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To Marry a Rogue #5
Only a Lady Will Do
She’s exactly what he isn’t looking for...and everything he never knew needed...
Josh Worthingham, Duke of Penworth, must marry—and not just any bride will do. He needs a true lady to be his duchess. It’s what’s expected of him, and he can accept no less. So, why is it that the only woman who snags his full attention is the entirely inappropriate Miss Iris Cooper?
Iris may be the granddaughter of an Earl, but that’s where her lofty connections to the ton end. She knows securing a good match won’t be easy—especially not when she still carries the scars of her failed first union. There’s no way the Duke of Penworth can ever be hers. But a girl can dream, can’t she?
Can a stolen kiss in a drawing room turn Iris’s dreams into reality? Or will their differences—and the dark secret Josh is harboring—destroy their one chance at happily ever after?
Josh Worthingham, Duke of Penworth, must marry—and not just any bride will do. He needs a true lady to be his duchess. It’s what’s expected of him, and he can accept no less. So, why is it that the only woman who snags his full attention is the entirely inappropriate Miss Iris Cooper?
Iris may be the granddaughter of an Earl, but that’s where her lofty connections to the ton end. She knows securing a good match won’t be easy—especially not when she still carries the scars of her failed first union. There’s no way the Duke of Penworth can ever be hers. But a girl can dream, can’t she?
Can a stolen kiss in a drawing room turn Iris’s dreams into reality? Or will their differences—and the dark secret Josh is harboring—destroy their one chance at happily ever after?
207 pages, Kindle Edition
First published July 5, 2021
190 people are currently reading
213 people want to read
About the author
Tamara Gill
125 books1,012 followersTamara is an Australian author who grew up in an old mining town in country South Australia, where her love of history was founded. She loves to write romance novels in an array of genres, including regency, medieval, and time travel.
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https://www.tamaragill.com
https://linktr.ee/tamaragillauthor
Buy direct from my store - now open!
https://www.tamaragill.com
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 77 reviews
July 27, 2021
Oh, this story. Like a kiss to the heart. I actually had tears in my eyes at certain points in the story. Such a lovely romantic and steamy story, even though there were a few bumpy roads. A very beautiful HEA, especially with girl/boy twins at the end......nearly exactly like me, but boy/girl twins. 5☆
June 28, 2021
This is the type of romance that aims right for your heart and does not miss. This couple's story spoke so strongly to the romantic in me. The feels and swoon are evident and abundant as Iris and Josh's romance unfolds. I really liked both these characters and I fell hard for them as a couple. My heart just ached for the pain Iris had endured, but I loved that she was a heroine with imperfections. The book has a strong and engaging storyline that is fueled by intense emotion, inner turmoil, tension, drama and twists. I thought his was a spectacular read and I enjoyed every single moment of it. This is my frank, freely posted review.
July 3, 2021
What a way to end a series. All sisters and now the brother all happily married. Not a spoiler, this is a romance, right?! I am not usually big on misunderstandings in books but I totally get why Josh is withholding information. He is not expecting to fall head over heels in love. I do love a tortured hero and Josh is always beating himself up. Stop dude, just tell her the truth. When one person is swept up into the arms of a person who they never thought would give them a second look, you just have to "ahh". You know how sometimes you are reading a book and it just drags on and on and you can’t wait to finish it, well that is not a problem with Tamara’s writing. It flows and before you know it the story is over. It is sad to see this series end but it ends on a bang! Lovely.
I received a complimentary copy from the author.
I received a complimentary copy from the author.
July 1, 2021
Falling in love with this book & the characters was easy & Iris & Josh made a perfect couple; they are so well developed & I found myself pulled into their lives. I found myself crying a couple of times, there was tension, secrets, drama, & troublemakers but the happiness I felt at the end was worth all the emotions I felt. The passion these two share is sizzling! I loved both characters; he was a duke looking for the perfect duchess, she is the daughter of a vicar & being sponsored by the duke's mother for a season to find a husband. My heartstrings were pulled by Iris's limp & scar on her face, but she was strong & held her own in society. Josh is a hunk with all the right moves, but he also was so romantic, tender & kind to Iris.
I highly recommend this book & all the book in this series - they are all 5 Star rated reads from me. I voluntarily read & reviewed an Advanced Reader's Copy of this book; all thoughts & opinions are my own.
I highly recommend this book & all the book in this series - they are all 5 Star rated reads from me. I voluntarily read & reviewed an Advanced Reader's Copy of this book; all thoughts & opinions are my own.
June 28, 2021
Only A Lady Will Do is a wonderful story! It gives all ladies from everywhere the hope that someday, somewhere out there, true love is waiting for them… and it could be from a Duke! Josh Worthingham, Duke of Penworth, had a secret and needed to keep it from Miss Iris Cooper. But as secrets usually do, this one came to light at the most inopportune time! Iris and Josh’s story is a good one with many twists and turns!
** I was fortunate to receive an ARC of this book in return for an honest review. **
** I was fortunate to receive an ARC of this book in return for an honest review. **
March 27, 2023
A Bad Boy🐺🍆⛲ for Iris💃💋💕
ADULT Regency Romance💕 and Adventure
I love Regency Romance💕, but they almost always have to have the love interests💘 have a falling out towards the end of the book for one reason or another. It must be part of a formula for all romances.💕
This novel is no exception, the book is about Josh, a bad boy Duke🐺🍆⛲, and Iris💃💋, the adult daughter of a vicar, two very disparate classes at the time.
Poor Iris💃💔 has the additional burden of being maimed in a carriage wreck that was partially facilitated by Josh 🐺🍆⛲, as a stupid bet. Iris 💃💔lost her fiancee 💀and she sustained a badly broken leg that causes her pain and to limp much of the time. Thus, the uncertainty about the match between them. Is it 💘love or pity?
ARC Provided by Booksprout 🌱
I also got this ebook from Amazon 📚with KU.
I did enjoy the book because Josh🐺🍆⛲ is quite a bad boy for Iris💃💋, and she loves 💘it all!
ADULT Regency Romance💕 and Adventure
I love Regency Romance💕, but they almost always have to have the love interests💘 have a falling out towards the end of the book for one reason or another. It must be part of a formula for all romances.💕
This novel is no exception, the book is about Josh, a bad boy Duke🐺🍆⛲, and Iris💃💋, the adult daughter of a vicar, two very disparate classes at the time.
Poor Iris💃💔 has the additional burden of being maimed in a carriage wreck that was partially facilitated by Josh 🐺🍆⛲, as a stupid bet. Iris 💃💔lost her fiancee 💀and she sustained a badly broken leg that causes her pain and to limp much of the time. Thus, the uncertainty about the match between them. Is it 💘love or pity?
ARC Provided by Booksprout 🌱
I also got this ebook from Amazon 📚with KU.
I did enjoy the book because Josh🐺🍆⛲ is quite a bad boy for Iris💃💋, and she loves 💘it all!
