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Game of Dukes #2
Enter the Duke
One wicked night of passion results in life-altering consequences for innocent bar maid Maggie Goode. Years later, she's a respectable widow, but her troubles are far from over. With debts looming, she must salvage her fossil shop to support herself and her beloved daughter. Fate leads her to a man who can save her business... but he's also the biggest mistake from her past.
The product of an ill-fated union between an English aristocrat and a Chinese merchant's daughter, Rhys Cavendish, the Duke of Ranelagh and Somerville ("Ransom"), hides his secret pain behind a rakish façade. Yet he cannot hide from his debts, and now he's on the run from cutthroat moneylenders--and the necessity of marrying for convenience. His last the inheritance his uncle left him in the form of a treasure map. When he goes to hire help for his expedition, he comes face to face with a woman he's never forgotten... and a daughter he never knew he had.
Dangerous secrets smolder between Maggie and Rhys, but neither can resist a scorching reunion. Personal demons and hidden enemies threaten their quest and their passionate romance. Will they defy all odds to find the ultimate a love for all time?
The product of an ill-fated union between an English aristocrat and a Chinese merchant's daughter, Rhys Cavendish, the Duke of Ranelagh and Somerville ("Ransom"), hides his secret pain behind a rakish façade. Yet he cannot hide from his debts, and now he's on the run from cutthroat moneylenders--and the necessity of marrying for convenience. His last the inheritance his uncle left him in the form of a treasure map. When he goes to hire help for his expedition, he comes face to face with a woman he's never forgotten... and a daughter he never knew he had.
Dangerous secrets smolder between Maggie and Rhys, but neither can resist a scorching reunion. Personal demons and hidden enemies threaten their quest and their passionate romance. Will they defy all odds to find the ultimate a love for all time?
370 pages, Paperback
Published December 18, 2018
413 people are currently reading
647 people want to read
About the author
Grace Callaway
51 books1,084 followers
Preorder GLORY AND THE MASTER OF SHADOWS (Lady Charlotte's Society of Angels #4) for March 28th!
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Don't miss this thrilling new historical romance by USA Today Bestseller Grace Callaway! Set during the Opium Wars, this steamy and spellbinding Charlie’s Angels meets Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon romance will leave you breathless...
Their love is forbidden…and irresistible.
The daughter of a half-Chinese duke and a lady fossil hunter, Lady Glory Cavendish is a free-spirited campaigner for justice. She belongs to a secret society of lady detectives whose goal is to help women in need. During her latest case involving a dastardly dognapping, Glory crosses paths with the handsome and mysterious Wei Chen, a master of healing and martial arts. Fascinated by the noble shifu, Glory convinces him to take her on as a pupil; the more time she spends with him, however, the more she longs for lessons of a more intimate nature.
Master Wei Chen has led a life of discipline focused on a single goal: avenging his murdered kin. His journey takes him to London where, by day, he treats opium users in his East End clinic and, by night, he secretly hunts the villain who destroyed his family. Yet for the first time, temptation distracts Wei: his spirited and lovely new pupil stirs dangerous needs in him. Desires that are forbidden between a shifu and his student…and between a commoner and a duke’s daughter.
As Wei and Glory’s slow-burn romance ignites into fiery passion, they are drawn into a web of betrayal and deceit. Torn between honor and desire, revenge and love, the pair must decide if they will let the past determine their future…or if they will fight the shadows for their chance at happily ever after.
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About Grace
USA Today & International Bestselling Author Grace Callaway writes hot and heart-melting historical romance filled with mystery and adventure. Her debut novel was a Romance Writers of America® Golden Heart® Finalist and a #1 National Regency Bestseller, and her subsequent novels have topped national and international bestselling lists. She is the winner of the Daphne du Maurier Award for Excellence in Mystery and Suspense, the Maggie Award for Excellence in Historical Romance, the Golden Leaf, and the Passionate Plume Award for Historical Novel. She holds a doctorate in clinical psychology from the University of Michigan and lives with her family in a valley close to the sea. When she’s not writing, she enjoys dancing, exploring the great outdoors with her rescue pup, and cheering on her favorite basketball team.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 138 reviews
July 15, 2019
1.5 stars rounded up to 2.
I didn’t enjoy this story.
Maggie the barmaid and a duke. Yeah, right. He screws her, leaves her some money and a bun in the oven, and she doesn’t see him again for over 10 years. He just buggers off.
When he rune into her again, his reaction is: can’t possibly marry her -after all, she's not his social equal- but she’s still hot, so good mistress material. Because she was just a lusty widow now, and we all know they are just gagging for it. (He hadn’t even noticed she’d been a virgin that time all these years ago. And she’d been too lovestruck -after an hour- to keep her legs together.) Maybe they could go a holiday fling? An affair while he was in town. She hadn't exactly played hard to get all those years ago.
Nice one. JERK !
https://media.giphy.com/media/eKJbmNY...
Maggie thinks he is still hot, too, and likes the idea of an affair, but is terrified he will realise her daughter is his. So, in a TSTL moment, she allows him into her life, then wonders why the shit hits the fan upon his realisation that he has a daughter he didn’t know about. Sure enough, he goes all postal, threatening to take their daughter away. Duh. She knew he might do that, she even says it, but she allows her hormones rule her head. And to win out over her maternal instinct, if you ask me.
I didn’t like Rhys very much. He was immature and selfish. He hadn’t really changed much from when he was 20. Blame everyone and don’t take responsibility. She didn’t even know his real name or title, so how was Maggie supposed to tell him that she was pregnant? His self-righteous bluster got on my nerves, and he took a long time to see the light.
And frankly, it was stretching credibility when the author had Rhys regularly and fondly remembering his night with the barmaid. As though she had been something special. All the while, he is whoring and drinking his way through the world for ten years.
