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The Duchess's Investigative Society #2
Temptations of a Duke's Daughter
Solving a murder is dangerous business. So is falling in love…
Lady Chastity Fallon will not stand idly by while her sister is suspected of murder. Since no one wants to help, she’ll take matters into her own hands. The plan? Simple. She’ll disguise herself as a servant and investigate. But when her ruse leads her to the enigmatic Lord Kendall, Chastity soon realizes nothing in her life will ever be simple again…
As much as Valentine would like to ignore the scheming beauty who claims to be a servant, he simply can’t. He needs her. Bringing his footman’s killer to justice would be impossible without her, because the vivacious Chastity can do what he can’t—talk to people and gain their trust. So, he’ll accept the chaos she brings into his life. Accepting her into his heart, however, is another matter entirely…
Fortunately for Chastity and Valentine, intrigue has a way of putting lovers on the path to happily ever after. But first, they’ve got a killer to catch…
Temptations of a Duke's Daughter, book two in the The Duchess's Investigative Society series, is a light, sexy, opposites attract, regency historical romance full of suspense, emotion, and fun banter. Download today and get ready to fall in love with your next favorite series.
Lady Chastity Fallon will not stand idly by while her sister is suspected of murder. Since no one wants to help, she’ll take matters into her own hands. The plan? Simple. She’ll disguise herself as a servant and investigate. But when her ruse leads her to the enigmatic Lord Kendall, Chastity soon realizes nothing in her life will ever be simple again…
As much as Valentine would like to ignore the scheming beauty who claims to be a servant, he simply can’t. He needs her. Bringing his footman’s killer to justice would be impossible without her, because the vivacious Chastity can do what he can’t—talk to people and gain their trust. So, he’ll accept the chaos she brings into his life. Accepting her into his heart, however, is another matter entirely…
Fortunately for Chastity and Valentine, intrigue has a way of putting lovers on the path to happily ever after. But first, they’ve got a killer to catch…
Temptations of a Duke's Daughter, book two in the The Duchess's Investigative Society series, is a light, sexy, opposites attract, regency historical romance full of suspense, emotion, and fun banter. Download today and get ready to fall in love with your next favorite series.
195 pages, Kindle Edition
First published June 7, 2021
250 people are currently reading
173 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 126 reviews
June 3, 2021
4.5 Stars
Lady Chastity will not stand idly by while her sister Eleanor is suspected of murder. She disguises herself as a servant to investigate. But when her ruse leads her to the enigmatic Lord Kendall, Chastity soon realizes nothing in her life will ever be simple again. As much as Valentine would like to ignore the scheming beauty who claims to be a servant, he simply can’t. He needs her. Bringing his footman’s killer to justice would be impossible without her, because the vivacious Chastity can do what he can’t talk to people and gain their trust.
This is the second book in the series & the second Fallon sister to find her HEA. A very well written book with mystery as well as romance. I loved both Chastity & Valentine, they were a mature couple, she a widow who had an unhappy marriage & he’s a reclusive earl sparks fly each time they meet. I loved their verbal banter & the sexual tension that gradually built. I didn't guess who the murderer was, which is always a plus. An entertaining page turning read & I look forward to more in the series
My honest review is for a special copy I voluntarily read
Lady Chastity will not stand idly by while her sister Eleanor is suspected of murder. She disguises herself as a servant to investigate. But when her ruse leads her to the enigmatic Lord Kendall, Chastity soon realizes nothing in her life will ever be simple again. As much as Valentine would like to ignore the scheming beauty who claims to be a servant, he simply can’t. He needs her. Bringing his footman’s killer to justice would be impossible without her, because the vivacious Chastity can do what he can’t talk to people and gain their trust.
This is the second book in the series & the second Fallon sister to find her HEA. A very well written book with mystery as well as romance. I loved both Chastity & Valentine, they were a mature couple, she a widow who had an unhappy marriage & he’s a reclusive earl sparks fly each time they meet. I loved their verbal banter & the sexual tension that gradually built. I didn't guess who the murderer was, which is always a plus. An entertaining page turning read & I look forward to more in the series
My honest review is for a special copy I voluntarily read
June 10, 2021
A great story that grabbed me from the first page and kept me intrigued until the end!
The Investigative Society was at it again, but this time with a murder close to home! At her sister's wedding ball, Chastity had first had her feet trod on by a rude, hautey man, then, a footman was found dead with a note about a "lost love." A drawing in the paper the next day implicated that her sister was that woman!
That rude man was the Earl of Kendall and it was his footman who had died. But the young man was actually more than that and when he found Chastity trying to investigate, they came to an agreement.
Suspense, a building attraction and wonderful characters, have me only wanting more!
The Investigative Society was at it again, but this time with a murder close to home! At her sister's wedding ball, Chastity had first had her feet trod on by a rude, hautey man, then, a footman was found dead with a note about a "lost love." A drawing in the paper the next day implicated that her sister was that woman!
That rude man was the Earl of Kendall and it was his footman who had died. But the young man was actually more than that and when he found Chastity trying to investigate, they came to an agreement.
Suspense, a building attraction and wonderful characters, have me only wanting more!
June 8, 2021
He's Her Forever 💘Valentine 🐺🍆⛲💪
ADULT Historical Recency Romance💕 and Murder Mystery 💀.
The book starts out as a lighthearted accidental meeting at a ball between young widow Chastity💃💋, the daughter of a Duke, and Valentine🐺🍆⛲💪, a rakish but reclusive Earl.
Suddenly, it becomes a murder mystery, one that the Duchess's Investigative Society must surely Investigate, because Chastity's sister has been accused of the dastardly deed!
The dead man is Mr Harper, a footman 🏃for Lord Valentine🐺🍆⛲💪, and Chastity 's sister was the last person seen with him before he was found hanging.
Chastity 💃💋convinces Lord Valentine🐺🍆⛲💪 she can go undercover as a maid in his household to solve the crime.
Chastity has vowed to never marry again, but Valentine is just too big of a temptation!
ARC Provided by Booksprout 🌱
I also got this ebook with KU.
This is a very well written, involved story that will consume you until the very end! Author Holt📚 is a premier author of ADULT Historical Recency Romance💕, and this is a great example of her continued growth as an author.
The novel is part of a series, but is a standalone book.
ADULT Historical Recency Romance💕 and Murder Mystery 💀.
The book starts out as a lighthearted accidental meeting at a ball between young widow Chastity💃💋, the daughter of a Duke, and Valentine🐺🍆⛲💪, a rakish but reclusive Earl.
Suddenly, it becomes a murder mystery, one that the Duchess's Investigative Society must surely Investigate, because Chastity's sister has been accused of the dastardly deed!
The dead man is Mr Harper, a footman 🏃for Lord Valentine🐺🍆⛲💪, and Chastity 's sister was the last person seen with him before he was found hanging.
Chastity 💃💋convinces Lord Valentine🐺🍆⛲💪 she can go undercover as a maid in his household to solve the crime.
Chastity has vowed to never marry again, but Valentine is just too big of a temptation!
ARC Provided by Booksprout 🌱
I also got this ebook with KU.
