Disrupting the Duke

Dukes Done Wrong #3

by Alexa Aston

Accused of something they never did. Five boys banished from their homes in disgrace, to the place where they find the brothers of their heart—and build new family ties that will last a lifetime.

A brash army major who surprisingly becomes a duke. A lady who has no interest in ever wedding. An attraction that leads to passion... and love...

Cool, moody, and irresistible Donovan Martin finds himself the new Duke of Haverhill after his father and brother drown in a carriage accident. The womanizing Donovan decides to work his way through the numerous beauty of the ton because he has no intention of settling down. Until he encounters a most unusual woman—who informs him she never plans to wed.

Wynter Day wants to maintain her independence and never become subservient to any man. Besides, no man has ever sparked her interest romantically. Then the new Duke of Haverhill crashes into her life, causing Wynter to reconsider her stance on marriage.

A sprained ankle brings the pair closer together, with Wynter spending the Christmas holidays with Donovan and his friends. Sparks ignite and Donovan sees a future with Wynter. Then tragedy strikes, separating the couple, perhaps for good.

Will their stubbornness keep them apart—or will Donovan and Wynter let go of the ghosts of the past and take a chance on love?

Find the answer in Disrupting the Duke, Book 3 in Dukes Done Wrong.

Each book in Dukes Done Wrong is a standalone story that can be enjoyed out of order and can be read for free in Kindle Unlimited.

Genres: Historical Romance, Historical, Romance, Audiobook, Regency, Historical Fiction, Adult

258 pages, Kindle Edition

First published September 23, 2021

About the author

Award-winning and USA Today bestselling author Alexa Aston lives with her husband in a Dallas suburb, where she eats her fair share of dark chocolate and plots out stories while she walks every morning. She enjoys travel, sports, and time with her family.

Her historical romances bring to life loveable rogues and dashing knights, while her contemporary romances are light and flirty and sometimes contain a bit of suspense.

Stay in touch with Alexa at:

Website: https://alexaaston.com/

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Reviews

[Julie - One Book More · Rating 4 out of 5]

In Alexa Aston’s Disrupting the Duke, Donovan Martin becomes the new Duke of Haverhill after the death of his father and older brother. Wynter Day is Donovan’s neighbor and was a close friend of Donovan’s brother. An independent woman with no desire to marry, she has never had feelings for a man until she meets Donovan. When Wynter is injured and becomes Donovan’s holiday house guest, both must face their growing feelings for each other. Will Wynter give up her independence? Will Donovan change his roguish ways?

Wynter and Donovan feel a connection from the moment they meet, and they both fight their feelings for each other. Neither is looking for a relationship, but their chemistry is undeniable. Donovan is the first person to ever pique Wynter’s interest romantically, which is the total opposite of Donovan, who thoroughly enjoys his time with women. This is the first time he has ever had to woo a woman, and he seems to enjoy the challenge. I like that this couple challenges each other and changes each other’s perspectives on life, love, and happiness.

Donovan’s backstory, like all of the Turner Terrors’ backstories, is tragic and painful, and the way he was treated by his father is despicable. However, Donovan found a wonderful family in the other boys at Turner Academy, where he was banished after the death of his mother. The teachers and administrators at Turner Academy are amazing as well, and the way they took these abandoned boys in and provided them a safe place is so admirable. I really enjoyed this found family aspect of the story and all of the glimpses we get into Donovan and the other terror’s pasts.

Though this is the third book in the series, it can be read as a standalone. However, the couples from the first two books do have roles in this book. Both couples from the first two books are fantastic, and I enjoyed seeing how their relationships have progressed and developed. I also liked seeing how the women fit in with the Turner Terrors. They are such a close-knit group of men, and I adore the brotherly bond they share and the way they welcome the wives into their fold.

I think readers who enjoy historical romance with dynamically developed characters and a chemistry-filled love story will enjoy this read and this series, and I’m eager to see which Terror will be the focus of the next book! Thanks so much to Dragonblade Publishing, NetGalley, and Alexa Aston for a copy of the book in exchange for my honest review.

[🦉Maggie Whitworth · Rating 4 out of 5]

❤️❤️❤️❤️
💋💋
Very entertaining book from Alexa’s Duke’s Done Wrong Series.
All storylines are connected in the series, this is book 3.

Five boys sent to a school for youths who have done Wrong or are just unwanted by their families.
These boys grow up, are best friends, join the army in some cases, rely, help and depend on each other, throughout their lives.
They have their own adventures but are never separated for long, even after marriage.

Their stories connect, they star in each other’s books and are linked in so many ways.
This is a wonderful series that is very entertaining and satisfying to read.
This is Donovan's story.

I received an Arc copy of this book and chose to post this review

[Lorraine · Rating 4 out of 5]

Hillside, Surrey, England. June 1796. Alexa Aston’s Disrupting the Duke (Dukes Done Wrong, #3) centers on the third of the Turner Terrors, Donovan Martin. Turner Academy is a school where ‘difficult or troubled’ boys are sent when they are disowned or just thrown out from their homes. Donovan Martin is no different. His father, the Duke of Haverhill, is a truly nasty ‘piece of work’. Donovan is a second son of a Duke just as his roommates at Turner Academy as well as being accused of something for which he is not responsible just as his new friends have been. He is homesick for Hillside, his home, and he heartsick that he cannot be with his mother. Donovan also misses his elder brother, Sam, the heir to Haverhill. They are close brothers with Sam guiding Donovan as he continues to grow to adulthood until that day in June when his father, Duke of Haverhill, banishes him from Hillside forever. Upon meeting the newly dubbed ‘Turner Terrors’ he realizes that this is his true family especially Finch. Spain November 1811. Newly appointed Major Martin and Major Aaron ‘Hart’ Hartfield, both Turner Terrors, are serving with Wellington in the Peninsula War when ‘Captain’ Martin receives a letter but does not recognize the hand writing. Donovan reads the letter only to discover his father and brother (Oh, Sam!) have died in a horrific carriage accident making Donovan the Duke of Haverhill. What is Donovan, a womanizing major in the army for King and Country, to do? He knows how to lead men in battle. He knows nothing about being a duke! Enter:Morris, a solicitor’s clerk and then Lady Wynter Day. (Really!) Morris will help Donovan become a duke. Lady Wynter will drive Donovan crazy. Both do not wish to wed! The story, the characters, and what occurs will tug at your heart strings! Enjoyable and somewhat sad! 4.5 stars.