Maggie deserved a good man. Rhys simply wasn't it.
I didn’t enjoy this story.
Maggie the barmaid and a duke. Yeah, right. He screws her, leaves her some money and a bun in the oven, and she doesn’t see him again for over 10 years. He just buggers off.
When he rune into her again, his reaction is: can’t possibly marry her -after all, she's not his social equal- but she’s still hot, so good mistress material. Because she was just a lusty widow now, and we all know they are just gagging for it. (He hadn’t even noticed she’d been a virgin that time all these years ago. And she’d been too lovestruck -after an hour- to keep her legs together.) Maybe they could go a holiday fling? An affair while he was in town. She hadn't exactly played hard to get all those years ago.
Nice one. JERK !
https://media.giphy.com/media/eKJbmNY...
Maggie thinks he is still hot, too, and likes the idea of an affair, but is terrified he will realise her daughter is his. So, in a TSTL moment, she allows him into her life, then wonders why the shit hits the fan upon his realisation that he has a daughter he didn’t know about. Sure enough, he goes all postal, threatening to take their daughter away. Duh. She knew he might do that, she even says it, but she allows her hormones rule her head. And to win out over her maternal instinct, if you ask me.
I didn’t like Rhys very much. He was immature and selfish. He hadn’t really changed much from when he was 20. Blame everyone and don’t take responsibility. She didn’t even know his real name or title, so how was Maggie supposed to tell him that she was pregnant? His self-righteous bluster got on my nerves, and he took a long time to see the light.
And frankly, it was stretching credibility when the author had Rhys regularly and fondly remembering his night with the barmaid. As though she had been something special. All the while, he is whoring and drinking his way through the world for ten years.
Maggie deserved a good man. Rhys simply wasn't it.
March 16, 2023
Some notes (and minor spoilers):
1) I was surprised and slightly disappointed when there was no scene of Rhys and Maggie's one-night stand. Other than that, the steam was high. Usually, Grace Callaway writes a steamy scene in a brothel or house of pleasure but not this time, which I approved of.
2) Rhys's mother is Chinese.
3) The title "Enter the Duke" is a nod to Bruce Lee's "Enter the Dragon." I knew it! (I'm a Southeast Asian and grew up watching Bruce Lee's movies.)
4) The H/h's daughter, Glory, has her own book coming out soon! Glory and the Master of Shadows. She's 8 years old in this book and was gifted a pet ferret. Her hero is Chinese.
5) I was not too fond of Maggie's siblings. Thank goodness we don't see them again when Rhys and Maggie travel to London.
6) I wish Maggie would stand up to her siblings more than was shown in the book.
7) Based on my experience with this author's works, this is the first book by her that didn't drag in the middle. Usually, when the book begins to focus on the mystery or drags it out, I begin to lose interest. Fortunately, that didn't happen this time. It could be that the book has a treasure hunt, which kept my interest more than I had anticipated, so that was a nice change.
8) I look forward to Gabby and Adam Garrity's book, Regarding the Duke. They've made minor appearances in this book and the previous one and I've been curious as to how two very different people came to be a married couple. Their book has the amnesia and revenge tropes, which I enjoy! Yaay!!!
1) I was surprised and slightly disappointed when there was no scene of Rhys and Maggie's one-night stand. Other than that, the steam was high. Usually, Grace Callaway writes a steamy scene in a brothel or house of pleasure but not this time, which I approved of.
2) Rhys's mother is Chinese.
3) The title "Enter the Duke" is a nod to Bruce Lee's "Enter the Dragon." I knew it! (I'm a Southeast Asian and grew up watching Bruce Lee's movies.)
4) The H/h's daughter, Glory, has her own book coming out soon! Glory and the Master of Shadows. She's 8 years old in this book and was gifted a pet ferret. Her hero is Chinese.
5) I was not too fond of Maggie's siblings. Thank goodness we don't see them again when Rhys and Maggie travel to London.
6) I wish Maggie would stand up to her siblings more than was shown in the book.
7) Based on my experience with this author's works, this is the first book by her that didn't drag in the middle. Usually, when the book begins to focus on the mystery or drags it out, I begin to lose interest. Fortunately, that didn't happen this time. It could be that the book has a treasure hunt, which kept my interest more than I had anticipated, so that was a nice change.
8) I look forward to Gabby and Adam Garrity's book, Regarding the Duke. They've made minor appearances in this book and the previous one and I've been curious as to how two very different people came to be a married couple. Their book has the amnesia and revenge tropes, which I enjoy! Yaay!!!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
May 16, 2023
It wasn’t my favorite but it pulled at my heart strings and I actually like it way more than I thought I was going to. It turned some things I don’t like on their head and I was pleasantly surprised. Whenever he said “his girls” >>>
⭐️⭐️⭐️.5/5 🌶️🌶️🌶️.25*/5
*More diddling, but also more facesitting.
⭐️⭐️⭐️.5/5 🌶️🌶️🌶️.25*/5
*More diddling, but also more facesitting.
July 24, 2022
Re-read on 24th of July 2022
I'm downgrading this book from 5 stars to 3.5 stars. I thought the whole premise was interesting. A duke (Ransom) with financial problems impregnated a virginal tavern wench (Maggie) 9 years ago, came back to the same village after the death of his uncle to run away from moneylenders and found out his uncle left him a bequest in the form of treasure hunting. He has to employ the same tavern wench, now a respectable widow, to help him with the treasure hunt.
Unfortunately, I didn't find the treasure hunt all that compelling this time. The treasure hunt was lengthy and didn't make a lot of sense. I also realized that she employed a lot of euphemisms in her love scenes (e,g. his veined meat spearheaded her cunny), and I'm not a fan of it. I thought it was terribly cringey.