This is a very well written, involved story that will consume you until the very end! Author Holt📚 is a premier author of ADULT Historical Recency Romance💕, and this is a great example of her continued growth as an author.
The novel is part of a series, but is a standalone book.
June 4, 2021
A murder to be solved and family members to be protected at all costs, make this an interesting and intriguing book to read. I enjoyed the relationship that developed between Chastity and Lord Kendall as they focus on the mystery behind the death of a footman. With Chastity's unconventional family's support, she takes up the role of a servant in Valentine's London home. The more Chastity examines the evidence surrounding Julian's death, the more convinced she becomes that there was foul play. However, catching a killer takes ingenuity and planning, and she discovers that they are in fact the least of her problems, as Valentine takes up an increasing amount of space in her head. Chastity has vowed never to be beholden to another man again, but Valentine's brooding nature is pulling her in, making it difficult to resist him. I enjoyed the intrigue in this novel, the surprise ending, and most of all the relationship between Chastity and Valentine. I received a copy of this novel as a gift and this is my honest and voluntary review.
Fortunately for Chastity and Valentine, intrigue has a way of putting lovers on the path to happily ever after. But first, they’ve got a killer to catch…
Temptations of a Duke's Daughter, book two in the The Duchess's Investigative Society series, is a light, sexy, opposites attract, regency historical romance full of suspense, emotion, and fun banter. Download today and get ready to fall in love with your next favorite series.
Fortunately for Chastity and Valentine, intrigue has a way of putting lovers on the path to happily ever after. But first, they’ve got a killer to catch…
Temptations of a Duke's Daughter, book two in the The Duchess's Investigative Society series, is a light, sexy, opposites attract, regency historical romance full of suspense, emotion, and fun banter. Download today and get ready to fall in love with your next favorite series.
June 7, 2021
Excellent work by Ms. Holt.
Chastity and Valentine's first meeting was not so great and it kind of went downhill after that. I rather enjoyed their climb back up said hill. They have to work together to solve a murder that touched both of their lives just in different ways. I really liked how different this story was and the author did a brilliant job of writing. I loved the interactions between the characters they were so witty and made this such a fun read. An excellent book that I hope you check out it was worth the time it took to read! I did receive a free copy of this book and voluntarily chose to review it.
Chastity and Valentine's first meeting was not so great and it kind of went downhill after that. I rather enjoyed their climb back up said hill. They have to work together to solve a murder that touched both of their lives just in different ways. I really liked how different this story was and the author did a brilliant job of writing. I loved the interactions between the characters they were so witty and made this such a fun read. An excellent book that I hope you check out it was worth the time it took to read! I did receive a free copy of this book and voluntarily chose to review it.
October 25, 2023
Quickie review: 3.5 stars. This was a good, easy read. It was enjoyable, though a little bit lacking in chemistry and not super memorable. I like this series for it's easy, consistent reads.
November 30, 2024
A Wonderful, Entertaining & Romantic Story.
I enjoyed reading this book.
Chasity & Valentine were wonderful characters.
The villain part was too short, but didn't take away from the story.
I am looking forward to reading the rest book in this series.
I enjoyed reading this book.
Chasity & Valentine were wonderful characters.
The villain part was too short, but didn't take away from the story.
I am looking forward to reading the rest book in this series.
August 16, 2023
For me, this was so much more enjoyable that the first book. I loved the main characters of Valentine and Chastity. So sexy too. Loved the rapport between the two of them.
Really enjoyed the story. 5☆
Really enjoyed the story. 5☆
June 8, 2021
Lady Chastity and Lord Kendall's Story . . .
This was a fun mystery and very clever, which keeps the reader’s full attention. Chastity, daughter of the Duke of Daventry, is a feisty lady who is not at all happy when a footman dies at her sister’s wedding and her sister is suspected of murder. Since no one wants to do anything about it, Chastity will have to be the one to take action. Disguising herself as a servant will allow her to freely move among people and ask questions in her investigation. She is easy to talk to and gets results.
Although Valentine, Lord Kendall, would prefer to ignore Chastity, who claims to be a servant, he needs her help. They team up to solve the mystery, managing to fall in love along the way. Are they successful at finding the murderer? Can she clear her sister’s reputation?
I really enjoyed this story, and I loved both characters and the way they worked together. The story line is clever and enjoyable. I definitely recommend this one.
This was a fun mystery and very clever, which keeps the reader’s full attention. Chastity, daughter of the Duke of Daventry, is a feisty lady who is not at all happy when a footman dies at her sister’s wedding and her sister is suspected of murder. Since no one wants to do anything about it, Chastity will have to be the one to take action. Disguising herself as a servant will allow her to freely move among people and ask questions in her investigation. She is easy to talk to and gets results.
Although Valentine, Lord Kendall, would prefer to ignore Chastity, who claims to be a servant, he needs her help. They team up to solve the mystery, managing to fall in love along the way. Are they successful at finding the murderer? Can she clear her sister’s reputation?
I really enjoyed this story, and I loved both characters and the way they worked together. The story line is clever and enjoyable. I definitely recommend this one.
October 18, 2021
Was it murder?
Chasity is a widow and protective of her sisters. When one is accused of murder well she's going to find the killer! Especially since they want to blame Eleanor her half sister!? Valentine is nothing like his name a more gruff and scruffy Earl you can't imagine! Valentine has secrets as to his relationship with the man who was murdered but a note says suicide!
Chasity decides to work as a maid to infiltrate Valentine's household! These two have a bickering and steamy relationship! They are either arguing or kissing! The clues are around in circles and seem to be a dead end! When Chasity gets too close to the killer can Valentine save the only woman he could love?
Chasity is a widow and protective of her sisters. When one is accused of murder well she's going to find the killer! Especially since they want to blame Eleanor her half sister!? Valentine is nothing like his name a more gruff and scruffy Earl you can't imagine! Valentine has secrets as to his relationship with the man who was murdered but a note says suicide!
Chasity decides to work as a maid to infiltrate Valentine's household! These two have a bickering and steamy relationship! They are either arguing or kissing! The clues are around in circles and seem to be a dead end! When Chasity gets too close to the killer can Valentine save the only woman he could love?
May 31, 2021
🔍 Temptations of a Duke's Daughter🔎
The Duchess's Investigative Society Series #2
✒️ Samantha Holt
https://www.facebook.com/samanthaholt...
Release Date 06/07/2021
Publisher Helstone Press
➪ https://www.amazon.com/dp/B08XQVXL7S/...
𝗕𝗹𝘂𝗿𝗯
Solving a murder is dangerous business. So is falling in love…
Chastity, daughter of the Duke of Daventry, will not stand idly by while her sister is suspected of murder. Since no one wants to help, she’ll take matters into her own hands. The plan? Simple. She’ll disguise herself as a servant and investigate. But when her ruse leads her to the enigmatic Lord Kendall, Chastity soon realizes nothing in her life will ever be simple again…
As much as Valentine would like to ignore the scheming beauty who claims to be a servant, he simply can’t. He needs her. Bringing his footman’s killer to justice would be impossible without her, because the vivacious Chastity can do what he can’t—talk to people and gain their trust. So, he’ll accept the chaos she brings into his life. Accepting her into his heart, however, is another matter entirely…
Fortunately for Chastity and Valentine, intrigue has a way of putting lovers on the path to happily ever after. But first, they’ve got a killer to catch…
𝗠𝘆 𝗿𝗲𝘃𝗶𝗲𝘄
Can they let the past go ...