[Edwina " I LoveBooks" "Deb" · Rating 4 out of 5]

Fifteen years after being sent away by his father the Duke of Haverhill and his beloved older brother Sam, Donovan his sent home from the war. His beloved brother Sam and his evil father have drowned in a carriage accident. Donovan is now the new Duke of Haverhill. He meets and falls deeply in love with Wynter Day a 25 year old Spinster who never intends on marrying.

The story is very good until the end. It ends quickly and feels rushed. I also didn't like the accident scenes with Donovan and Wynter. I didn't feel they added anything to the storyline. I also, don't like Spinster heroines.

[InD'tale Magazine · Rating 4 out of 5]

Rating: 3.5/5.0

Ms. Alexa Aston writes a marvelous historical romance filled with heartfelt drama and a beautiful love story, all rolled into one!

Read full review in the 2022 March issue of InD'tale Magazine.

[Laura Ahrens · Rating 1 out of 5]

Beware! Not a good ending

I have read hundreds of books but only have been so upset one other time at a book’s ending that I threw the book away. This book also made me want to throw it away but since It was an e-book I couldn’t so I decided to write this review. ******SPOILER: The author decided to add a horrible accident suffered by the hero in the last few chapters—an unnecessary and AWFUL plot twist. The book was a great read up until that point. I was looking forward to reading the last two books in the series but don’t think I will read them now.

[Margaret Watkins · Rating 5 out of 5]

This series just keeps getting! Having met Donovan in the first book at Turner Academy, I thoroughly enjoyed this romance. As with his best friends, he was sent to the academy branded a trouble maker, but of the five boys, he was perhaps the gentlest and least likely to make trouble. Taking advantage of the education he received and emulating his older brother in all his dealings, Donovan reaches the rank of Major in the British Army. When news comes of the demise of both his father and beloved brother Sam, Donovan returns to England, completely unprepared for the responsibilities awaiting him. Upon his arrival, he is dumbstruck when he sees a woman racing across the fields in breeches, and when he catches up with her, introduces himself to Lady Wynter Day. Used commanding his troops, Donovan has to learn that he cannot control everything in his orbit, and certainly Wynter has a strong will and a mind of her own. This Regency romance is unconventional in many respects, but as Wynter has already declared her independence, they manage to get away with more than most debutantes. I was so glad that the characters of the previous two books appeared in this one too, and that Finch played a larger role than usual. This romance is well-written, entertaining, and witty, and I gave a huge sigh of satisfaction when it came to a happy conclusion. I received a copy of this novel as a gift through Dragonblade Publishing and NetGalley and this is my honest and voluntary review.

[Janet · Rating 5 out of 5]

4.5 Stars
Major Donovan Martin finds himself the new Duke of Haverhill after his father and brother Sam drown in a carriage accident. He now has to return to the estate from which his father banished him fifteen years earlier. Wynter Day (love the name!) wants to maintain her independence and never become subservient to any man. Besides, no man has ever sparked her interest romantically. Then the new Duke of Haverhill crashes into her life, causing Wynter to reconsider her stance on marriage. A sprained ankle brings the pair closer together, with Wynter spending the Christmas holidays with Donovan and his ducal friends. Sparks ignite then a tragic accident threatens to separate the pair.
This is the third book in the series & it could be read on its own but to fully appreciate it I’d recommend reading from the start. I loved both Donovan & Wynter, both were fiercely independent but their attraction sizzled from their first meeting. I always love it when a rake falls hard & Donovan fell very hard. Wynter is stubborn & nearly ruined everything. We did get to know the enigmatic Finch a little more. I found this to be a more emotional read than the previous books. A well written entertaining, engrossing read
My honest review is for a special copy I voluntarily read

[Moony (Captain Mischief) MeowPoff · Rating 4 out of 5]

it was a very interesting build up of the story, we got to see most of Donovan, our hero when he was young and up til when he became duke. I really liked that the author uses time to “make” the characters for us, instead of just jumping into it. Wynter, our heroine also at first seemed stubborn and she has that damsel-in distress vibe; BUT it is not overly done. She`s not annoying in that sense. I have read my fair share of annoying damsel in distress- characters, believe you me. We got a short time with Sam, Donovan`s brother. In that short period of time, I came to like Sam – he was an adoring brother to Donovan, though it bothered me that they were apart of that long and Sam seemed to not visit? Or meet him for very many years though it might be because of their ruthless cruel father. Enough about that, I enjoyed the chemistry between Wynter and Sam, that they did not fall for each other right away. The author can really write, I look forward to reading more of her books.

I got this eARC from netgalley.

[Sladjana Mihajlovic Ex Sladic · Rating 4 out of 5]

3.5

[Maria Cruz · Rating 2 out of 5]

not my favorite In the series

One star for writing a man who can shed some tears and admit he loves someone without all the fan fair.

This book has more complaints from me then likes. So this review is more for My own purposes.