I wasn't sure why I gave this one 5 stars before. Ms. Callaway was my introduction to erotic historical romance, and I've read quite a few since then from the same genre, which might explain my less-than-stellar rating. She's not a bad author per se, but most probably, it's the stylistic writing I'm not a fan of. I might have to re-read her newer stuff for comparison. She's still one of my favourite authors (I've always enjoyed a good mystery with my historical romance), so I'll still lap up her latest books.
I'm downgrading this book from 5 stars to 3.5 stars. I thought the whole premise was interesting. A duke (Ransom) with financial problems impregnated a virginal tavern wench (Maggie) 9 years ago, came back to the same village after the death of his uncle to run away from moneylenders and found out his uncle left him a bequest in the form of treasure hunting. He has to employ the same tavern wench, now a respectable widow, to help him with the treasure hunt.
Unfortunately, I didn't find the treasure hunt all that compelling this time. The treasure hunt was lengthy and didn't make a lot of sense. I also realized that she employed a lot of euphemisms in her love scenes (e,g. his veined meat spearheaded her cunny), and I'm not a fan of it. I thought it was terribly cringey.
I wasn't sure why I gave this one 5 stars before. Ms. Callaway was my introduction to erotic historical romance, and I've read quite a few since then from the same genre, which might explain my less-than-stellar rating. She's not a bad author per se, but most probably, it's the stylistic writing I'm not a fan of. I might have to re-read her newer stuff for comparison. She's still one of my favourite authors (I've always enjoyed a good mystery with my historical romance), so I'll still lap up her latest books.
April 2, 2022
OUTSTANDING AUDIBLE NARRATION BY MARIAN HUSSEY!! She really brings the characters alive!! She is a great storyteller!!
Edward Rhys Hugo Jones Cavendish 5th Duke of Ranelagh and Somerville. is on the run from Money Lenders. He goes on a treasure hunt for his vast inheritance that is Uncle has left him. Nine years earlier Rhys saved a bar maid Maggie Goode from being raped. She was an 18 year old virgin. They have one night of passion. Maggie is left pregnant and alone. She marries and elderly sick gentlemen Mr Foley who raises her daughter Glory as his own.
Rhys runs into Maggie and her daughter. He needs her help to track down the clues to the treasure hunt and the treasure. He doesn't know that 8 year old Glory is in fact his daughter.
The story is a fast paced well written story. It will hold your interest. The Narration was brilliant!!
Edward Rhys Hugo Jones Cavendish 5th Duke of Ranelagh and Somerville. is on the run from Money Lenders. He goes on a treasure hunt for his vast inheritance that is Uncle has left him. Nine years earlier Rhys saved a bar maid Maggie Goode from being raped. She was an 18 year old virgin. They have one night of passion. Maggie is left pregnant and alone. She marries and elderly sick gentlemen Mr Foley who raises her daughter Glory as his own.
Rhys runs into Maggie and her daughter. He needs her help to track down the clues to the treasure hunt and the treasure. He doesn't know that 8 year old Glory is in fact his daughter.
The story is a fast paced well written story. It will hold your interest. The Narration was brilliant!!
January 14, 2023
3.5/5 stars
Generally liked this, and liked how things were handled between Ransom and Maggie. I appreciated that he understood why she kept her secret when they first met again, and how he figured it out on his own anyway. Mostly wish more had been done to deal with her family, who were generally terrible.
Generally liked this, and liked how things were handled between Ransom and Maggie. I appreciated that he understood why she kept her secret when they first met again, and how he figured it out on his own anyway. Mostly wish more had been done to deal with her family, who were generally terrible.
July 20, 2022
3 stars because I'm not a fan of keeping secrets as the main part of the plot. Otherwise, love a grace callaway novel
December 24, 2018
A highly charged story with great characters that will take you through on an adventure and back again. Having a past history, Maggie and Ransom have a child he knows nothing about. But when fate brings them back together, he for her help in finding a treasure, the old feelings surface. The writing brings the characters to life and I felt emotionally tied to them as their story unfolded. Rhys had been a character in a previous story and from what I can gather seemed not the best of heroes. But here, he seemed to redeem some of his prior actions and he and Maggie sizzled in their relationship. Intrigue, suspense, a mystery and a host of locations and characters, kept me on the edge waiting to find out what happened as I turned the pages. Now I am anxious to read the next in the series and hope we don't have to wait too long! Well done.
June 13, 2021
It was a pretty good read. It kinda drug out a little long for me but definitely with reading. Plot 7(1-10) steaminess 9(1-10)
Maggie was an amazing heroine.
Maggie was an amazing heroine.
December 20, 2018
❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️
💋💋💋
I adored this book , it’s one that gave me a fuzzy feeling of hope inside , showing that through all adversity ,you can get where you want to be , and who you want to love .
It’s an adventure that takes you through the underworld life of London ,from the countryside to the slums .
It’s has hope , love ,faith , tension , and it’s pretty steamy in parts but all that adds up to a great book and I can’t wait for the next .
I received an advance copy of this book and chose to submit a review
💋💋💋
I adored this book , it’s one that gave me a fuzzy feeling of hope inside , showing that through all adversity ,you can get where you want to be , and who you want to love .
It’s an adventure that takes you through the underworld life of London ,from the countryside to the slums .
It’s has hope , love ,faith , tension , and it’s pretty steamy in parts but all that adds up to a great book and I can’t wait for the next .
I received an advance copy of this book and chose to submit a review
December 29, 2018
FINAL DECISION: I loved Rhys as the redeemed rake. A man of mistakes and flaws and hidden pain who comes to see his own worth through the love of a kind and generous woman. Plus, this book has a treasure hunt.