July 5, 2021
A story of redemption and a second chance to make things right, this sweet romance tugged at my heartstrings, as Iris Cooper takes on the ton once again. With society's ideals of perfection hanging over her head, Iris accepts the Duchess of Penworth's offer to sponsor her for the season. Well aware of the effects of a devastating accident and no dowry, Iris realizes that she very little to offer a groom and her only hope is that she will find a kind man who will treat her gently as his wife. When Josh discovers Iris in his mother's drawing-room, he catapulted back to when he last saw her and all the guilt and discomfort of that situation visit him once again. He vows to do his best for Iris, but hiding the truth becomes difficult. Unfortunately, those with alternative motives get into the mix and cause Iris even more heartache. I felt for Iris as she had to take hold of her courage to face an unforgiving and disparaging ton. Josh is a little frustrating, as although he has come a long way in leaving youthful stupidity behind, he is still not equipped to handle the hurt and pain his actions cause Iris. Fortunately, when he realizes that he is in danger of losing her, he makes a wise decision. The story does come to a good conclusion, making this an enjoyable romance. I received a copy of this book as a gift and this is my honest and voluntary review.
June 27, 2021
I loved Josh and Iris's story it was wonderful to catch up with all the Worthingham siblings and their spouses. Josh and Iris's story is full of ups and downs, but it keeps you enthralled to the very end.
Josh Worthingham, Duke of Penworth had decided that this was the season that he would choose his future Duchess she would be beautiful, intelligent, graceful, from an upstanding family, with a spotless reputation and a large sizable dowry not that money was a necessary requisite as he had enough blunt to support a family, but he wanted to ensure that each of his future children had a decent fortune to their names a tradition set down by his late father and one he intended to carry on with his own issue.
Miss Iris Cooper was the granddaughter of an Earl, but due to the circumstances of her birth and her mother's marriage for love to a vicar she had been ostracised from her maternal family and matriarch the Countess of Buttersworth. Iris was to have her second season several years after her first ended in the tragic death of her betrothed Dudley, Barnet Redgrove who died in an ill-fated carriage race where she was a passenger leaving her with a hideous scar along her brow and eyebrow and a cripple. She did not wish for a season, but her beloved mother wished for her daughter to shine like a star amongst the ton. Her mother persuaded her dearest friend the Duchess of Penworth to sponsor her for the season.
Iris is everything that Josh does not expect, but she is everything that he needs and the time he spends with Iris the more his heart craves. Josh realizes that he is very much in danger of setting aside his requisites for his perfect Duchess and hoping that Iris the epitome of all he truly desires will become his wife. However love does not run smooth especially when Josh has a secret that could very well destroy all that they have a secret that he hopes that Iris will never find out, but ultimately does that Josh was the instigator of that ill-fated bet that resulted in the late Baron Redgrove's death and Iris's injuries. Can Iris forgive him for his involvement in the wager that cost her so dearly and will the love that they have for each other be enough to see them through to a glorious future should they learn to trust and forgive.
Josh Worthingham, Duke of Penworth had decided that this was the season that he would choose his future Duchess she would be beautiful, intelligent, graceful, from an upstanding family, with a spotless reputation and a large sizable dowry not that money was a necessary requisite as he had enough blunt to support a family, but he wanted to ensure that each of his future children had a decent fortune to their names a tradition set down by his late father and one he intended to carry on with his own issue.
Miss Iris Cooper was the granddaughter of an Earl, but due to the circumstances of her birth and her mother's marriage for love to a vicar she had been ostracised from her maternal family and matriarch the Countess of Buttersworth. Iris was to have her second season several years after her first ended in the tragic death of her betrothed Dudley, Barnet Redgrove who died in an ill-fated carriage race where she was a passenger leaving her with a hideous scar along her brow and eyebrow and a cripple. She did not wish for a season, but her beloved mother wished for her daughter to shine like a star amongst the ton. Her mother persuaded her dearest friend the Duchess of Penworth to sponsor her for the season.
Iris is everything that Josh does not expect, but she is everything that he needs and the time he spends with Iris the more his heart craves. Josh realizes that he is very much in danger of setting aside his requisites for his perfect Duchess and hoping that Iris the epitome of all he truly desires will become his wife. However love does not run smooth especially when Josh has a secret that could very well destroy all that they have a secret that he hopes that Iris will never find out, but ultimately does that Josh was the instigator of that ill-fated bet that resulted in the late Baron Redgrove's death and Iris's injuries. Can Iris forgive him for his involvement in the wager that cost her so dearly and will the love that they have for each other be enough to see them through to a glorious future should they learn to trust and forgive.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
July 4, 2021
I loved Iris.
What he thought he needed is not what he will get, and it was fun to read all about it. I loved the book Josh has to marry and being a duke he must have a true lady. Iris may be the granddaughter of an earl but perhaps due to some problems in the past she may not be what Josh thinks he wants. Iris and Josh were great characters and as the author told their story I became more engaged and completely lost track of time. I love when that happens. The book opens with Josh in hiding at his own ball because of a woman who somehow got the idea he was going to court her. He wanted someone who was witty and intelligent a beauty would be a plus too. His sister was right he should be looking for a mermaid. Oh but fate is going to have a fun time with him. This character is a bit of a jerk to be honest he causes a lovely young woman to suffer some very hurtful things and this character did not deserve that she was strong, intelligent and a fantastic character. I enjoyed the book I found it entertaining and one I am happy to recommend. I did receive a free copy of this book from Booksprout and voluntarily chose to review it.
What he thought he needed is not what he will get, and it was fun to read all about it. I loved the book Josh has to marry and being a duke he must have a true lady. Iris may be the granddaughter of an earl but perhaps due to some problems in the past she may not be what Josh thinks he wants. Iris and Josh were great characters and as the author told their story I became more engaged and completely lost track of time. I love when that happens. The book opens with Josh in hiding at his own ball because of a woman who somehow got the idea he was going to court her. He wanted someone who was witty and intelligent a beauty would be a plus too. His sister was right he should be looking for a mermaid. Oh but fate is going to have a fun time with him. This character is a bit of a jerk to be honest he causes a lovely young woman to suffer some very hurtful things and this character did not deserve that she was strong, intelligent and a fantastic character. I enjoyed the book I found it entertaining and one I am happy to recommend. I did receive a free copy of this book from Booksprout and voluntarily chose to review it.
July 3, 2021
I absolutely loved the book!! It was so worth waiting for the last book to have Josh's story!! He had all these "requirements" for his future wife and Duchess.. But never thought he'd fall in love with Iris Cooper who he was responsible for the accident that killed her betrothed and seriously injured her! Through their obstacles they fall in love and he almost loses her when he doesn't tell her the truth! Powerful love story and will have you in happy tears!! Thank you, Tamara for an amazing series!!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
July 3, 2021
I enjoyed this story as it is well written, easy to read and very entertaining. Given a second chance at having a season, Iris is hoping to secure a marriage proposal. Josh, a duke, has decided he needs an heir and it. is time to secure a wife. The story tells of two people wishing to marry for totally different reasons and how they find each other. A secret and a misunderstanding almost derail their HEA. This is a great story and definitely worth reading.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and are voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and are voluntarily leaving a review.
July 21, 2021
Poignant and the best
This is a sexy and poignant scenario. Josh and Iris are the most beautiful people. The Duke made a mistake seven years ago and that mistake lead to Iris being injured.
Tamara Gill has written a spectacular story.
