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Daring Dukes #2
Rules for Heiresses
Amalie Howard whisks you away with a historical romance full of drama, true love, and the perfect happily ever after.
Sometimes, finding love means flouting the rules...
Born to a life of privilege, Lady Ravenna Huntley rues the day that she must marry. She's refused dozens of suitors and cried off multiple betrothals, but running away—even if brash and foolhardy—is the only option left to secure her independence.
Lord Courtland Chase, grandson of the Duke of Ashton, was driven from England at the behest of his cruel stepmother. Scorned and shunned, he swore never to return to the land of his birth. But when a twist of bad luck throws a rebellious heiress into his arms, at the very moment he finds out he's the new Duke, marriage is the only alternative to massive scandal.
Both are quick to deny it, but a wedding might be the only way out for both of them. And the attraction that burns between them makes Ravenna and Courtland wonder if it'll truly only be a marriage of convenience after all...
Sometimes, finding love means flouting the rules...
Born to a life of privilege, Lady Ravenna Huntley rues the day that she must marry. She's refused dozens of suitors and cried off multiple betrothals, but running away—even if brash and foolhardy—is the only option left to secure her independence.
Lord Courtland Chase, grandson of the Duke of Ashton, was driven from England at the behest of his cruel stepmother. Scorned and shunned, he swore never to return to the land of his birth. But when a twist of bad luck throws a rebellious heiress into his arms, at the very moment he finds out he's the new Duke, marriage is the only alternative to massive scandal.
Both are quick to deny it, but a wedding might be the only way out for both of them. And the attraction that burns between them makes Ravenna and Courtland wonder if it'll truly only be a marriage of convenience after all...
290 pages, Mass Market Paperback
First published October 26, 2021
180 people are currently reading
1408 people want to read
About the author
Amalie Howard
46 books3,285 followersAMALIE HOWARD is a USA Today and Publishers Weekly bestselling author, most notably of The Beast of Beswick, “a smart, sexy, deliciously feminist romance,” and one of O-The Oprah Magazine’s Top 24 Best Historicals to Read. She is the co-author of the #1 bestsellers in regency romance and Scottish historical romance, My Rogue, My Ruin and What A Scot Wants, and has also penned several young adult novels, critically acclaimed by Kirkus, Publishers Weekly, VOYA, School Library Journal, and Booklist, including Waterfell, The Almost Girl, and Alpha Goddess, a Kid’s INDIE NEXT selection. Of Indo-Caribbean descent, she has written articles on multicultural fiction for The Portland Book Review and Ravishly magazine. She currently resides in Colorado with her husband and three children. Visit her at amaliehoward.com.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 343 reviews
October 25, 2021
Rules for Heiresses by Amalie Howard
Historical romance. Subsequent to The Princess Stakes but not labeled as a series. Can be read as a stand-alone but I think better if you’ve read the prior. Touches on mixed race parentage.
Ravenna and Courtland were childhood friends until he was sent away by his stepmother. They meet again and are caught in an compromising position and are forced to return home. He must take on the title of Duke even though his family previously declared him dead and his stepbrother holds himself out as the Duke.
A fun pairing. Ravenna is wild and unconventional, and Courtland is contrary and uncommon. They play off each other well and their attraction to each other includes plenty of steamy encounters. Corruption and lies must be untangled which adds depth and intrigue to storyline.
I liked Ravenna’s strength of character and willingness to jump into any situation.
The epilogue was fantastic in wrapping up all the loose end and character questions.
I received a copy of this from NetGalley. I purchased a paperback copy to gift.
Historical romance. Subsequent to The Princess Stakes but not labeled as a series. Can be read as a stand-alone but I think better if you’ve read the prior. Touches on mixed race parentage.
Ravenna and Courtland were childhood friends until he was sent away by his stepmother. They meet again and are caught in an compromising position and are forced to return home. He must take on the title of Duke even though his family previously declared him dead and his stepbrother holds himself out as the Duke.
A fun pairing. Ravenna is wild and unconventional, and Courtland is contrary and uncommon. They play off each other well and their attraction to each other includes plenty of steamy encounters. Corruption and lies must be untangled which adds depth and intrigue to storyline.
I liked Ravenna’s strength of character and willingness to jump into any situation.
The epilogue was fantastic in wrapping up all the loose end and character questions.
I received a copy of this from NetGalley. I purchased a paperback copy to gift.
October 31, 2021
4.5 stars- "I don't want this review to be too personal but it's going to be".😂😂
Ideally, this book is a 4 star read but judging by how much I enjoyed it, the audiobook narration by Nina Nato and how it broke some of my bleak outlook about me and historical romances, I feel 4.5 stars is a completely justified rating.
For the past few weeks, I have been trying to pick some HR books with authors new to me. These are the books either recommended to me or loved by my other GR friends. And, I am sad to say I have such rotten luck reading them. I have tried a few and stopped after 20-30% but never updated them as DNF.
I am not comfortable with old school HR and detest these new contemporary ones disguised as historicals. I don't blame the trend, I know it's a good way to lure new readers. But then what is left??? I feel when it comes to this genre, I behave like a 70+ lady, who is too set in her ways to enjoy variety. But, in reality, I am a 28-year-old who has no triggers and limits while reading another sub-genre.
Plot- In short, it's a marriage of convenience so nothing new could be expected.
In long, it's a story of a Courtland who was never accepted by his father's family and the British aristocracy because he is a POC. Even after building a life in Antigua, he is filled with a sense of inadequacy. And, how things change after the arrival of our Spitfire heroine, Lady Ravenna.
Heroin- I never thought words like hoyden or brazen would ever be more suitably used than on Ravenna. She is a feminist, a smart, funny, resourceful one. She knows how to use a situation to her advantage and it's fun to see her thought process.
Hero- The self-made and self-sacrificing type. She deserves better so let me make life easy for her. Not going to work when you face a minx like Ravenna and at this juncture, I am so over misunderstood rakes, 🤭🤭 that this hero was kind of a blessing.
Romance- Both H and h were neighbours and childhood friends/archnemesis. They were engaged to each other at a young age but then H disappeared. And, now they meet again, forced into a marriage.
Banter- OMG!!! The banter is epic and clever. You just can't beat Lady Ravenna.
Standalone??- In short, Yes.
In long -The book is the second in this series. But, even though people keep saying that the author has re-written book 1 after some complaints, A romance between a British duke and an Indian princess based in Colonial India- Nope, too close to home so not for me. But, if you want you can read it.
Steam- This author definitely knows how to write sex scenes. Even her kiss scenes were steamy and yes to all the sexual tension. And, the audiobook narrator increased the temperature some more with her sultry voice(only when required).
Highly recommended to every Historical Romance reader.
Ideally, this book is a 4 star read but judging by how much I enjoyed it, the audiobook narration by Nina Nato and how it broke some of my bleak outlook about me and historical romances, I feel 4.5 stars is a completely justified rating.
For the past few weeks, I have been trying to pick some HR books with authors new to me. These are the books either recommended to me or loved by my other GR friends. And, I am sad to say I have such rotten luck reading them. I have tried a few and stopped after 20-30% but never updated them as DNF.
I am not comfortable with old school HR and detest these new contemporary ones disguised as historicals. I don't blame the trend, I know it's a good way to lure new readers. But then what is left??? I feel when it comes to this genre, I behave like a 70+ lady, who is too set in her ways to enjoy variety. But, in reality, I am a 28-year-old who has no triggers and limits while reading another sub-genre.
Plot- In short, it's a marriage of convenience so nothing new could be expected.
In long, it's a story of a Courtland who was never accepted by his father's family and the British aristocracy because he is a POC. Even after building a life in Antigua, he is filled with a sense of inadequacy. And, how things change after the arrival of our Spitfire heroine, Lady Ravenna.
Heroin- I never thought words like hoyden or brazen would ever be more suitably used than on Ravenna. She is a feminist, a smart, funny, resourceful one. She knows how to use a situation to her advantage and it's fun to see her thought process.
Hero- The self-made and self-sacrificing type. She deserves better so let me make life easy for her. Not going to work when you face a minx like Ravenna and at this juncture, I am so over misunderstood rakes, 🤭🤭 that this hero was kind of a blessing.
Romance- Both H and h were neighbours and childhood friends/archnemesis. They were engaged to each other at a young age but then H disappeared. And, now they meet again, forced into a marriage.
Banter- OMG!!! The banter is epic and clever. You just can't beat Lady Ravenna.
Standalone??- In short, Yes.
In long -The book is the second in this series. But, even though people keep saying that the author has re-written book 1 after some complaints, A romance between a British duke and an Indian princess based in Colonial India- Nope, too close to home so not for me. But, if you want you can read it.