THE STORY: Rhys Cavendish, Duke of Ranelagh and Somerville, known as Ransom, is running from moneylenders. The death of his uncle gives him an opportunity to pay off his creditors, but he requires help to navigate the treasure hunt his uncle set up. Rhys turns to a local fossil hunter to help with his search. But the woman he wants to hire ends up being the woman he knew as Maggie Goode, who he had a passionate one night encounter years ago. Now a respectable widow with a child, Maggie desperately needs money to save her family business, but she wants to keep her distance from her ex-lover, especially because she has a secret about her daughter to keep.
OPINION: I really loved the couple in this one. Rhys, is a favorite because he truly changes in the course of this book. He begins as a man who keeps everyone at a distance because of his own past, his feelings of inadequacy, and his shame. He is man who has made big mistakes in his life and this book is partly about him coming to terms with his mistakes and learning from them. He also begins to see clearly things that are not his mistakes to claim and realize that he can move beyond his past. I really liked that Rhys has made serious mistakes and this book doesn't wash those away. Rhys has to accept and move beyond those mistakes. As an example, Rhys inherited a dukedom in trouble, but he made it much worse. Often heroes are seen as beyond such mistakes, but not Rhys. He was selfish and stupid, immature and self destructive for much of his adult life. This book is him truly growing up, and I really enjoyed his flaws.
Maggie is such a cheerful and devoted person that I also really liked her character. Her optimism and devoted nature helps heal Rhys. I also liked that Rhys's protective nature helps Maggie with those who would take advantage of her. But Maggie definitely is resourceful on her own. She is integral to the treasure hunt and her intelligence and cleverness allow the two to pursue the treasure and navigate the people and adventures needed.
The relationship between Maggie and Rhys doesn't follow what is normal for romance novels. Much of their connection is resolved earlier than I expected, but there are still challenges to their HEA. The treasure hunt and threats to the couple makes this book a combination of a romance and a mystery/adventure. I really liked the combination.
WORTH MENTIONING: Readers of the prior book in the series, THE DUKE IDENTITY, will remember Ransom as somewhat an antagonist in that story. This book redeems him nicely.
CONNECTED BOOKS: ENTER THE DUKE is the second book in the Game of Dukes series. It can be read as a standalone although there are overlapping characters from prior books by this author.
STAR RATING: I give this book 4 stars.
This review was originally posted on Top10RomanceBooks.com
THE STORY: Rhys Cavendish, Duke of Ranelagh and Somerville, known as Ransom, is running from moneylenders. The death of his uncle gives him an opportunity to pay off his creditors, but he requires help to navigate the treasure hunt his uncle set up. Rhys turns to a local fossil hunter to help with his search. But the woman he wants to hire ends up being the woman he knew as Maggie Goode, who he had a passionate one night encounter years ago. Now a respectable widow with a child, Maggie desperately needs money to save her family business, but she wants to keep her distance from her ex-lover, especially because she has a secret about her daughter to keep.
OPINION: I really loved the couple in this one. Rhys, is a favorite because he truly changes in the course of this book. He begins as a man who keeps everyone at a distance because of his own past, his feelings of inadequacy, and his shame. He is man who has made big mistakes in his life and this book is partly about him coming to terms with his mistakes and learning from them. He also begins to see clearly things that are not his mistakes to claim and realize that he can move beyond his past. I really liked that Rhys has made serious mistakes and this book doesn't wash those away. Rhys has to accept and move beyond those mistakes. As an example, Rhys inherited a dukedom in trouble, but he made it much worse. Often heroes are seen as beyond such mistakes, but not Rhys. He was selfish and stupid, immature and self destructive for much of his adult life. This book is him truly growing up, and I really enjoyed his flaws.
Maggie is such a cheerful and devoted person that I also really liked her character. Her optimism and devoted nature helps heal Rhys. I also liked that Rhys's protective nature helps Maggie with those who would take advantage of her. But Maggie definitely is resourceful on her own. She is integral to the treasure hunt and her intelligence and cleverness allow the two to pursue the treasure and navigate the people and adventures needed.
The relationship between Maggie and Rhys doesn't follow what is normal for romance novels. Much of their connection is resolved earlier than I expected, but there are still challenges to their HEA. The treasure hunt and threats to the couple makes this book a combination of a romance and a mystery/adventure. I really liked the combination.
WORTH MENTIONING: Readers of the prior book in the series, THE DUKE IDENTITY, will remember Ransom as somewhat an antagonist in that story. This book redeems him nicely.
CONNECTED BOOKS: ENTER THE DUKE is the second book in the Game of Dukes series. It can be read as a standalone although there are overlapping characters from prior books by this author.
STAR RATING: I give this book 4 stars.
This review was originally posted on Top10RomanceBooks.com
March 3, 2025
Secret bebe trope and I was like put it in my veins. While I liked the book the secret baby aspect was weirdly downplayed and there was very little angst from it. I also felt the romance was lacking, and the tension was gone after the first half when the plot about the secret treasure became the focus. Overall, entertaining but left me disappointed I wanted more from the secret baby aspect and the morally grey hero who was not morally grey but just tortured.
⭐⭐⭐.5/5
🔥🔥🔥/5
Tropes
Secret baby
Second chance
Class Difference
CW: mentions of animal abuse, child abuse (by villain) and domestic violence.
⭐⭐⭐.5/5
🔥🔥🔥/5
Tropes
Secret baby
Second chance
Class Difference
CW: mentions of animal abuse, child abuse (by villain) and domestic violence.
November 25, 2022
4 Stars
Reunited lovers, a mystery, oopsie secret baby, great plot, gorgeous romance, strong heroine, dirty talking hero, sexy, sexy steam...yes, yes and more, please!