This is a sexy and poignant scenario. Josh and Iris are the most beautiful people. The Duke made a mistake seven years ago and that mistake lead to Iris being injured.
Tamara Gill has written a spectacular story.
August 26, 2021
He is too focused on titles and money!
She’s too insecure and lacks confidence!
“He would choose his lady when he found one suitable for the position as duchess.
Not just any lady would do.
Oh no, his lady needed to be witty, intelligent, and beautiful if he could be so vain to desire such a thing.”
“I am set on finding a suitable bride for the position of duchess this Season. I have decided she must be a lady of the finest breeding, well-spoken and educated, and above all else, take London by storm with her beauty and grace.”
“London. She shuddered at the thought of traveling there, being courted by those money-hungry swains whom she had not an ounce of interest in. Nor did she have the money to tempt them into marrying a cripple.”
“You will have your choice of gentleman to take your hand in marriage, but with copious amounts to choose from, I'm hoping you shall find the man who stops your heart at the very sight of him. A love match will only do.”
“He smiled, resolved to make amends for his actions all those years ago. Amends he should have made days after she regained consciousness. Fool that he was, he had not done so, but he would ensure she was happy and settled before he found his perfect match.”
“Should his family find out how he had treated Miss Cooper, his hand behind the bet that injured her, or even the lady herself, he was certain his family or Iris would never forgive him. And rightfully so, for the act was unforgivable”
“Even so, Iris was no fool, and the woman who became the next Duchess of Penworth would be a diamond of the first water. Not paste, as Iris so often felt about herself”
“Not that he would ever allow Miss Cooper to know of his hand in her injuries and loss of her betrothed, but he would make her world right. Make her future the one that she wanted, and he would move heaven and earth to gain her every wish.”
“She wanted a union that was equal in respect and love. She pursed her lips. Where did one find such a man and at her age?
The image of the Penworth floated through her mind, teasing her.”
“I will ensure she has a much happier ending to her Season than her last. This time she will marry a man who loves her as much as she loves him. It is my mission to make my wrong right by helping her, vetting all her gentlemen admirers to be sure she makes the right choice for her.”
“Her mouth dried at the sight of him. He was perfection itself, tall and handsome and utterly unattainable.”
“How she wished it was her hand running through his dark locks. Would he like her touching him so? Iris certainly knew she would enjoy petting him if she were able.”
“Tonight she looked like a duchess, and the realization gave him pause.
Blast it all to hell. She interested him. And she should not. Not at all. As beautiful as she was, she was neither titled, dowered, nor could she bring connections as lofty as his own.”
“Worse, however was now that she had touched him once, it would not be enough, that she would crave the feel of him from this night on.”
“How had he not seen that she was such a treasure? How had the other gentlemen not have seen either?
Were they all blind?”
“Miss Cooper grinned into her dessert, his mother looking at him as if he had lost his mind. Which, when he was around Miss Cooper, had been occurring more and more.”
“His eyes blazed with an emotion she could not interpret. Her breath caught, her heart raced, and there was no place she would rather be than in his arms.”
“If only he would look at her for his prospective bride. Iris was certain she could make him happy and give him children.”
“Her words warmed his heart and made his blood quicken. He enjoyed her in his arms too. Much more than he thought he would. She was a vicar's daughter. A woman beneath his notice, until now”
“Affection. Desire. Need.
He cared for her more than he had ever thought to care for anyone. This Season, he was determined to find a duchess, yet his attention kept moving back to Iris.”
“Are you not going to congratulate me, Mother? I have asked Iris to be my wife, and she has accepted me. We are to be married.”
“As for Miss Cooper, she may take a little more convincing that he was not fooling her. Oh no, not at all. She would be the next Duchess of Penworth, and what a transcendent duchess she would make.”
“No one but your mama caught us kissing, Your Grace. Is it really necessary that we marry? I'm certain if you asked your mother, and I spoke with her too, she would spare us this ordeal”
“Iris met his gaze, waited for what he would say next. "I kissed you because I like you. I kissed you because I wanted to kiss you”
“I would not have kissed her if I was not willing to accept any consequences of my actions”
“She may not have been what he thought he wanted, but he certainly wanted her now. Iris would be his wife and soon.
Just not soon enough.”
“How could she be so enamored with a man she had only known a few weeks?
The admission made little sense, but as true as she was kissing him, falling for the duke more and more each day, so too were her feelings. They grew each time he walked into a room”
“And he was a bastard. He had caused her so much pain and grief in her short life. He would make amends, and he would start by loving her as a woman ought to be loved”
“He had never loved anyone. Not truly loved the way a man loved a woman. Something told Josh that what he felt for the woman in his arms was not common. It was not something that one dispensed with or took for granted.”
“Had she fallen in love with her betrothed?
Surely not, and yet… Panic assailed her that Lady Muir may be correct. No, not maybe correct, was correct.
She loved him”
“You will not ruin me. We're to be married. There is no shame in what we are doing. Two consenting adults who are promised to each other and who want the same”
“I love your gift just as I love you," she said, praying she was not wrong in what she believed he felt for her too.
He pulled her closer still, cradling her face in his hands. "I'm so pleased you said those words, Iris, as I have utterly and completely fallen in love with you too.”
“You killed Redgrove." She turned and faced him. "Had you not made your stupid damn bet, none of this would have happened. He would be alive today. I would not suffer from my injury. I would not limp when the weather turns chilly. I would not be laughed at for the scar that marred my face. How could you?" she yelled, her hands fisted at her sides as if she were halting herself from striking him.”
“You pitied me and felt guilty over having a hand in my accident and sustained injuries." She shook her head, clearly bewildered. "I cannot marry you. I will not marry a man who only declares to love me because he feels obligated to save me from a spinsterhood that he had a hand in creating.”
“Heat rose on his cheeks, and his sister raised her brows. "Brother, tell me you have not taken liberties that you should not have. Is Iris enceinte?”
“He was perfection, and she physically hurt at the thought of losing him, of him marrying another in the years or months ahead stopped her heart dead. But that was for the best”
“I am not pregnant. There is no reason why our farce of an engagement should continue. I would like the contracts dissolved and soon so I may return to Cornwall with my parents.”
“I will speak with His Grace this evening. I will discuss our future with him. While I do not know what I shall do, I promise I shall give him one last opportunity to say what he must.”
“What you are unaware of is that upon meeting Miss Cooper, plagued with guilt and the need to make her Season here this year one to remember, I somehow stumbled headlong in love with her. With every breath of my body, I wanted her. She was everything I did not want, or so I thought, and yet everything my soul craved. I could not sleep or eat without thinking of her." His eyes held hers, and Iris felt moisture pool in hers. Could he be saying all these things and before the entire London elite?”
“I never asked you to marry me, Iris, because I felt sorry for you," he said, finding her in the crowd and holding her gaze. "Nor did I ask out of pity for your situation or my guilt over your circumstances. I merely used them at first to get close to you. I soon fell in love with your laughter, kindness, sweet, gentle soul that only ever wants the best for others. I want you as my duchess. No other lady will do.”
“she nodded, knowing this was what she wanted. What she had always wanted from the very first moment her eyes had taken in the duke. There was only ever the duke.”