The story itself was rushed and I’m not clear why. The girl could be annoyingly argumentative for no reason sometimes. Braking customs and putting her foot in her mouth for no cause other than to insist she has authority. And of course the guy swoons every time he’s challenged and gets more aroused by it.

The rogue aspect never rely played out and felt awkward, at one point the guy is learning he’s a Duke and being told how his father and brother died and then he gets sidetracked by imagining how he plans to seduce all the women of the ton and all his liaisons. What? Cringy timing.

But then the lovebirds have their meet cute and that’s followed by a summarized explanation of their next three meets. And bamn the guy is now head over heels and done with his roguish ways and wants to marry this girl. And the girl who’s so independent almost as quickly decided she can start having romantic relations with zero strings or ramifications.

Not to mention the entire situation of a woman alone in a bachelors house would never fly. Why do authors feel so nit picky about regency etiquette and then in the next book let that all fly out the window.

I honestly lost a lot of interest once they both made of their minds to pursue each other after hardly any interactions. :/

Also the girl never asks about her prized horse who had ran off, and the idea that this over bearing head strong woman refuses to be married and become A man’s property yet the whole story she has no problem playing the invalid and being carried about while being toyed into stolen kisses… none of it adds up.


Also was odd how a young woman fancies horses… but doesn’t know anything about breeding… she delivers babies but has no idea how they are made… nor has ever held a baby… but she delivers them and acted overly knowledgeable in the beginning about parenthood. I feel like this book had poor direction.

Lastly the books ending was dumb. The girl holding out and refusing to marry was just stretched out drama. She claimed to love him but was so selfish. She had no reasons to be angry, lie, push the guy away, not reject him repeatedly. Was dumb.

And then the accident hits and it’s a 180 that’s also over with another fast 180. In total I think a couple weeks passed which the author didn’t even describe the first few weeks of encounters. So maybe a couple days of relationship. :/

Was also very low on the steam, one seen, and also skimmed over a bit. Wasn’t her usual book.

[Gloria · Rating 1 out of 5]

I spent most of my time while reading this book wanting to slap the two main characters for being silly, superficial, and tedious. Then again, they were written that way so maybe I’m directing my ire in the wrong direction. Aside from one moving graveside visit and a well-deserved dunking of the hero in a horse trough near the end of the book, this was a total waste of time. I ended neither knowing who the main characters were or caring about them.

[Sophie · Rating 4 out of 5]

I received an Advance Reader Copy from the publisher, via NetGalley. This in no way impacted on my view.

The third of the Turner Terrors, Donovan Martin, second son of the Duke of Haverhill was loved by his mother, but hated by his father, especially following his mother's death. Banished from the estate, and banned from communicating with his much loved elder brother. He's found his family in his fellow Terrors, but when an accident leads to him being the new Duke of Haverhill, he's way out of his comfort zone. More suited to the battlefield than a London drawing room, Donovan needs all the help he can get, and neighbour and friend of his brother, Wynter Day, is his guiding light. For Wynter, she knows that her father has settled a large allowance on her, in the case of his death, and she never needs, or wants, to marry. Her many years on the Season has allowed her to make matches and friendships, but she's never felt the spark that would make her consider giving up her freedom - until Donovan. From the first moment, she's questioning her feelings, and might just be willing to marry. Spending time with Donovan and his friends allows Wynter to see what her life could be like, but when tragedy strikes, will they be able to overcome it all?

This book might be my favourite of the series so far, though there were some moments towards the end that I disliked. Donovan and Wynter were fantastic characters, with strong backstories, and histories that shaped them into the person they were now. Donovan saw the cruelty of his father, and how image was everything to him when his mother died, and he was sent away as a grieving young boy, never to see his family again. He found friendship and kinship with the other boys sent to the Turner School, and in the military. When the news reached him that he was now Duke of Haverhill, it was met with dismay as he never wanted the title, and hoped that he could reconnect with his brother, Sam, when their father died. He knows nothing about what it means to be Duke, and needs to rely on the help of others - first his new secretary, then Wynter and her father, and finally his friends when they visit for Christmas. But it's mainly Wynter he relies on, and the longer they are together, the more it is obvious he can't imaging marrying anyone else, and he needs to prove his worth to her. I did hate the way the conflict towards the end was dealt with, but loved seeing the majority of the Terrors and their wives. I think the series is growing as more books are released, and I need to see the final two love stories!

[Pam · Rating 5 out of 5]

An all in one sitting read which lasts until 2am for a reader in her eighth decade indicates a special story! My mother instinct draws me to the Turner Terrors, and I want only the best for each of them.

Lady Wynter, an only child reared by her father, seems the perfect independent woman: talented, compassionate, athletic, intelligent, capable, etc, but with no desire to marry. Fortunately her father has her financially set for life when he is no longer around to provide. I truly relate to Wynter!
Like two of the other Terrors, Donovan finds himself suddenly a peer, the Duke of Haverhill, a position for which he is totally untrained, and which he does not want. On the up side, he looks forward to plowing through the lovely society widows and unhappy wives. When these two go head to head - sparks fly!

The story moves along well, and I especially liked the Christmas gathering with the other two Terrors-turned-dukes and their wives. Some delightfully sexy encounters spice up the action. The final crisis totally surprised me! Fortunately, Terror-turned-vicar, Finch, gets pulled into the climactic situation. Now I just have to say that Finch is probably every reader's favorite for a variety of reasons, but mostly for the mystery that surrounds him. This also probably means that Alexa will not give us his story until the very end of the series. The waiting makes my imagination go to overdrive!

I loved this book, and recommend it to readers of historical romance who like an engrossing, fun story and interesting characters that become a family of choice rather than blood relation. Fantastic series!