Reunited lovers, a mystery, oopsie secret baby, great plot, gorgeous romance, strong heroine, dirty talking hero, sexy, sexy steam...yes, yes and more, please!
September 23, 2023
Enter the Duke was a well written take that gave us not just the romance, but the tale of the two people involved. It was more than just a little back story, it was their stories. This was also extremely erotic in places, with language that would make you suspect those parts were written by a male, the language wasn’t bad, but stark.
Maggie Goode was a hard worker, and probably the only one in her family destined to be anything besides trouble. When she was set upon by three louts at the tavern where she desperately hoped to keep a job, she is rescued by a dashing and aristocratic man who tipped her and left her with child.
Maggie married a kind older man named Paul Foley who chased after fossils, but but taught her proper elocution and gave her daughter his name. Unfortunately he died and left his emporium in danger of going under, and left Maggie to care for it, her daughter and her husband’s kindly spinster sister, though Maggie did as she did everything, without complaint.
Edward Rhys Hugo Jones Cavendish, the Fifth Duke of Ranelagh and Somerville was in trouble. His days of being a carefree rake was coming to an end, almost as soon as he come into the title. His father, the cruel and evil man he had been ran their holdings into the ground, and try as he might, Rhys was unable to refill the coffers. Unfortunately, unsavory moneylenders were hot on his tail, and his last hope was his Uncle Horatio left him something of value that will save him. Unfortunately his uncle had a sense of humor, and believed his nephew needed to go on an adventure for his inheritance.
The first part of the adventure leads him to Maggie’s emporium, and it doesn’t take long to discover that their attraction for each other is still strong, but Maggie is wary. Rhys needs her help, and wants her back in his bed, and he’s willing to be persistent to get what he wants.
What comes afterward is not only a rousing adventure, but a journey through a man’s past and his heart. It’s a worthy love story made up of fairly realistic people. I’m not a prude, but I always like genteel language for my love scenes, but I have to admit, the characters fit just the way they are.
Maggie Goode was a hard worker, and probably the only one in her family destined to be anything besides trouble. When she was set upon by three louts at the tavern where she desperately hoped to keep a job, she is rescued by a dashing and aristocratic man who tipped her and left her with child.
Maggie married a kind older man named Paul Foley who chased after fossils, but but taught her proper elocution and gave her daughter his name. Unfortunately he died and left his emporium in danger of going under, and left Maggie to care for it, her daughter and her husband’s kindly spinster sister, though Maggie did as she did everything, without complaint.
Edward Rhys Hugo Jones Cavendish, the Fifth Duke of Ranelagh and Somerville was in trouble. His days of being a carefree rake was coming to an end, almost as soon as he come into the title. His father, the cruel and evil man he had been ran their holdings into the ground, and try as he might, Rhys was unable to refill the coffers. Unfortunately, unsavory moneylenders were hot on his tail, and his last hope was his Uncle Horatio left him something of value that will save him. Unfortunately his uncle had a sense of humor, and believed his nephew needed to go on an adventure for his inheritance.
The first part of the adventure leads him to Maggie’s emporium, and it doesn’t take long to discover that their attraction for each other is still strong, but Maggie is wary. Rhys needs her help, and wants her back in his bed, and he’s willing to be persistent to get what he wants.
What comes afterward is not only a rousing adventure, but a journey through a man’s past and his heart. It’s a worthy love story made up of fairly realistic people. I’m not a prude, but I always like genteel language for my love scenes, but I have to admit, the characters fit just the way they are.
January 2, 2024
Enter the Duke
3 Stars
Escaping London with its debt collectors and debutants, Rhys Cavendish, the Duke of Ranelagh and Somerville, arrives at his late uncle's residence on the Dorset coast hoping that his inheritance will prove sufficient to pay off the moneylenders on his tail. Unfortunately, his sole hope is a treasure map, and the expert he seeks out for aid is none other than Maggie Goode, the woman he spent one memorable night with years ago. Only Maggie has had to deal with the consequences of that night alone and is in no way eager to help the man she considers the biggest mistake from her past.
Series note: There are numerous references to characters and events from book #1. Thus, the series should be read in order.
Grace Callaway is a wonderful storyteller, but every now and then she writes a weaker tale and this is, unfortunately, one of them. The main reason is that neither the hero nor heroine is particularly likable, and it is difficult to care about them one way or the other.
Ransom is arrogant, self-centered and irresponsible while Maggie is overly self-deprecating and judgemental. They actually have very little chemistry, which is problematic as there is an overabundance of explicit sex scenes that come across as more mechanical than intimate.
The best aspect of the book is the treasure hunt, and it is fun to follow along as Maggie and Rhys uncover the clues. The inclusion of characters from other Callaway books is a bonus as they come to Maggie and Rhys's aid, so that the climax and resolution are satisfying overall.
In sum, while this isn't the best example of Callaway's work, it does have its moments and the second half is definitely better than the first. The next book is Adam and Gabby's, and their relationship has been very intriguing both in this and previous series. I am eager to learn more about them.
3 Stars
Escaping London with its debt collectors and debutants, Rhys Cavendish, the Duke of Ranelagh and Somerville, arrives at his late uncle's residence on the Dorset coast hoping that his inheritance will prove sufficient to pay off the moneylenders on his tail. Unfortunately, his sole hope is a treasure map, and the expert he seeks out for aid is none other than Maggie Goode, the woman he spent one memorable night with years ago. Only Maggie has had to deal with the consequences of that night alone and is in no way eager to help the man she considers the biggest mistake from her past.
Series note: There are numerous references to characters and events from book #1. Thus, the series should be read in order.