It has been a while since I have read this author, the usual too many books to read and not time enough. Why I decided to not let this upcoming pass by me without reading it.
And I am glad I did it.
It is much different from the novellas I last read, first it is a full length story, second it is with more mature characters.
Chastity thought she married for love, but what a sixteen year old truly knows about love. She soon discovered only her breeding, beauty were an asset in her husband’s eyes.
Left widowed rather young, she now enjoys her single status and has no plan to marry again an put her self respect under someone else thumb. Plus she is quite proud of the work she does for their investigation society, as she is not one to sit idly.
Valentine is quite the recluse, he has forsaken society a long time ago, unable to forgive the gossip mongers their cruel hearsay and what it pushed his father to do. He is a simple man of simple needs and is back in the city only because he can’t refuse a Duke’s invite.
They meet, well they clash upon their first encounter. On the same night, Valentine’s nephew is found dead, a supposed suicide and the blame points toward Chastity’s half sister.
To restaure her sister’s reputation, Chastity sees not other way than instigating it under a maid’s disguise.
This was a fun read, with a lady not afraid of hard work and a grumbling Earl who is more bark than bite. Their chemistry scorches the pages, yet their past still stand between them, between her bad marriage and his secrets, they are oft at loss about what they feel and how to act about.
4.5 stars
𝗦𝘁𝗲𝗮𝗺 𝗹𝗲𝘃𝗲𝗹 onscreen lovemaking scenes.
I have been granted an advance copy by the author, here is my true and unbiased opinion.
https://www.facebook.com/429830134272...
The Duchess's Investigative Society Series #2
✒️ Samantha Holt
https://www.facebook.com/samanthaholt...
Release Date 06/07/2021
Publisher Helstone Press
➪ https://www.amazon.com/dp/B08XQVXL7S/...
𝗕𝗹𝘂𝗿𝗯
Solving a murder is dangerous business. So is falling in love…
Chastity, daughter of the Duke of Daventry, will not stand idly by while her sister is suspected of murder. Since no one wants to help, she’ll take matters into her own hands. The plan? Simple. She’ll disguise herself as a servant and investigate. But when her ruse leads her to the enigmatic Lord Kendall, Chastity soon realizes nothing in her life will ever be simple again…
As much as Valentine would like to ignore the scheming beauty who claims to be a servant, he simply can’t. He needs her. Bringing his footman’s killer to justice would be impossible without her, because the vivacious Chastity can do what he can’t—talk to people and gain their trust. So, he’ll accept the chaos she brings into his life. Accepting her into his heart, however, is another matter entirely…
Fortunately for Chastity and Valentine, intrigue has a way of putting lovers on the path to happily ever after. But first, they’ve got a killer to catch…
𝗠𝘆 𝗿𝗲𝘃𝗶𝗲𝘄
Can they let the past go ...
It has been a while since I have read this author, the usual too many books to read and not time enough. Why I decided to not let this upcoming pass by me without reading it.
And I am glad I did it.
It is much different from the novellas I last read, first it is a full length story, second it is with more mature characters.
Chastity thought she married for love, but what a sixteen year old truly knows about love. She soon discovered only her breeding, beauty were an asset in her husband’s eyes.
Left widowed rather young, she now enjoys her single status and has no plan to marry again an put her self respect under someone else thumb. Plus she is quite proud of the work she does for their investigation society, as she is not one to sit idly.
Valentine is quite the recluse, he has forsaken society a long time ago, unable to forgive the gossip mongers their cruel hearsay and what it pushed his father to do. He is a simple man of simple needs and is back in the city only because he can’t refuse a Duke’s invite.
They meet, well they clash upon their first encounter. On the same night, Valentine’s nephew is found dead, a supposed suicide and the blame points toward Chastity’s half sister.
To restaure her sister’s reputation, Chastity sees not other way than instigating it under a maid’s disguise.
This was a fun read, with a lady not afraid of hard work and a grumbling Earl who is more bark than bite. Their chemistry scorches the pages, yet their past still stand between them, between her bad marriage and his secrets, they are oft at loss about what they feel and how to act about.
4.5 stars
𝗦𝘁𝗲𝗮𝗺 𝗹𝗲𝘃𝗲𝗹 onscreen lovemaking scenes.
I have been granted an advance copy by the author, here is my true and unbiased opinion.
https://www.facebook.com/429830134272...
June 23, 2021
Valentine, Lord Kendall, is a recluse who has lost his nephew Julian in an apparent suicide. Their relationship is not acknowledged as Julian was his sister's illegitimate son. The death happened in Chastity's home and her sister Eleanor becomes the target of unpleasant gossip because of it. So Valentine and Chastity both have an interest in finding out whether someone murdered Julian. Chastity thinks that she could get information about Julian by posing as a maid in Valentine's housee, so she does. There is a lot of potential for scandal but when Chastity becomes the target of cartoons as well it's not because of Valentine.
Valentine thinks Chastity must be a spoiled and useless society lady because she is a duke's daughter, and while I understand his prejudice he keeps harping about that so much and for so long it gets a bit annoying. Considering that her first husband made her life unpleasant by constantly putting her down this is not an attractive trait in Valentine.
I did not see the murderer until it was revealed but I felt like the murder investigation was mostly just a plot device that serves to bring Valentine and Chastity in close proximity that allows them to become lovers. A lot of Chastity's investigation happens off stage and we don't learn much about the conversations Chastity has with the other servants or with Julian's adopted parents or anything else she or Valentine do to investigate. Eventually the mystery is solved because the murderer decides to reveal themselves.
A minor research nitpick concerns the titles here. That's not how they work, IMO. Chastity's sister Eleanor is the duke's illegitimate daughter... as such would she have the courtesy title Lady Eleanor? I don't think so. Lady Chastity married a plain Mr. Whitaker and several times they refer to her losing her title or rank. But I don't think she would have lost it.
"The daughter of a duke, marquess, or earl who marries an untitled man becomes "Lady [Given name] [Husband's surname]"
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Courtes...
"If the daughter of a duke marries a peer, she takes his title. If she marries the eldest son of a peer, she takes his title, but in the case of the heir of an earl or lesser peer, she may choose to keep her own title until her husband inherits. In all other cases, she keeps her own title, even if she marries the younger son of a duke, as the daughter of a peer ranks higher than a younger son of the same level of peerage." https://www.regencyhistory.net/2018/0...
I received a free review copy from Booksirens and this is a voluntary review.
Valentine thinks Chastity must be a spoiled and useless society lady because she is a duke's daughter, and while I understand his prejudice he keeps harping about that so much and for so long it gets a bit annoying. Considering that her first husband made her life unpleasant by constantly putting her down this is not an attractive trait in Valentine.
