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The Duchess's Investigative Society #1
Secrets of a Duke's Daughter
A duke's daughter must be prepared for whatever life—and love—throws her way...
Lady Cassandra Fallon is finally ready to take control of her life and join her late mother's investigative society. She's more than confident she can do the job—even when her first case involves a potentially deadly scandal. What she's not quite prepared for is her brother's attractive (and increasingly distracting) friend acting as her self-appointed bodyguard...
When Lord Luke promised his best friend he'd keep an eye on Cassie, he meant it. But the brazen and entirely too alluring woman she's become is a far cry from the mischievous, freckled girl she used to be. Luke knows a lowly viscount has no business longing for (or touching) a duke's daughter. But against all reason...he does...
She craves independence. He only craves her. An epic battle of the sexes is at hand. But will love be enough to get them to happily ever after? Cassie and Luke will soon find out...
Lady Cassandra Fallon is finally ready to take control of her life and join her late mother's investigative society. She's more than confident she can do the job—even when her first case involves a potentially deadly scandal. What she's not quite prepared for is her brother's attractive (and increasingly distracting) friend acting as her self-appointed bodyguard...
When Lord Luke promised his best friend he'd keep an eye on Cassie, he meant it. But the brazen and entirely too alluring woman she's become is a far cry from the mischievous, freckled girl she used to be. Luke knows a lowly viscount has no business longing for (or touching) a duke's daughter. But against all reason...he does...
She craves independence. He only craves her. An epic battle of the sexes is at hand. But will love be enough to get them to happily ever after? Cassie and Luke will soon find out...
335 pages, Kindle Edition
First published March 8, 2021
769 people are currently reading
545 people want to read
About the author
Samantha Holt
316 books700 followersSamantha Holt resides in Warwickshire, England, with her twin girls, having followed her soldier husband around the UK for nearly 10 years. Growing up in Hampshire, she was inspired by the authors Jane Austen and Elizabeth Gaskell, both of whom lived and wrote only miles from her home town.
Samantha loves the romance genre and has been devouring romantic literature for as long as she can remember. History is another passion of hers and she loves to combine her love for history and romance into exciting and passionate tales.
Samantha loves the romance genre and has been devouring romantic literature for as long as she can remember. History is another passion of hers and she loves to combine her love for history and romance into exciting and passionate tales.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 107 reviews
August 15, 2023
It was ok. Thought it might have been more interesting. Not my cup of tea, but I will try the 2nd in this series. 3☆
March 10, 2021
Oh Pooh! A Mystery💀!
ADULT Regency Era Romantic Comedy💕 and Murder Mystery💀
Breaking 💔and Entering 💘a Man's Heart is No Crime!
Lady Cassie 💃💋is the eccentric daughter of a duke, one of several. Together with their mother, they form a lady's investigation society. They look into mysterious happenings surrounding women. When her friend Jane's brother, is supposedly murdered near a gaming hell, Cassie💃💋 begins an investigation.
Jane's brother told her he would care for her no matter what, but their home is willed to someone else. Jane needs a copy of the will to find out who. She also believes the burned body found is not her brother, and that he is still alive! But where is he?
Cassie 💃💋volunteers to get the will from a safe during a ball , she has training in lock picking.
Enter Viscount Luke🐺🍆⛲💪 Whitehurst, the best friend of Cassie's brother and a well known rake. Anton appoints Luke her guardian while he is away on his honeymoon. Luke🐺🍆⛲💪 does his best to keep Cassie out of trouble and scandal, with little success.
ARC Provided by Booksprout 🌱
I also got this ebook with KU.
This is a great read! It's mostly a Romantic💕 Comedy, but it does have a murder mystery 💀at its heart. Ms Holt📚 is a premier author of ADULT Regency Romance. I love all her books 📚!
ADULT Regency Era Romantic Comedy💕 and Murder Mystery💀
Breaking 💔and Entering 💘a Man's Heart is No Crime!
Lady Cassie 💃💋is the eccentric daughter of a duke, one of several. Together with their mother, they form a lady's investigation society. They look into mysterious happenings surrounding women. When her friend Jane's brother, is supposedly murdered near a gaming hell, Cassie💃💋 begins an investigation.
Jane's brother told her he would care for her no matter what, but their home is willed to someone else. Jane needs a copy of the will to find out who. She also believes the burned body found is not her brother, and that he is still alive! But where is he?
Cassie 💃💋volunteers to get the will from a safe during a ball , she has training in lock picking.
Enter Viscount Luke🐺🍆⛲💪 Whitehurst, the best friend of Cassie's brother and a well known rake. Anton appoints Luke her guardian while he is away on his honeymoon. Luke🐺🍆⛲💪 does his best to keep Cassie out of trouble and scandal, with little success.
ARC Provided by Booksprout 🌱
I also got this ebook with KU.
This is a great read! It's mostly a Romantic💕 Comedy, but it does have a murder mystery 💀at its heart. Ms Holt📚 is a premier author of ADULT Regency Romance. I love all her books 📚!
March 8, 2021
Lady Cassandra Falcon is the youngest daughter of the Duke of Daventry. She is a bit clumsy but she likes to help people and she is determined to prove herself worthy of joining her family’s investigation group. While her brother, Anton, is on his honeymoon, he has tasked his friend, Luke ( a Viscount) to watch over Cassie. Luke has a reputation of a rake and is popular with the ladies. Cassie and Luke were attracted to each other but Luke was aware of his lower station and that Cassie was his best friend’s sister. There is a mystery to solve and dangerous events to add interest. Also, her sisters were an interesting mix of characters and hopefully they will each have their own stories. Although I found this to be an entertaining read, the pace was a little slow at times, particularly in the first half of the book. I received a copy via Booksprout and have voluntarily reviewed it. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
March 8, 2021
Lady Cassandra Fallon is finally ready to take control of her life and join her late mother's investigative society. She's more than confident she can do the job—even when her first case helping her friend Jane involves a potentially deadly scandal. What she's not quite prepared for is her brother's attractive (and increasingly distracting) friend acting as her self-appointed bodyguard. When Lord Luke promised his best friend, Anton he'd keep an eye on Cassie, he meant it. But the brazen and entirely too alluring woman she's become is a far cry from the mischievous, freckled girl she used to be. Luke knows a lowly viscount has no business longing for (or touching) a duke's daughter.