Steam- This author definitely knows how to write sex scenes. Even her kiss scenes were steamy and yes to all the sexual tension. And, the audiobook narrator increased the temperature some more with her sultry voice(only when required).
Highly recommended to every Historical Romance reader.
February 12, 2024
This hero was SO frustrating. I haven't the words to describe how much his behavior irritated me. He's hot, he's cold, he's overprotective, he's pushing her away. He feels unworthy, he can't resist her. He loves her rambunctiousness and spunk but he commands her to stay put and behave and stay safe. PICK A SIDE MAN. And also, have a genuine, open and honest conversation.
Phew. Reading this was a bit exhausting so I did a chapter or two a day and it took me ages but I'm not sorry I finished it because I love a book that can make me feel something other than boredom. That means the book has done its job for me.
These two had such fun banter when they weren't fighting (and sometimes when they were!). I wish there had been more of it but instead there were many separations and obstacles and nefarious plans by evil villains and not enough silly moments of humor. But that's probably me being greedy.
It was a well written romance but these types of heroes must be read in moderation for me. I'll definitely be checking out more by this author because she has the kind of wit that I always enjoy in a romance.
Phew. Reading this was a bit exhausting so I did a chapter or two a day and it took me ages but I'm not sorry I finished it because I love a book that can make me feel something other than boredom. That means the book has done its job for me.
These two had such fun banter when they weren't fighting (and sometimes when they were!). I wish there had been more of it but instead there were many separations and obstacles and nefarious plans by evil villains and not enough silly moments of humor. But that's probably me being greedy.
It was a well written romance but these types of heroes must be read in moderation for me. I'll definitely be checking out more by this author because she has the kind of wit that I always enjoy in a romance.
May 28, 2022
3.5 Stars
In ultimate universe where I would be rating this on the basis on enjoyment, it would have been a 5 stars review. Because when I completed reading Rules for Heiresses, I had a huge smile on my face. The moment I sat down to judge it, I had second thoughts.
First of all, Aksa, I love you. This was our first buddy read after our cruel exams. And as always, Aksa you are a clever picker. And as always, it was fun to read this with you. And yes, I see a part of Ravenna in you. Fierce, that you are.
Lady Ravenna Huntley is not so ladylike. She has no intentions to marry. To have her independence and seek adventures, she runs away and disguises herself as a man, her alter ego, Raven Hunt. While gambling her in one club, she faces Mr. Chase. Those sinful looks, luscious lips and a hard nose, Ravenna is drawn to him. The draw is mutual. Mr. Chase is no other than the Lord Courtland Chase who left England on behest of his cruel stepmother and step-brother who tortured him until he left. He was also once betrothed to Lady Ravenna. The engagement was called off as when he left, his step-mother declared him dead. Upon meeting in a club, a series of events take place where upon to protect Ravenna from a scandal, Ravenna and Courtland enter into a reluctant marriage of connivence. But can both deny their attraction between them?
Now, I loved the story. There were many beautiful moments in the story. To say, Ravenna being 'foxed', their moment in the conservatory, rules for Ravenna made by Courtland, Bronwyn's conversations with Courtland, Ravenna giving the marchioness the taste of her own medicine, Ravenna's conversations with her mother, her sister in law and Fuller, Ravenna's adventures as Raven Hunt, Courtland carrying the evidence of his win...
But on the other hand, Ravenna ran away, because she wanted be independent and have adventures. After her marriage, all she talked was about her husband. I couldn't comprehend the change of heart. Also, Courtland talked about divorce with Ravenna. But he didn't talk to her about his reasons for divorce. Why not? At least, he wouldn't have get slapped for that. Also, all the points Aksa made in her review.
One thing I wanted to say was the vocabulary used. The author used some pretty words like-
countenanced, primogeniture, acuity, deuced, plebeian, empirical, erudite, mien, irascibility, wraith, thespian, puce, folly, conniptions, vacillates, bludgeon, reticule
This was a charming childhood enemies to enemies historical romance wherein for the first time i had seen a mix-breed Duke.
I am determined to read Sarani and Rhystan's story too.
In ultimate universe where I would be rating this on the basis on enjoyment, it would have been a 5 stars review. Because when I completed reading Rules for Heiresses, I had a huge smile on my face. The moment I sat down to judge it, I had second thoughts.
First of all, Aksa, I love you. This was our first buddy read after our cruel exams. And as always, Aksa you are a clever picker. And as always, it was fun to read this with you. And yes, I see a part of Ravenna in you. Fierce, that you are.
Lady Ravenna Huntley is not so ladylike. She has no intentions to marry. To have her independence and seek adventures, she runs away and disguises herself as a man, her alter ego, Raven Hunt. While gambling her in one club, she faces Mr. Chase. Those sinful looks, luscious lips and a hard nose, Ravenna is drawn to him. The draw is mutual. Mr. Chase is no other than the Lord Courtland Chase who left England on behest of his cruel stepmother and step-brother who tortured him until he left. He was also once betrothed to Lady Ravenna. The engagement was called off as when he left, his step-mother declared him dead. Upon meeting in a club, a series of events take place where upon to protect Ravenna from a scandal, Ravenna and Courtland enter into a reluctant marriage of connivence. But can both deny their attraction between them?
They were made for each other—there was no other man in the world who could ever fit her so well. She was wild and unconventional, and he was contrary and uncommon. If there was ever a match made in the stars—a star-crossed bond between two lonely, kindred souls—this was it. She wouldn’t trade the chance of a lifetime of happiness for anything.
Not when she’d finally found the one worth staying for…her sinfully handsome, deeply infuriating, and extremely kissable island duke.
Now, I loved the story. There were many beautiful moments in the story. To say, Ravenna being 'foxed', their moment in the conservatory, rules for Ravenna made by Courtland, Bronwyn's conversations with Courtland, Ravenna giving the marchioness the taste of her own medicine, Ravenna's conversations with her mother, her sister in law and Fuller, Ravenna's adventures as Raven Hunt, Courtland carrying the evidence of his win...
But on the other hand, Ravenna ran away, because she wanted be independent and have adventures. After her marriage, all she talked was about her husband. I couldn't comprehend the change of heart. Also, Courtland talked about divorce with Ravenna. But he didn't talk to her about his reasons for divorce. Why not? At least, he wouldn't have get slapped for that. Also, all the points Aksa made in her review.
One thing I wanted to say was the vocabulary used. The author used some pretty words like-
countenanced, primogeniture, acuity, deuced, plebeian, empirical, erudite, mien, irascibility, wraith, thespian, puce, folly, conniptions, vacillates, bludgeon, reticule
This was a charming childhood enemies to enemies historical romance wherein for the first time i had seen a mix-breed Duke.
“Do you know you’re the only man who has ever accepted me for who I am? Everyone else always wanted to change me in some way. Mama, Rhystan, Lady Holding, everyone but you.”
“They’re fools. You’re perfect as you are.”
She stared at him, love brimming and overflowing in her heart. “You’re perfect, too, you know.”
“I wouldn’t say that.”
Ravenna grinned. “Are we quarreling, Your Grace?”
“No, no. I surrender,” he said with a mock sigh of defeat, dragging her toward him for a kiss. “Fine, suffice it to say that we’re perfect for each other, jagged edges and all.”
I am determined to read Sarani and Rhystan's story too.
April 14, 2022
4 Stars
A Special Note -
Say what you will, but I like Amalie Howard's stories. They may not be out of this world, but they keep you interested till the end, riveted and engaged in the characters, especially the heroines.
I have found I am greatly impressed by how well Ms Howard writes a strong, spirited, independent female in the historical context without making them sound contemporary (they may feel modern to some, but I am hard-pressed to believe that there might not have been at least a few ladies wanting to break free of the trappings of society).
Of the five Howard books that I have read, I have loved every heroine, which is a surprise in itself because I am very exacting of my female leads.
Quick Review
- The story was erratic at best and confusing at worst, but it had the benefit of being completely fun. The distilled version is about self-acceptance in light of rejection and re-finding the love you thought lost. Conceptually, I loved it. The presentation was somewhat lacking, as it moved forward very quickly, and I felt like I missed a few connecting aspects, but it wasn't bothersome, nor was it cumbersome.
- The romance was elementally subtle. There was a benefit of Courtland & Ravenna having known each other most of their lives, which worked well in favour of their relationship. And it true Ms Howard fashion, the steam was hot, hotty, hot.
- Courtland was a human equivalent of a wet blanket. This guy was such a presumptuous pendulum, swinging from one end to another only to achieve an abrupt and complete transformation into besotted. On the plus side, he did incite empathy on account of the bullying, the rejection and the trauma he had faced, and he continued to face.