[Brenda · Rating 5 out of 5]

Poignant

A brash army major who surprisingly becomes a duke. A lady who has no interest in ever wedding. An attraction that leads to passion... and love...
Cool, moody, and irresistible Donovan Martin finds himself the new Duke of Haverhill after his father and brother drown in a carriage accident. The womanizing Donovan decides to work his way through the numerous beauty of the ton because he has no intention of settling down. Until he encounters a most unusual woman—who informs him she never plans to wed.
Wynter Day wants to maintain her independence and never become subservient to any man. Besides, no man has ever sparked her interest romantically. Then the new Duke of Haverhill crashes into her life, causing Wynter to reconsider her stance on marriage.
A sprained ankle brings the pair closer together, with Wynter spending the Christmas holidays with Donovan and his friends. Sparks ignite and Donovan sees a future with Wynter. Then tragedy strikes, separating the couple, perhaps for good.
Wynter and Donavan are an unlikely pair.
Wynter never wants to wed. Donavan is the unlikely groom.
Alexa Aston has done it again!

[Linda J. · Rating 4 out of 5]

3.75 STARS
If you read the previous two stories in this series, as I have you know why our H was thrown out of his home. In his own story, more detail is given and it broke my heart what transpired with his mother. This is a stand alone story and this author does a wonderful job in giving us the background on the Turner Terror's.

This was slow at times with little action until the end. The ending (as some reviewer's have said) was very disappointing in what happens to the H. There is an epilogue only a few days in the future and I wanted to know more how the H adjusted - no spoiler's!

I liked the H and what he overcame because of his father. The h was just o.k, I did like her more in the last few chapter's. There is foreplay and lovemaking prior to marriage - heat level 5 out of 5 and described a few times.

Little drama until the end, no cheating, no cliffhanger, HEA, some romance and steam. (ljb)

[Lori D · Rating 4 out of 5]

London 1811

A wonderful addition to this unique series of five boys who were banished by their families when very young. Ending up together at a school, the form a lifelong bond. This is the story of one of those, Donovan Martin.

With the death of his father and older brother, Donovan becomes the Duke of Haverhill. Never expecting this to happen, he had lived his life as he wanted and did not want to settle down.

All that changes when he meets his neighbor, Wynter (love that name!) unexpectedly.Wynter only wants to be an independent woman and not marry either. But when the arrow hits the heart, there is no escape!

Emotional with sorrow, tragedy, and a journey to love that will not be easy. Great having visits with the other characters from the other books of the series. Cannot wait for the next one!

[Anne · Rating 4 out of 5]

An enjoyable read from a favourite author

This third book in the series finds Donovan surprisingly a new Duke. He, unlike his “brothers in arms”, is determined to enjoy his new life and wait for years to settle down with one woman. His friends disapprove of this idea and he is pushed towards Wynter. Is Donovan willing to change course? I enjoyed the romance and the catching up with the couples in the previous two books but Donovan’s actions did seem somewhat immature. All in all, this is another good and entertaining read from one of my favourite historical romance authors.

[Cindy Woltman · Rating 5 out of 5]

incredible

This continuing story of the Turner Terrors is the best in the series thus far. Donovan sent away firm no wrong grips into a strong, honorable man. As he becomes the Duke he mementos Wynter an unusual woman. Love blooms even tragedy cannot ruin. Exceptional writing!

[BaiwarAllah · Rating 3 out of 5]

“Well, if you’d loved her, you wouldn’t have taken her walking in the woods and gotten her killed.”
Guilt rose within him. Rationally, he knew it wasn’t his fault but his father’s words lingered in the air.
“You’ve cost me a wife,” the duke said plainly. “She never had a thing to do with me once you came. You look like her. Sound like her. Walk and talk like her. If she hadn’t humored you, she would still be alive.”

“The duke wrinkled his nose as if Donovan stank. “I’ll send you to my cousin for now. Then you’ll be off to school.” He pursed his lips, a sure sign of his displeasure. “You can stay there. I have an heir in your brother. I don’t ever want to lay eyes upon you again.”

“Wynter had always been attracted to men though never in a romantic sense. Men just were more adventurous. More interesting. More physical. Always in motion, going and doing. Sometimes she thought she should have been born a man”

“That’s why she liked being friendly with single gentlemen in their twenties. They were full of life and fun—especially the rogues.
Thank goodness she had never felt an attraction to any of them. It was only because she hadn’t and made it perfectly clear that she would never marry that she had become a darling of the ton, functioning as a little sister to so many of the men in society”

“Her father adored Sam. Not only because Sam was beloved by everyone but because the earl’s friendship with Sam irritated Sam’s father, the Duke of Haverhill, to no end.
She couldn’t think of a better best friend to have than Sam.”

“I am sorry, Sam. I simply cannot marry you. My heart wouldn’t be in the marriage. I want you to find a woman you are batty over. One who will bring you joy each day. One who will bear your children and live for your smile.”
He looked at her ruefully. “Are you certain you don’t want to be that woman, Wynter? I would never try to cage you as other men would. I would let you remain true to yourself.”
“If I ever married, it would be to you,” she said honestly. “But I have no wish to do so.”
He squeezed her hand and rose, a wry smile on his face. “Thank you for hearing me out. I was expecting the answer you gave—but I had to ask all the same.”

“Pain filled the butler’s eyes. “I regret to inform you, my lady, that His Grace and Lord Pickford died in an accident two days ago.”