“Had she not been so caught up in her husband's love and warmth, she would have noticed the room stood in awe, in envy, and without a dry eye in the room at the love shared by the Duke and Duchess of Penworth.
The devotion.”
“Congratulations, my dearest Iris. If I have not said this before, let me say so again now how very happy I am that you are my son's chosen bride. The love of his life, if my estimation of him is accurate. Which, as his mother, I'm usually right.”
“Josh chuckled. "I have never been more so. The thought of a future, a life with you at my side, is a puzzle piece I never knew I was missing. Not until I met you." He kissed her again as he turned them about. "I intend on making you so very happy until I take my last breath, Your Grace.”
“To the Worthingham family and Duke of Penworth line. May we thrive for years to come. May our children prosper and have loves as grand as ours have been. Have full and happy lives."
Iris raised her glass. "To family and love."
The others followed. "To us," Josh said”
She’s too insecure and lacks confidence!
“He would choose his lady when he found one suitable for the position as duchess.
Not just any lady would do.
Oh no, his lady needed to be witty, intelligent, and beautiful if he could be so vain to desire such a thing.”
“I am set on finding a suitable bride for the position of duchess this Season. I have decided she must be a lady of the finest breeding, well-spoken and educated, and above all else, take London by storm with her beauty and grace.”
“London. She shuddered at the thought of traveling there, being courted by those money-hungry swains whom she had not an ounce of interest in. Nor did she have the money to tempt them into marrying a cripple.”
“You will have your choice of gentleman to take your hand in marriage, but with copious amounts to choose from, I'm hoping you shall find the man who stops your heart at the very sight of him. A love match will only do.”
“He smiled, resolved to make amends for his actions all those years ago. Amends he should have made days after she regained consciousness. Fool that he was, he had not done so, but he would ensure she was happy and settled before he found his perfect match.”
“Should his family find out how he had treated Miss Cooper, his hand behind the bet that injured her, or even the lady herself, he was certain his family or Iris would never forgive him. And rightfully so, for the act was unforgivable”
“Even so, Iris was no fool, and the woman who became the next Duchess of Penworth would be a diamond of the first water. Not paste, as Iris so often felt about herself”
“Not that he would ever allow Miss Cooper to know of his hand in her injuries and loss of her betrothed, but he would make her world right. Make her future the one that she wanted, and he would move heaven and earth to gain her every wish.”
“She wanted a union that was equal in respect and love. She pursed her lips. Where did one find such a man and at her age?
The image of the Penworth floated through her mind, teasing her.”
“I will ensure she has a much happier ending to her Season than her last. This time she will marry a man who loves her as much as she loves him. It is my mission to make my wrong right by helping her, vetting all her gentlemen admirers to be sure she makes the right choice for her.”
“Her mouth dried at the sight of him. He was perfection itself, tall and handsome and utterly unattainable.”
“How she wished it was her hand running through his dark locks. Would he like her touching him so? Iris certainly knew she would enjoy petting him if she were able.”
“Tonight she looked like a duchess, and the realization gave him pause.
Blast it all to hell. She interested him. And she should not. Not at all. As beautiful as she was, she was neither titled, dowered, nor could she bring connections as lofty as his own.”
“Worse, however was now that she had touched him once, it would not be enough, that she would crave the feel of him from this night on.”
“How had he not seen that she was such a treasure? How had the other gentlemen not have seen either?
Were they all blind?”
“Miss Cooper grinned into her dessert, his mother looking at him as if he had lost his mind. Which, when he was around Miss Cooper, had been occurring more and more.”
“His eyes blazed with an emotion she could not interpret. Her breath caught, her heart raced, and there was no place she would rather be than in his arms.”
“If only he would look at her for his prospective bride. Iris was certain she could make him happy and give him children.”
“Her words warmed his heart and made his blood quicken. He enjoyed her in his arms too. Much more than he thought he would. She was a vicar's daughter. A woman beneath his notice, until now”
“Affection. Desire. Need.
He cared for her more than he had ever thought to care for anyone. This Season, he was determined to find a duchess, yet his attention kept moving back to Iris.”
“Are you not going to congratulate me, Mother? I have asked Iris to be my wife, and she has accepted me. We are to be married.”
“As for Miss Cooper, she may take a little more convincing that he was not fooling her. Oh no, not at all. She would be the next Duchess of Penworth, and what a transcendent duchess she would make.”
“No one but your mama caught us kissing, Your Grace. Is it really necessary that we marry? I'm certain if you asked your mother, and I spoke with her too, she would spare us this ordeal”
“Iris met his gaze, waited for what he would say next. "I kissed you because I like you. I kissed you because I wanted to kiss you”
“I would not have kissed her if I was not willing to accept any consequences of my actions”
“She may not have been what he thought he wanted, but he certainly wanted her now. Iris would be his wife and soon.
Just not soon enough.”
“How could she be so enamored with a man she had only known a few weeks?
The admission made little sense, but as true as she was kissing him, falling for the duke more and more each day, so too were her feelings. They grew each time he walked into a room”
“And he was a bastard. He had caused her so much pain and grief in her short life. He would make amends, and he would start by loving her as a woman ought to be loved”
“He had never loved anyone. Not truly loved the way a man loved a woman. Something told Josh that what he felt for the woman in his arms was not common. It was not something that one dispensed with or took for granted.”
“Had she fallen in love with her betrothed?
Surely not, and yet… Panic assailed her that Lady Muir may be correct. No, not maybe correct, was correct.
She loved him”
“You will not ruin me. We're to be married. There is no shame in what we are doing. Two consenting adults who are promised to each other and who want the same”
“I love your gift just as I love you," she said, praying she was not wrong in what she believed he felt for her too.
He pulled her closer still, cradling her face in his hands. "I'm so pleased you said those words, Iris, as I have utterly and completely fallen in love with you too.”
“You killed Redgrove." She turned and faced him. "Had you not made your stupid damn bet, none of this would have happened. He would be alive today. I would not suffer from my injury. I would not limp when the weather turns chilly. I would not be laughed at for the scar that marred my face. How could you?" she yelled, her hands fisted at her sides as if she were halting herself from striking him.”
“You pitied me and felt guilty over having a hand in my accident and sustained injuries." She shook her head, clearly bewildered. "I cannot marry you. I will not marry a man who only declares to love me because he feels obligated to save me from a spinsterhood that he had a hand in creating.”
“Heat rose on his cheeks, and his sister raised her brows. "Brother, tell me you have not taken liberties that you should not have. Is Iris enceinte?”
“He was perfection, and she physically hurt at the thought of losing him, of him marrying another in the years or months ahead stopped her heart dead. But that was for the best”
“I am not pregnant. There is no reason why our farce of an engagement should continue. I would like the contracts dissolved and soon so I may return to Cornwall with my parents.”
“I will speak with His Grace this evening. I will discuss our future with him. While I do not know what I shall do, I promise I shall give him one last opportunity to say what he must.”
“What you are unaware of is that upon meeting Miss Cooper, plagued with guilt and the need to make her Season here this year one to remember, I somehow stumbled headlong in love with her. With every breath of my body, I wanted her. She was everything I did not want, or so I thought, and yet everything my soul craved. I could not sleep or eat without thinking of her." His eyes held hers, and Iris felt moisture pool in hers. Could he be saying all these things and before the entire London elite?”