- Ravenna was the best aspect of this story. This girl was so witty, charming, and just all-out fun. She needed no saving, as this girl saved herself, the situation, her husband, her mother and her reputation, all singlehandedly. She was the alpha in this story, and I loved it.
My Recommendation
Ms Howard is such a talented author, and I want to give a shout-out to her for writing unusual, on the fringe characters and making us love them. Read this book for the entertainment that it is, leaving the controversial aspect aside, and just enjoy it.
A Special Note -
Say what you will, but I like Amalie Howard's stories. They may not be out of this world, but they keep you interested till the end, riveted and engaged in the characters, especially the heroines.
I have found I am greatly impressed by how well Ms Howard writes a strong, spirited, independent female in the historical context without making them sound contemporary (they may feel modern to some, but I am hard-pressed to believe that there might not have been at least a few ladies wanting to break free of the trappings of society).
Of the five Howard books that I have read, I have loved every heroine, which is a surprise in itself because I am very exacting of my female leads.
Quick Review
- The story was erratic at best and confusing at worst, but it had the benefit of being completely fun. The distilled version is about self-acceptance in light of rejection and re-finding the love you thought lost. Conceptually, I loved it. The presentation was somewhat lacking, as it moved forward very quickly, and I felt like I missed a few connecting aspects, but it wasn't bothersome, nor was it cumbersome.
- The romance was elementally subtle. There was a benefit of Courtland & Ravenna having known each other most of their lives, which worked well in favour of their relationship. And it true Ms Howard fashion, the steam was hot, hotty, hot.
- Courtland was a human equivalent of a wet blanket. This guy was such a presumptuous pendulum, swinging from one end to another only to achieve an abrupt and complete transformation into besotted. On the plus side, he did incite empathy on account of the bullying, the rejection and the trauma he had faced, and he continued to face.
- Ravenna was the best aspect of this story. This girl was so witty, charming, and just all-out fun. She needed no saving, as this girl saved herself, the situation, her husband, her mother and her reputation, all singlehandedly. She was the alpha in this story, and I loved it.
My Recommendation
Ms Howard is such a talented author, and I want to give a shout-out to her for writing unusual, on the fringe characters and making us love them. Read this book for the entertainment that it is, leaving the controversial aspect aside, and just enjoy it.
October 4, 2021
Duke's daughter Lady Ravenna Huntley was born into privilege but wants nothing more than explore the world and have her own independence. Lord Courtland Chase, grandson of the Duke of Ashton, was driven from England, vowing never to return to a family that shunned him. When a twist of fate throws runaway Ravenna into his arms, at the very moment he finds out he's the new Duke, marriage is the only alternative to a would-be scandal.
I don't see a series title attached to this book, but it follows Amalie Howard's previous release The Princess Stakes. This story can stand alone, but Ravenna's brother was the previous hero and the couple makes appearances.
I really enjoyed Ravenna and Courtland, who I thought were interesting characters individually and as a couple. Courtland is mixed race and was pushed out of his family by a grasping stepmother who wanted to install her son as heir. He found the family, acceptance, and success in Antigua that eluded him in England, and he is not happy to be tracked down and proclaimed Duke after his grandfather's passing. Ravenna wants freedom not afforded to her as a female, and refuses to be controlled. She would rather run away dressed as a man than get trapped by an odious lord.
This book was a whirlwind! There was no time to get bored, as the events moved along quickly. A compromising situation and marriage of "inconvenience" happen early on. It leaves Courtland vowing not to get attached to his wife, and Ravenna confused that she wants this traditional marriage. I wish that Courtland had not run quite as hot and cold, but I liked that Ravenna quickly realized his family dynamic was not what she previously believed it to be. 4.5 stars rounded to 5.
Tropes: Disguised Heroine, Compromised, Marriage of Convenience
Steam Rating: 4
* I received an ARC and this is my honest review. #RulesForHeiresses #NetGalley
I don't see a series title attached to this book, but it follows Amalie Howard's previous release The Princess Stakes. This story can stand alone, but Ravenna's brother was the previous hero and the couple makes appearances.
I really enjoyed Ravenna and Courtland, who I thought were interesting characters individually and as a couple. Courtland is mixed race and was pushed out of his family by a grasping stepmother who wanted to install her son as heir. He found the family, acceptance, and success in Antigua that eluded him in England, and he is not happy to be tracked down and proclaimed Duke after his grandfather's passing. Ravenna wants freedom not afforded to her as a female, and refuses to be controlled. She would rather run away dressed as a man than get trapped by an odious lord.
This book was a whirlwind! There was no time to get bored, as the events moved along quickly. A compromising situation and marriage of "inconvenience" happen early on. It leaves Courtland vowing not to get attached to his wife, and Ravenna confused that she wants this traditional marriage. I wish that Courtland had not run quite as hot and cold, but I liked that Ravenna quickly realized his family dynamic was not what she previously believed it to be. 4.5 stars rounded to 5.
Tropes: Disguised Heroine, Compromised, Marriage of Convenience
Steam Rating: 4
* I received an ARC and this is my honest review. #RulesForHeiresses #NetGalley
October 28, 2021
*Thank you to the publisher and Edelweiss for a review copy of this title.*
This was a fast-paced childhood enemies to lovers, brother's best friend, marriage of convenience romance. It starts with out heroine undercover as a young rake and our hero from her past coming across one another. One thing leads to another and they are forced into a wedding.
Our hero wants to keep his distance so he doesn't taint our heroine with scandal. Our heroine doesn't give a fig about that and is going to get her man. In ALL ways. They dance around each other for the whole book. Bickering back and forth and having some hot and heavy moments.
I enjoyed many aspects of this one, but the hero not being honest from the jump was not the best for me. And he didn't grovel enough once it came out.
3.5/5 stars.
This was a fast-paced childhood enemies to lovers, brother's best friend, marriage of convenience romance. It starts with out heroine undercover as a young rake and our hero from her past coming across one another. One thing leads to another and they are forced into a wedding.
Our hero wants to keep his distance so he doesn't taint our heroine with scandal. Our heroine doesn't give a fig about that and is going to get her man. In ALL ways. They dance around each other for the whole book. Bickering back and forth and having some hot and heavy moments.
I enjoyed many aspects of this one, but the hero not being honest from the jump was not the best for me. And he didn't grovel enough once it came out.
3.5/5 stars.
April 28, 2022
Sex in the epilogue and a heroine who shoots bad men is exactly what I need in my life! I adore Amalie’s heroines bc they pack a punch and aren’t afraid to take matters into their own hands which I LOVE like yes bitch punch her out, shoot him down, MAKE THEM PAY. Amalie is a great combo of steam and compelling plots and I love her so much.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️.25/5 🌶🌶🌶.5/5
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️.25/5 🌶🌶🌶.5/5
October 31, 2021
Lord Courtland, grandson of the Duke, was driven from England by his cruel stepmother, he vows never to return. Ravenna is a privileged heiress who vows she will never marry. Her only option to avoid it is to run away, and so she does disguising herself as a man. Fate and some bad (good) luck throw the two together and dye to a compromising situation they must marry.
But Courtland holds parts of himself back, never fully giving Ravenna his heart, vowing to divorce her as soon as possible. Ravenna on the other hand wants to try and make the marriage work. The two former childhood friends grapple with the strong emotions they feel ranging from all consuming lust to the beginnings of love.
This was an enjoyable read. I loved the characters, the unique intro (one of my favorite meet cutes) and the steam was exceptional. I also really loved Ravenna who never lost the fire she held for loving the life she hoped to have.
Where this fell a bit short was sadly, the hero. His continuous pushing the heroine away grew tiresome, and I really don't love the plot device of pushing the heroine away for her own good, she deserves better. It's frustrating and would have loved to see a different spin on that other than his own self loathing.
But Courtland holds parts of himself back, never fully giving Ravenna his heart, vowing to divorce her as soon as possible. Ravenna on the other hand wants to try and make the marriage work. The two former childhood friends grapple with the strong emotions they feel ranging from all consuming lust to the beginnings of love.
This was an enjoyable read. I loved the characters, the unique intro (one of my favorite meet cutes) and the steam was exceptional. I also really loved Ravenna who never lost the fire she held for loving the life she hoped to have.
Where this fell a bit short was sadly, the hero. His continuous pushing the heroine away grew tiresome, and I really don't love the plot device of pushing the heroine away for her own good, she deserves better. It's frustrating and would have loved to see a different spin on that other than his own self loathing.