“Wynter had always been attracted to men though never in a romantic sense. Men just were more adventurous. More interesting. More physical. Always in motion, going and doing. Sometimes she thought she should have been born a man”

“That’s why she liked being friendly with single gentlemen in their twenties. They were full of life and fun—especially the rogues.
Thank goodness she had never felt an attraction to any of them. It was only because she hadn’t and made it perfectly clear that she would never marry that she had become a darling of the ton, functioning as a little sister to so many of the men in society”

“As you know, you are the next in line to inherit and are now the Duke of Haverhill. I would strongly advise you to resign your commission and return to England as soon as possible. The estate will be in need of your leadership. I suggest you come to London once you return from abroad so that we can meet and discuss the estate and your financial situation. My office address is listed below.
Please accept my condolences on the loss of your father and brother.
Yours sincerely,
Augustus Bagley”

“He had no plans of marrying anytime soon. Of the five Terrors, he was the womanizer, always ready for a quick romp in bed with a variety of women. Being a duke meant he could have his pick of any woman in Polite Society.
He planned to work his way through as many of them as possible.
Marriage was for old men who were ready to give up their wild ways. As far as Donovan was concerned, he would just be starting to live”

“He would ask about Sam. In fact, he wanted to talk to anyone who had known Sam. He wanted to hear about the man his brother had become. It would be the only way he could get to know the man his brother had been.”

“When she had entered her first Season, she had thought she would wed and have children one day. Then when Wynter had learned how her own father had lost the woman he loved because her father demanded she wed the Duke of Haverhill, Wynter decided she would never want to be in the position of having a man dictate to her. If she wed, her husband would legally have control over her. Wynter never wanted to be helpless and at the mercy of another man.”

“As he reached her and reined in his roan, she was drawn to his piercing, blue eyes.
If the Devil became incarnate, he would look exactly like this man. No man should be this sinfully handsome.”

“As if singed, Donovan let go of her wrist and begged, “Please. I am eager to hear about Sam. I didn’t see him for the last fifteen years. I want to know him. Even if he is dead and I can never laugh with him again”

“He believed he would get an heir off his wife and then they would both go their own way, as seemed to be the accepted practice in the ton.
Meeting Lady Wynter had changed that. Physically, he was attracted to her but it went beyond that. He felt an overwhelming need to possess her. To brand her as his. The thought of wedding and bedding her and then allowing her to have countless affairs after she provided him with an heir caused a sour taste in his mouth.”

“I was going to see you home but with no one but a stable boy to care for you, I cannot have that.”
Confusion filled her. “I don’t understand, Your Grace.”
Haverhill’s gaze met hers. “You will be coming home with me, Lady Wynter.”

“He was going to wed and bed this woman.
Despite her declaration of never planning to marry.
In fact, he looked upon it as the greatest challenge of his life, one which would bring the sweetest reward”

“It made him all the more attractive to her.
She determined to kiss him—at least once—during her time at Hillside”

“She wanted Donovan to like her for herself, not because his brother had”

“His blue eyes darkened to the shade of midnight. “I’m not sure if I want to be friends, Wynter.”

“Her mouth dry, she managed to say, “Then if not friends, what?”

“This,” he said, his mouth coming to rest on hers.”

“He wanted Wynter Day. He did not love her. That would be ridiculous, to love a woman after such a short acquaintance. But he certainly desired her. To the point where all other women ceased to exist for him.”

“he knew she must be reeled in slowly. She had already declared she had no interest in marriage. She was incredibly independent. He would have to finesse his way into her heart. By his kiss. By his touch. By showing her that she needed him as much as he did her.”

“If she carried through with her plan, she would come out of the situation a different person. One she might not even recognize. And yet even as her mind battled with her heart, Wynter knew in this instance that her heart would win. She quieted the warring factions in her head and told herself to stay focused on the conclusion she had come to. It was a decision she did not take lightly, despite how quickly she had come to it.
She wanted to ask Donovan to her bed.”

“From everything I know about Donovan from Miles and Wyatt, he is a very good man. He will make for an excellent duke—but he will need the right woman by his side to bring out the best in him. I hope you will give him a chance.”
Wynter nodded, worried that what Emery said might be true.
Should she reconsider her stance on marriage? Even if she did, there was no certainty that Donovan would even ask her to wed him.”

“I would like to go to your bed, Donovan. Not mine.”
His heart slammed hard against his ribs. He tightened his hold on her so as not to drop her.
“What?” he asked hoarsely.
She swallowed. “You heard me. I invited”

“Promise me you won’t offer for me immediately afterward. I want us both to go into this without a guilty conscience and without worrying of what comes later.”
“I won’t offer for you while you are still in my bed,” he stated, knowing that he would definitely ask her to be his duchess before the new year arrived”

“He relished her warm body against his.
And knew without a doubt that he had fallen hopelessly in love with her.
It wasn’t merely because he had made love to her. He suspected it had happened before then”

“She melted.
All of a sudden, a rush of feelings so strong, so powerful, flooded her. She realized more than anything that she wanted a baby.
Donovan’s baby.
The feelings overwhelmed her. That thought shocked her.”

“We are going to wed, Wynter,” Donovan said stubbornly.
“See!” she cried. “That is the very reason I do not want a husband. I have a mind of my own and I enjoy using it very much. I don’t want to marry you. You insist we do. If I actually gave in and did wed you, you would be pigheaded and start ordering me about. I won’t have it, Donovan. I won’t.”

“You are what I want.”
She would have to hurt him to make him see reason. She bit her lip, wishing it didn’t have to be this way.
“But I do not want you.”