I did not see the murderer until it was revealed but I felt like the murder investigation was mostly just a plot device that serves to bring Valentine and Chastity in close proximity that allows them to become lovers. A lot of Chastity's investigation happens off stage and we don't learn much about the conversations Chastity has with the other servants or with Julian's adopted parents or anything else she or Valentine do to investigate. Eventually the mystery is solved because the murderer decides to reveal themselves.
A minor research nitpick concerns the titles here. That's not how they work, IMO. Chastity's sister Eleanor is the duke's illegitimate daughter... as such would she have the courtesy title Lady Eleanor? I don't think so. Lady Chastity married a plain Mr. Whitaker and several times they refer to her losing her title or rank. But I don't think she would have lost it.
"The daughter of a duke, marquess, or earl who marries an untitled man becomes "Lady [Given name] [Husband's surname]"
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Courtes...
"If the daughter of a duke marries a peer, she takes his title. If she marries the eldest son of a peer, she takes his title, but in the case of the heir of an earl or lesser peer, she may choose to keep her own title until her husband inherits. In all other cases, she keeps her own title, even if she marries the younger son of a duke, as the daughter of a peer ranks higher than a younger son of the same level of peerage." https://www.regencyhistory.net/2018/0...
I received a free review copy from Booksirens and this is a voluntary review.
May 31, 2021
What a great story. When there is a footman is found dead at the wedding of The Duke of Daventry's Daughter wedding life changes for the worst. Chastity is the oldest daughter and is widowed. After the young man was found rumors start about her younger sister, Eleanor speaking to him right before. Now Eleanor is being suspected of murder!! Chastity has taken over her mother's work at The Duchess's Investigative Society. She come up with a plan to get information. She is going to enter the home of the young man's employer as a maid. She has used disguises before during investigation.
Valentine, Lord Kendall dislikes society and all its rules. He is forty years old and prefers spending most of his time at this country home. There he can so what he when he wants to. He is handsome as sin but also arrogant mostly rude. He has only come up to London to attend the wedding of the Duke Daventry's daughter, one never says no or turns down and invention from a Duke. As Valentine is trying to leave after the ceremony he is run into by a lovely lady. Chastity is trying to find her sister Eleanor when she is runs straight into a wall. When she looks up it is not a wall but a tall, handsome man. As they both blame the other Valentine knows who she is and even thru she is a beauty he thinks she is spoiled, outspoken and rude. Chastity doesn't know who the gentleman is but after speaking with him finds him very rude and arrogant after ruining her slippers. He blames her even as it is her clothes that are torn.
My oh My what happens when she finds out Valentine house is where the young footman worked !
What will Valentine do when he discovers her trying to enter his house as a servant !
Both Valentine and Chasity want to find out what happen so the go ahead with the plan.
Working close together turns out not to be what either though or planned for.
Asking questions can get one into lots of trouble, just as falling for the person you though to dislike can.
There are secrets both are keeping, twist and turns plenty and the true murderer out to stop either of both of them. This is a great fun read, lots emotions and intrigue. The books can be read as standalone but better if read in order. I hope you get a copy and get ready to be entertained.
Once you start you will not be able to put it down.
I received an ARC from the author and want to thank her. This is by honest opinion and am freely giving it.
Valentine, Lord Kendall dislikes society and all its rules. He is forty years old and prefers spending most of his time at this country home. There he can so what he when he wants to. He is handsome as sin but also arrogant mostly rude. He has only come up to London to attend the wedding of the Duke Daventry's daughter, one never says no or turns down and invention from a Duke. As Valentine is trying to leave after the ceremony he is run into by a lovely lady. Chastity is trying to find her sister Eleanor when she is runs straight into a wall. When she looks up it is not a wall but a tall, handsome man. As they both blame the other Valentine knows who she is and even thru she is a beauty he thinks she is spoiled, outspoken and rude. Chastity doesn't know who the gentleman is but after speaking with him finds him very rude and arrogant after ruining her slippers. He blames her even as it is her clothes that are torn.
My oh My what happens when she finds out Valentine house is where the young footman worked !
What will Valentine do when he discovers her trying to enter his house as a servant !
Both Valentine and Chasity want to find out what happen so the go ahead with the plan.
Working close together turns out not to be what either though or planned for.
Asking questions can get one into lots of trouble, just as falling for the person you though to dislike can.
There are secrets both are keeping, twist and turns plenty and the true murderer out to stop either of both of them. This is a great fun read, lots emotions and intrigue. The books can be read as standalone but better if read in order. I hope you get a copy and get ready to be entertained.
Once you start you will not be able to put it down.
I received an ARC from the author and want to thank her. This is by honest opinion and am freely giving it.
August 15, 2021
This story has intrigue, murder, secrets, and of course witty banter. You will meet two people that seem to be total opposites but when they start working together find they have a lot in common. This has wonderful secondary characters and a very defined plot theme.
Chastity Whitaker, eldest daughter to the Duke of Daventry. Has been married and is now a widow, having moved back to her father's house to be close to family. Her mother died a few years ago and she has taken her place with the investigation society her mother started years ago. They help other women and some men with solving issues that would be better with a woman's touch. She has disguised herself in various manner to do her investigating.
Valentine, Lord Kendall, lost his father years ago to scandal about his special interests and then his sister shortly after when she died in childbirth as an unwed woman. Since then he has mainly been a recluse to avoid society as he deems them responsible for his loss. His nephew, Julian, was given to the maid and her husband, the Harpers, that helped with the childbirth and raised as their son to keep any scandal from the child.
At the wedding of Chasity's sister, Cassandra, Chastity runs directly into Valentine who steps on her foot and ruins her shoe. Not wanting to be around anyone Valentine moves to leave but not before Chastity requires him to apologize. The two have blunt words until one guest announces a body has been found. Upon viewing the body Valentine recognizes his nephew. He also tries to shield Chastity from seeing the body.
Now the scandal sheets have caught wind of this and have been told that a Lady E, describing her sister Eleanor, was the cause of the death and she was the lover of Julian Harper. To clear Eleanor's name, Chastity decides to go undercover as a maid in Lord Kendal's home to get information as to who did commit the murder and possibly why. Not knowing who Lord Kendal is she arrives only to be turned away and again runs directly into the same person who ruined her shoe.
As the two work together, some things happen to bring past secrets to be revealed. But when new information is brought to light and the real person who committed the murder is found, Valentine realizes what needs to be done about the two of them.
Join us on this madcap capper to find a killer and bring two lost spirits together.
Chastity Whitaker, eldest daughter to the Duke of Daventry. Has been married and is now a widow, having moved back to her father's house to be close to family. Her mother died a few years ago and she has taken her place with the investigation society her mother started years ago. They help other women and some men with solving issues that would be better with a woman's touch. She has disguised herself in various manner to do her investigating.
Valentine, Lord Kendall, lost his father years ago to scandal about his special interests and then his sister shortly after when she died in childbirth as an unwed woman. Since then he has mainly been a recluse to avoid society as he deems them responsible for his loss. His nephew, Julian, was given to the maid and her husband, the Harpers, that helped with the childbirth and raised as their son to keep any scandal from the child.