Grace Callaway is a wonderful storyteller, but every now and then she writes a weaker tale and this is, unfortunately, one of them. The main reason is that neither the hero nor heroine is particularly likable, and it is difficult to care about them one way or the other.
Ransom is arrogant, self-centered and irresponsible while Maggie is overly self-deprecating and judgemental. They actually have very little chemistry, which is problematic as there is an overabundance of explicit sex scenes that come across as more mechanical than intimate.
The best aspect of the book is the treasure hunt, and it is fun to follow along as Maggie and Rhys uncover the clues. The inclusion of characters from other Callaway books is a bonus as they come to Maggie and Rhys's aid, so that the climax and resolution are satisfying overall.
In sum, while this isn't the best example of Callaway's work, it does have its moments and the second half is definitely better than the first. The next book is Adam and Gabby's, and their relationship has been very intriguing both in this and previous series. I am eager to learn more about them.
March 2, 2019
Another great book by an author that I follow with great pleasure.
I'm sorry my review will be short, but it's the 7th review I'm writing tonight and I'd love to go and have dinner, finally !
What I loved in this historical romance with yet another duke (how many dukes are there in England, actually ?) :
- Likeable heroes, both main heroes and secondary characters, even the kid ! Sometimes, children are written as cute little sweety pies but Glory was a lively girl with personality.
- A good story, not overly original (a debtor pursued by his creditors, his daddy was a very bad man) but well written, with suspense, adventure, steam, a bit of humor, romance and evolving characters.
- A hero who's half English, half Chinese : it's worth mentioning. And the heroin used to be a barmaid, it's worth mentioning too : no nobility here !
- No stupid action, no stupid lies that cause stupid actions : everything is understandable, believable and you can relate to what happens and how people feel.
- A good deal of steam and a dirty-talking hero : it's also worth mentioning ^^
I devoured the book and had a great time doing it, Grace Callaway is fast becoming one of my favourite historical romance writers :) And the next book will be about Garrity and his wife Gabby, I really can't wait to read about those two !
I'm sorry my review will be short, but it's the 7th review I'm writing tonight and I'd love to go and have dinner, finally !
What I loved in this historical romance with yet another duke (how many dukes are there in England, actually ?) :
- Likeable heroes, both main heroes and secondary characters, even the kid ! Sometimes, children are written as cute little sweety pies but Glory was a lively girl with personality.
- A good story, not overly original (a debtor pursued by his creditors, his daddy was a very bad man) but well written, with suspense, adventure, steam, a bit of humor, romance and evolving characters.
- A hero who's half English, half Chinese : it's worth mentioning. And the heroin used to be a barmaid, it's worth mentioning too : no nobility here !
- No stupid action, no stupid lies that cause stupid actions : everything is understandable, believable and you can relate to what happens and how people feel.
- A good deal of steam and a dirty-talking hero : it's also worth mentioning ^^
I devoured the book and had a great time doing it, Grace Callaway is fast becoming one of my favourite historical romance writers :) And the next book will be about Garrity and his wife Gabby, I really can't wait to read about those two !
December 24, 2018
Ms. Callaway has done it again. She takes a fairly unlikeable character from the first book in this series and turns him into a hero. The most unlikely heroes are ones that we never see coming. Rhys (Ransom) is not a villain but a good person who loves his mother and his uncle and Maggie and who wants to do the right thing. Throw in a mystery, questionable moneylenders and a treasure hunt! I am totally at this party. Seeing Rhys’ journey to redemption will put a smile on your face and some tears in your eyes. Maggie and Rhys are so right for each other. I also love seeing strong, independent women in stories and Maggie and her sister-in-law are fantastic people that characterize these qualities. Oh, and Glory is too precious – she is not overbearing or a mild divergence in the story but an integral part of the story. If you love second chances with a lot of hope and redemption, then read this book. You will not be disappointed.
I received a complimentary copy from the author.
I received a complimentary copy from the author.
July 20, 2022
I am a suckered for a nice epilogue...It wasn't bad,the mystery was really nice and I like thag characters from previous and post books appear,but the book started already with sooo much sex that I never really felt that the MC developed their feelings.I didn't really like Maggie.She was a bit insecure but all for the wrong reasons,and yet she always gave in.She got better by the end...Hero was also not well portraited.Anyway not bad,not great
October 20, 2022
It was not my cup of tea. I had a lot of trouble finishing and in the end I was more invested in their treasure hunt than in the romance, and normally I only care about romance.
It took me almost 2 weeks to finish!
So this story had a lot of potential. I like the redeemed rake part, I love a devoted father and accidental pregnancy. Also the steamlevel was great.
I’m okay with a huge class difference, if it is done right. Because let’s be honest, it could not have been easy in that time. I’m also okay with insta-love, if it is done right. You can’t have two people fall in love who don’t even know each other that well. I was also on the fence with the fact that Rhys is a mixed blood duke (I say this as an asian myself). I don’t know how realistic it was for that time.
It just didn’t work for me. I missed a real connection, not just a physical one. I want to believe a story, even if it’s sounds ridiculous, just sell it to me. But that didn’t happen unfortunately. I don’t think this author is for me 😟
It took me almost 2 weeks to finish!
So this story had a lot of potential. I like the redeemed rake part, I love a devoted father and accidental pregnancy. Also the steamlevel was great.
I’m okay with a huge class difference, if it is done right. Because let’s be honest, it could not have been easy in that time. I’m also okay with insta-love, if it is done right. You can’t have two people fall in love who don’t even know each other that well. I was also on the fence with the fact that Rhys is a mixed blood duke (I say this as an asian myself). I don’t know how realistic it was for that time.