A delightful start to a new series involving four sisters, Cassie is the youngest & out to prove herself. She’s feisty, accident prone, determined & adorable. Luke is now an upright viscount but a few years ago his best friend Anton, who is Cassie's older brother, saved Luke. So Luke feels in Anton’s debt & agrees to look out for Cassie whilst Anton is on his honeymoon. I loved the chemistry between the pair, which sizzled but it’s the situations Cassie finds herself in & Luke's always on hand to save her. I love the premise of a ladies investigative society, which is different. I thoroughly enjoyed the book which I devoured in two sittings, roll on the rest of the series
My honest review is for a special copy I voluntarily read
A delightful start to a new series involving four sisters, Cassie is the youngest & out to prove herself. She’s feisty, accident prone, determined & adorable. Luke is now an upright viscount but a few years ago his best friend Anton, who is Cassie's older brother, saved Luke. So Luke feels in Anton’s debt & agrees to look out for Cassie whilst Anton is on his honeymoon. I loved the chemistry between the pair, which sizzled but it’s the situations Cassie finds herself in & Luke's always on hand to save her. I love the premise of a ladies investigative society, which is different. I thoroughly enjoyed the book which I devoured in two sittings, roll on the rest of the series
My honest review is for a special copy I voluntarily read
August 23, 2021
Juvenile, tedious, and clunky. People doing ridiculous things to move the plot forward. No character development, no relationship development.
March 10, 2021
This first book in a new series was very entertaining. I enjoyed following Cassie's escapades in her investigation concerning the suspected death of her friend's brother. I also enjoyed Luke's trailing after Cassie trying to figure out what she was about as well as keep her out of harms way. As the pair continue to be thrown together during Cassie's investigation, she becomes more aware of Luke as a man she'd like to know better and less as her brothers' best friend.
Luke has fought his attraction to Cassie for several years, knowing that as a mere viscount he wasn't worthy of a Duke's daughter. But the more time he spends alone with Cassie, the more he wishes her were worthy of her. When Cassie is physically threatened during her investigation, Luke decides that to keep her safe he would need to get more involved in her life, including staying under the same roof as she. This is a decision that he soon regrets as he is finding it increasingly difficult to keep his hands off Cassie.
This book was really good and I look forward to the next in this series. There were several laugh out loud moments, bits of steam and there is a HEA!
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Luke has fought his attraction to Cassie for several years, knowing that as a mere viscount he wasn't worthy of a Duke's daughter. But the more time he spends alone with Cassie, the more he wishes her were worthy of her. When Cassie is physically threatened during her investigation, Luke decides that to keep her safe he would need to get more involved in her life, including staying under the same roof as she. This is a decision that he soon regrets as he is finding it increasingly difficult to keep his hands off Cassie.
This book was really good and I look forward to the next in this series. There were several laugh out loud moments, bits of steam and there is a HEA!
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
January 11, 2022
Lady Cassandra Fallon is finally ready to take control of her life and join her late mother's investigative society. She's more than confident she can do the job—even when her first case involves a potentially deadly scandal. What she's not quite prepared for is her brother's attractive (and increasingly distracting) friend acting as her self-appointed bodyguard...
When Lord Luke promised his best friend he'd keep an eye on Cassie, he meant it. But the brazen and entirely too alluring woman she's become is a far cry from the mischievous, freckled girl she used to be. Luke knows a lowly viscount has no business longing for (or touching) a duke's daughter. But against all reason...he does...
She craves independence. He only craves her. An epic battle of the sexes is at hand. But will love be enough to get them to happily ever after? Cassie and Luke will soon find out.
Luke has been in love with Cassie for a long time. Cassie has been in love with Luke for not as long but sufficiently long.
Samantha Holt has written an absolutely interesting tale of inconvenience, misunderstanding, mysteries and love.
When Lord Luke promised his best friend he'd keep an eye on Cassie, he meant it. But the brazen and entirely too alluring woman she's become is a far cry from the mischievous, freckled girl she used to be. Luke knows a lowly viscount has no business longing for (or touching) a duke's daughter. But against all reason...he does...
She craves independence. He only craves her. An epic battle of the sexes is at hand. But will love be enough to get them to happily ever after? Cassie and Luke will soon find out.
Luke has been in love with Cassie for a long time. Cassie has been in love with Luke for not as long but sufficiently long.
Samantha Holt has written an absolutely interesting tale of inconvenience, misunderstanding, mysteries and love.
March 14, 2021
He kept telling himself "She's Aton's little sister. And far too goof for a lowly viscount. Far too good for him that was, despite her insistence on getting into any sort of mischief one did not expect from a well brought up young lady." Luke had to keep reminding himself that. Cassie was a duke's daughter and his best friend's little sister...
But sometimes the heart knows what the heart wants. Cassandra was doing her best to be part of the investigative group with her sisters and Aunt that her mother had formed years ago. It was her chance to find out what happened to her friend Jane's brother...
It seemed though that every time she turned around, there was Luke. She'd know him since she was young, but now, she kept seeing how attractive he was and had no idea when that had changed!
Adventure, wonderful back and forth dialogue between these two, a mystery to solve and an attraction that will not be denied! What more can you ask for? Book 2, that's what!
But sometimes the heart knows what the heart wants. Cassandra was doing her best to be part of the investigative group with her sisters and Aunt that her mother had formed years ago. It was her chance to find out what happened to her friend Jane's brother...