“The carriage rolled to a stop and the door opened.
“Please don’t come inside,” she said quietly. “Don’t try to contact me. I won’t keep you from a friendship with Papa but I cannot be your friend, Donovan”

“Had she been wrong? Could she live with him trying to dominate her? Should she abandon her commitment to herself because she was so desperately in love with him?
Love. Such an odd thing. Wynter had never experienced it before”

“The music ended and Mrs. Ball said, “I thought you and Lady Wynter looked splendid together. You are meant to be, Your Grace.”
He shook his head. “No, Mrs. Ball, you are mistaken.”
She studied him a moment. “Don’t be so proud that it leads to your downfall, Your Grace.” She curtseyed. “Good evening”

“I could never do that to you. I know you think I am obstinate and unyielding but I want to change. For you. I love you, Wynter. I would never try to make you into something you don’t want to be. I went about asking you to marry me in all the wrong way. Forgive my clumsiness. I have been at war for too long and don’t always remember the social niceties I was taught at Turner Academy.”

“His voice broke. “Please, Wynter. Tell me that we still have a chance. That I don’t have to live in misery or fear for the rest of my days. That I can live with you. With love.”
Something crumbled inside her. The walls she had erected to keep Donovan out came crashing down.
“I love you, Donovan. So much it hurts,” she admitted. “I have been wretchedly unhappy ever since we parted.”

“I am yours, Donovan. I always have been. I will forever be yours. I love you.”
“Wynter!” He gasped her name as if he were a man dying of thirst and she was the water that would save him.”

“Are you all right?”
It was Richards, the footman.
“No,” she shouted, looking at Donovan. He lay in the open doorway, pinned to the ground. His left arm was partially hidden by the carriage itself.
“His Grace is trapped. Do something!”

“You should leave, my lady,” Dr. Freeman said. “I cannot save the arm. I will have to amputate it below the elbow.”
“I am not going anywhere,” she said firmly. “He is my betrothed. I will stay.”

“I am missing half my arm!” he shouted. “I have no hand. No hand,” he echoed, anguish obvious in his voice.
She stood. “I know you are surprised. Hurt.”
He laughed bitterly. “You know nothing. You still have both your arms. Get out!” he raged. “This was your doing. Get out!”

“His eyes narrowed. “You were wrong. We are not going to wed. Ever.”
“Donovan,” she pleaded. “Why are you being this way?”
“Why?” he growled. “Perhaps it is because I am half a man now. I wouldn’t want the vivacious Lady Wynter Day to be saddled with a mere shadow of a man.”

“If anyone could tear down the walls her beloved had erected about him, it was William Finchley.
Wynter thought back to when Donovan had spoken of his special friendship with Finch, the only Terror who had remained in England as the other four went away to war”

“If the roles were reversed and Wynter had lost her hand and forearm, would you stop loving her?”
“Never,” he said fiercely.
“Yet you have done a grave injustice to her, Donovan. Your mother died and you were left alone. You have forced Wynter to be alone—and you aren’t even dead. She has to exist in a world without you because you forced that choice upon her. You are deciding what you think is best for her when she should be making that decision for herself.”

“Donovan dropped to one knee and took her hand in his. He pressed a fervent kiss against her fingers.
“Wynter Day, my love, my life, my everything—will you have me as I am? Will you marry me and make me the happiest man on this earth?”
Tears cascaded down her cheeks. “I would have no other, Donovan. You are my light and my life. You are the man I want by my side for the good and the bad and everything in-between that we might face. To me, you are perfect and always will be in every way.”

“Finch pronounced them man and wife and Donovan gazed into the beautiful eyes of his wife. His duchess. The woman he would love and cherish every day going forth.
His lips met hers.
And their life together began.”

[Dew · Rating 2 out of 5]

Not like other girls

There is a unique form of internalized misogyny in the idea that for a woman, or fictional female character, to have positive character traits that she must not be like other women. That she and her interests are somehow better than any other female person and much like the men of her acquaintance, openly disdains other women as valueless.

In reality, the woman who hates any- and everything associated with women, preferring to define herself according to the values of men is just as misogynistic as any man. She will never belong to the boys club to which she desperately aspires, but instead validates every criticism that men levy upon women, endeavoring to pull herself up by putting others down.

Generally, I have liked this series, but Wynter came off as incredibly spoiled and selfish. Her attitudes and behaviours oozed with self-righteous privilege. Other than her looks, what did Donovan see in her? The part where Wynter unequivocally rejects Donovan for not doing exactly what she wanted before wondering why he didn’t bother to fight for her even though he was giving her exactly what she wanted was particularly *chef’s kiss*. Then she makes his disabling injury about her own vanity. You’re upset about having your arm amputated? I have a 1” cut on my cheek that required 3 stitches! It’s exactly the same!

[Jax · Rating 1 out of 5]

DNF 71%
I really tried with this book. I read the first two in the series. And I really liked the description of this one.

I just cannot stand Donovan.
Honestly, I would have been much more interested in reading about his brother Sam, who kicks it in the first chapter.

Donovan is a bit of a Nice Guy™. Wynter explained to him that she is not interested in marriage. She has a plan; she is happy with her life.
Donovan is like cool. I'm gonna get you to marry me by spending lot of time with you, so you will see how nice and I am and eventually have to agree to marry me.

Meanwhile he has a bunch of toxic thoughts about how he wants to possess her and brand her as his. *barf*

Around the time the FMC held a baby for the first time and suddenly realized she wanted to procreate I noped out.

I know, it's a romance novel, the characters pretty much have to get together. But if you are going to write a strong independent FMC then don't make her compromise her life and plans for "love". It's totally possible to write her around in a logical way. But unexpected "stirrings" between her legs and a manipulative MMC don't do it for me.

Tropes: #niceguy #instalust #forcedproximity #changehermind

[Anne · Rating 3 out of 5]

Disappointing

Book 1 was very enjoyable.

Well written with good characterisation.