November 11, 2021
* A rebellious heiress determined to be independent
* A shunned duke forced to return to his family estate
* And a scandal between them that will have the whole town aflutter
Sometimes, finding love means flouting the rules..
~ Book Review ~
This is a super fun childhood friends-to-enemies-to-lovers romance, and has a forced marriage trope with diverse characters (that I loved seeing!) The plot involves villains and espionage that gave this story a little something extra too.
Our heroine, the privileged Lady Ravenna Huntley, is an opinionated, sassy spitfire.
Our hero, Lord Courtland Chase, grandson of the Duke of Ashvale, is referred to as “the island Duke” by his peers. He’s content on living his life away from London after being driven from his home by his stepmother.
Rules for Heiresses is set on the island of Antigua, West Indies and in/around London. Courtland has no family (besides his marriage of convenience to new wife, Ravenna) with the exception of a step-mother and half-brother that hate his mixed blood. They want him gone and had told the ton he had died so his half-brother could become the Duke in his place. Well Courtland put an immediate stop to that. Ravenna and Cordy have tons of chemistry, there’s so much pining, and things get quite steamy during the moments they actually let their guard down. I loved how Ravenna proved to Cordy that he WAS worthy of everything he has, standing by his side as he went through his inner turmoil. This is not to be missed!
I also recommend by Amalie Howard, The Beast of Beswick and The Rakehell of Roth. All three are outstanding.
*Thanks to Sourcebooks Casablanca and NetGalley for kindly providing an arc in exchange for an honest review.
* A shunned duke forced to return to his family estate
* And a scandal between them that will have the whole town aflutter
Sometimes, finding love means flouting the rules..
~ Book Review ~
This is a super fun childhood friends-to-enemies-to-lovers romance, and has a forced marriage trope with diverse characters (that I loved seeing!) The plot involves villains and espionage that gave this story a little something extra too.
Our heroine, the privileged Lady Ravenna Huntley, is an opinionated, sassy spitfire.
Our hero, Lord Courtland Chase, grandson of the Duke of Ashvale, is referred to as “the island Duke” by his peers. He’s content on living his life away from London after being driven from his home by his stepmother.
Rules for Heiresses is set on the island of Antigua, West Indies and in/around London. Courtland has no family (besides his marriage of convenience to new wife, Ravenna) with the exception of a step-mother and half-brother that hate his mixed blood. They want him gone and had told the ton he had died so his half-brother could become the Duke in his place. Well Courtland put an immediate stop to that. Ravenna and Cordy have tons of chemistry, there’s so much pining, and things get quite steamy during the moments they actually let their guard down. I loved how Ravenna proved to Cordy that he WAS worthy of everything he has, standing by his side as he went through his inner turmoil. This is not to be missed!
I also recommend by Amalie Howard, The Beast of Beswick and The Rakehell of Roth. All three are outstanding.
*Thanks to Sourcebooks Casablanca and NetGalley for kindly providing an arc in exchange for an honest review.
October 27, 2021
Kissing Ravenna was like diving from the highest of cliffs and soaring for an eternity before plunging into the balmy depths of a tropical ocean. All-consuming, intense, and shattering.
5 stars!
Amalie Howard has quickly become one of my favorite, auto-buy historical romance authors right, next to the illustrious Tessa Dare! Her writing is so refreshing and seamless, and I love how her characters curse as colorfully as I do. Amalie has a way of weaving in deeper themes of love and acceptance that many other historical romance authors struggle to accomplish, and I cannot help but be enthralled by her writing.
She rarely cried. But this man...her husband...he could eviscerate her with a few well-chosen words. Shatter her with a look from those hard, emotionless eyes. Break her unconscionably. Because there was no way she was going to survive this. Or survive him.
Courtland is deemed the island duke by his peers as he is content living his own life away from London and its constraints. However, fate has a different path in store for him when he is named the new Duke of Ashvale and caught in a compromising position with his formerly betrothed, Ravenna, in a matter of minutes. He is determined to keep their marriage of convenience strictly platonic as he believes that Ravenna deserves more than to be stuck with him, but Ravenna has never been one to follow any rules set before her. I loved their push-and-pull dynamic and witty exchanges so much! Courtland and Ravenna's chemistry was so satisfying to watch as he continually tries to push her away, and the angsty longing from both parties was so perfect. I highly recommend this wonderful novel! ♡
*ARC provided by Netgalley, and I voluntarily reviewed it*
December 5, 2025
Me browsing my kindle trying to find something, sees this, opens, frowns, goes to GR, and ah...
I really tried to get through this, but I think I might never read another The Beast of Beswick from this author...
I love all types of heroes and I was in the mood for a cruel, angsty MMC. The thing is, I don't like cruelty for the sake of cruelty. The hero needs a compelling reason for being cruel to the heroine. The most popular is a misunderstanding, but there are so many: revenge on a relative, war related traumas/PTSD, resentment for some past action, wanting to keep the heroine away because of X, Y or Z, etc.
This book is the last one: trying to keep the FMC away.
Okay, but since that reason also needs... a reason, then lets see what are his:
/!\ rant, spoiler, tomato, tomaTO /!\
・
・
・
━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━
🕮⋆˚࿔✎𓂃 𝐣𝐨𝐢𝐧 𝐦𝐲 𝐜𝐨𝐦𝐦𝐮𝐧𝐢𝐭𝐲 𝐟𝐨𝐫 𝐦𝐲 𝐟𝐮𝐥𝐥 𝐫𝐞𝐯𝐢𝐞𝐰
━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━
I really tried to get through this, but I think I might never read another The Beast of Beswick from this author...
I love all types of heroes and I was in the mood for a cruel, angsty MMC. The thing is, I don't like cruelty for the sake of cruelty. The hero needs a compelling reason for being cruel to the heroine. The most popular is a misunderstanding, but there are so many: revenge on a relative, war related traumas/PTSD, resentment for some past action, wanting to keep the heroine away because of X, Y or Z, etc.
This book is the last one: trying to keep the FMC away.
Okay, but since that reason also needs... a reason, then lets see what are his:
/!\ rant, spoiler, tomato, tomaTO /!\
・
・
・
━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━
🕮⋆˚࿔✎𓂃 𝐣𝐨𝐢𝐧 𝐦𝐲 𝐜𝐨𝐦𝐦𝐮𝐧𝐢𝐭𝐲 𝐟𝐨𝐫 𝐦𝐲 𝐟𝐮𝐥𝐥 𝐫𝐞𝐯𝐢𝐞𝐰
━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━
October 24, 2021
This is an enjoyable historical romance that hinges on some inheritance shenanigans. Courtland has been abroad for many years, and his family in England (stepmother and half siblings) have told everyone that he's dead. Ravenna, one of his oldest friends, somehow stumbles into his hotel-cum-casino dressed as a man on the same night that Courtland discovers that he's inherited his grandfather's dukedom. They're caught in a compromising situation, have to get married, and then return to England to sort everything out. And that's just the first few chapters of the book!
Courtland and Ravenna are super hot for each other right away, but Courtland makes the unilateral decision that he won't act on their desire. When we say "unilateral" we mean that he gives her no explanation for his actions (and he runs very hot and very cold - "hooking up with her one night and ignoring her for the next 5 days" hot and cold). The book has some interesting commentary on race - Courtland's mother was a "free Creole," and his mixed race heritage is one of the reasons his stepmother used to exile him abroad, leading to some internalized racism - but we wished it had been explored in a more meaningful way. Check this one out if you love relationship angst, protective men, and the independent women who love them.
This objective review is based on a complimentary copy of the novel.
Courtland and Ravenna are super hot for each other right away, but Courtland makes the unilateral decision that he won't act on their desire. When we say "unilateral" we mean that he gives her no explanation for his actions (and he runs very hot and very cold - "hooking up with her one night and ignoring her for the next 5 days" hot and cold). The book has some interesting commentary on race - Courtland's mother was a "free Creole," and his mixed race heritage is one of the reasons his stepmother used to exile him abroad, leading to some internalized racism - but we wished it had been explored in a more meaningful way. Check this one out if you love relationship angst, protective men, and the independent women who love them.
This objective review is based on a complimentary copy of the novel.
March 30, 2022
Lady Ravenna Huntley understands that her position as daughter and sister of a duke means she’s expected to marry, but she’s loath to do so. She’s refused several suitors, one in particular who didn’t want to take no for an answer, causing her to run away, even if she knows it’s an impulsive choice, in a bid to maintain her freedom.
