for my honest opinion.
The sinking of a ship leaves a few survivors, but thanks to a mysterious benefactor who grants each victim’s family one thousand pounds, and the unexpected ways that lives are changed for the better through the tragedy of the ship wreck, this final book in a six-part series is a fun and fabulous read.
The seventh Duke of Falconbury is one of the victims of the shipwreck and, after a year of mourning and looking for any unexpected children from the Duke’s time in America, the Duke’s brother Randolph (Ran) prepares to take over the title and fiancé. Ran never wanted the title, but he always wanted the girl, who was betrothed to his brother when she was a young girl.
There are a lot of plot twists, to wrap up several loose ends, but “The Duke” never strays (too far) beyond what is credible. I had a little trouble with Lady Ruth, the late Duke and now Ran’s fiancé, who takes most of the book before she’s able to stand on her own. But Ran is very nuanced, as a young man who is mourning the loss of his brother.
You don’t have to read the whole series in order, each book stands alone. Mary Kingswood’s books are always focused on the drawing room and clever conversation over the bedroom, and a HEA is a sure thing.
I was provided an advance copy of this book, in exchange for my honest opinion.
September 7, 2020
I was happy to receive an ARC of this book, the last in the Silver Linings Mysteries series, and to agree to give my honest opinion.
I very much enjoyed this book. If you look and see that I have given it 3 stars, that's because I give books that I really like 3 stars. Books that I love unreservedly get 4 stars, and Shakespeare and Jane Austen get 5. Maybe Douglas Adams. But I digress.
This book is a satisfying end to an enjoyable series. Everything is wrapped up and explained (like some of the through-stories: Who is Jonathan Ellsworthy? Who is the benefactor? Why did the Brig Minerva sink in the first place? And who really died in the accident?) in ways that make sense and that don't feel contrived. We've met almost all of the characters before, and it's good to see them come full circle and find the happiness they deserve. I found Ger to be a little frustrating at times, but it's hinted at strongly that he's dealing with an unspecified mental illness; the good news is that he does find ways to cope in the end that don't hurt the people he loves.
Mary Kingswood is one of my current favorite authors. Her stories are well written and entertaining, and I love reading them to escape from the craziness that is the world today. I'm looking forward to starting her next series!
I very much enjoyed this book. If you look and see that I have given it 3 stars, that's because I give books that I really like 3 stars. Books that I love unreservedly get 4 stars, and Shakespeare and Jane Austen get 5. Maybe Douglas Adams. But I digress.
This book is a satisfying end to an enjoyable series. Everything is wrapped up and explained (like some of the through-stories: Who is Jonathan Ellsworthy? Who is the benefactor? Why did the Brig Minerva sink in the first place? And who really died in the accident?) in ways that make sense and that don't feel contrived. We've met almost all of the characters before, and it's good to see them come full circle and find the happiness they deserve. I found Ger to be a little frustrating at times, but it's hinted at strongly that he's dealing with an unspecified mental illness; the good news is that he does find ways to cope in the end that don't hurt the people he loves.
Mary Kingswood is one of my current favorite authors. Her stories are well written and entertaining, and I love reading them to escape from the craziness that is the world today. I'm looking forward to starting her next series!
September 14, 2020
I was reading another author, one I am unfamiliar with. I wasn't enjoying the book, but I like to try new authors, at least give them a chance. You never know when you might find a gem. In Chapter 3 her "hero" slept with his father's mistress, a woman he had known since he was 12. Apparently, not for the first time. I stopped reading and returned the book. The next day The Duke showed up in my library. After the first page I asked myself, why was I wasting my time with that trash when I could have been reading Mary Kingswood? I won't make that mistake again!