At the wedding of Chasity's sister, Cassandra, Chastity runs directly into Valentine who steps on her foot and ruins her shoe. Not wanting to be around anyone Valentine moves to leave but not before Chastity requires him to apologize. The two have blunt words until one guest announces a body has been found. Upon viewing the body Valentine recognizes his nephew. He also tries to shield Chastity from seeing the body.
Now the scandal sheets have caught wind of this and have been told that a Lady E, describing her sister Eleanor, was the cause of the death and she was the lover of Julian Harper. To clear Eleanor's name, Chastity decides to go undercover as a maid in Lord Kendal's home to get information as to who did commit the murder and possibly why. Not knowing who Lord Kendal is she arrives only to be turned away and again runs directly into the same person who ruined her shoe.
As the two work together, some things happen to bring past secrets to be revealed. But when new information is brought to light and the real person who committed the murder is found, Valentine realizes what needs to be done about the two of them.
Join us on this madcap capper to find a killer and bring two lost spirits together.
May 28, 2021
Lady Chastity Fallon (Mrs. Whitaker) is the daughter of the Duke of Daventry, she married when she was 16 & thought she was in love with the perfect man, but she lived a miserable life until he was killed in a fight. She has been widowed for some time now & is thirty years old, is beautiful & happy with her widow life - she & her sisters occasionally do some detective work for the company their mother started The Duchess's Investigative Society.
Valentine, Earl of Kendall is forty years old, handsome, rich, reclusive, and happy with his life. After his sister died years ago, he left London society & all their foibles. But when you receive an invitation from the Duke of Daventry to attend his daughter's wedding ball, you don't say "no" to a duke. He has put in an appearance & is leaving the ball but then he ran in to her.......the duke's daughter.
Neither Valentine nor Chastity were paying attention to where they were walking - she was returning to the ball & he was sneaking away. He knows who she is - the duke's eldest spoiled, snooty, & beautiful, Mrs. Whitaker. She does not know who he is as he had already left London society when Chastity had come of age. But she did know he was arrogant, rude, gruff & yes, handsome. When Valentine's footman is found dead in the duke's stable, it is called a suicide but there are things that don't add up - it looked like murder. When Chastity goes to the Earl of Kendall's home disguised as a maid, she runs into him & discovers he was the rude man that trodden on her slippers. She convinces him to hire her as a maid so she can get close to the servants in hopes of finding clues in the death of his footman. The fun, humor, danger, attraction, spice & HEA starts here. It is an entertaining story with a dynamic couple & wonderful secondary characters. I voluntarily read & reviewed an Advanced Reader's Copy of this book; all thoughts & opinions are my own. I voluntarily read & reviewed an Advanced Reader's Copy of this book; all thoughts & opinions are my own.
Valentine, Earl of Kendall is forty years old, handsome, rich, reclusive, and happy with his life. After his sister died years ago, he left London society & all their foibles. But when you receive an invitation from the Duke of Daventry to attend his daughter's wedding ball, you don't say "no" to a duke. He has put in an appearance & is leaving the ball but then he ran in to her.......the duke's daughter.
Neither Valentine nor Chastity were paying attention to where they were walking - she was returning to the ball & he was sneaking away. He knows who she is - the duke's eldest spoiled, snooty, & beautiful, Mrs. Whitaker. She does not know who he is as he had already left London society when Chastity had come of age. But she did know he was arrogant, rude, gruff & yes, handsome. When Valentine's footman is found dead in the duke's stable, it is called a suicide but there are things that don't add up - it looked like murder. When Chastity goes to the Earl of Kendall's home disguised as a maid, she runs into him & discovers he was the rude man that trodden on her slippers. She convinces him to hire her as a maid so she can get close to the servants in hopes of finding clues in the death of his footman. The fun, humor, danger, attraction, spice & HEA starts here. It is an entertaining story with a dynamic couple & wonderful secondary characters. I voluntarily read & reviewed an Advanced Reader's Copy of this book; all thoughts & opinions are my own. I voluntarily read & reviewed an Advanced Reader's Copy of this book; all thoughts & opinions are my own.
June 10, 2021
Rounded up from 3 1/2 stars. This is probably my favorite book by this author so far. I've read several of her books in the past and just wasn't impressed by the flat simplicity of her characters, plots, and writing style. When I first started reading this I was ready to give it 2-3 stars based on the outlandish premise alone (a Society lady going under cover as a maid in a man's home to investigate his footman's murder would never, ever have happened in those days). However, if you can make it past the silly premise, this ends up being a solid book with a satisfying twist. There are occasional editing errors and details I'm tempted to question (for example, would a sheriff have been in charge of the legal aspects of a case like this in London during this time period? I rather think a constable would, and the H certainly would have hired discreet Runners to investigate instead of the h). But the book gets better as it goes along and at no point did I find it boring.
I liked the H and h, who are older (30 and 40) and somewhat jaded. They are mature in their outlook and fairly prickly toward each other, which adds to some fun verbal sparring. I do think a bit more emotion could have been included during their early physical interactions--for example, the morning after their first night together is skipped and you don't get an immediate sense of how the h is really feeling toward the H and their evolving relationship. But overall, I prefer the pacing here to the overly dramatic, ponderous emotional pacing that can slow down plots too much.
The reason I rounded this book up from 3 1/2 stars is that it attempts to touch on issues of racism and verbally/psychologically abusive marriages. The issue of homosexuality being considered an unforgivable crime during this time period also surfaces. I appreciate it when authors try to bring up social issues in fiction, and instead of being heavy-handed simply show the emotional impact on their characters.
I would recommend this book.
I liked the H and h, who are older (30 and 40) and somewhat jaded. They are mature in their outlook and fairly prickly toward each other, which adds to some fun verbal sparring. I do think a bit more emotion could have been included during their early physical interactions--for example, the morning after their first night together is skipped and you don't get an immediate sense of how the h is really feeling toward the H and their evolving relationship. But overall, I prefer the pacing here to the overly dramatic, ponderous emotional pacing that can slow down plots too much.
The reason I rounded this book up from 3 1/2 stars is that it attempts to touch on issues of racism and verbally/psychologically abusive marriages. The issue of homosexuality being considered an unforgivable crime during this time period also surfaces. I appreciate it when authors try to bring up social issues in fiction, and instead of being heavy-handed simply show the emotional impact on their characters.
I would recommend this book.
January 10, 2022
In this second adventure of the Duchess’s Investigative Society, a young footman is found dead at a ball and Lady Chastity, the eldest of the Duke’s daughters, takes the lead of the investigation to clear her sister Eleanor’s name. Disguising herself as a maid, she infiltrates the house of the reclusive and grumpy Lord Kendall to find the truth. But the task is proving quite daunting because of the unexpected and distracting attraction she feels for the handsome master of the house…
Valentine wants to discover the truth behind his servant’s death as much as Lady Chastity, but having her work as a maid under his roof is proving a challenging task indeed. She’s capable, she’s brave, she’s clever, she’s maddeningly attractive… and she’s ruining his carefully built life!