It seemed though that every time she turned around, there was Luke. She'd know him since she was young, but now, she kept seeing how attractive he was and had no idea when that had changed!
Adventure, wonderful back and forth dialogue between these two, a mystery to solve and an attraction that will not be denied! What more can you ask for? Book 2, that's what!
January 13, 2022
Luke & Cassie’s connection was apparent from the very beginning. It is always ironic when the Hero thinks he can resist his own temptations. He believes he is not good enough, or high enough in rank for her but he can not realize that none of that matters when compared to her heart. I love Cassie’s determination, not just in her growing feelings for Luke, but in her investigation. She perhaps may have been safer if she had confided in her sisters earlier but I understood her need to be independent. To prove that she had the ability to be more than “Little Cassie”. The mystery of the story was very intriguing and kept you guessing all along. But it was Luke & Cassie’s sizzling chemistry that sank me. The tension of will they, won’t they kept me glued to the pages. Can’t wait to read more of the Duchess Investigative Society.
March 22, 2023
This was fine. I'll read another. My main problem was the two areas of stress on the relationship were, 'he's my best friends little sister' and, 'I'm no good for her because I'm only a viscount'. Neither of those reasons are particularly deep or resonant for me, and neither of them felt like particularly difficult problems to overcome.
August 28, 2023
Quickie review: 3.5 stars. This was not a bad book, but it was a little slow for me. The chemistry was only okay, but the story was entertaining. I will continue this series.
March 11, 2021
3.25 STARS
I had problems with both the H/h. The H in the beginning kept repeating how he couldn't like the h because she was his best friend's sister. It became to repetitive - I wanted to say I GOT IT THE FIRST 5 times. The h kept putting herself in dangerous situations because she didn't want to be the little sister. No-one thought she couldn't handle anything because she was the youngest, only she thought this.
I did enjoy the suspense and trying to figure out the villains reasons for causing so much trouble. The h's brother asks his best friend to watch over the h because she is always getting into trouble. Then when the h/H develop feelings for each other the brother is upset because the H is a Rake. HELLO! Why put a known Rake in charge of your sister?
The ending was ok, I felt some of it was rushed. I thought the reason someone goes missing without telling someone was lame. Why not send a note to someone else? Why did the cousin want to marry someone off, especially if he supposedly didn't believe what he was told?
There is lovemaking outside of marriage, heat level 4 out of 5. The Lord's name is taken in vain once.
No cheating, no cliffhanger, HEA, some romance and some spice. I can't improve on the blurb just letting you know somethings I felt reading it.
I own 41 stories by this author so she is a favorite of mine and I will read the next one in the series. (ljb)
I had problems with both the H/h. The H in the beginning kept repeating how he couldn't like the h because she was his best friend's sister. It became to repetitive - I wanted to say I GOT IT THE FIRST 5 times. The h kept putting herself in dangerous situations because she didn't want to be the little sister. No-one thought she couldn't handle anything because she was the youngest, only she thought this.
I did enjoy the suspense and trying to figure out the villains reasons for causing so much trouble. The h's brother asks his best friend to watch over the h because she is always getting into trouble. Then when the h/H develop feelings for each other the brother is upset because the H is a Rake. HELLO! Why put a known Rake in charge of your sister?
The ending was ok, I felt some of it was rushed. I thought the reason someone goes missing without telling someone was lame. Why not send a note to someone else? Why did the cousin want to marry someone off, especially if he supposedly didn't believe what he was told?
There is lovemaking outside of marriage, heat level 4 out of 5. The Lord's name is taken in vain once.
No cheating, no cliffhanger, HEA, some romance and some spice. I can't improve on the blurb just letting you know somethings I felt reading it.
I own 41 stories by this author so she is a favorite of mine and I will read the next one in the series. (ljb)
January 22, 2023
My main problem with this book is the so-called hero. He's supposed to be a somewhat reformed rake, but then he just deflowers his best friend's little sister, after promising his friend to watch out for her. I believe the only reason why he's interested in her to begin with is his promise. He also feels he's not good enough for her (absolutely true), so he wouldn't court her, but I guess it's ok to .... - you know - her. The brother, once he's back, wants to kill the H for having kissed his sister, imagine what it would have done if he knew the truth!
The H Is so insufferable that I won't even mention how idiotic is the h!
The H Is so insufferable that I won't even mention how idiotic is the h!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
February 16, 2025
2 1/2
Interesting story but if I had to read one more time about him not deserving her or how she had to investigate on her own to prove herself one more time my head was going to explode. I kept reading because I've read other books by the author and really liked them, but I almost didn't finish this multiple times.
Interesting story but if I had to read one more time about him not deserving her or how she had to investigate on her own to prove herself one more time my head was going to explode. I kept reading because I've read other books by the author and really liked them, but I almost didn't finish this multiple times.
March 5, 2021
I love the concept of this new series & the first book got it started with a bang! I enjoyed the entertaining & funny interaction between the couple & they were faced with several sticky situations - friendship, danger, loving family, friends to lovers & a HEA. It had all the things I enjoy in a really good book.
Lady Cassandra Fallon is the daughter of absent-minded, bookworm Duke of Daventry, the youngest of 4 sisters, & she wants to prove to her sisters that she is old enough to join their late mother's investigative society, which help people who have no one else to turn to. Unfortunately, Cassie has decided to take on an investigation by herself - she needs to help her friend, Jane whose brother, Theodore was murdered. However, Jane does not believe he is dead & when his Will was read, items were given to strangers & not Jane - they were very close & she knows something is not right. Cassie tends to get into trouble or into situations that can put her in danger & this case has proven the point.