The Duke is a wonderful ending to a wonderful series. Suspenseful, poignant, heartwarming, funny, and satisfying all around. I would be very happy to visit the Litherholm family again. (I'd certainly like to know that the contemptible Lady Susan gets her just desserts, though she proved quite useful in the end.) I'm quite attached to them, and their marvelous house. I can’t say more without spoilers, but these characters are marvelous, and I very much wNt to spend more time with them. I may have to go back and reread the whole series again, now that all the little mysteries, and the big mysteries, are solved. In fact, I need to reread everything Mary Kingswood has written. It’s so hard to wait for the next book. She’s that good. Enjoy!
The Duke is a wonderful ending to a wonderful series. Suspenseful, poignant, heartwarming, funny, and satisfying all around. I would be very happy to visit the Litherholm family again. (I'd certainly like to know that the contemptible Lady Susan gets her just desserts, though she proved quite useful in the end.) I'm quite attached to them, and their marvelous house. I can’t say more without spoilers, but these characters are marvelous, and I very much wNt to spend more time with them. I may have to go back and reread the whole series again, now that all the little mysteries, and the big mysteries, are solved. In fact, I need to reread everything Mary Kingswood has written. It’s so hard to wait for the next book. She’s that good. Enjoy!
March 7, 2023
I have enjoyed many of this author's books and appreciate her authentic and detailed depiction of the settings and social conventions of the period. I was frustrated by the constant negative motivations and lack of emotional competence in the lead characters. There were other interesting characters who were more engaging than the heroine and hero.
Up to 60% of the book the dilemma faced by the two leads is essentially the same as at the beginning, and they are both still running the same narrative through their heads. I love introvert characters, but the lack of resolution of both protagonists was very frustrating. And then suddenly, after they finally admit their mutual love, they both started interacting genuinely with each other and their family members - as if 20 years of habits and ways of communicating can change in a day. Despite the 'happily ever after' one wonders if after having no emotional intelligence and complying with the wishes of everyone but themselves for all those years, can they actually communicate enough to find long lasting happiness?
I would recommend this as a decent resolution of the long-running mystery theme and ancillary characters.
Up to 60% of the book the dilemma faced by the two leads is essentially the same as at the beginning, and they are both still running the same narrative through their heads. I love introvert characters, but the lack of resolution of both protagonists was very frustrating. And then suddenly, after they finally admit their mutual love, they both started interacting genuinely with each other and their family members - as if 20 years of habits and ways of communicating can change in a day. Despite the 'happily ever after' one wonders if after having no emotional intelligence and complying with the wishes of everyone but themselves for all those years, can they actually communicate enough to find long lasting happiness?
I would recommend this as a decent resolution of the long-running mystery theme and ancillary characters.
September 15, 2020
The last book in this series brought the conclusion of the mystery around the sinking of the Brig Minerva. It explained every mystery and open question there might still be, revealed the name of the benefactor and had some unforeseen twists and turns towards the end.
I enjoyed the emphasis on the rules that determined female lives in those days. The reader feels with the heroine who is under extreme pressure by her parents, in the end she grows a backbone and persues her own happyness.
It is entertaining to read that while most females had a chaperone to guard their innocence, the men didn't and the eligible rich and titled men had to be vigilant not to be trapped into marriage. Such a conniving female evokes enough jealousy in the other heroine that the duke gets his HEA as well.
The only disappointment were the heroine's parents, duke and duchess in her own but behaving like lower nobility trying to rise in ranks/connections/whatever.
Apart from The Clerk and The Painter this was my favorite book of the series.
I enjoyed the emphasis on the rules that determined female lives in those days. The reader feels with the heroine who is under extreme pressure by her parents, in the end she grows a backbone and persues her own happyness.
It is entertaining to read that while most females had a chaperone to guard their innocence, the men didn't and the eligible rich and titled men had to be vigilant not to be trapped into marriage. Such a conniving female evokes enough jealousy in the other heroine that the duke gets his HEA as well.
The only disappointment were the heroine's parents, duke and duchess in her own but behaving like lower nobility trying to rise in ranks/connections/whatever.
Apart from The Clerk and The Painter this was my favorite book of the series.