It just didn’t work for me. I missed a real connection, not just a physical one. I want to believe a story, even if it’s sounds ridiculous, just sell it to me. But that didn’t happen unfortunately. I don’t think this author is for me 😟
January 1, 2019
I can always count on Callaway to live upto my expectations of her book. I was actually kind of skeptical about Rhys since I didn't really like him in the first book of the series but as his layers were revealed he became a relatable character. I loved Maggie...her spirit and courage and honesty was refreshing. The secondary characters were all great contributors to the story. I loved the book and enjoyed Harry and Tessa's return. I can't wait for Gabby and Garrity's story. So much potential there. I think my favorite book of hers is still The Lady who Came in from the Cold....but this was great.
January 7, 2020
I really enjoyed this historical romance and its nod to Bruce Lee’s movie ENTER THE DRAGON!
The background of both characters was pretty unique, and that was what made me curious of the book in the first place. Like Callaway’s usual books, the pages were bursting with chemistry as a second chance romance is presented after a one night stand years ago. Maggie, previously a barmaid, is now a widow, and Rhys is on a treasure hunt to find his inheritance and clear the debts he received from his abusive father. They also share a child, Glory, who was super lively and sweet and a wonderful addition to the page. Rhys has always thought about Maggie over the years, but just regarded her as a one night stand. With the help of her nice late husband, Maggie learned manners and became a proprietress of her own business. Both characters were very stubborn with their loved ones. Maggie grew up with doubt, as her family is known for being No Goode, and had to battle her way through those connotations. Being half-Chinese, Rhys battled with similar prejudices growing up, as well as the feeling of having failed his mother. I thought these conflicts were explored and resolved well, leaving behind versatile and capable characters.
The Chinese elements were a nice addition to this story (and I believe, a nod to Callaway’s own background). It’s not often where you see Asians in these historical romances, although they WERE in London during the 1800’s. (The only other author I can think of that features them is Sherry Thomas.) I enjoyed the quiet strength of Rhy’s mother, as well as seeing successful Chinese characters along the way throughout the quest. The mention of foot binding was unnecessary to the plot but I believe a nice addition to the historical aspect, as it is a big part of the history and culture of China. Overall, I’m really enjoying this series and cannot wait for the next one!
TW: sexy times, racism, discrimination, kidnapping, domestic and mental abuse
The background of both characters was pretty unique, and that was what made me curious of the book in the first place. Like Callaway’s usual books, the pages were bursting with chemistry as a second chance romance is presented after a one night stand years ago. Maggie, previously a barmaid, is now a widow, and Rhys is on a treasure hunt to find his inheritance and clear the debts he received from his abusive father. They also share a child, Glory, who was super lively and sweet and a wonderful addition to the page. Rhys has always thought about Maggie over the years, but just regarded her as a one night stand. With the help of her nice late husband, Maggie learned manners and became a proprietress of her own business. Both characters were very stubborn with their loved ones. Maggie grew up with doubt, as her family is known for being No Goode, and had to battle her way through those connotations. Being half-Chinese, Rhys battled with similar prejudices growing up, as well as the feeling of having failed his mother. I thought these conflicts were explored and resolved well, leaving behind versatile and capable characters.
The Chinese elements were a nice addition to this story (and I believe, a nod to Callaway’s own background). It’s not often where you see Asians in these historical romances, although they WERE in London during the 1800’s. (The only other author I can think of that features them is Sherry Thomas.) I enjoyed the quiet strength of Rhy’s mother, as well as seeing successful Chinese characters along the way throughout the quest. The mention of foot binding was unnecessary to the plot but I believe a nice addition to the historical aspect, as it is a big part of the history and culture of China. Overall, I’m really enjoying this series and cannot wait for the next one!
TW: sexy times, racism, discrimination, kidnapping, domestic and mental abuse
December 28, 2018
My first book by Grace Callaway; definitely worth the time and money.
Basic plot; H and h meet when she is a barmaid; they sleep together and the next day, he goes off. She has a baby and marries an older man.
They meet again when, on the run from creditors, he comes to stay at his uncle's house and hires her to help him look for clues / treasure.
Yep; there is a genuine, honest to goodness treasure hunt in this book.
The good bits:
h is very strong and overcomes her poor background to become a business woman. She is generous and kind, not to mention very smart and demands that H respect her and is very clear that her reputation is important to her as is her daughter's future.
H grows from an exciting lover and a kind man to a responsible man who takes responsibility for his actions, his future and who works through his past issues, of which he had many and they were justified
Their daughter; a very smart one
Side characters; some nice ones and some exciting ones, esp. Tessa Kent
Glimpse of new book; yep, Gabby and Adam's book, looking forward to it
Plot; intriguing, fast moving, suspenseful and exciting
There were no specifically bad bits so ...
H repents and sincerely apologizes for treating her casually when they met first. h agrees that he made no promises but his apology is heartfelt and goes a long way. H is also clear that he loves h and is fairly honest. At one point he does get a bit weak but he rediscovers his backbone very fast and hightails it back to the h; he did have a good reason for taking the decision to marry OW but he comes to his senses all on his own so plus points to him
Undoubtedly the hero of the book is the h; most things revolve around her and she is a great character while H comes a very, very close second.
And the physical intimacy; erotic and very hot so definite plus points for that.
Now I await the next book in this series and will go back to read the first one ...
Basic plot; H and h meet when she is a barmaid; they sleep together and the next day, he goes off. She has a baby and marries an older man.
They meet again when, on the run from creditors, he comes to stay at his uncle's house and hires her to help him look for clues / treasure.
Yep; there is a genuine, honest to goodness treasure hunt in this book.
The good bits:
h is very strong and overcomes her poor background to become a business woman. She is generous and kind, not to mention very smart and demands that H respect her and is very clear that her reputation is important to her as is her daughter's future.