Anton, Cassie's older brother, is on his honeymoon & his sister has a habit of getting into trouble, so he asked his best friend Luke Fitzwilliam, Viscount Whitehurst to watch over Cassie while he was gone & keep her out of trouble. Luke owed Anton for saving him from a bad situation in the past & he would help him out - even knowing he had to stay away from her as he had been attracted to her for a while, but he had been a rake in the past & she needed to find a titled gentleman in her class plus she is his best friend's little sister. Anton & Cassie have no idea of Luke's feelings towards Cassie, but Luke doesn't know Cassie sees him as much more than Anton's best friend.
Oh my, the problems Cassie gets into & poor Luke must clean up the mess; all the while, the attraction between them is heating up. The case becomes bigger & more dangerous than anyone ever dreamed & the whodunit will be a surprise in the end & what will happen when Cassie's brother & Luke's best friend, Anton comes home? The H & h were a wonderful couple & the supporting cast of her family (especially Aunt Sarah & her cat, Simon). Luke's family were so likable, it kept me turning pages. I voluntarily read & reviewed an Advanced Reader's Copy of this book; all thoughts & opinions are my own.
Lady Cassandra Fallon is the daughter of absent-minded, bookworm Duke of Daventry, the youngest of 4 sisters, & she wants to prove to her sisters that she is old enough to join their late mother's investigative society, which help people who have no one else to turn to. Unfortunately, Cassie has decided to take on an investigation by herself - she needs to help her friend, Jane whose brother, Theodore was murdered. However, Jane does not believe he is dead & when his Will was read, items were given to strangers & not Jane - they were very close & she knows something is not right. Cassie tends to get into trouble or into situations that can put her in danger & this case has proven the point.
Anton, Cassie's older brother, is on his honeymoon & his sister has a habit of getting into trouble, so he asked his best friend Luke Fitzwilliam, Viscount Whitehurst to watch over Cassie while he was gone & keep her out of trouble. Luke owed Anton for saving him from a bad situation in the past & he would help him out - even knowing he had to stay away from her as he had been attracted to her for a while, but he had been a rake in the past & she needed to find a titled gentleman in her class plus she is his best friend's little sister. Anton & Cassie have no idea of Luke's feelings towards Cassie, but Luke doesn't know Cassie sees him as much more than Anton's best friend.
Oh my, the problems Cassie gets into & poor Luke must clean up the mess; all the while, the attraction between them is heating up. The case becomes bigger & more dangerous than anyone ever dreamed & the whodunit will be a surprise in the end & what will happen when Cassie's brother & Luke's best friend, Anton comes home? The H & h were a wonderful couple & the supporting cast of her family (especially Aunt Sarah & her cat, Simon). Luke's family were so likable, it kept me turning pages. I voluntarily read & reviewed an Advanced Reader's Copy of this book; all thoughts & opinions are my own.
March 4, 2021
I loved this book from the first page! What a fun romp with these two. This is a very intriguing story.
Lady Cassandra Fallon is the youngest daughter of four. Her father is a Duke and one of most absent-minded bookworms you have ever seen. He has no idea of what his daughters are up to. His late wife started an Investigative society to help those who had no one else to turn to. Her oldest sister Chastity with Eleanor and Demetar have keep it going. Cassie has always wanted to be part of the team. Unfortunately she has always been told she is to young or has to be married to. None of her sisters or married. Cassie has taken on a case of her own, to help her friend, Jane who just lost her brother, Theodore. Only Jane doesn't believe he is dead. Theo and her were very close and things he promised her were not in the will she was given.
Cassie is determined to prove herself to her sisters so she can join the team. She is sure she can find out the answers on her own. The biggest problem she didn't know she would have is her brother's fault. Anton is on his honeymoon and as Cassie has a habit of getting into trouble, asked his friend Lord Luke FitzWilliam to keep an eye on her. Unknown to both Anton and Cassie, Luke has already had his eyes on her. The only thing stopping him from doing more then watch her is she is Anton's sister and the daughter of a Duke and he is only a lowly Viscount.
What he doesn't know is that Cassie see's him as much more then her brothers friend...
Oh my the problems these two get into. The attraction between them, the suspense of who doesn't want them to find out what happen to Theo. Makes for a great story.
Will they give into their desire of each other, find the bad guys and what will they do when Anton comes home. This is a wonderful read from start to finish.
It has great support characters, all her sister, Luke's family and one can't forget Cassie's Aunt Sarah and her cat, Simon who she swears is her late husband come back.
I hope you give it a try. There are some steamy scenes but well written.
I received and ARC from and author and wish to thank her. This is my honest opinion and am freely giving it.
Lady Cassandra Fallon is the youngest daughter of four. Her father is a Duke and one of most absent-minded bookworms you have ever seen. He has no idea of what his daughters are up to. His late wife started an Investigative society to help those who had no one else to turn to. Her oldest sister Chastity with Eleanor and Demetar have keep it going. Cassie has always wanted to be part of the team. Unfortunately she has always been told she is to young or has to be married to. None of her sisters or married. Cassie has taken on a case of her own, to help her friend, Jane who just lost her brother, Theodore. Only Jane doesn't believe he is dead. Theo and her were very close and things he promised her were not in the will she was given.
Cassie is determined to prove herself to her sisters so she can join the team. She is sure she can find out the answers on her own. The biggest problem she didn't know she would have is her brother's fault. Anton is on his honeymoon and as Cassie has a habit of getting into trouble, asked his friend Lord Luke FitzWilliam to keep an eye on her. Unknown to both Anton and Cassie, Luke has already had his eyes on her. The only thing stopping him from doing more then watch her is she is Anton's sister and the daughter of a Duke and he is only a lowly Viscount.
What he doesn't know is that Cassie see's him as much more then her brothers friend...
Oh my the problems these two get into. The attraction between them, the suspense of who doesn't want them to find out what happen to Theo. Makes for a great story.
Will they give into their desire of each other, find the bad guys and what will they do when Anton comes home. This is a wonderful read from start to finish.