November 6, 2020
I received an ARC (advanced readers' copy) of this book in exchange for my honest opinion. I've read a good deal of Mary Kingswood books by this point, including the previous books of this series, and I love the way this one paints a picture for the reader through multiple characters' perspectives. As with the others of this series, it is an enjoyable historical romance book with some mystery. I love the way Kingswood mashes up these genres and tied The Duke in with the previous books. I feel these books could stand alone as well, which is unusual but certainly works well for new readers to come in without having previous knowledge. This particular book illustrates through multiple characters the struggle between duty/responsibility and love, and how to navigate that struggle in the Regency era. Sometimes, the mystery parts can seem predictable, but there were a couple of twists in this I didn't see coming. If you enjoy the genres and these types of themes, I'd recommend giving it a read.
November 22, 2020
I really do like tis series. It was such a delightful mix of mystery and romance. The characters where well built and the story lines where amazing. I really wish this book could have been a little better though. I definitely think the romance was really slow at the beginning. It took me a really long time to get through this book because of how slow it moved. I am usually really fast at finishing a book. I read all the other books in the series in three days yet this book took me two months to finish.
I also wish that it would show the growth of the attraction between Ran and Ruth. I honestly thought that Ran was excited only because of Ruth’s accomplishments and beauty not that he was actually in love with her. I would have liked to see that growing attraction between the two instead of “oh what? They all the sudden love each other! A little confused but okay...”
I love your books Mary Kingswood! Thanks for becoming a writer so that we can Enjoy good books for once. You are very talented.
I also wish that it would show the growth of the attraction between Ran and Ruth. I honestly thought that Ran was excited only because of Ruth’s accomplishments and beauty not that he was actually in love with her. I would have liked to see that growing attraction between the two instead of “oh what? They all the sudden love each other! A little confused but okay...”
I love your books Mary Kingswood! Thanks for becoming a writer so that we can Enjoy good books for once. You are very talented.
September 16, 2020
The finale. It all got tied up in a tidy little now to finish the silver linings series. When he duke was lost in the Minerva, his twin never wanted to be the duke. Even if his temperament was more conducive to ducal behavior. The older brother was subject to extreme mood swings. The younger twin was always steady and much better at managing the many properties and projects of the estates.
Betrothed at a young age but not wanting to take up the responsibilities of running the estates of going to Parliament, Gervance heads to America before he must marry and settle down. He tries to find a way to fake his death and leave his responsibilities behind.
Ran, the younger twin is reluctant to accept his brothers death even after he personally identified the body. Now he is left to marry Ger's fiancee if she will have him.
Betrothed at a young age but not wanting to take up the responsibilities of running the estates of going to Parliament, Gervance heads to America before he must marry and settle down. He tries to find a way to fake his death and leave his responsibilities behind.
Ran, the younger twin is reluctant to accept his brothers death even after he personally identified the body. Now he is left to marry Ger's fiancee if she will have him.
September 3, 2020
Entirely satisfying! Wonderful characters that change and grow as the story progresses is something that I always want in a book. Having all of the mysteries and puzzles from the previous books in the series solved in interesting twists and turns by the end of this book was thoroughly enjoyable! Now I want to read the series again right from The Clerk all the way through. Each book could be a stand-alone, but I highly recommend starting with The Clerk (a free book) to get in the right mind-set. I have read other Mary Kingswood series and many times characters from one series pop up in another series...it is good to see "old friends" from one book to another!
I was thrilled to be selected as an ARC reader and be able to read it sooner than most! I was not disappointed!
I was thrilled to be selected as an ARC reader and be able to read it sooner than most! I was not disappointed!
September 13, 2020
This author has the best style of Regency writing I have yet to read. I have been remiss in making reviews on all of her work and I hope to rectify that by saying I am a fan for life. Her work is true to the period. I have read the Silver Lining Series and finished with The Duke. The questions brewing in my mind throughout the series were answered. I love the fact that Mary tackles the problems of the developmentally disabled individuals and mental illnesses throughout her work. Her research is impeccable in these areas. I commend her for including these tough subjects in her writing, especially for this time period. The Duke was a delight to read. I look forward to reading the next new series. Write faster Mary.