Courtland Chase, grandson of and reluctant heir to the Duke of Ashvale was sent away by his stepmother who wanted his title for her own son and claimed Courtland to have tragically died. He’s borne that shame his entire adult life, even as he earned his own fortune and settled amongst his mother’s people in Antigua. He never intended to return to England, despite his inheritance, but when he’s caught in a compromising position with a prominent heiress, very publicly and just when he’s been informed of his inheritance of the title, the two have no choice but to marry to curtail the scandal.
Neither is terribly thrilled with the circumstances, but Ravenna and Courtland can’t ignore the attraction between them either and soon it seems this may be more than a mere marriage of convenience.
I was nervous about this book after how disappointed I was in the previous book, especially as Howard seems to be very hit or miss for me, but I am ever hopeful, so I wanted to give it a try and I’m happy I did. I liked this book so much more than the previous one and it’s such a huge improvement. We still have an obstinate, willful, sometimes impulsive heroine, but she has an obvious heart of gold and is quick to empathize with the pain of others, especially her new husband, which makes her easy to root for most of the time. It doesn’t hurt that our hero is hard-headed and his attempts to keep her safe are high-handed and arrogant most of the time. Ravenna and Courtland both had a lot to learn about love and relationships and they were actually really good for her. Their having been friends as children and grown up together added another layer to their relationship that I enjoyed, without this feeling like a second chance story (good for me since I’ve grown to really dislike the second chance trope). Courtland had a lot of insecurities to work through and his feelings of low self-worth were readily apparent. Fortunately, Ravenna was having none of that and helped him see what was really important. I’m not sure Ravenna would’ve worked for me as a heroine with any other hero and vice versa for Courtland. These two were just really well matched and each managed to shore up the other’s weak spots perfectly. I enjoyed seeing them both find the unconditional acceptance they’d each been craving, first in each other and then in others around them. I’m now hopeful for further installments of this series and looking forward to checking them out.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own. Blog link: https://mustreadalltheromance.blogspo...
Courtland Chase, grandson of and reluctant heir to the Duke of Ashvale was sent away by his stepmother who wanted his title for her own son and claimed Courtland to have tragically died. He’s borne that shame his entire adult life, even as he earned his own fortune and settled amongst his mother’s people in Antigua. He never intended to return to England, despite his inheritance, but when he’s caught in a compromising position with a prominent heiress, very publicly and just when he’s been informed of his inheritance of the title, the two have no choice but to marry to curtail the scandal.
Neither is terribly thrilled with the circumstances, but Ravenna and Courtland can’t ignore the attraction between them either and soon it seems this may be more than a mere marriage of convenience.
I was nervous about this book after how disappointed I was in the previous book, especially as Howard seems to be very hit or miss for me, but I am ever hopeful, so I wanted to give it a try and I’m happy I did. I liked this book so much more than the previous one and it’s such a huge improvement. We still have an obstinate, willful, sometimes impulsive heroine, but she has an obvious heart of gold and is quick to empathize with the pain of others, especially her new husband, which makes her easy to root for most of the time. It doesn’t hurt that our hero is hard-headed and his attempts to keep her safe are high-handed and arrogant most of the time. Ravenna and Courtland both had a lot to learn about love and relationships and they were actually really good for her. Their having been friends as children and grown up together added another layer to their relationship that I enjoyed, without this feeling like a second chance story (good for me since I’ve grown to really dislike the second chance trope). Courtland had a lot of insecurities to work through and his feelings of low self-worth were readily apparent. Fortunately, Ravenna was having none of that and helped him see what was really important. I’m not sure Ravenna would’ve worked for me as a heroine with any other hero and vice versa for Courtland. These two were just really well matched and each managed to shore up the other’s weak spots perfectly. I enjoyed seeing them both find the unconditional acceptance they’d each been craving, first in each other and then in others around them. I’m now hopeful for further installments of this series and looking forward to checking them out.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own. Blog link: https://mustreadalltheromance.blogspo...
July 8, 2022
Rules for Heiresses was absolutely captivating! With friendship, romance and charm, I adored this book! These characters pulled me in so easily and it felt like I was watching a movie unfold! If you love adult historical romance, fierce heroines and tortured male characters then you definitely need to check this one out!
Lady Ravenna Huntley and Lord Courtland Chase had been arranged to marry since infancy. When he left eleven years ago, she thought he had died. So meeting years later, under the most unusual circumstances, it was impossible not to smile. Their meet cute was shocking and so much fun! Even after so much time had passed, they not only still had a connection but there was also an intense attraction and chemistry too! When Ravenna and Courtland were caught in a compromising position and forced to wed, I was clapping my hands excited for what would happen next!
I loved Lady Ravenna Huntley! She was independent, fierce, level headed and knew what she wanted in life. And I adored the relationship she had with her sister-in-law. When Lord Courtland Chase waltzed back into her life, I was obsessed! He could be so grumpy, closed off and pushed others away. But with Lady Ravenna, he constantly found himself drawn to her. Even though he tried his best to push her away too. Courtland antagonized her which made me laugh, but there was that intense tension between them that neither of them could deny. So when they traveled back home, we started seeing an even bigger picture. This book had a richness and depth to it that surprised me!
At the core of this story was Courtland and Ravenna. And as they stepped back into their lives, I loved watching not only him defending her, but that she also stood up for him too. Together they felt like a team, but Courtland was so damaged from his past. And I kept hoping he would open up and trust Ravenna. Because when they got along it felt like the sun was brilliantly shining, it was smile inducing! And their moments together later on were hot and very steamy! They are a couple you will definitely be cheering for every step of the way!
Rules for Heiresses was my first read by Amalie Howard and I will definitely be bingeing her back-list! The story not only kept me intrigued but the characters felt so real! If you enjoy historical romance, steamy moments and meaningful story-lines then you'll want Rules for Heiresses on your tbr!
PS Bronwyn needs her own book!
*I voluntarily read and reviewed a copy of this book, provided by the publisher. All thoughts and opinions are my own.*
For more of my reviews, please visit:
“Ravenna.”
“Yes?” she said, breathless.
“I will always value your opinion.”
On that shockingly solemn pronouncement, he hauled her gracefully upright amid deafening cheers, and Ravenna let out a shuddering breath.
Lady Ravenna Huntley and Lord Courtland Chase had been arranged to marry since infancy. When he left eleven years ago, she thought he had died. So meeting years later, under the most unusual circumstances, it was impossible not to smile. Their meet cute was shocking and so much fun! Even after so much time had passed, they not only still had a connection but there was also an intense attraction and chemistry too! When Ravenna and Courtland were caught in a compromising position and forced to wed, I was clapping my hands excited for what would happen next!
“People are staring,” she murmured.
He lifted her gloved hand to his lips. “Let them.”
I loved Lady Ravenna Huntley! She was independent, fierce, level headed and knew what she wanted in life. And I adored the relationship she had with her sister-in-law. When Lord Courtland Chase waltzed back into her life, I was obsessed! He could be so grumpy, closed off and pushed others away. But with Lady Ravenna, he constantly found himself drawn to her. Even though he tried his best to push her away too. Courtland antagonized her which made me laugh, but there was that intense tension between them that neither of them could deny. So when they traveled back home, we started seeing an even bigger picture. This book had a richness and depth to it that surprised me!
“Save us both the trouble and tell me what it is you want from me, Your Grace.”
Your body. Your consent. Your surrender. But none of those things were his to demand. Courtland blew out a breath.
At the core of this story was Courtland and Ravenna. And as they stepped back into their lives, I loved watching not only him defending her, but that she also stood up for him too. Together they felt like a team, but Courtland was so damaged from his past. And I kept hoping he would open up and trust Ravenna. Because when they got along it felt like the sun was brilliantly shining, it was smile inducing! And their moments together later on were hot and very steamy! They are a couple you will definitely be cheering for every step of the way!
“What do you do to me?” he bit out, breaking from her.
“The same you do to me.” Her fingers threaded through his wet hair, those singular eyes on his, molten and wanting. She tugged, a devious smile on her lips. “Kiss me again, Duke.”
Rules for Heiresses was my first read by Amalie Howard and I will definitely be bingeing her back-list! The story not only kept me intrigued but the characters felt so real! If you enjoy historical romance, steamy moments and meaningful story-lines then you'll want Rules for Heiresses on your tbr!
“You are neither misfortune nor ruin, Courtland Chase. You’re the star… the light that brightens everything it touches. It’s time you saw that.”
PS Bronwyn needs her own book!
*I voluntarily read and reviewed a copy of this book, provided by the publisher. All thoughts and opinions are my own.*
For more of my reviews, please visit:
June 7, 2022
I really liked how uniquely this novel started with Ravenna 'meeting' Courtland in a man's disguise. It was fun, humorous, and a different way to begin the novel.