“I never asked you to marry me, Iris, because I felt sorry for you," he said, finding her in the crowd and holding her gaze. "Nor did I ask out of pity for your situation or my guilt over your circumstances. I merely used them at first to get close to you. I soon fell in love with your laughter, kindness, sweet, gentle soul that only ever wants the best for others. I want you as my duchess. No other lady will do.”
“she nodded, knowing this was what she wanted. What she had always wanted from the very first moment her eyes had taken in the duke. There was only ever the duke.”
“Had she not been so caught up in her husband's love and warmth, she would have noticed the room stood in awe, in envy, and without a dry eye in the room at the love shared by the Duke and Duchess of Penworth.
The devotion.”
“Congratulations, my dearest Iris. If I have not said this before, let me say so again now how very happy I am that you are my son's chosen bride. The love of his life, if my estimation of him is accurate. Which, as his mother, I'm usually right.”
“Josh chuckled. "I have never been more so. The thought of a future, a life with you at my side, is a puzzle piece I never knew I was missing. Not until I met you." He kissed her again as he turned them about. "I intend on making you so very happy until I take my last breath, Your Grace.”
“To the Worthingham family and Duke of Penworth line. May we thrive for years to come. May our children prosper and have loves as grand as ours have been. Have full and happy lives."
Iris raised her glass. "To family and love."
The others followed. "To us," Josh said”
July 3, 2021
“Only A Lady Will Do” is the 5th and final book in the ‘To Marry A Rogue” series by Tamara Gill. It features Josh, the only brother in the Worthingham family. You need not have read the books about his sisters in order to enjoy his story. Some characters from the previous books make small appearances in this one, so if you are familiar with the other stories it’s nice to ‘see’ them again.
Josh has already succeeded his father as Duke of Penworth and wants to do what he thinks is best to honor his family and the title. He’s convinced that means he should marry a paragon of a woman, somebody perfect in every way. His mother’s best friend, (the daughter of an Earl who married a vicar), has sent her own daughter, Iris, to London in hopes of finding her a husband. That young woman is older than the average debutante because in her first season she survived a terrible accident that brutally ended her engagement. The accident left her with permanent scars. Iris hopes to make a happy match, and find a husband who makes her feel the way she feels when she’s around Josh. She’s kind-hearted, intelligent and lovely, but not at all what Josh knows he needs in a wife. Unfortunately for him, he finds her irresistible. I don’t want to give away any spoilers, but sometimes things don’t unfold the way we intend them to … and there are times when bad decisions made in the past can rattle the present and threaten the future.
Initially I was irritated by how obsessed Josh was about requiring perfection in any woman he would marry. Then I was annoyed at his procrastination in addressing certain things, and because of his delays the tension keeps building and the stakes keep getting higher. All that Iris has endured was heartbreaking. She is such a strong, endearing character. I thought the ending was truly excellent, and Josh made the leap from frustrating to fantastic in a wonderful way. I’m sorry to see this series conclude, but I’m looking forward to whatever Tamara Gill has for us next.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review. I also purchased a copy on Amazon.
Josh has already succeeded his father as Duke of Penworth and wants to do what he thinks is best to honor his family and the title. He’s convinced that means he should marry a paragon of a woman, somebody perfect in every way. His mother’s best friend, (the daughter of an Earl who married a vicar), has sent her own daughter, Iris, to London in hopes of finding her a husband. That young woman is older than the average debutante because in her first season she survived a terrible accident that brutally ended her engagement. The accident left her with permanent scars. Iris hopes to make a happy match, and find a husband who makes her feel the way she feels when she’s around Josh. She’s kind-hearted, intelligent and lovely, but not at all what Josh knows he needs in a wife. Unfortunately for him, he finds her irresistible. I don’t want to give away any spoilers, but sometimes things don’t unfold the way we intend them to … and there are times when bad decisions made in the past can rattle the present and threaten the future.
Initially I was irritated by how obsessed Josh was about requiring perfection in any woman he would marry. Then I was annoyed at his procrastination in addressing certain things, and because of his delays the tension keeps building and the stakes keep getting higher. All that Iris has endured was heartbreaking. She is such a strong, endearing character. I thought the ending was truly excellent, and Josh made the leap from frustrating to fantastic in a wonderful way. I’m sorry to see this series conclude, but I’m looking forward to whatever Tamara Gill has for us next.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review. I also purchased a copy on Amazon.
July 23, 2021
Tamara Gill’s “Only a Lady Will Do” (To Marry a Rogue Book 5) is a delightful tale I couldn’t put down.
It is time for Josh Worthingham, Duke of Penworth to marry and fulfill his role to honor his family. He seeks the perfect woman to fulfill the role of Duchess, a woman above reproach, a lady. We can see Josh has grown from his younger self, almost into the man he was meant to be.
Iris Cooper, an intelligent, wonderful and kind young woman, the daughter of a vicar and granddaughter of an Earl, a young woman his mother is sponsoring this season. Though she’s the granddaughter of Earl she is still the vicar’s daughter and out of his league. But that doesn’t stop Iris from being fascinated with the Duke. Having survived her first season and an ended engagement after a devastating accident that left her physically impaired she feels unworthy of the Duke and feels her prospects of making a good match are impaired by her being considered a cripple with no dowry. She hopes to find as kind man who will treat he well. And yet she and Josh are drawn to one another irresistibly like magnets.
Wonderful characters grace this beautiful story, written superbly by a very talented storyteller and skillful author. I was so drawn to Iris and her plight. I admired her strength, determination, kind heart and graceful countenance despite the scar on her face or the limp and pain she suffered. I wasn’t so fond of Josh to start with and wanted him to face issues and confront them head on, which he does as the story unfolds. I didn’t understand his reluctance to come clean and his guilt.
This is a well written, sweet and steamy love story a second chances, groveling redemption and forgiveness. I couldn’t help but cry. Of course there’s jealousy, angst, and secrets to conquer but watching these two fall in love was so wonderful. This was just a great conclusion to a really fantastic series.
Thank you so much Ms. Gill for this charmingly delightful love story that touches the heart.
It is time for Josh Worthingham, Duke of Penworth to marry and fulfill his role to honor his family. He seeks the perfect woman to fulfill the role of Duchess, a woman above reproach, a lady. We can see Josh has grown from his younger self, almost into the man he was meant to be.
Iris Cooper, an intelligent, wonderful and kind young woman, the daughter of a vicar and granddaughter of an Earl, a young woman his mother is sponsoring this season. Though she’s the granddaughter of Earl she is still the vicar’s daughter and out of his league. But that doesn’t stop Iris from being fascinated with the Duke. Having survived her first season and an ended engagement after a devastating accident that left her physically impaired she feels unworthy of the Duke and feels her prospects of making a good match are impaired by her being considered a cripple with no dowry. She hopes to find as kind man who will treat he well. And yet she and Josh are drawn to one another irresistibly like magnets.
Wonderful characters grace this beautiful story, written superbly by a very talented storyteller and skillful author. I was so drawn to Iris and her plight. I admired her strength, determination, kind heart and graceful countenance despite the scar on her face or the limp and pain she suffered. I wasn’t so fond of Josh to start with and wanted him to face issues and confront them head on, which he does as the story unfolds. I didn’t understand his reluctance to come clean and his guilt.