It has great support characters, all her sister, Luke's family and one can't forget Cassie's Aunt Sarah and her cat, Simon who she swears is her late husband come back.
I hope you give it a try. There are some steamy scenes but well written.
I received and ARC from and author and wish to thank her. This is my honest opinion and am freely giving it.
June 5, 2021
This is my first time reading Samantha Holt and I’m so glad I did. Secrets of a Duke's Daughter (The Duchess's Investigative Society Book 1) is a delightful, well written tale of two wonderful people finding love in spite of themselves. Having been a private investigator for most of my life I was intrigued by the idea of women investigators during this time period. I love the whole premise of the series, it makes for exciting reading from this excellent author!
Knowing Lady Cassandra Fallon had a penchant for getting herself into trouble, her brother, Aton who is going on his honeymoon asked his best friend, Lord Luke Fitzwilliam, Viscount Whitehurst to look after his sister while he was away. Anton had helped the former rake and gambler out of a ham in the past so Luke who was grateful agreed. It appears he had no idea what he was getting himself into.
Cassie a part of the investigative group with her sisters and Aunt that her mother had formed years ago finally has a chance to find out what happened to her friend Jane’s brother and why Jane hasn’t received her inheritance. The only problem is, is that every time she turns around there is Luke. Cassie has known Luke for years but never looked upon him as a man but her brother’s friend and Luke sees Cassie as his best friends sister.
Luke and Cassie have great chemistry and they are wonderful characters you find yourself rooting for. The supporting cast of characters are all interesting, intriguing and make you look forward to the next books in the series. Anton wasn’t kidding when he said Cassie has a habit of getting herself into trouble.
The characters are all delightful and I really enjoyed this book. Luke, the reformed rake was the perfect hero, always there to get Cassie out of trouble. I enjoyed the connection and simmering chemistry Luke and Cassie had. The author does a fantastic job of pulling the story together. The plot is intriguing and the suspense of what happened to Theo was written well. I absolutely loved the witty banter between Luke and Cassie. I loved the romance! All around it’s a great story!
Thank you so much Ms. Holt for this exciting, well written and fun love story.
Knowing Lady Cassandra Fallon had a penchant for getting herself into trouble, her brother, Aton who is going on his honeymoon asked his best friend, Lord Luke Fitzwilliam, Viscount Whitehurst to look after his sister while he was away. Anton had helped the former rake and gambler out of a ham in the past so Luke who was grateful agreed. It appears he had no idea what he was getting himself into.
Cassie a part of the investigative group with her sisters and Aunt that her mother had formed years ago finally has a chance to find out what happened to her friend Jane’s brother and why Jane hasn’t received her inheritance. The only problem is, is that every time she turns around there is Luke. Cassie has known Luke for years but never looked upon him as a man but her brother’s friend and Luke sees Cassie as his best friends sister.
Luke and Cassie have great chemistry and they are wonderful characters you find yourself rooting for. The supporting cast of characters are all interesting, intriguing and make you look forward to the next books in the series. Anton wasn’t kidding when he said Cassie has a habit of getting herself into trouble.
The characters are all delightful and I really enjoyed this book. Luke, the reformed rake was the perfect hero, always there to get Cassie out of trouble. I enjoyed the connection and simmering chemistry Luke and Cassie had. The author does a fantastic job of pulling the story together. The plot is intriguing and the suspense of what happened to Theo was written well. I absolutely loved the witty banter between Luke and Cassie. I loved the romance! All around it’s a great story!
Thank you so much Ms. Holt for this exciting, well written and fun love story.
March 12, 2021
SECRETS OF A DUKE’S DAUGHTER is the first book in The Duchess’s Investigative Society series.
Though this is the first in the series, there seems to be a lot assumed to be understood about the relationships of Lady Cassandra and her siblings. Have we been introduced to them in a previous series? This is why it is marked as four crowns/stars instead of five.
I do love the premise of the series and the story. Cassie and her sisters are continuing their mother’s investigative society. In a society that dismisses the intelligence and emotions of women as unworthy of attention, these formidable women listen, sleuth, and deduce the location of lost items, untrustworthy servants, and the like.
Cassie, as the youngest, is ready to join the group. She thinks she has to prove herself by doing it all alone. So, part of her story is learning that it is okay to turn to someone for help. In her case, that someone is the handsome Viscount Whitehurst, Luke Fitzwilliam.
I loved Cassie’s and Luke’s journey to happily every after. I loved Aunt Sarah and her cat, Uncle Simon for the comedy relief. I loved the suspense, the romance, and the family. This is going to be a wonderful series and I look forward to getting to know the rest of these characters more intimately.
Note: While I received this book as a gifted ARC via Booksprout, my opinions are my own and are given freely.
Title: SECRETS OF A DUKE’S DAUGHTER
Series: The Duchess’s Investigative Society #1
Category /Genre: Historical Romance
Recommended for: 18+ due to sexual content
Grammar/editing: received as an unedited ARC / errors excused
Received from: Samantha Holt
Though this is the first in the series, there seems to be a lot assumed to be understood about the relationships of Lady Cassandra and her siblings. Have we been introduced to them in a previous series? This is why it is marked as four crowns/stars instead of five.
I do love the premise of the series and the story. Cassie and her sisters are continuing their mother’s investigative society. In a society that dismisses the intelligence and emotions of women as unworthy of attention, these formidable women listen, sleuth, and deduce the location of lost items, untrustworthy servants, and the like.
Cassie, as the youngest, is ready to join the group. She thinks she has to prove herself by doing it all alone. So, part of her story is learning that it is okay to turn to someone for help. In her case, that someone is the handsome Viscount Whitehurst, Luke Fitzwilliam.
I loved Cassie’s and Luke’s journey to happily every after. I loved Aunt Sarah and her cat, Uncle Simon for the comedy relief. I loved the suspense, the romance, and the family. This is going to be a wonderful series and I look forward to getting to know the rest of these characters more intimately.