However, I had issues with Courtland's character. He was a little too "hot and old" for me to fully enjoy this novel or his character. I know this is a trait that can be seen in many romance novels but it didn't work out successfully for this one. Instead of me being excited with the buildup of their relationship, I was moreso frustrated with each of their interactions.
Additionally, although I can appreciate a stubborn heroine (they are some of my favourite heroines) there was something specifically about Ravenna's stubbornness that irritated me.
Between the characters individually and their ever changing relationship, this was just not the read for me. All of the criticisms that I had with this novel combined and made this novel much more of a mediocre read rather than one that I enjoyed.
***Thank you to the publisher for supplying me with a copy of this book via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review***
However, I had issues with Courtland's character. He was a little too "hot and old" for me to fully enjoy this novel or his character. I know this is a trait that can be seen in many romance novels but it didn't work out successfully for this one. Instead of me being excited with the buildup of their relationship, I was moreso frustrated with each of their interactions.
Additionally, although I can appreciate a stubborn heroine (they are some of my favourite heroines) there was something specifically about Ravenna's stubbornness that irritated me.
Between the characters individually and their ever changing relationship, this was just not the read for me. All of the criticisms that I had with this novel combined and made this novel much more of a mediocre read rather than one that I enjoyed.
***Thank you to the publisher for supplying me with a copy of this book via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review***
December 12, 2021
2 stars because it started out good.
Hero pushed heroine away for majority of the book because the I-don’t-deserve-her and she-deserves-better craps.
His hot and cold bored me real quick.
He wants her, next he pushes her away because he doesn’t deserve her and pity himself then gets jealous when someone looks at her. Rinsed and repeated for 85% of the book. That’s no alpha at all.
Don’t get me started on the “feminist” heroine who has a traitorous body and chases him like a loser.🙄
Hero pushed heroine away for majority of the book because the I-don’t-deserve-her and she-deserves-better craps.
His hot and cold bored me real quick.
He wants her, next he pushes her away because he doesn’t deserve her and pity himself then gets jealous when someone looks at her. Rinsed and repeated for 85% of the book. That’s no alpha at all.
Don’t get me started on the “feminist” heroine who has a traitorous body and chases him like a loser.🙄
October 23, 2021
⚓️ Rules for Heiresses ⚓️
A Lush Historical Romance
✒️ Amalie Howard
https://www.facebook.com/AmalieHoward...
Release Date 10/26/2021
Publisher Sourcebooks Casablanca
➪ https://www.amazon.com/dp/B08T4VF6WV/...
𝗕𝗹𝘂𝗿𝗯
USA Today bestselling author Amalie Howard whisks you away with a historical romance full of drama, true love, and the perfect happily ever after. Readers will devour this tale of:
* A rebellious heiress determined to be independent
* A shunned duke forced to return to his family estate
* And a scandal between them that will have the whole town aflutter
Sometimes, finding love means flouting the rules...
Born to a life of privilege, Lady Ravenna Huntley rues the day that she must marry. She's refused dozens of suitors and cried off multiple betrothals, but running away—even if brash and foolhardy—is the only option left to secure her independence.
Lord Courtland Chase, grandson of the Duke of Ashvale, was driven from England at the behest of his cruel stepmother. Scorned and shunned, he swore never to return to the land of his birth. But when a twist of bad luck throws a rebellious heiress into his arms, at the very moment he finds out he's the new Duke, marriage is the only alternative to massive scandal.
Both are quick to deny it, but a wedding might be the only way out for both of them. And the attraction that burns between them makes Ravenna and Courtland wonder if it'll truly only be a marriage of convenience after all...
𝗥𝗲𝘃𝗶𝗲𝘄
Will he release the treasure he has unexpected won is to be cherished…
Even if there is no series’ name, this book is related to The Princess Stakes as it follows the hero’s sister. With this time the hero as the biracial shunned character.
Courtland has been forced to run away from his previous life by his devious step-mother and half-brother and their many abuses. Declared dead by them, he rebuilt himself and now lives a successful life far away from the ton.
But for all the wealth he has cumulated, he still sees himself as unworthy.
Ravenna might be a duke’s daughter and sister, she never confirmed to the society’s dictates, she is too strong willed to accept the strictures such a life demands from her. So after one last slight, she ran away, impersonating a young fellow. From sailor to gambler, she is living the adventure of her life when everything comes crashing when her identity is revealed and she finds herself trapped in the most unexpected marriage.
Their relationship is one of ups and downs, as both have to reconcile with how much the other one has changed during their years of estrangement. Plus their union is challenged by Courtland’s deep wounds as time has only made them fester, so instead of rejoicing to be reunited with the girl of his childhood, he keeps her at arm length, denying them both solace in one another’s embrace.
I’m still not fond of knees weak women at the sight of a male body, yet Ravenna stands her ground when necessary and knows which battle to find and what to let be.
Of course, it is more than two people being reunited, there are treachery, treason and scorned people to fight against. I was upset at Courtland for so stubbornly refusing to accept Ravenna’s outstretched hand, instead persistently pushing her away, keeping her too long in the dark about his actions and goal.
Still, this is an entertaining read with a strong heroine as I love them, danger and deceit at every corner and a villain who got his right comeuppance.
4 stars
𝗦𝘁𝗲𝗮𝗺 𝗹𝗲𝘃𝗲𝗹 onscreen lovemaking scenes
I have been granted an advance copy by the publisher Sourcebooks Casablanca, here is my true and unbiased opinion.
https://www.instagram.com/tv/CVYfDCdj...
https://www.facebook.com/429830134272...
#bookstagram #historicalromance #romance #romancebookblog #romancebookblogger #bookblog #romanceauthor #bookblogger #2021read #bookstagrammer #bookreview #romancebookreviewer #arcreader #bookquote #romancestagram #readersofinstagram #bookbirthday
A Lush Historical Romance
✒️ Amalie Howard
https://www.facebook.com/AmalieHoward...
Release Date 10/26/2021
Publisher Sourcebooks Casablanca
➪ https://www.amazon.com/dp/B08T4VF6WV/...
𝗕𝗹𝘂𝗿𝗯
USA Today bestselling author Amalie Howard whisks you away with a historical romance full of drama, true love, and the perfect happily ever after. Readers will devour this tale of:
* A rebellious heiress determined to be independent
* A shunned duke forced to return to his family estate
* And a scandal between them that will have the whole town aflutter
Sometimes, finding love means flouting the rules...
Born to a life of privilege, Lady Ravenna Huntley rues the day that she must marry. She's refused dozens of suitors and cried off multiple betrothals, but running away—even if brash and foolhardy—is the only option left to secure her independence.
Lord Courtland Chase, grandson of the Duke of Ashvale, was driven from England at the behest of his cruel stepmother. Scorned and shunned, he swore never to return to the land of his birth. But when a twist of bad luck throws a rebellious heiress into his arms, at the very moment he finds out he's the new Duke, marriage is the only alternative to massive scandal.
Both are quick to deny it, but a wedding might be the only way out for both of them. And the attraction that burns between them makes Ravenna and Courtland wonder if it'll truly only be a marriage of convenience after all...
𝗥𝗲𝘃𝗶𝗲𝘄
Will he release the treasure he has unexpected won is to be cherished…
Even if there is no series’ name, this book is related to The Princess Stakes as it follows the hero’s sister. With this time the hero as the biracial shunned character.
Courtland has been forced to run away from his previous life by his devious step-mother and half-brother and their many abuses. Declared dead by them, he rebuilt himself and now lives a successful life far away from the ton.
But for all the wealth he has cumulated, he still sees himself as unworthy.
Ravenna might be a duke’s daughter and sister, she never confirmed to the society’s dictates, she is too strong willed to accept the strictures such a life demands from her. So after one last slight, she ran away, impersonating a young fellow. From sailor to gambler, she is living the adventure of her life when everything comes crashing when her identity is revealed and she finds herself trapped in the most unexpected marriage.
Their relationship is one of ups and downs, as both have to reconcile with how much the other one has changed during their years of estrangement. Plus their union is challenged by Courtland’s deep wounds as time has only made them fester, so instead of rejoicing to be reunited with the girl of his childhood, he keeps her at arm length, denying them both solace in one another’s embrace.
I’m still not fond of knees weak women at the sight of a male body, yet Ravenna stands her ground when necessary and knows which battle to find and what to let be.
Of course, it is more than two people being reunited, there are treachery, treason and scorned people to fight against. I was upset at Courtland for so stubbornly refusing to accept Ravenna’s outstretched hand, instead persistently pushing her away, keeping her too long in the dark about his actions and goal.
Still, this is an entertaining read with a strong heroine as I love them, danger and deceit at every corner and a villain who got his right comeuppance.