This is a well written, sweet and steamy love story a second chances, groveling redemption and forgiveness. I couldn’t help but cry. Of course there’s jealousy, angst, and secrets to conquer but watching these two fall in love was so wonderful. This was just a great conclusion to a really fantastic series.
Thank you so much Ms. Gill for this charmingly delightful love story that touches the heart.
July 6, 2021
Like his sisters the Duke and the vicar’s daughter find true love and happiness.
This is the 5th and final book in Tamara Gill’s “To Marry a Rogue” Series that with this book has all the Worthingham siblings happily married. Ms. Gill is an excellent wordsmith and this tale is another example of her superior writing ability and storytelling. It has well developed lovable characters with an engaging plot that is entertaining and heartwarming. I highly recommend this novel and you should not miss this one, as well as the first four in the series.
The Dowager Duchess Penworth has agreed to sponsor her best friend’s daughter, Iris Cooper, for the Season in London so that she might find a husband. She is the daughter of a Vicar in Cornwall and she is determined that she should marry for love, like her parents. During her first season, 7 years ago, her engagement ended in a tragic accident where her betrothed was killed and she was seriously injured so that she still suffers with scars and a limp. The Dowager’s son, Josh Worthingham Duke of Penworth, is also looking for a wife. He meets Iris in her mother’s drawing room. She has very little to offer a husband who is a peer, with no title, no dowry, and her injuries. She is not at all what the Duck expects of his future Duchess but he is immediately smitten with her. As the relationship between Iris and Josh progress, she sees their match as a dream-come-true and they become engaged. They seem destined to be together, but the Duck’s lie of omission about the accident tears them apart the day before the wedding. The story included passion, love, second chances, and a grand gesture that results in an HEA. You won’t want to put the book down until the end.
Having received a free copy of this book via Booksprout, I voluntarily leave this review.
This is the 5th and final book in Tamara Gill’s “To Marry a Rogue” Series that with this book has all the Worthingham siblings happily married. Ms. Gill is an excellent wordsmith and this tale is another example of her superior writing ability and storytelling. It has well developed lovable characters with an engaging plot that is entertaining and heartwarming. I highly recommend this novel and you should not miss this one, as well as the first four in the series.
The Dowager Duchess Penworth has agreed to sponsor her best friend’s daughter, Iris Cooper, for the Season in London so that she might find a husband. She is the daughter of a Vicar in Cornwall and she is determined that she should marry for love, like her parents. During her first season, 7 years ago, her engagement ended in a tragic accident where her betrothed was killed and she was seriously injured so that she still suffers with scars and a limp. The Dowager’s son, Josh Worthingham Duke of Penworth, is also looking for a wife. He meets Iris in her mother’s drawing room. She has very little to offer a husband who is a peer, with no title, no dowry, and her injuries. She is not at all what the Duck expects of his future Duchess but he is immediately smitten with her. As the relationship between Iris and Josh progress, she sees their match as a dream-come-true and they become engaged. They seem destined to be together, but the Duck’s lie of omission about the accident tears them apart the day before the wedding. The story included passion, love, second chances, and a grand gesture that results in an HEA. You won’t want to put the book down until the end.
Having received a free copy of this book via Booksprout, I voluntarily leave this review.
July 3, 2021
A fairly light-hearted and easy story with minimal angst and conflict until the final quarter of the story when everything blows up.
Iris and Josh were thrown together by fate and their story goes from 0 to 60 in a few short pages about a quarter of the way into the story. The second and third quarters sees their romance moving along, happy as you please, with some sexy scenes thrown in. The final quarter is when the h discovers the story's "big secret," chooses to overthink things without really talking things out with the H, and ultimately creates a hurricane in a glass of water (IMO). She decides to break things off with him because of something he did before meeting her, that she decides to make all about herself, when really it was just a footnote in their overall journey. She goes from hot to cold, then back to hot in the space of a week, while our besotted H sits in his study writing her letters that she won't read. Finally, queue a grand gesture and suddenly we're back to a tsunami of "my darling"s," "I adore you's," and all other manner of diabetes inducing sweet nothing's. They lay it on thick as they sail off into their HEA.
Personally, I prefer a tougher, less "besotted puppy dog" H, and a more mature, reasonable h. But if you're looking for something (mostly) easy on the angst with short-lived (though dramatic) conflict, then you'll enjoy this story. Not a bad way to spend a quiet evening at home. 🙂
**I received an ARC from the author in exchange for an honest and independent review.
Iris and Josh were thrown together by fate and their story goes from 0 to 60 in a few short pages about a quarter of the way into the story. The second and third quarters sees their romance moving along, happy as you please, with some sexy scenes thrown in. The final quarter is when the h discovers the story's "big secret," chooses to overthink things without really talking things out with the H, and ultimately creates a hurricane in a glass of water (IMO). She decides to break things off with him because of something he did before meeting her, that she decides to make all about herself, when really it was just a footnote in their overall journey. She goes from hot to cold, then back to hot in the space of a week, while our besotted H sits in his study writing her letters that she won't read. Finally, queue a grand gesture and suddenly we're back to a tsunami of "my darling"s," "I adore you's," and all other manner of diabetes inducing sweet nothing's. They lay it on thick as they sail off into their HEA.
Personally, I prefer a tougher, less "besotted puppy dog" H, and a more mature, reasonable h. But if you're looking for something (mostly) easy on the angst with short-lived (though dramatic) conflict, then you'll enjoy this story. Not a bad way to spend a quiet evening at home. 🙂
**I received an ARC from the author in exchange for an honest and independent review.
July 3, 2021
TITLE: Love from an unexpected source and survives mighty obstructions placed in it’s path.
SETTING: 1812 London, the start of the “Season”.
JOSH WORTHINGHAM, Duke of Penworth, escorts his mother and the young woman is sponsoring for the season, (Miss Iris Cooper), to society events.
CRITIQUE: This story uses a variation on the theme of the high-status man falling for his mother’s ward. There are hidden twists, turns and bumps in the road for our Hero and heroine that add flavor to the tale and help maintain interest.
We meet a mature, the dependable man in Josh at the outset, and then are allowed to see the weaker man from which he has evolved in earlier times. Our heroine Iris comes from a humble vicar’s home, although her maternal grandfather was an Earl. As her parents are estranged from the Earl, their status in society is one of being without title and rather low in comparison to others. We watch as Iris gains confidence in herself as she faces the trials and tribulations of being out in society, especially as her own status is thought to be much lower than most other young ladies vying for husbands.
This book held my interest to the end. As this book is part of a “Rogue” series, expect a lot of roguish behavior to be displayed for the reader—onscreen (caveat emptor). Even though this book is part of a series, this is the first I have read. It stands on it’s own quite well.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
SETTING: 1812 London, the start of the “Season”.
JOSH WORTHINGHAM, Duke of Penworth, escorts his mother and the young woman is sponsoring for the season, (Miss Iris Cooper), to society events.
CRITIQUE: This story uses a variation on the theme of the high-status man falling for his mother’s ward. There are hidden twists, turns and bumps in the road for our Hero and heroine that add flavor to the tale and help maintain interest.