I love this series and this book is my favorite of the two I read. I’m definitely reading the third and the fourth now! I fell in love with Valentine almost immediately: I’m partial to a grumpy, tormented hero and the fact that he’s older than the average romance hero is a plus. And I loved Chastity as well, because she’s still very much vulnerable after her first marriage and she could have been haunted by the demeaning way she was treated, but she decided to take the lead of her life and become stronger. The author did a wonderful job at fleshing out the two main characters and the side characters as well. I enjoyed the verbal sparring between Valentine and Chastity very much and the love scenes are steamy, but wonderfully romantic as well. Definitely a five star read!
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Valentine wants to discover the truth behind his servant’s death as much as Lady Chastity, but having her work as a maid under his roof is proving a challenging task indeed. She’s capable, she’s brave, she’s clever, she’s maddeningly attractive… and she’s ruining his carefully built life!
I love this series and this book is my favorite of the two I read. I’m definitely reading the third and the fourth now! I fell in love with Valentine almost immediately: I’m partial to a grumpy, tormented hero and the fact that he’s older than the average romance hero is a plus. And I loved Chastity as well, because she’s still very much vulnerable after her first marriage and she could have been haunted by the demeaning way she was treated, but she decided to take the lead of her life and become stronger. The author did a wonderful job at fleshing out the two main characters and the side characters as well. I enjoyed the verbal sparring between Valentine and Chastity very much and the love scenes are steamy, but wonderfully romantic as well. Definitely a five star read!
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
September 19, 2021
Another very fun story from Samantha Holt! I believe I enjoyed this second book in the Duchess’s Investigative Society series more than the first, which I liked very much. Our hero and heroine are older for a period romance (30 & 40 years old respectively) and I very much appreciated their more mature blossoming romance. I also appreciated reading about a heroine who was soft and curvy rather than the usual broken record about tiny, and perky, young girls. The sparks fly between the h & H in Temptations of a Daughter’s Duke and I enjoyed every minute of it. The h & H made some definite prejudiced assumptions about each other initially, but once they grew to know each other a bit more and became intimate, I feel like there was less time spent on repetitive second guessing than many other period romances I have read of late, which I was thankful for. These characters, for the most part, knew their own minds, respected each other because of this and their connection was stronger for it. My only negative complaint is that I felt like some very exciting scenes would often abruptly end in the middle of the action and the story would pick up again days later when I was eager to read more about the immediate result or response to the action in the exciting scene. Overall, I greatly enjoyed the book from start to finish, I highly recommend it, as well as the first book in the series, Secrets of a Duke’s Daughter. I do recommend reading the series in order. These books are great fun!
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
June 8, 2021
This is the first book I am reading of the author Samantha Holt. And this book is the 2nd book in the series, Duchess' investigative Society. This book is for all those people who like to read Julia Quinn, Sabrina Jeffries and such authors.
The book starts off strong with an intriguing situation right off the bat. And it involves both the hero and the heroine, both of whom try to find out what really happened. Both of them try methods within their disposal and it brings them closer. Both have been burned in their pasts and so are wary of commitment, particularly with people whom they have prejudices against, initially. Their journey to truth and finding out what they want out of their lives form the rest of the story.
I have to say, I particularly liked the person the female lead has become after the hardships she faced in the past. The male lead is also someone a woman will love to know, if they were to come upon him in real life. But it is also true that I don't think men like that existed in those times. Setting all that aside, this book is one a person can visit, if they want to read something which will take them to a nice, intriguing, interesting and hot world for sometime. It is a lovely romance to read for all historical romance lovers, particularly those who love to read something with some amount of intrigue and I strongly recommend this book for such people.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
The book starts off strong with an intriguing situation right off the bat. And it involves both the hero and the heroine, both of whom try to find out what really happened. Both of them try methods within their disposal and it brings them closer. Both have been burned in their pasts and so are wary of commitment, particularly with people whom they have prejudices against, initially. Their journey to truth and finding out what they want out of their lives form the rest of the story.
I have to say, I particularly liked the person the female lead has become after the hardships she faced in the past. The male lead is also someone a woman will love to know, if they were to come upon him in real life. But it is also true that I don't think men like that existed in those times. Setting all that aside, this book is one a person can visit, if they want to read something which will take them to a nice, intriguing, interesting and hot world for sometime. It is a lovely romance to read for all historical romance lovers, particularly those who love to read something with some amount of intrigue and I strongly recommend this book for such people.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
June 6, 2021
So good! Chastity is a widow and the eldest daughter of the Duke of Daventry. Her sister’s wedding ball is interrupted when a dead body is discovered. The scandal sheets have accused Eleanor, another one of her sisters, of doing the deed. Valentine, the reclusive Earl of Kendall, felt required to attend the ball of the Duke’s daughter and was horrified to realize that the dead body was his footman. Actually, the footman was his nephew, a secret kept in order to preserve the Earl’s sister’s reputation. Chastity decides to masquerade as a maid in the Earl’s home in order to ferret out the murderer, as neither family is buying that it was a suicide. And so the fun begins! This story is clever, full of surprises and has wonderful characters. Chastity is a force of nature with a vulnerable heart. Valentine is presented as a brooding man who hates society, but perhaps his bark his worse than his bite. The arguments between those two are well written and fun to read. Oh, and let us not forget the wonderfully zaney Aunt Sarah with her cat Simon, who has a way of keeping everyone off balance. I really enjoyed this book and am glad that there are two more sisters to marry off, requiring at least two more books in the series.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
June 29, 2021
Catching a footman's killer would not exactly fall under appropriate activities for a duke's eldest daughter, her comparative freedom of widowhood notwithstanding. But propriety must be ignored, or at least bent, when the accused is a beloved sister!
This light and fun regency historical romance is loaded with disguises, sensual tension, mystery with some red herrings, and amusing banter. Valentine is a man who avoids all things society coming across rude and arrogant to most people, whereas Chastity is an independent, self-assured, and intelligent woman who gets along well with people of all classes. They must work together to bring a murderer to justice so tis well these opposites attract - even if they want to deny the attraction. I especially liked how often Chastity got caught by or with Valentine when changing from servant to society clothing, and back again. Of course, quirky Aunt Sarah keeps saying to Chastity, "I always did like brooding men." Aunt Sarah may be quirky, but she's somewhat wise too.
I thoroughly enjoyed this book, including plenty of chuckles. Readers looking for a light-hearted, amusing historical romance with building sexual tension and interesting encounters should try this book.
This light and fun regency historical romance is loaded with disguises, sensual tension, mystery with some red herrings, and amusing banter. Valentine is a man who avoids all things society coming across rude and arrogant to most people, whereas Chastity is an independent, self-assured, and intelligent woman who gets along well with people of all classes. They must work together to bring a murderer to justice so tis well these opposites attract - even if they want to deny the attraction. I especially liked how often Chastity got caught by or with Valentine when changing from servant to society clothing, and back again. Of course, quirky Aunt Sarah keeps saying to Chastity, "I always did like brooding men." Aunt Sarah may be quirky, but she's somewhat wise too.