Note: While I received this book as a gifted ARC via Booksprout, my opinions are my own and are given freely.
Title: SECRETS OF A DUKE’S DAUGHTER
Series: The Duchess’s Investigative Society #1
Category /Genre: Historical Romance
Recommended for: 18+ due to sexual content
Grammar/editing: received as an unedited ARC / errors excused
Received from: Samantha Holt
June 10, 2021
Passion fueled & so heartmeltingly delightful I just didn't want to tear my eyes away!
Ooh I loved this - the characters were richly entertaining and instantly likeable; the plot line absorbing and well written and the chemistry between Luke and Cassie so touchingly intimate it sizzled with electric tension and banter.
Under the cloak of intrigue and a mystery to solve, simmering attraction, prideful determination to prove your worth and a craving so deep it's fast becoming hard to resist, sweetly intensifies the fabulously sparkling chemistry between the pair as one fights to protect the other whilst the other just wants to prove that being the youngest sister doesn't make her incompetent.
Overall, an immeasurably fun escapade with heart, humour, copious amounts of wit and charm, that injects a deep yearning to solve the mystery interwoven throughout it almost as much as I deliciously enjoyed how two so stubborn and obviously mounting in devotion for each other will confess their feelings as they skirt every encroaching danger.
Addictively absorbing! I loved every interaction, mishap, yearnful desire and witty encounter I just didn't want it to end. Where the Daventry family of feisty, bold and highly intelligent ladies, that make up their late mother's Investigative Society, along side their highly entertaining, perceptive and madcap aunt, makes this series one that promises to be sooooo captivatingly good I just wouldn't want to miss a second of it!
Ooh I loved this - the characters were richly entertaining and instantly likeable; the plot line absorbing and well written and the chemistry between Luke and Cassie so touchingly intimate it sizzled with electric tension and banter.
Under the cloak of intrigue and a mystery to solve, simmering attraction, prideful determination to prove your worth and a craving so deep it's fast becoming hard to resist, sweetly intensifies the fabulously sparkling chemistry between the pair as one fights to protect the other whilst the other just wants to prove that being the youngest sister doesn't make her incompetent.
Overall, an immeasurably fun escapade with heart, humour, copious amounts of wit and charm, that injects a deep yearning to solve the mystery interwoven throughout it almost as much as I deliciously enjoyed how two so stubborn and obviously mounting in devotion for each other will confess their feelings as they skirt every encroaching danger.
Addictively absorbing! I loved every interaction, mishap, yearnful desire and witty encounter I just didn't want it to end. Where the Daventry family of feisty, bold and highly intelligent ladies, that make up their late mother's Investigative Society, along side their highly entertaining, perceptive and madcap aunt, makes this series one that promises to be sooooo captivatingly good I just wouldn't want to miss a second of it!
March 8, 2021
Cassie is the youngest of the Duke of Daventry’s four daughters. Before her death, the Duchess and the three older girls formed an investigative society of sorts. They investigated minor mysteries such as lost jewelry, missing pets and such. Cassie wants more than anything to be a member of the group. The investigation she chooses to prove herself, the suspicious death and will of her friend’s brother, is quite dangerous, and she wants to do it alone. Lots of secrets. In addition to handling the business of his newly inherited title, Luke has been recruited by Cassie’s brother, who is on his honeymoon, to keep an eye on Cassie. Apparently, she is prone to get into a bit of trouble now and then. No problem, he just has to remember that Little Cassie is his best friend’s little sister. Yeah, right.
This is a romantic romp wrapped in a dangerous mystery. Watching Luke and Cassie is laugh-out-loud funny. Determined not to get involved or fall in love, it’s all they think about. He’s protective; she’s sassy. The mystery is a page turner, and the solution a big surprise. I love Cassie and Luke. The sisters are likeable. The bad guys are horrible. Aunt Sarah is delightful. An entertaining story.
I received an ARC of this book from Booksprout. My review is voluntary.
This is a romantic romp wrapped in a dangerous mystery. Watching Luke and Cassie is laugh-out-loud funny. Determined not to get involved or fall in love, it’s all they think about. He’s protective; she’s sassy. The mystery is a page turner, and the solution a big surprise. I love Cassie and Luke. The sisters are likeable. The bad guys are horrible. Aunt Sarah is delightful. An entertaining story.
I received an ARC of this book from Booksprout. My review is voluntary.
June 11, 2021
The brother's-best-friend to lover romance mixes well with a high society female driven to succeed as an investigator for women whose problems are ignored or disbelieved by men. In "Secrets of a Duke's Daughter" author Samantha Holt presents the reader with an increasingly dangerous investigation that involves misidentification of a corpse, a seemingly false will, a possibly kidnapped peer, a lot breaking and entering (The duke's youngest daughter picks locks!), several assaults with battery, and some very nasty crooks.
Fortunately, or maybe not, the young lady finds herself working around, then working with, the viscount charged with keeping her out of trouble in her brother's absence. While the viscount has loved her for years, she becomes aware of her attraction during the investigation. He tries hard not to touch her while she pushes just as hard to explore her awakening sensuality. The building sexual tension and few intimate scenes should satisfy most readers.
I enjoyed this book for it's unique women and fast plot with a twist or two to the mystery. I chuckled quite a bit, and sympathized with mounting frustrations. The secondary character of Aunt Sarah, a quirky old cat lady, is a hoot!
I recommend this book to historical romance readers who like somewhat stubborn, independent women, the push and pull of inadvisable romantic attraction, and a puzzling mystery.
Fortunately, or maybe not, the young lady finds herself working around, then working with, the viscount charged with keeping her out of trouble in her brother's absence. While the viscount has loved her for years, she becomes aware of her attraction during the investigation. He tries hard not to touch her while she pushes just as hard to explore her awakening sensuality. The building sexual tension and few intimate scenes should satisfy most readers.