We meet a mature, the dependable man in Josh at the outset, and then are allowed to see the weaker man from which he has evolved in earlier times. Our heroine Iris comes from a humble vicar’s home, although her maternal grandfather was an Earl. As her parents are estranged from the Earl, their status in society is one of being without title and rather low in comparison to others. We watch as Iris gains confidence in herself as she faces the trials and tribulations of being out in society, especially as her own status is thought to be much lower than most other young ladies vying for husbands.
This book held my interest to the end. As this book is part of a “Rogue” series, expect a lot of roguish behavior to be displayed for the reader—onscreen (caveat emptor). Even though this book is part of a series, this is the first I have read. It stands on it’s own quite well.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
July 7, 2021
I really loved the characters in this book. I found them entertaining and interesting as a whole. I really loved Iris - it’s so great to read about a heroine from outside the Ton who doesn’t spend the whole book stressing about it! She was a bit “idgaf, I’m going to enjoy myself”, and I loved that. I’m intrigued enough to go back and read about some of the sisters (I’ve read Tamara’s time travel series but not this whole series). This was a really feel-good type of story. The “conflict” wasn’t huge and only really became a problem rather late, so this is a great book if you want to read a story about the lovely side of the regency era. 😊
I was given this book as part of a review team, so I’m not sure if this was an ARC or an official copy, but there were quite a few typos and errors, so it very well could have been an ARC. The duke is often referred to as Duke Something rather than Duke OF Something - I’ve learned that sometimes Earl and Viscount can be used the way you might use Mr if their title is their last name rather than a territory, but Duke was never considered appropriate as a title like Mr from what I read. There’s always a fair bit of leeway in HR I think, but that was one thing that just caused a bit of a twinge every time I saw it. I enjoy Tamara’s writing style and characters, so I’m still happy to read her books. This just sent me off down the nobility title rabbit hole and I got distracted.
I was given this book as part of a review team, so I’m not sure if this was an ARC or an official copy, but there were quite a few typos and errors, so it very well could have been an ARC. The duke is often referred to as Duke Something rather than Duke OF Something - I’ve learned that sometimes Earl and Viscount can be used the way you might use Mr if their title is their last name rather than a territory, but Duke was never considered appropriate as a title like Mr from what I read. There’s always a fair bit of leeway in HR I think, but that was one thing that just caused a bit of a twinge every time I saw it. I enjoy Tamara’s writing style and characters, so I’m still happy to read her books. This just sent me off down the nobility title rabbit hole and I got distracted.
August 3, 2021
I love a good angst-ridden romance but the writing style of this novel didn't suit my taste. There were pages and pages of internal monologue about the most minor occurrences. Lots of telling rather than showing. I found both character's motivations to be very simplistic. Other than some residual injuries from the accident, the heroine seems wholly unaffected by the tragedy that is the main driving force in this book. She's pretty and nice. The "other woman" is comically bad. No nuance. But the real disconnect was that much of the conversation in the book demonstrated the rigid social mores of the time but then there were these very explicit sex scenes that seemed to come out of nowhere. I mean (spoiler alert), the h gets separated from her chaperone on the way into the opera. I mean the old woman she was with couldn't have gotten more than a few feet away. So then the doorman at the opera won't let the h into the opera. She stands there like a child "gee maybe I should just hire a hack and go home" rather than call out or ask ANYONE around her to get the Dowager's attention. Yet this is the same h that literally goes full on oral on the Duke in a bookstore. "Ooh I don't know what I'm doing, what is this thing, what will happen if I put it in my mouth." I couldn't finish the book but I can tell you exactly what happened in the end...
July 6, 2021
Josh, the Duke of Penworth, decided that this was the Season when he would select a bride, and he had a laundry list of qualities required. It was also the same Season that his mother had promised to sponsor Iris, the daughter of her best friend. Iris did have one Season in London years before, but it was cut short by an accident that took the life of her betrothed and caused her serious injury. She and Josh spent time together and soon became attached. Meanwhile, Lady Sophie had set her sights on Josh and was determined to be his duchess no matter what it took. So between Lady Sophie’s machinations and a secret of Josh’s, the stage was set for drama. This is an emotion driven story that will have your heart break one minute and soar the next. The characters are genuine and their dialogue, actions and insecurities ring true…and the bedroom scenes are steamy. This story will keep your interest, engage your emotions and leave you anxiously awaiting the next in the series.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
July 7, 2021
Josh Worthingham, Duke of Penworth, must marry. He seeks a lady of perfection to be his duchess. When he meets Iris Cooper, his idea of perfection changes. Iris was injured in an accident and still bears visible scars. That’s the outside. Inside she is gentle, kind, and caring, in short, beautiful. Guilt over his part in the accident was the reason he agreed to help his mother see Iris have a successful season. It doesn’t take long for Josh to realize that she is not a burden, but a delight. In his eyes, she will make his perfect duchess. Now to win her. They will have to reconcile some secrets and misunderstandings, fend off a rival or two, break one or two of society’s rules, and above all learn to communicate with each other (especially Josh). They will get lots of advice from the Mama’s and Josh’s sisters. I love it when the Title has older sisters who keep him straight. This is an engaging story and a lovely way to end the series.
I received an ARC of this book via Booksprout. My review is voluntary.
I received an ARC of this book via Booksprout. My review is voluntary.
July 6, 2021
I just love Tamara Gill books and I love this series. This book is about Iris who is the daughter of a Vicar, who when she made had her first season, she was engaged to a man who died when they got in a bad accident. In this accident Iris received a scar and her leg was damaged and always in pain. Now she has the opportunity to have another season and be sponsored by her mother’s friend a Duchess. The Duchess’ son is Josh Worthingham, he said he would help his mother sponsor Iris, but then he realizes he remembers her from her first season. Josh wanted a perfect Duchess, a true Lady, he did not feel Iris will be a perfect wife for him, but that does not stop him wanting her. The love scenes between Iris and Josh are sizzling, they are really perfect together. I read this book so quickly I did not want to put it down I was enjoying it so very much.
I received an ARC of this book for my honest opinion.
I received an ARC of this book for my honest opinion.
July 10, 2021
I enjoyed the story of Iris and Josh. Once Iris stopped calling herself a cripple and Josh stopped repeating his appropriate duchess checklist, the characters became more interesting and likeable. The story follows the titled son falls for lower-born lady his mother is sponsoring as a favor to a friend plot, with a couple of twists to add further interest. The characters were lively and developed and I enjoyed that Iris was not a pushover. The story is not clean, so if that’s your preference, you’ll want to skip this one. The reason I took off a star is that the book needed a solid proofread/edit. There were a lot of grammar errors that sometimes distracted from the story, especially in the first few chapters. Once I got further into the book, they weren’t as jarring, although there were still spots where I had to read a sentence over again to figure out what the author was trying to say. The story and characters get the whole 5 stars, but the execution was hot or miss at times.
I received an advance copy of this book and this review is my honest opinion.
I received an advance copy of this book and this review is my honest opinion.
July 28, 2021
Excellent
Josh and Iris are wonderful! I loved seeing them come together, to see soul mates discover each other.