4 stars
𝗦𝘁𝗲𝗮𝗺 𝗹𝗲𝘃𝗲𝗹 onscreen lovemaking scenes
I have been granted an advance copy by the publisher Sourcebooks Casablanca, here is my true and unbiased opinion.
https://www.instagram.com/tv/CVYfDCdj...
https://www.facebook.com/429830134272...
#bookstagram #historicalromance #romance #romancebookblog #romancebookblogger #bookblog #romanceauthor #bookblogger #2021read #bookstagrammer #bookreview #romancebookreviewer #arcreader #bookquote #romancestagram #readersofinstagram #bookbirthday
October 26, 2021
✨ I am a wh*re for a second chance romance, a mariage of convenience, diversity, and adventure. Good thing this book has all four! ✨
As expected, Amalie Howard beautifully crafts a diverse historical romance chock-full of my favorite tropes, adventure, wonderful characters, and a great happily ever after.
Tropes:
- strong, adventurous heroine
- hate to love
- second chance romance
- childhood friends to lovers
- grump sunshine
- angst
- protector hero-ish
- marriage of convenience
Before I even begin, do you see that tropes list?! How has that not already convinced you to pick this book up?!
I loved this book. It was the perfect second installment to The Princess Stakes.
Raveena was brave, adventurous, and badass in the best ways. I always get a little skeptical of heiress heroines because it is very easy to make them annoying. But she was so unique and wonderfully written.
Raveena and Courtland had explosive chemistry. It was palpable. Howard is such aa master at writing that kind of chemistry and this book did not disappoint.
You guys know I love when heroes are head over heels gone for the heroine and see her as his equal. Courtland DELIVERED. He was a wonderful hero.
The battles of sexism and racism were wonderfully written. Both characters faced such serious issues. I was honored to be able to read this book in advance. Please read Howards Author Note at the end!
Overall, this book was wonderful, just wonderful. It is full of adventure, romance, social issues. I recommend it to you with my full sincerity.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️.5/ 5 stars | 🌶🌶/ 5 steam
Thank you to Sourcebooks Casablanca and the wonderful Amalie Howard for an ARC in exchange for my honest opinion ❤️
As expected, Amalie Howard beautifully crafts a diverse historical romance chock-full of my favorite tropes, adventure, wonderful characters, and a great happily ever after.
Tropes:
- strong, adventurous heroine
- hate to love
- second chance romance
- childhood friends to lovers
- grump sunshine
- angst
- protector hero-ish
- marriage of convenience
Before I even begin, do you see that tropes list?! How has that not already convinced you to pick this book up?!
I loved this book. It was the perfect second installment to The Princess Stakes.
Raveena was brave, adventurous, and badass in the best ways. I always get a little skeptical of heiress heroines because it is very easy to make them annoying. But she was so unique and wonderfully written.
Raveena and Courtland had explosive chemistry. It was palpable. Howard is such aa master at writing that kind of chemistry and this book did not disappoint.
You guys know I love when heroes are head over heels gone for the heroine and see her as his equal. Courtland DELIVERED. He was a wonderful hero.
The battles of sexism and racism were wonderfully written. Both characters faced such serious issues. I was honored to be able to read this book in advance. Please read Howards Author Note at the end!
Overall, this book was wonderful, just wonderful. It is full of adventure, romance, social issues. I recommend it to you with my full sincerity.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️.5/ 5 stars | 🌶🌶/ 5 steam
Thank you to Sourcebooks Casablanca and the wonderful Amalie Howard for an ARC in exchange for my honest opinion ❤️
March 29, 2022
DNFed @ 26%
I'm so bummed out about this because I liked a lot Amalie Howard's The Beast of Beswick and I was hoping this would be as good as that one, but the MCs were sending each other lustful stares literally on page one and by 26% they have already hooked up twice and honestly, I'm bored. It's such a shame because it's not often that you have a mixed-race protagonist in a historical romance and I was very interested in seeing how that played out in the story but so far there's only been a couple of vague references to it and I'm just not invested enough to keep reading anymore.
I'm so bummed out about this because I liked a lot Amalie Howard's The Beast of Beswick and I was hoping this would be as good as that one, but the MCs were sending each other lustful stares literally on page one and by 26% they have already hooked up twice and honestly, I'm bored. It's such a shame because it's not often that you have a mixed-race protagonist in a historical romance and I was very interested in seeing how that played out in the story but so far there's only been a couple of vague references to it and I'm just not invested enough to keep reading anymore.
January 7, 2022
I got a little bored with how high handed Courtland was throughout so much of the book.
October 23, 2021
Rules for Heiresses is a unique historical romance that follows Ravenna Huntley and Courtland Chase, childhood friends who haven’t seen each other in ten years. Ravenna has run away from England and many unwanted marriage proposals in an effort to avoid a loveless marriage and the stifling of her independence. Posing as a man, Ravenna is accused of cheating at a gambling hall in Antigua, and when threatened with imprisonment by the owner, must reveal herself as a woman.
Courtland is stunned when the man he suspected of cheating is not only a woman but also his childhood friend (and former betrothed) Ravenna. Driven from England by his stepmother, Courtland has made a good life for himself and swore he’d never return to England and the people who rejected him. However, when the pair is caught in a compromising situation, marriage is their only solution, and when Courtland learns he is now a duke, their return to England is inevitable. Now the couple must face old wounds, new enemies, and a growing affection for each other and decide if their marriage is more than just one of convenience.
Ravenna is a unique and passionate woman who refuses to submit to the confining rules of high society. She is her own woman, independent, self-assured, and very much ahead of her time. Ravenna thirsts for adventure and is determined to live her life the way she pleases. I love that she doesn’t bow to the dictates of society and instead fights for what she believes in.
Why should men have all the adventure and women be forced to sit at home tending the hearth? We are not possessions or brainless biddable toys designed for male consumption.
Courtland, a man who is judged for his race and often treated differently because of it, is cold and calculating. Emotionally closed off, he wears a mask and keeps himself at a distance from others so he can’t be hurt as he was in the past. Ravenna is one of the few that Courtland lets in, and watching Ravenna slowly break through his walls is fantastic. She remembers the boy she grew up with, and she sees the wonderful, passionate man beneath the mask.
I love the romance between Courtland and Ravenna. Betrothed childhood friends who haven’t seen each other in years, Ravenna and Courtland have explosive chemistry. I also love the way that Courtland accepts Ravenna unconditionally. He admires her fiery and independent spirit, as well as her curiosity and rebellious ways. He also treats her as an equal. She is his partner and he respects her opinions and feelings. Ravenna’s unwavering support and acceptance of Courtland are equally lovely. I also really like when they talk about their times together as children. They share a long history of friendship, and that bond develops into an epic love story. Both characters are searching for a place where they feel like they belong, and I love that they find it in each other.
Like the first book, the author highlights many issues experienced during this time, especially sexism and racism. Ravenna struggles with the burden of being the perfect English lady as it takes away her independence. Courtland experiences terrible racism and prejudice. Both characters are judged harshly by an unforgiving, intolerant, and harmful society. I like that the author addresses these topics, and I found the Author’s Note at the end of the book, which discusses the inclusion of them, very interesting.
I enjoyed this story as much as I did The Princess Stakes, which focuses on Ravenna’s brother. It has well-developed and interesting characters, strong messages, action and adventure, and a wonderful love story, and I would definitely recommend it to lovers of historical romance. Thanks so much to NetGalley, Sourcebooks Casablanca, and Amalie Howard for a copy of the book in exchange for my honest review.
Courtland is stunned when the man he suspected of cheating is not only a woman but also his childhood friend (and former betrothed) Ravenna. Driven from England by his stepmother, Courtland has made a good life for himself and swore he’d never return to England and the people who rejected him. However, when the pair is caught in a compromising situation, marriage is their only solution, and when Courtland learns he is now a duke, their return to England is inevitable. Now the couple must face old wounds, new enemies, and a growing affection for each other and decide if their marriage is more than just one of convenience.
Ravenna is a unique and passionate woman who refuses to submit to the confining rules of high society. She is her own woman, independent, self-assured, and very much ahead of her time. Ravenna thirsts for adventure and is determined to live her life the way she pleases. I love that she doesn’t bow to the dictates of society and instead fights for what she believes in.
Why should men have all the adventure and women be forced to sit at home tending the hearth? We are not possessions or brainless biddable toys designed for male consumption.