I enjoyed this book for it's unique women and fast plot with a twist or two to the mystery. I chuckled quite a bit, and sympathized with mounting frustrations. The secondary character of Aunt Sarah, a quirky old cat lady, is a hoot!
I recommend this book to historical romance readers who like somewhat stubborn, independent women, the push and pull of inadvisable romantic attraction, and a puzzling mystery.
March 9, 2021
Cassie wants to join the investigative company her mother helped found and run. Her older sisters are already a part of it and she longs to show them she can handle it as well. Her first case is investigating the supposed death of her friends brother. She needs to get a copy of the will from a secured safe and is about to get caught. Thankfully she only gets caught by Luke, her brothers friend charged with watching out for her while her brother is on his honeymoon. Luke is a pleasant distraction, one that she doesn't need right now.
Luke promised Anton he would watch over little Cassie while he was out of town. He has never regretted agreeing to something more in his life. She is far from being little Cassie any longer but he needed to remind himself of this before he did something to ruin her reputation. A duke's daughter has a different set of rules. Now she has gotten herself tangled up in something suspicious and he needed to find out what that was.
Will Cassie bring Luke in on what she is up to? Or will she hold him at an arms length so she can do this all on her own? A great period story with historical elements woven in to this romantic story. Solid read.
Luke promised Anton he would watch over little Cassie while he was out of town. He has never regretted agreeing to something more in his life. She is far from being little Cassie any longer but he needed to remind himself of this before he did something to ruin her reputation. A duke's daughter has a different set of rules. Now she has gotten herself tangled up in something suspicious and he needed to find out what that was.
Will Cassie bring Luke in on what she is up to? Or will she hold him at an arms length so she can do this all on her own? A great period story with historical elements woven in to this romantic story. Solid read.
March 20, 2021
With characteristic Samantha Holt charm, this book (the first in the series) is definitely engaging enough to continue!
The heroine, Cassie, is the youngest of four sisters who are a) the daughters of an extremely distant (but loving) duke and b) determined to continue their mother’s legacy. Their later mother, it appears, had run some kind of service among the ladies of the ton, using her considerable privilege as a duchess to support women as they dealt with injustices against them.
Luke, the hero, is Cassie’s older brother’s best friend, who is tasked with making sure Cassie doesn’t get into trouble while said older brother is away on his honeymoon. Cassie is the one person he shouldn’t fall in love with, but guess what... he totally does.
This book was delightful. The one thing I wish had come out more was the particulars of the Duchess’ Investigative Society. It felt like that had a lot of potential to change this book from four stars to five, in terms of how compelling the plot was, but the vision for that overarching plot was a little hazy. Cassie and Luke were great characters, but I was hoping to hear more about this vehicle to support women, in a time when women had very few options.
The heroine, Cassie, is the youngest of four sisters who are a) the daughters of an extremely distant (but loving) duke and b) determined to continue their mother’s legacy. Their later mother, it appears, had run some kind of service among the ladies of the ton, using her considerable privilege as a duchess to support women as they dealt with injustices against them.
Luke, the hero, is Cassie’s older brother’s best friend, who is tasked with making sure Cassie doesn’t get into trouble while said older brother is away on his honeymoon. Cassie is the one person he shouldn’t fall in love with, but guess what... he totally does.
This book was delightful. The one thing I wish had come out more was the particulars of the Duchess’ Investigative Society. It felt like that had a lot of potential to change this book from four stars to five, in terms of how compelling the plot was, but the vision for that overarching plot was a little hazy. Cassie and Luke were great characters, but I was hoping to hear more about this vehicle to support women, in a time when women had very few options.
March 8, 2021
This story is good on so many levels. Not only it a love story, but it is an intriguing who dunit. Cassie is determined to prove to her sisters that she belongs in the investigative society established by her late mother. However, she soon finds that there is more going on than she expected. Luke has been her brother Anton’s friend since school, and has been tasked by said brother to keep Cassie out of trouble. The only problem is, Luke is in love with Cassie and finds it difficult to resist her. Cassie, bless her heart, tends to barge full steam ahead and wind up in a mess. The two of them are adorable and their inner dialogue is so much fun to read. The characters are great. The plot is interesting and the love story is delicious. The author has done a fabulous job of setting up her new series. We are given enough little teases about Cassie’s sisters to spark interest, and Cassandra’s story is the perfect one to start with, as she is so energetic and fun. This book is very entertainging and fun!
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.
March 16, 2021
This is an intriguing, amusing and romantic story. Cassie has been trying to join her sisters detective group since before her mother died. When a friend needs help finding out if her brother is really dead, Cassie's sisters let her lead the investigation. When she is caught by her brother's friend, in a room she didn't belong in, Luke demands that Cassie tell him what she is up to, which Casise has no intentions of doing. Luke is forced to follow Cassie around to find what she's doing, because he had promised her brother that he'd watch out for her. The further the investigation goes, the more danger it involves, and the harder it is for Luke to not think of Cassie inappropriately, and for Cassie to realize that she has feelings for Luke. Luke is a former rake who thinks his rank of Viscount is too lowly for Cassie to settle for. Cassie isn't interested in getting married, until she finds herself in love with Luke. They bicker like a old married couple from the beginning, but they work well as a team. The story captured and kept my attention from page 1 until the end. It's a must add to your TBR list.
March 10, 2021
Starring Lady Cassandra “Cassie” Fallon and Lord Luke, Viscount Whitehurst.
Tropes: Older brother’s best friend, friends to lovers, bodyguard, and intrigue.
I just love it when the hero tries and tries to resist his attraction to the heroine... makes me giddy. And Luke really tried hard not to fall for Cassie... but she was totally his magnet!!
Cassie and Luke are such a fun couple and the intrigue part of the book was interesting... but their budding romance was definitely front and center. These two made me smile a lot. I cheered for their HEA.