This is the last book in the series and for me redeemed the series. While Josh felt guilt, his recognition of how truly perfect Iris was fun to watch. Having a set list of expectations and requirements for his future duchess and that all be upended was fun. You would think a man with four older sisters would be a bit more prepared, but it is one of my favorite things... To see the hero turned upside down.
Iris is remarkable. She is resilient, smart, caring and has a rather wicked sense of humor. Her discovery that she is deserving of Josh blew her mind. Her instincts about slime people was spot on.
I liked the underlying conflict, and while not fond of its delivery person, it added the right amount of tension. The grand gesture was amazing and had my eyes a bit watery. Well done! I give this a 4.5 Star rating.
Josh and Iris are wonderful! I loved seeing them come together, to see soul mates discover each other.
This is the last book in the series and for me redeemed the series. While Josh felt guilt, his recognition of how truly perfect Iris was fun to watch. Having a set list of expectations and requirements for his future duchess and that all be upended was fun. You would think a man with four older sisters would be a bit more prepared, but it is one of my favorite things... To see the hero turned upside down.
Iris is remarkable. She is resilient, smart, caring and has a rather wicked sense of humor. Her discovery that she is deserving of Josh blew her mind. Her instincts about slime people was spot on.
I liked the underlying conflict, and while not fond of its delivery person, it added the right amount of tension. The grand gesture was amazing and had my eyes a bit watery. Well done! I give this a 4.5 Star rating.
August 23, 2021
A chance at redemption
I loved Josh and Iris’s story. Iris was severely injured 7 yrs ago and her fiancé killed in what she thought was just a horrible accident. She is given another chance at finding a husband by being sponsored by her mother’s best friend the Dowager Duchess.
Josh knows he needs to find a wife this season and knows it will not be Lady Sophie. He is looking for a titled, wealthy and beautifully woman. When he meets his the person his mother is sponsoring this season he can’t believe his eyes it’s the girl he helped in Hyde Park after the terrible carriage accident. He feels he is partially responsible since he placed the bets in Whites. He vows to find her a good husband. He just never guessed that he would fall in love with her. A wonderful book it has romance, blackmail, intimacy before vows are exchanged, love and betrayal all wrapped up in a story worth reading.
I loved Josh and Iris’s story. Iris was severely injured 7 yrs ago and her fiancé killed in what she thought was just a horrible accident. She is given another chance at finding a husband by being sponsored by her mother’s best friend the Dowager Duchess.
Josh knows he needs to find a wife this season and knows it will not be Lady Sophie. He is looking for a titled, wealthy and beautifully woman. When he meets his the person his mother is sponsoring this season he can’t believe his eyes it’s the girl he helped in Hyde Park after the terrible carriage accident. He feels he is partially responsible since he placed the bets in Whites. He vows to find her a good husband. He just never guessed that he would fall in love with her. A wonderful book it has romance, blackmail, intimacy before vows are exchanged, love and betrayal all wrapped up in a story worth reading.
July 8, 2021
Josh, Duke of Penworth was determined to marry a perfect pedigreed lady with a substantial dowry, but he can't help his attraction to the imperfect woman his mother is sponsoring this season. He feels guilty over a secret he's kept from her that because of a bet he placed she lost her betrothed and sustained injuries that forever changed her life. Iris has feelings Josh too but as a vicar daughter and a cripple she knows she's not worthy to be a duchess. Lady Sophie meets Josh's marriage criteria except for her selfish and cruel nature. She'll do whatever it takes to separate Josh and Iris so she can have him for herself. She was one of the villains in the book, but part of me hope she redeems herself in a future book. Despite Iris' physical struggles she is strong, kind, passionate, and a bit stubborn at times. Her pride gets in the way and could cost her love.
August 1, 2021
Its not pity
Josh is a Duke finally in search of a Duchess! Josh has sown his wild oats and now wants to marry having seen through the character of his first choice he wants only a lady! Iris is being shown a season by her mother good friend the Duchess of Penworth after recovering from a painful carriage accident! Josh takes one look at this beautiful vicar daughter and knows he's in trouble! Iris knows he's above her but can't help but dream a little! Josh deliberately compromised Iris and declare they are to wed! When Josh secret is revealed Iris has to decide if she will forgive or let the past ruin and determine her future! Josh is definitely the dream hero in this story! Can Iris be that lady? She is a little judgemental to me! Her previous fiance took part in her injuries and his own demise!
Josh is a Duke finally in search of a Duchess! Josh has sown his wild oats and now wants to marry having seen through the character of his first choice he wants only a lady! Iris is being shown a season by her mother good friend the Duchess of Penworth after recovering from a painful carriage accident! Josh takes one look at this beautiful vicar daughter and knows he's in trouble! Iris knows he's above her but can't help but dream a little! Josh deliberately compromised Iris and declare they are to wed! When Josh secret is revealed Iris has to decide if she will forgive or let the past ruin and determine her future! Josh is definitely the dream hero in this story! Can Iris be that lady? She is a little judgemental to me! Her previous fiance took part in her injuries and his own demise!
June 4, 2023
Only a Lady Will Do is the fifth book in the To Marry a Rogue series. Set in London and Cornwall, 1812. It has a delightful Epilogue three years later, expounding on the happily ever after.
Only an Earl Will Do: 4 stars: Henry & Elizabeth
Only a Duke Will Do: 3 stars: Merrick & Isolde
Only a Viscount Will Do: 3 stars: Callum & Alice
Only a Marquess Will Do: 4- stars: Albert & Victoria
Only a Lady Will Do: 4 stars: Josh & Iris
Josh Worthingham, Duke of Penworth, must marry, and not just any bride will do. He needs a true lady to be his duchess. It’s what is expected of him, and he can accept no less.
Miss Iris Cooper may be the granddaughter of an Earl, but that’s where her lofty connections to the Ton end.
Josh and Iris have quite the journey to establish their relationship.
I recommend this book. I highly recommend this series.
Only an Earl Will Do: 4 stars: Henry & Elizabeth
Only a Duke Will Do: 3 stars: Merrick & Isolde
Only a Viscount Will Do: 3 stars: Callum & Alice
Only a Marquess Will Do: 4- stars: Albert & Victoria
Only a Lady Will Do: 4 stars: Josh & Iris
Josh Worthingham, Duke of Penworth, must marry, and not just any bride will do. He needs a true lady to be his duchess. It’s what is expected of him, and he can accept no less.
Miss Iris Cooper may be the granddaughter of an Earl, but that’s where her lofty connections to the Ton end.
Josh and Iris have quite the journey to establish their relationship.
I recommend this book. I highly recommend this series.
July 5, 2021
Not only does cupid play with our hero and heroine, but he will have you falling in love with them too! The romantic in me was sad to reach the last page. I feel like I have been waiting for a live story like this all year. From the opening line you recognize that this is a book with a well-plotted and engaging storyline that glides along a path of intense emotion, turmoil, drama and the twists and turns that make a worthwhile story. Iris and Josh are both well-written characters and I fell hard for them as a couple. I just ached for the pain Iris had endured, but I loved that she was a heroine with imperfections. Josh is her perfect complement. I enjoyed every single moment of it a d I know I will happily re-read in the future.
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