Book 2 slightly less so but it didn't deter me from continuing the series.

This one, however, was riddled with American slang and cant. Words not used in these forms in the UK even now. 'Quit' being just one example used when a character is asked or decides to stop doing something. 'Gotten' is not used in proper English and as scholars we were not allowed to use 'got' or 'get' in essays although it is acceptable in the US.

As with most American authors of this genre they don't seem to have much knowledge of the fashions and modes of the era. Huge, swirling silk dresses and chignons were not the order of the day and simply reading Jane Austen or Georgette Heyer will give more insight that will make the books more realistic.

I can ignore a few minor errors but so many added together results in only 3 stars I'm afraid.

I will read book 4 as I'd like to know what happens to Finch.

[Jaime · Rating 5 out of 5]

Alexa Aston has crafted another emotional romance that will keep you entertained from cover to cover! The Dukes Done Wrong series just gets better with each additional story and I love how characters from previous books are included in the story. It makes the series all the more enjoyable!

This story features Donovan Martin who finds himself the new Duke of Haverhill after his father and brother drown in a carriage accident. A common theme in this series is having “the spare” claim the title of Duke after the original heir has perished. I was sad to see the original heir, Sam, die in this story as he actually seemed like a decent person, but I digress. Wynter Day (Yes, that’s the heroine’s name) wants to maintain her independence and never become subservient to any man. Besides, no man has ever sparked her interest romantically. She plans to never marry and instead live her life alone doing as she pleases, when she pleases, answering to no man.

As you can imagine the chemistry between Donovan and Wynter is pretty instantaneous and when Wynter finds herself Donovan’s unplanned house guest, things heat up quickly. Could it be Wynter will change her mind on the marriage stance? Will Donovan be the perfect man for Wynter? Are things ever that easy?? Just when the two seem to be heading towards a HEA — tragedy strikes. Will this “Turner Terror” be the one who doesn’t get a happy ending? You have to read the book to see!!

I loved the story, continue to adore the characters, and can’t wait for the next book! The author has created a wonderful world full of determined spares and strong women, it’s a win!

Overall 4.5 Stars ⭐️ | 4 Flames 🔥 | Highly recommend this book and the previous two books Discouraging the Duke and Deflecting the Duke and to find the complete series —> Dukes Done Wrong Series

[Anne · Rating 4 out of 5]

Disrupting the Duke by Alexa Aston is the third in the Turner Terrors series, revolving around five little boys who were sent away from home at a young age, never to return, for various reasons; mostly horrid fathers. Donovan Martin has just been made aware that he is the new Duke of Haverhill, his father and brother both having been killed in a carriage accident. His father was no loss, but Donovan had looked forward to knowing his brother, Sam, again. When he had been exiled as a 10-year-old, after the death of his mother, Sam had been instructed to never say his name again. Now the mean old man was dead, but so was Sam. He didn't know how to be a duke; he had always been a soldier. When he arrived and spoke to the solicitor, he had a better idea what he was up against. He set off to visit Hillside, his childhood home, where his mother had dies and he had last seen Sam. As he neared his destination, he spied a fine ride astride an even finer horse. As he got closer, he saw the rider was female, although in breeches, rising astride. It was Lady Wynter Day, his neighbor, and the most beautiful woman he had ever seen.

This is a fun series, and the most fun is that we keep seeing and hearing of the other Turner Terrors. They had become fine men, despite their fathers. Two of them were married, and Donovan was determined to become the third when he made Lady Wynter his duchess. She was just as determined to never marry. Life intervened and she began to think maybe her original plan was flawed. Could Donovan be the man for her? A fun book, Disrupting the Duke started off as a bit of a mess, but quickly came together as Donovan and Wynter got to know one another. Wynter had been a good friend of Sam's and so was able to share stories of his brother with Donovan, as did her father. It was all he had, not enough, but something. Donovan seemed a man with sense. He knew when not to push. It was a fun journey to their happily-ever-after.

I was invited to read a free e-ARC of Disrupting the Duke by Dragonblade, through Netgalley. All thoughts and opinions are mine. #netgalley #dragonblade #disruptingtheduke

[MammaDi3Gatti · Rating 4 out of 5]

For all their intelligence, Wynter and Donovan are remarkably stubborn. And by stubborn, I mean rather stupid. Fortunately, their individual stupidity rarely coincides.

Donovan is the third of five Turner Terrors to get his book. Separated from his family when he was a young boy by his cruel father, a duke, he formed a family of the heart with his four boarding-school roommates. Years pass without any contact with the duke or Donovan's older, much beloved brother. As the present-day part of the story begins, Donovan is on the continent serving in the army, just having gained the rank of major. A message from home informs him that, due to a tragic accident, he is now the duke.

When he returns to his childhood estate, he meets his neighbor, Lady Wynter Day. Wynter had been best friends with Donovan's older brother, though she and Donovan had never met. For various reasons, Wynter had long since decided never to wed, and her father was supportive of her wishes. Attraction sparks between the two, and determined bachelor Donovan soon decides he'll convince Wynter to marry him. That determination backfires, of course, because she's already told him she won't marry. And then additional back-and-forth stupidity ensues.

Positive influences in favor of marriage come in the form of the two previously wed Terrors, Miles and Wyatt, and their spouses. These friends--along with a fourth Terror, do their best not to let Stupidity win, and their presence in the novel is a reassuring thing.

My complaints about stupidity are not about the author or plot, to be clear. They relate to the characters, and stupidity in a character can be invigorating. I do wish, however, that there was more to the plot than Wynter being marriage averse. Another more serious conflict eventually emerges, but not until near the very end, and it's just too late in the tale to worry that it'll be a true obstacle.