I keep coming back for more of Samantha Holt’s books. She is totally a keeper shelf author. Once again she created a great series starter and I can’t wait to read about Cassie’s sisters.
I received a complimentary copy of this book. I voluntarily review it and the comments are 100% my own.
My star rating: 4 stars
Book was great. Loved the characters. Storyline kept me entertained... but did not make me cry.
Tropes: Older brother’s best friend, friends to lovers, bodyguard, and intrigue.
I just love it when the hero tries and tries to resist his attraction to the heroine... makes me giddy. And Luke really tried hard not to fall for Cassie... but she was totally his magnet!!
Cassie and Luke are such a fun couple and the intrigue part of the book was interesting... but their budding romance was definitely front and center. These two made me smile a lot. I cheered for their HEA.
I keep coming back for more of Samantha Holt’s books. She is totally a keeper shelf author. Once again she created a great series starter and I can’t wait to read about Cassie’s sisters.
I received a complimentary copy of this book. I voluntarily review it and the comments are 100% my own.
My star rating: 4 stars
Book was great. Loved the characters. Storyline kept me entertained... but did not make me cry.
January 14, 2023
Cassie and Luke
Luke has been asked by his best friend Anton to keep an eye on his youngest sister Casandra while he's away on his honeymoon with Eliza. Only Cassie has other plans. Being 23, she is determined to make her sister's and Aunt Sarah proud of her. She's been waiting for such a long time to join them all in the secret investigative club her mother started before her death. Now, her friend Jane needs her help. No one believes Jane that her brother Theodore isn't dead. Yes, the body that was so badly burned had his signet ring and gold watch, but neither were where he normally wore them. Plus, he had given up gambling a long time ago, so he wouldn't have been in that part of town where his body was found. Only now that Cassie has a bodyguard of sorts, she can't shake Luke. Will he be a hindrance to her investigation? Or will he actually be helpful? What will both of them come to realize? Only one way to find out, read this great story by Samantha Holt.
Luke has been asked by his best friend Anton to keep an eye on his youngest sister Casandra while he's away on his honeymoon with Eliza. Only Cassie has other plans. Being 23, she is determined to make her sister's and Aunt Sarah proud of her. She's been waiting for such a long time to join them all in the secret investigative club her mother started before her death. Now, her friend Jane needs her help. No one believes Jane that her brother Theodore isn't dead. Yes, the body that was so badly burned had his signet ring and gold watch, but neither were where he normally wore them. Plus, he had given up gambling a long time ago, so he wouldn't have been in that part of town where his body was found. Only now that Cassie has a bodyguard of sorts, she can't shake Luke. Will he be a hindrance to her investigation? Or will he actually be helpful? What will both of them come to realize? Only one way to find out, read this great story by Samantha Holt.
March 8, 2021
Cassandra is the youngest of the Duke's daughter and is constantly called Little Cassie and she hares it. She must prove herself so she can be the woman she knows she is. Her mother while living had a women's investigation group, they would help women when no man would listen to their difficulties and Cassie wanted in. She begins with her friend Jane's problem insisting she will do it without help. When her brother's friend Luke catches her snooping he steps in to prevent Cassie from getting in trouble. They both feel a link to each other but Luke will not act on it believing he is not good enough but when Cassie tells him what she wants his resolve begins to melt. Meanwhile, the case heats up endangering everyone can Luke h]keep everyone safe, and can Cassie keep Luke safe.
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.
May 3, 2021
Lead me not into trouble
I loved the first book in the series!!! Cassie and Luke’s story was great. A former gambler, drunk and a rake Luke had much to make up for. If it wasn’t for his friend Anton he doesn’t know where he would be. So when Anton asked him to look after Cassie while he was on his honeymoon he agreed. He thought it would be a simple assignment, he was so so wrong.
Cassie wanted to prove herself to her sisters that she should e apart of her mother’s investigative services. This was her first case to find out what happened to her best friends brother and get a copy of the will and see why the house in Scotland was not left to Jane. But she kept on getting in trouble and Luke finding her and helping her out. A wonderful story with mystery, intrigue and love all bundle up in a great read!!
I loved the first book in the series!!! Cassie and Luke’s story was great. A former gambler, drunk and a rake Luke had much to make up for. If it wasn’t for his friend Anton he doesn’t know where he would be. So when Anton asked him to look after Cassie while he was on his honeymoon he agreed. He thought it would be a simple assignment, he was so so wrong.
Cassie wanted to prove herself to her sisters that she should e apart of her mother’s investigative services. This was her first case to find out what happened to her best friends brother and get a copy of the will and see why the house in Scotland was not left to Jane. But she kept on getting in trouble and Luke finding her and helping her out. A wonderful story with mystery, intrigue and love all bundle up in a great read!!
March 2, 2021
This hooked me in from the start. Never a dull moment with Luke, Viscount Whithurst and his temporary ‘ward’ Lady Cassandra. Page turning, HFN ending in both POVs.
He was asked by Cassie’s oldest and only brother Anton to keep watch or her and protect her even from herself. Sometimes Cassie is a klutz. Being the youngest of the siblings she thinks they are must protect her even if she’s investigating, her very first investigation! To find out what happened to her friend, Jane’s brother, Theodore.
Luke never would he believe what Cassie is doing and even somehow he is incorporating himself with her case unknowingly. Can this renown rake finally find the one woman who he wants to be better man for, a woman of higher station then he??
He was asked by Cassie’s oldest and only brother Anton to keep watch or her and protect her even from herself. Sometimes Cassie is a klutz. Being the youngest of the siblings she thinks they are must protect her even if she’s investigating, her very first investigation! To find out what happened to her friend, Jane’s brother, Theodore.
Luke never would he believe what Cassie is doing and even somehow he is incorporating himself with her case unknowingly. Can this renown rake finally find the one woman who he wants to be better man for, a woman of higher station then he??
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