H grows from an exciting lover and a kind man to a responsible man who takes responsibility for his actions, his future and who works through his past issues, of which he had many and they were justified
Their daughter; a very smart one
Side characters; some nice ones and some exciting ones, esp. Tessa Kent
Glimpse of new book; yep, Gabby and Adam's book, looking forward to it
Plot; intriguing, fast moving, suspenseful and exciting
There were no specifically bad bits so ...
H repents and sincerely apologizes for treating her casually when they met first. h agrees that he made no promises but his apology is heartfelt and goes a long way. H is also clear that he loves h and is fairly honest. At one point he does get a bit weak but he rediscovers his backbone very fast and hightails it back to the h; he did have a good reason for taking the decision to marry OW but he comes to his senses all on his own so plus points to him
Undoubtedly the hero of the book is the h; most things revolve around her and she is a great character while H comes a very, very close second.
And the physical intimacy; erotic and very hot so definite plus points for that.
Now I await the next book in this series and will go back to read the first one ...
December 23, 2018
Grace Calloway has done it again. I have read every book in the Mayhem in Mayfair and Hearts of Enquiry series. I was therefore quite enthused about the Game of Dukes series. However when I found out the Duke of Ranelagh and Somerville was the hero of the second addition to that series I was a bit taken aback. He was somewhat of a villain in the novel that preceded this one. Wow, I should have remembered to trust Miss Calloway. She was able to take this villainous rake and have me sympathize with him. I was able to understand his actions in The Duke Identity. His vulnerabilities were explored and exposed. The way he open himself up to his heroine, Maggie was wonderful and I felt invested in their relationship. The fact that they knew each other before helped to move the story along. We find out that Maggie was keeping a big secret from Rhys. The chemistry between our heroine and hero was HOT 🔥🔥🔥. My toes curled quite a few times. Maggie was a great heroine. She was a good match for Rhys. She was loyal and fiercely independent and you just felt like she would have eventually managed quite fine if he hadn’t come back in her life. It wouldn’t be a Grace Callaway novel without intrigue. This only added to the story and made it even more enjoyable. Who doesn’t love a treasure hunt? Another 5 stars for Miss Calloway. On a side note, may we get a novella for Patty?
I was given an ARC for an honest review of this novel.
I was given an ARC for an honest review of this novel.
December 18, 2018
Enter the Duke is the second book in the Game of Duke’s series. I absolutely could not put this story down. Grace Callaway is a very gifted storyteller who makes everything just come alive. The writing is brilliant and I was able to emotionally connect with the characters and their story. There is a wide array of interesting characters and none of them are perfect. They all have their flaws and inner demons and it makes everything much more enjoyable and realistic. Ransom and Maggie were perfect for each other and the sparks fly throughout the entire book! It gets really steamy at times. I usually hate secret baby tropes, but this one was perfectly executed and I loved it! At the end of it, I still respected the characters, which never happens for me with this trope! I found myself very intrigued by Maggie’s brother Jeremy too! Anyways, this is a fun, fast paced story guaranteed to keep the reader interested. I highly recommend this book! Page turner through and through!
February 14, 2024
I was a bit nervous about this book because the hero of this book had not left a great impression on me in the previous book but I should have known that Grace Callaway would find a way to redeem him. Also, leave it to Grace Callaway to make me enjoy a trope I've long held as being my least favorite, that of the secret baby trope. (I will maintain that I think this only works for me in historical romances, it's a much harder hill to climb in contemporary). Anyway, I really enjoyed Ransom and Maggie's story and it always delights me when authors do multigenerational stories because we also get to meet Glory in this book, that's Ransom's daughter with Maggie who he doesn't realize is his daughter. And I've already read Glory's own book so it was delightful to see her as a child and see the genesis of her own parents' love story.
March 2, 2022
I loved the premise of the story and let me just say, the blurb by the author was cryptic and only after reading the story; you'd fully understand and appreciate it.
I enjoyed everything about the plot, the characters and the storyline.
I really, really liked it .... until the part where the Hero and heroine 'reconciled' or when everything was laid on the table aka no more misunderstanding aka the end of the any angst. And this was about 4/5th of the book. The remaining 1/5 was taken up to solve the last puzzle of the story - which I did not finish. I wished the author would continue the angst, the misconceptions and what not. However, this was a pleasant story.
I enjoyed everything about the plot, the characters and the storyline.
I really, really liked it .... until the part where the Hero and heroine 'reconciled' or when everything was laid on the table aka no more misunderstanding aka the end of the any angst. And this was about 4/5th of the book. The remaining 1/5 was taken up to solve the last puzzle of the story - which I did not finish. I wished the author would continue the angst, the misconceptions and what not. However, this was a pleasant story.
December 27, 2018
This book was captivating. I enjoyed it being a stand alone book since I have not yet read the first book in the series...yet. I love Grace Callaways style of writing and her descriptions are not over long. I zoomed through the story of Rhys/Ransom/Duke and Maggie and their whirlwind romance. There is intrigue, sex, romance, and love all tied up in a great book.
September 6, 2020
Disappointed
I seldom write reviews but could not leave without writing this one. This would have been a great book to read except for the porn. It was unnecessarily extremely graphic with gross sex language. There needs to be a warning for readers to know this book should be X rated. I will not read any more of this authors books
I seldom write reviews but could not leave without writing this one. This would have been a great book to read except for the porn. It was unnecessarily extremely graphic with gross sex language. There needs to be a warning for readers to know this book should be X rated. I will not read any more of this authors books
December 19, 2018
Another thoroughly enjoyable book by this consistently good author. I was so glad that she wrote this book about Ransom. He wasn't very likeable in the first book of the series, but I knew his story would be good. Ms. Callaway does a good job of redeeming him. The book was very sexy and Glory, the little girl was a delight.
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