I thoroughly enjoyed this book, including plenty of chuckles. Readers looking for a light-hearted, amusing historical romance with building sexual tension and interesting encounters should try this book.
January 30, 2022
Samantha Holt, where have you been hiding:-)?
For me I have found another hidden gem amongst a lot of historical authors.
I love a little mystery mixed into an historical romance not too much just a small amount so it doesn’t overhaul the romance. And Samantha Holt has hit just enough that I found the mystery intriguing but still had me loving the romance.
The heroine Chastity is a widow and she is so strong, stubborn and she loves to solve mysteries with her sisters and her aunt. She throws herself into situations that can seem very dangerous but she does it to protect her family and to help the hero Valentine too.
Valentine is a recluse Earl who just wants to be left alone but he still feels some responsibility towards his title so once a year he comes to London to attend one ball and then he returns to the country.
But this time everything changes when he is thrown into a mystery with the heroine.
I just loved and adored the two main characters and their push and pull. He is a total grump who doesn’t want anything to do with the ton and she is a duke’s daughter who is everything he hates. Or is she?
I can definitely recommend this book.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
For me I have found another hidden gem amongst a lot of historical authors.
I love a little mystery mixed into an historical romance not too much just a small amount so it doesn’t overhaul the romance. And Samantha Holt has hit just enough that I found the mystery intriguing but still had me loving the romance.
The heroine Chastity is a widow and she is so strong, stubborn and she loves to solve mysteries with her sisters and her aunt. She throws herself into situations that can seem very dangerous but she does it to protect her family and to help the hero Valentine too.
Valentine is a recluse Earl who just wants to be left alone but he still feels some responsibility towards his title so once a year he comes to London to attend one ball and then he returns to the country.
But this time everything changes when he is thrown into a mystery with the heroine.
I just loved and adored the two main characters and their push and pull. He is a total grump who doesn’t want anything to do with the ton and she is a duke’s daughter who is everything he hates. Or is she?
I can definitely recommend this book.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
June 8, 2021
Lady Chastity Fallon and Valentine, Lord Kendal, meet when the run into each other (quite literally) At Cassie’s Wedding ball. They were not impressed with each other. Minutes later Lord Kendal’s footman is found dead in the stables. When Eleanor is implicated in his death, Chastity is compelled to investigate. She goes undercover as a maid in the household of Lord Kendal. Shocked when they recognize each other, they agree to continue the ruse in hopes of finding the real murderer. They intend to maintain strict boundaries; they certainly do not mean to have an affair or fall in love. Best laid plans, huh?
From the start, the interaction between Chastity and Valentine is humorous and sexy. The banter is snarky and the attraction is obvious, fight it as they may. The story is filled with mystery, suspense, secrets, a bit of danger, and a delightful romance between a reclusive Earl and a spunky widow. The story is fast-paced and entertaining and the characters are wonderful. The murderer is revealed near the end of the story, and it is a surprise (I had no idea who did it). Hard to put down, this one is a great read. I look forward to the next story.
From the start, the interaction between Chastity and Valentine is humorous and sexy. The banter is snarky and the attraction is obvious, fight it as they may. The story is filled with mystery, suspense, secrets, a bit of danger, and a delightful romance between a reclusive Earl and a spunky widow. The story is fast-paced and entertaining and the characters are wonderful. The murderer is revealed near the end of the story, and it is a surprise (I had no idea who did it). Hard to put down, this one is a great read. I look forward to the next story.
June 15, 2021
I received a complimentary copy of this book from Book Sirens. All opinions in this review are my own. As always, I try to avoid spoilers and simple plot synopses to attempt to focus on the highlights and lowlights.
This was my first historical romance by author Samantha Holt, and I must say I liked it! Chastity and Valentine were fun characters to get to know and their romance was hot. Some of the racier scenes made me blush!
The story is premised around a murder mystery, which drove the plot. I appreciate when an author does more than simply romance the protagonists with little to drive any action. There is action (outside of the bedroom) here.
So, why the one star deduction? While the characters, including Aunt Sarah, were fun, the plot, at times felt a little unsubstantiated. Chastity enters the Duke's house in order to investigate a crime, but there's little investigation actively happening. It's more about how she fits in as a maid and her burgeoning relationship with Valentine. The murderer reveals itself (Don't even want to give it away with a pronoun) in a rather mundane manner. I suppose I would have liked to have seen a little more of the investigation.
This was my first historical romance by author Samantha Holt, and I must say I liked it! Chastity and Valentine were fun characters to get to know and their romance was hot. Some of the racier scenes made me blush!
The story is premised around a murder mystery, which drove the plot. I appreciate when an author does more than simply romance the protagonists with little to drive any action. There is action (outside of the bedroom) here.
So, why the one star deduction? While the characters, including Aunt Sarah, were fun, the plot, at times felt a little unsubstantiated. Chastity enters the Duke's house in order to investigate a crime, but there's little investigation actively happening. It's more about how she fits in as a maid and her burgeoning relationship with Valentine. The murderer reveals itself (Don't even want to give it away with a pronoun) in a rather mundane manner. I suppose I would have liked to have seen a little more of the investigation.
June 28, 2021
The beginning of this book was pretty slow. The writing was just a touch flowery and long-winded, which prevented me from getting interested in the story until about a third of the way through. Additionally, the murder plot overall was not very exciting and wasn’t well paced. While I enjoy a bit of suspense in a romance and I liked the action scenes near the end, there were just too many “fluff” scenes that decreased the plot’s intensity.
However, I loved the relationship between Chastity and Valentine. They didn’t seem to have much chemistry at the beginning, but once they spent more time together, things really heated up. I liked how quickly and intensely Valentine became attracted to Chastity and how much he admired her. They had fun banter and worked together well as a team. I enjoyed Valentine’s desire to please Chastity, even if it was just changing his cologne.
Overall, this was an intensely romantic, though somewhat boring story. I recommend it to those who care more for the main relationship than the plot line.
*I received an ARC of this novel. This is my complete and honest review.*
However, I loved the relationship between Chastity and Valentine. They didn’t seem to have much chemistry at the beginning, but once they spent more time together, things really heated up. I liked how quickly and intensely Valentine became attracted to Chastity and how much he admired her. They had fun banter and worked together well as a team. I enjoyed Valentine’s desire to please Chastity, even if it was just changing his cologne.
Overall, this was an intensely romantic, though somewhat boring story. I recommend it to those who care more for the main relationship than the plot line.
*I received an ARC of this novel. This is my complete and honest review.*
July 20, 2021
TEMPTATION OF A DUKE'S DAUGHTER is the second book in Duchess’s Investigative Society series. Though each book will stand on its own, I say you don’t want to miss this series.
I don’t know which held me more captive – the suspenseful mystery or the heart-thudding romance. The sexual tension sparked off the page, and the verbal banter assures a lasting relationship that will be fun, flirty, and steamy for decades.
Lady Chastity isn’t afraid to do some unusual work to investigate this particular case and Lord Kendall has a personal stake in what would normally be beneath his notice. Together they are wonderful characters.