I enjoy this authors various series very much, and this one is no exception. I'm especially looking forward to Finch's tale, though I suspect we'll hear Hart's first.

I received an ARC of this book from the publisher and Netgalley in exchange for my honest opinion. Thanks!

[Gloria Pastorino · Rating 4 out of 5]

The Turner Terrors return in this third book of the series Dukes Done Wrong that follows the lives of five boys who were unjustly wronged, accused of terrible things they never committed and sent to a sort of correcting school where they met and became fast friends.
This time we meet Donovan, who’s fighting for his country when he’s forced to return home and become duke after the death of his father and brother. Donovan is strong, but also very vulnerable. The author did a good job in fleshing out his character. Donovan has suffered, but has survived thanks to his friends. But it is evident that for him and for all the Turner Terrors child insecurities reflect upon their characters as adults, especially the fear of not being loved…
Our heroine is Wynter, a very independent and capable woman who doesn’t want to marry nor have children for fear of losing her independence. I understand her completely in the context of the period in which she lived, because women were dependent by men in everything, especially married ones.
There’s an instantaneous attraction between them and I liked that they did not fear to act upon it.
But I must confess that this time I found the reason why Donovan was sent away less plausible. And what about the supposedly “good” brother? I won’t spoiler anything, but I didn’t like him at all!
This little flaw aside, I liked the book very much, especially the interaction between the main characters and the hero and his friends. This idea of a close-knit group of friends is really good and well developed. I look forward to seeing them all in the future! And of course the Vicar is becoming more and more interesting…
I also liked the fact that the beginning of the book shed some light into the Turner Academy and its creation. I hope to read a prequel story sometime in the future…
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.

[Kendra (NurseKendraReads) · Rating 4 out of 5]

Disrupting The Duke 💙

Thanks to Netgalley and Dragonblade publishing for the digital arc in exchange for my honest review.

Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️/5 Stars
Steam: 🌶🌶/5 (a few descriptive steamy scenes)

Release Date: September 23rd, 2021

No spoiler review 👇🏻

This is the third book in the Dukes Done Wrong Series. I love Alexa Astons books and the other two in this series so I was excited to pick this one up!

This series follows 5 boys who found themselves banished to a boarding school by their family, being accused of a crime they did not commit. These boys became best friends while at this school. Each book follows these characters as adults. This book follows Donovan’s character.

Lady Wynter is Donovan’s neighbour and declares that she’ll never marry. I really liked her character! She wants adventure and is independent! She doesn’t care what society thinks, doesn’t care to have children or marry. We love to see a strong female in historical romance and Wynter is certainly that.

I liked Donovan’s character, probably less than the other Duke from previous books in this series (hence 4 stars) but his interactions with Wynter were really cute! I think Wynter 100 percent made this book though!

I loved seeing the other characters from the previous books and their interactions! A true found family for all of the “turner terrors”

This book had one of my favourite tropes
(Nurse back to health) for both characters....I think I like this so much as it creates great romance content and because I’m a nurse hah.

This book is set mostly during Christmas time so it’s the perfect read for the winter season!

Overall I really enjoyed this book! It was a short, cute romance with lots of twists and some steam!

[Debra Martin · Rating 4 out of 5]

Donovan Martin, the new Duke of Haverhill, inherits after a tragic accident that took both his father's and brother's life. Having been banished from his home by a cruel father when he was ten years old, Donovan doesn't know the first thing about being a duke, but he's not afraid to ask for help. When he meets his neighbor, Lady Wynter Day, he feels an instant attraction to her. She's not only beautiful, but spirited, clever and knows a lot about estate management. He wants to spend more time in her company and through a mishap with her being thrown from her horse, Donovan invites Wynter to spend the Christmas holiday with him and his friends. Although Wynter adamant she never wanted to marry, Donovan is making her question that decision.

I enjoyed this story and liked that Donovan was not afraid to ask for help. When two of the Turner Terrors and their wives join him for Christmas, Wynter got a glimpse at what happy marriages could be like and she begins to question her stance on marriage. Most of the book moves along with Donovan trying to convince Wynter to marry him, but she's stubborn and sends him away. When they finally meet again, a tragic accident changes everything. I was glad to see Finch show up in this book. His is the story I really want to know. The author does a good job of letting the reader into each character's thinking, but I thought Wynter held on to her stubbornness a little too long. I'm looking forward to reading the next book in the series.

I voluntarily read the advanced reader copy and all opinions are my own.

[Samsbookspot · Rating 4 out of 5]

Donovan Martin finds himself the new Duke of Haverhill after a carriage accident kills his father and brother. On his way to the family estate he comes across his closest neighbour Wynter Day.
Wynter lives with her Dad and never plans to marry. She loves her independence and never wants to be subservient to a man. Wynter loves doing as she please and being on her own.
Wynter and Donovan become friends and on one horse ride together Wynter falls and sprains her ankle. There is no one at home to look after her so she agrees to spend a few days with Donovan.
Could this friendship turn into a love match.

I really loved this story. I enjoyed Wynter and thought she was a great character, strong and independent. She clearly knew what she wanted out of life and was completely thrown by her feelings for Donovan.
Donovan has to learn how to be a Duke. He has been in the army for so long I think he had forgotten what normal life is like. Even though Donovan and Wynter were a well matched couple I did not particularly like Donovan. I got the it’s my way or the highway vibe from him and this was everything Wynter did not want in a marriage.

We also get to see how the Turner Academy was formed and how the Turner Terrors became friends. And It was really great that characters from the first two books were included in this book.

This is a great series and I am looking forward to the next book in the series.

Thank you to Netgalley, Dragonblade publishing and the author for an advanced copy of this book for an honest review.