August 30, 2020
This is another excellent story in the Silver Lining Mystery Series. Kings wood brilliantly blends Victorian lives with mystery intrigue and a sweet romance into a beautifully crafted story. There is conflict within the confines of nobility and the minds of younger generations struggling to appease their parents and following their hearts. Characters from previous stories are brought in to tie up loose ends from the first story in this series to tie everything together. I can’t praise this author enough, let alone due justice to her masterful writing style. Clean, sweet and a great story. Can’t wait for her next book.
September 29, 2020
This novel ends a series of books, each one telling the story of a person whose life changed by the sinking of the ship Minerva. The Duke of Falconbury was killed in the sinking and his twin brother, Lord Randolph Litherholm mourns his death for a year. Only then, when he becomes the Duke, can he ask Lady Ruth for her hand in marriage, just as she was betrothed to his brother. But the people who are checking into what exactly caused the Minerva to sink have a surprise for him, one he would have rather they had not discovered.
Very repetitious. Not funny, no froth; just a love story to tie up all the loose ends.
Very repetitious. Not funny, no froth; just a love story to tie up all the loose ends.
March 9, 2021
She saved the best until last!
I loved all the twists and turns in this final book of the series and I enjoyed how all the loose ends from the series were gradually tied up. It's so rare for an author to leave the reader guessing almost until the end on how it would all be resolved, an aspect of Mary's writing that I really enjoy and the reason why I always wait until the whole series is out and then binge read!
I also love that her books are actually properly proofread. It's so dispiriting to read a book full of spelling, grammatical and typographical errors, but none of that here!
I loved all the twists and turns in this final book of the series and I enjoyed how all the loose ends from the series were gradually tied up. It's so rare for an author to leave the reader guessing almost until the end on how it would all be resolved, an aspect of Mary's writing that I really enjoy and the reason why I always wait until the whole series is out and then binge read!
I also love that her books are actually properly proofread. It's so dispiriting to read a book full of spelling, grammatical and typographical errors, but none of that here!
July 7, 2024
Thoroughly Enjoyable
I thoroughly enjoyed this book. It was surprisingly long, but I still couldn’t get enough! Read throughout the night. I had to finish it … couldn’t put it down. The storyline was totally original … the entire series is original and fascinating. Filled with so much heartbreak and heartache, as well as redemption and restoration. The characters come alive in Ms Kingwood’s books. I’ve read quite a few written by this author and most have been excellent. The dialogue is lively and entertaining, with an effort made to conform to the regency era. There are few typos or grammatical errors. A wonderful read.
I thoroughly enjoyed this book. It was surprisingly long, but I still couldn’t get enough! Read throughout the night. I had to finish it … couldn’t put it down. The storyline was totally original … the entire series is original and fascinating. Filled with so much heartbreak and heartache, as well as redemption and restoration. The characters come alive in Ms Kingwood’s books. I’ve read quite a few written by this author and most have been excellent. The dialogue is lively and entertaining, with an effort made to conform to the regency era. There are few typos or grammatical errors. A wonderful read.
June 23, 2025
Ruth and Randolph.
Predictable end to a fun series. I knew from the start who Jon Ellsworthy was I just didn't know why he was hiding until I read this book.
As far as this book is concerned...
The miscommunication between Ruth and Randolph started to chafe but they came around. I did like them as people though. The degree of duty to parents and peerage for Ruth are hard for me to understand. I needed her to make Ran happy by marrying him and I was almost as frustrated as he was.
Ginny also bothered me with her insistence to not be a duchess. Gervase is insane. These two are so extreme in their feelings and prejudices that they make their lives hard for themselves.
Predictable end to a fun series. I knew from the start who Jon Ellsworthy was I just didn't know why he was hiding until I read this book.
As far as this book is concerned...