This was a delight to read – absolute entertainment as romance and intrigue came together.
Note: While I received this book as a gifted ARC via Booksprout, my opinions are my own and are given freely.
Title: TEMPTATION OF A DUKE'S DAUGHTER
Series: Duchess’s Investigative Society #2
Category /Genre: Historical Romance
Recommended for: 18+ due to sexual content.
Grammar/editing: received as an unedited ARC / errors excused.
Received from: Samantha Holt
I don’t know which held me more captive – the suspenseful mystery or the heart-thudding romance. The sexual tension sparked off the page, and the verbal banter assures a lasting relationship that will be fun, flirty, and steamy for decades.
Lady Chastity isn’t afraid to do some unusual work to investigate this particular case and Lord Kendall has a personal stake in what would normally be beneath his notice. Together they are wonderful characters.
This was a delight to read – absolute entertainment as romance and intrigue came together.
Note: While I received this book as a gifted ARC via Booksprout, my opinions are my own and are given freely.
Title: TEMPTATION OF A DUKE'S DAUGHTER
Series: Duchess’s Investigative Society #2
Category /Genre: Historical Romance
Recommended for: 18+ due to sexual content.
Grammar/editing: received as an unedited ARC / errors excused.
Received from: Samantha Holt
January 12, 2022
Lady Chastity Fallon will not stand idly by while her sister is suspected of murder. Since no one wants to help, she’ll take matters into her own hands. The plan? Simple. She’ll disguise herself as a servant and investigate. But when her ruse leads her to the enigmatic Lord Kendall, Chastity soon realizes nothing in her life will ever be simple again…
As much as Valentine would like to ignore the scheming beauty who claims to be a servant, he simply can’t. He needs her. Bringing his footman’s killer to justice would be impossible without her, because the vivacious Chastity can do what he can’t—talk to people and gain their trust. So, he’ll accept the chaos she brings into his life. Accepting her into his heart, however, is another matter entirely.
Fortunately for Chastity and Valentine, intrigue has a way of putting lovers on the path to happily ever after. But first, they’ve got a killer to catch.
Unfortunately Chastity is an amazing lady who has a tendency for getting into trouble.
Valentine's tendency to believe nothing is going to be the worst thing ever.
Samantha Holt has written another winner!
As much as Valentine would like to ignore the scheming beauty who claims to be a servant, he simply can’t. He needs her. Bringing his footman’s killer to justice would be impossible without her, because the vivacious Chastity can do what he can’t—talk to people and gain their trust. So, he’ll accept the chaos she brings into his life. Accepting her into his heart, however, is another matter entirely.
Fortunately for Chastity and Valentine, intrigue has a way of putting lovers on the path to happily ever after. But first, they’ve got a killer to catch.
Unfortunately Chastity is an amazing lady who has a tendency for getting into trouble.
Valentine's tendency to believe nothing is going to be the worst thing ever.
Samantha Holt has written another winner!
June 2, 2021
Chasity Whitaker is the eldest of the Duke of Daventry's daughters. She is also one of four. she is very loyal, supportive, kind, and protective. She took over her mom's investigative bureau. They helped women.
Valentine Kendall the earl, was a recluse. He hated the ton, going to balls and socializing. He enjoyed the country where he could keep his secrets. The impression he gave was of a callous man. disdainful, and unapologetic.
After the first couple of meetings. they slowly grew on each other. He gained a great deal of respect for her. He did not want to admit it. The complications they ran into while trying to solve their case, was interesting and exciting.
The author did an amazing job of keeping the story interesting, easy to read, and the flow was so smooth. It was as if you were there rooting the characters on. well, it was. There was a while when they couldn't get any information but they kept at it. I loved it and found it very entertaining.
I received this ARC from Book Sirens and voluntarily reviewed this book.
Valentine Kendall the earl, was a recluse. He hated the ton, going to balls and socializing. He enjoyed the country where he could keep his secrets. The impression he gave was of a callous man. disdainful, and unapologetic.
After the first couple of meetings. they slowly grew on each other. He gained a great deal of respect for her. He did not want to admit it. The complications they ran into while trying to solve their case, was interesting and exciting.
The author did an amazing job of keeping the story interesting, easy to read, and the flow was so smooth. It was as if you were there rooting the characters on. well, it was. There was a while when they couldn't get any information but they kept at it. I loved it and found it very entertaining.
I received this ARC from Book Sirens and voluntarily reviewed this book.
June 7, 2021
This was an enjoyable read full of intrigue and drama.
When Lady Chastity Fallon's sister Eleanor is suspected of murdering a footman, Chastity decides to take matters into her own hands and solve it herself. So she decides to disguise herself as a servant, but she does not bank on Valentine, Lord Kendall seeing through her disguise. As much as Valentine wants to ignore the beauty who claims to be a servant he can't as he needs her help to find whoever killed his footman and why. He needs her to bring his killer to justice and he realises that this will be impossible without her, because Chastity can do something that he cannot do and that is talk to people and gain their trust. So Valentine decides to put up with all the chaos that trails in her wake, however he might accept it in his life, but his heart that is another thing altogether.
Intrigue and murder has a way of putting them in loves path as danger is always right around the corner. However before they can deal with their feelings for each other there is a killer to be found.
When Lady Chastity Fallon's sister Eleanor is suspected of murdering a footman, Chastity decides to take matters into her own hands and solve it herself. So she decides to disguise herself as a servant, but she does not bank on Valentine, Lord Kendall seeing through her disguise. As much as Valentine wants to ignore the beauty who claims to be a servant he can't as he needs her help to find whoever killed his footman and why. He needs her to bring his killer to justice and he realises that this will be impossible without her, because Chastity can do something that he cannot do and that is talk to people and gain their trust. So Valentine decides to put up with all the chaos that trails in her wake, however he might accept it in his life, but his heart that is another thing altogether.
Intrigue and murder has a way of putting them in loves path as danger is always right around the corner. However before they can deal with their feelings for each other there is a killer to be found.
June 7, 2021
This is the second in the series “The Duchess's Investigative Society”, and involves, Chastity, the older, widowed sister. Chastity married what she thought was for love very young, and now widowed is bold and independent. When a footman is murdered at her sister's wedding ball, Chastity takes it upon herself to enter the murdered man's employer's residence as a maid. Ofcourse, the Earl immediately knows who she is and agrees to let her investigate for one month.
Although part of a series, this book stands on it’s own, merely using the same family involved in yet another investigation.
I enjoyed the mystery aspect of the book. I could not guess the perpetrator until the author revealed the matter. There is a lot of bantering, and some steam with a happily ever after. I loved that this book was about more mature adults, with the heroine being 30 and the hero 40 and not a young debutante with an older man.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Although part of a series, this book stands on it’s own, merely using the same family involved in yet another investigation.
I enjoyed the mystery aspect of the book. I could not guess the perpetrator until the author revealed the matter. There is a lot of bantering, and some steam with a happily ever after. I loved that this book was about more mature adults, with the heroine being 30 and the hero 40 and not a young debutante with an older man.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
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