Courtland, a man who is judged for his race and often treated differently because of it, is cold and calculating. Emotionally closed off, he wears a mask and keeps himself at a distance from others so he can’t be hurt as he was in the past. Ravenna is one of the few that Courtland lets in, and watching Ravenna slowly break through his walls is fantastic. She remembers the boy she grew up with, and she sees the wonderful, passionate man beneath the mask.
I love the romance between Courtland and Ravenna. Betrothed childhood friends who haven’t seen each other in years, Ravenna and Courtland have explosive chemistry. I also love the way that Courtland accepts Ravenna unconditionally. He admires her fiery and independent spirit, as well as her curiosity and rebellious ways. He also treats her as an equal. She is his partner and he respects her opinions and feelings. Ravenna’s unwavering support and acceptance of Courtland are equally lovely. I also really like when they talk about their times together as children. They share a long history of friendship, and that bond develops into an epic love story. Both characters are searching for a place where they feel like they belong, and I love that they find it in each other.
Like the first book, the author highlights many issues experienced during this time, especially sexism and racism. Ravenna struggles with the burden of being the perfect English lady as it takes away her independence. Courtland experiences terrible racism and prejudice. Both characters are judged harshly by an unforgiving, intolerant, and harmful society. I like that the author addresses these topics, and I found the Author’s Note at the end of the book, which discusses the inclusion of them, very interesting.
I enjoyed this story as much as I did The Princess Stakes, which focuses on Ravenna’s brother. It has well-developed and interesting characters, strong messages, action and adventure, and a wonderful love story, and I would definitely recommend it to lovers of historical romance. Thanks so much to NetGalley, Sourcebooks Casablanca, and Amalie Howard for a copy of the book in exchange for my honest review.
August 22, 2022
3.5 stars.
April 25, 2022
There is a lot of narrative explaining both characters, chase and Ravenna. I would like to read their background sound throughout parts of the book instead of all of it being added to the first chapter of the book. With that being said I found the book exciting and entertaining. The romance was sweet and beautiful.
dnf
July 30, 2025DNF at p198 (apx 2/3)
The heroine punched the hero in the face, which (even though he was being a complete dickwad at the time) is nigh on unforgivable.
I was already considering DNFing based on that and exasperation with the hero’s inability to get his head out of his ass about being unable to love/be loved, but it’s now shaping up for the final act to be espionage-focused and that’s simply not something I’m interested in
7.29.25
The heroine punched the hero in the face, which (even though he was being a complete dickwad at the time) is nigh on unforgivable.
I was already considering DNFing based on that and exasperation with the hero’s inability to get his head out of his ass about being unable to love/be loved, but it’s now shaping up for the final act to be espionage-focused and that’s simply not something I’m interested in
7.29.25
March 26, 2022
What more can you ask for? A tale filled with adventure, childhood friends (or enemies!), the most witty banter that will have you laughing out loud, a strong heroine who has no bounds and a hero who is the best. Plus a romance that is a journey in itself!!
Not to be missed!!
Not to be missed!!
August 25, 2021
Rules for Heiresses follows The Princess Stakes by Amalie Howard, I read both books back to back after meeting the heroine Ravenna in TPS. I enjoy diverse characters being represented in historical romances and that is why I was excited to pick up both of these books by an own voices author. I liked that the heroine of the previous book was biracial/half Indian and in this book we have a half Creole hero. This book grabbed my attention from the start and I enjoyed it so much.
Lady Ravenna Huntley snuck aboard one of her brother’s ships and had been residing in Antigua where she had disguised herself as a young man, “Mr. Raven Hunt”. The story opens with her being confronted by the hotel owner, Courtland Chase, claiming she’s been cheating playing cards. And chaos ensues from there quickly…he threatens to lock her up in jail for the night, her identity as a woman and as Lady Ravenna is revealed, the owner learns he has just become Duke, she pulls a gun on him, Ravenna realizes he is Cordy (her long-lost childhood nemesis/neighbor/friend/betrothed) that everyone assumed was dead, they make out, get caught by others, and are then forced into a marriage of convenience to save her reputation.
Courtland Chase, much like the hero in book 1, is a reluctant Duke. He ran away/was sent away to Antigua years back to find his maternal relatives and escape a stepmother and half-brother who hated his “mixed blood” they deemed unworthy of the ducal estate. I loved the history between Courtland & Ravenna, they grew up together and knew one another as children and hearing their reminiscing moments about one another growing up was so sweet. I really liked seeing Ravenna prove to Courtland how worthy of everything he was, her love and willingness to fight for what he was owed was great. I loved seeing the couple of book 1 in this, Sarani & Rhystan (Ravenna’s brother). Both books are super steamy, filled with delicious chemistry, and just have the strongest heroines.
I also really appreciated the epilogue and seeing how Courtland’s complicated relationships with his half brother, half sisters and stepmother played out. The author’s note at the end was great too, the research involved and the author’s own story of being born and raised in a colonial country just add another layer to this book and her previous book, The Princess Stakes.
3.5 stars (rounded up on GR). Thank you to the publisher (Sourcebooks Casablanca) for an e-ARC via NetGalley in exchange for my honest thoughts & review. Rules for Heiresses has a publish date of October 26, 2021.
Lady Ravenna Huntley snuck aboard one of her brother’s ships and had been residing in Antigua where she had disguised herself as a young man, “Mr. Raven Hunt”. The story opens with her being confronted by the hotel owner, Courtland Chase, claiming she’s been cheating playing cards. And chaos ensues from there quickly…he threatens to lock her up in jail for the night, her identity as a woman and as Lady Ravenna is revealed, the owner learns he has just become Duke, she pulls a gun on him, Ravenna realizes he is Cordy (her long-lost childhood nemesis/neighbor/friend/betrothed) that everyone assumed was dead, they make out, get caught by others, and are then forced into a marriage of convenience to save her reputation.
Courtland Chase, much like the hero in book 1, is a reluctant Duke. He ran away/was sent away to Antigua years back to find his maternal relatives and escape a stepmother and half-brother who hated his “mixed blood” they deemed unworthy of the ducal estate. I loved the history between Courtland & Ravenna, they grew up together and knew one another as children and hearing their reminiscing moments about one another growing up was so sweet. I really liked seeing Ravenna prove to Courtland how worthy of everything he was, her love and willingness to fight for what he was owed was great. I loved seeing the couple of book 1 in this, Sarani & Rhystan (Ravenna’s brother). Both books are super steamy, filled with delicious chemistry, and just have the strongest heroines.
I also really appreciated the epilogue and seeing how Courtland’s complicated relationships with his half brother, half sisters and stepmother played out. The author’s note at the end was great too, the research involved and the author’s own story of being born and raised in a colonial country just add another layer to this book and her previous book, The Princess Stakes.
3.5 stars (rounded up on GR). Thank you to the publisher (Sourcebooks Casablanca) for an e-ARC via NetGalley in exchange for my honest thoughts & review. Rules for Heiresses has a publish date of October 26, 2021.
August 29, 2021
I went back and forth on how I felt about this book. I really liked the beginning, how these two childhood friends met again years later. I liked the events leading up to their marriage. After they were married, it was very slow. I had a hard time keeping interest until the last 20% or so. The ending was nice.
Ravenna was very much a modern day woman. A bit too reckless for me but I liked her. Courtland has a pretty crappy family so he spends time far away from England. Courtland and Ravenna had good chemistry and the heat was up for sure. I wish Courtland figured out his feelings sooner. He just closed himself up because his brother and step-mother. They were horrible really so I understand he is the way he is because of them. He finally made a good life away from them but because of his marriage he is thrown back into society. I felt so bad for him because his family is just awful.
Overall this book was fine but I kept losing interest on and off. I haven’t read any of the author’s prior books but there are some characters I believe have their own books. I was able to follow along and get the gist of the characters without reading the prior books. Maybe I will try them one day.
*Received via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review*
Ravenna was very much a modern day woman. A bit too reckless for me but I liked her. Courtland has a pretty crappy family so he spends time far away from England. Courtland and Ravenna had good chemistry and the heat was up for sure. I wish Courtland figured out his feelings sooner. He just closed himself up because his brother and step-mother. They were horrible really so I understand he is the way he is because of them. He finally made a good life away from them but because of his marriage he is thrown back into society. I felt so bad for him because his family is just awful.
Overall this book was fine but I kept losing interest on and off. I haven’t read any of the author’s prior books but there are some characters I believe have their own books. I was able to follow along and get the gist of the characters without reading the prior books. Maybe I will try them one day.
*Received via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review*
November 27, 2021
So, sadly, this one fell a little flat for me. This childhood friends to marriage of convenience was in theory right up my alley. Where this one didn't work for me was the hero. He pushed her away too much, and his reasonings felt so weak. It made it hard for me to buy in to his feelings.
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