The miscommunication between Ruth and Randolph started to chafe but they came around. I did like them as people though. The degree of duty to parents and peerage for Ruth are hard for me to understand. I needed her to make Ran happy by marrying him and I was almost as frustrated as he was.
Ginny also bothered me with her insistence to not be a duchess. Gervase is insane. These two are so extreme in their feelings and prejudices that they make their lives hard for themselves.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
September 23, 2020
Everything is right with the world
I enjoy historical romances and this series made me a Mary Kingswood fan for good. The characters are so well drawn and I began to feel as if I knew them personally. Even to the point of yelling at them to pay attention. Especially when it came to recognizing common attraction. With all the proper behavior and civility the nobles display, they are still men and women who fall in love and act accordingly. Great fun through the whole series. Thank you
I enjoy historical romances and this series made me a Mary Kingswood fan for good. The characters are so well drawn and I began to feel as if I knew them personally. Even to the point of yelling at them to pay attention. Especially when it came to recognizing common attraction. With all the proper behavior and civility the nobles display, they are still men and women who fall in love and act accordingly. Great fun through the whole series. Thank you
September 25, 2020
Ahimè, la tanto attesa conclusione non si è dimostrata all'altezza degli altri volumi della serie, che ho molto apprezzato. Anche se la trama (che doveva essere stata predisposta fin da subito) è interessante, i personaggi non riescono a suscitare la necessaria empatia, quasi come se l'autrice se ne fosse in qualche modo disamorata: tutti, per una ragione o per l'altra, appaiono un po' sopra le righe, un po' fastidiosi. Anche (e soprattutto) Ginny, che avrebbe dovuto svolgere il ruolo di 'cartina di tornasole' degli affetti.
October 23, 2020
Each novel in this series works very well individually. However, when read as a whole, the intricate dovetailing of the plotlines following the sinking of the Brig Minerva can be fully appreciated. This final tale draws the strands together to a satisfying conclusion, taking nothing away from the romance of Ran and Ruth.
Mary Kingswood is so good on all things Regency, but particularly so on the observations of the limits and restrictions of women's lives at that period. Her books are always a pleasure to read.
Mary Kingswood is so good on all things Regency, but particularly so on the observations of the limits and restrictions of women's lives at that period. Her books are always a pleasure to read.
March 14, 2022
A satisfying tying-up of the central mysteries of this series.
A somewhat underwhelming romance, given that the protagonists are both so diffident and self-effacing that they would never have realized that they were meant to be together without the assistance of the only character with her feet on the ground. Who happens not to be a member of the aristocracy.
In other words, our hero and heroine don't quite earn their HEA, IMHO.
That said, I enjoyed this; a solid story well told, with endearing characters and meticulous attention to period details.
A somewhat underwhelming romance, given that the protagonists are both so diffident and self-effacing that they would never have realized that they were meant to be together without the assistance of the only character with her feet on the ground. Who happens not to be a member of the aristocracy.
In other words, our hero and heroine don't quite earn their HEA, IMHO.
That said, I enjoyed this; a solid story well told, with endearing characters and meticulous attention to period details.
January 10, 2023
Perfect ending
This is the perfect ending to a nearly perfect series! I had guessed part of the secret disclosed in this book but that in no way detracted from the plot of this wonderful book. I LOVED Ran(dolf) and yearned for him and achieve his almost impossible dream of a happily ever after. This book can be read as a stand-alone but will be most appreciated if one has read the series. It is so hard for create a fully satisfactory ending of a six-book series but Mary Is has achieved it in The Duke!
This is the perfect ending to a nearly perfect series! I had guessed part of the secret disclosed in this book but that in no way detracted from the plot of this wonderful book. I LOVED Ran(dolf) and yearned for him and achieve his almost impossible dream of a happily ever after. This book can be read as a stand-alone but will be most appreciated if one has read the series. It is so hard for create a fully satisfactory ending of a six-book series but Mary Is has achieved it in The Duke!
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