What do you think?
Rate this book
Ten Rules for Marrying a Duke
Bookish Arabella Bromley never gave a fig for society’s rules—until her sister ran off with a man below her station. Now Arabella is desperate to restore her family’s ruined reputation to favor amongst the ton. She’ll have to marry quickly and well. But in order to carry off her plan, Arabella needs a duke… and she has just the rakish fellow in mind.
The Duke of Whittsley has an ungentlemanly tendency to disregard the rules. Unfortunately, a sense of mischief doesn’t excuse a high-ranking noble from family duty—especially where it concerns producing a son. And that’s where he can’t quite resist Arabella’s distinctly outrageous plan: if he saves her family, she’ll give him an heir.
Now the deal’s been struck. They have one year to achieve their goals and ten iron-clad rules to keep them on track. Like long, scorching kisses and ensuring they’re both exquisitely satisfied. And the only thing that could ruin their plan is the one thing they never planned on: love.
The Duke of Whittsley has an ungentlemanly tendency to disregard the rules. Unfortunately, a sense of mischief doesn’t excuse a high-ranking noble from family duty—especially where it concerns producing a son. And that’s where he can’t quite resist Arabella’s distinctly outrageous plan: if he saves her family, she’ll give him an heir.
Now the deal’s been struck. They have one year to achieve their goals and ten iron-clad rules to keep them on track. Like long, scorching kisses and ensuring they’re both exquisitely satisfied. And the only thing that could ruin their plan is the one thing they never planned on: love.
253 pages, Kindle Edition
First published February 14, 2022
215 people are currently reading
521 people want to read
About the author
Michelle McLean
38 books281 followersMichelle McLean is a jeans and t-shirt kind of girl who is addicted to chocolate and Goldfish crackers and spent most of her formative years with her nose in a book. She has a B.S. in History, an M.A. in English, and loves her romances with a little heat, a lot of humor, and always a happily ever after.
When Michelle's not working, reading, or chasing her kids around, she can usually be found baking or diamond painting, which she accidentally got addicted to while bored one day. She resides in PA with her husband and two teens, the world's most spoiled dog, and two cats who absolutely rule the house. She also writes contemporary romance as Kira Archer.
For more info on Michelle and her work, visit her website at michellemcleanbooks.com.
When Michelle's not working, reading, or chasing her kids around, she can usually be found baking or diamond painting, which she accidentally got addicted to while bored one day. She resides in PA with her husband and two teens, the world's most spoiled dog, and two cats who absolutely rule the house. She also writes contemporary romance as Kira Archer.
For more info on Michelle and her work, visit her website at michellemcleanbooks.com.
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 232 reviews
February 15, 2022
A MARRIAGE OF CONVENIENCE WITH GREAT BANTER
Marriage of convenience is a really underrated romance trope that I always enjoy when I finally happen upon it. This was done very well and made me smile.
👍 What I Liked 👍
Trope: Marriage of convenience deserves more attention in HR! It seems like a very plausible trope for the time, most marriages were marriages of convenience, so it's a shame that the trope isn't explored further. Here we have Arabella and Silas both need to get married - Arabella to save her family, Silas to continue his affable life. Their arrangement is purely for convenience, but romance blossoms between them soon enough. The trope really worked and I especially adored that Arabella was the instigator of the plot!
Chemistry: There was no denying the chemistry between Arabella and Silas. I am a sucker for easy, teasing banter between romantic partners, and Arabella and Silas certainly delivered in that aspect. Their attraction to one another was undeniable.
Easy: This was, first and foremost, just an easy, entertaining read. If you're expecting more than just romance and banter, you'll be disappointed. If you looking for sweet romance, this is just the book for you.
👎 What I Disliked 👎
Unsurprising: Yes, I liked that this was an easy read. I liked being able to turn off my brain and just enjoy the journey. But I would still have liked a single surprise or two somewhere along the road. Something I hadn't seen coming.
Inconsistent: There were a few inconsistent moments that nagged at me. For instance, the first time we meet Arabella we're told that she wears glasses. But never again after that point (at least, unless I missed it) were the glasses referred to again. I used to wear glasses and trust me, it's not something you don't notice throughout your life. Little things like that take away from the reading experience for me. It felt like a cheap ploy to make her diverse without wanting to go the full mile.
ARC provided by the publisher through NetGalley in exchange for an honest review
Follow me for more book loving content!
Blog ✨ Facebook ✨ Instagram ✨ Twitter
Blog Post: 10 Criminally Underrated YA Books with an LGBTQ Twist
Marriage of convenience is a really underrated romance trope that I always enjoy when I finally happen upon it. This was done very well and made me smile.
👍 What I Liked 👍
Trope: Marriage of convenience deserves more attention in HR! It seems like a very plausible trope for the time, most marriages were marriages of convenience, so it's a shame that the trope isn't explored further. Here we have Arabella and Silas both need to get married - Arabella to save her family, Silas to continue his affable life. Their arrangement is purely for convenience, but romance blossoms between them soon enough. The trope really worked and I especially adored that Arabella was the instigator of the plot!
Chemistry: There was no denying the chemistry between Arabella and Silas. I am a sucker for easy, teasing banter between romantic partners, and Arabella and Silas certainly delivered in that aspect. Their attraction to one another was undeniable.
Easy: This was, first and foremost, just an easy, entertaining read. If you're expecting more than just romance and banter, you'll be disappointed. If you looking for sweet romance, this is just the book for you.
👎 What I Disliked 👎
Unsurprising: Yes, I liked that this was an easy read. I liked being able to turn off my brain and just enjoy the journey. But I would still have liked a single surprise or two somewhere along the road. Something I hadn't seen coming.
Inconsistent: There were a few inconsistent moments that nagged at me. For instance, the first time we meet Arabella we're told that she wears glasses. But never again after that point (at least, unless I missed it) were the glasses referred to again. I used to wear glasses and trust me, it's not something you don't notice throughout your life. Little things like that take away from the reading experience for me. It felt like a cheap ploy to make her diverse without wanting to go the full mile.
ARC provided by the publisher through NetGalley in exchange for an honest review
Follow me for more book loving content!
Blog ✨ Facebook ✨ Instagram ✨ Twitter
Blog Post: 10 Criminally Underrated YA Books with an LGBTQ Twist
February 11, 2022
Arabella Bromley is desperate to rescue her family's reputation and save her younger sister's season, after her older sister ran off with a servant. She approaches Silas, Duke of Whittsley, with an outlandish proposal: if he revives her family's social standing, she’ll give him an heir and then retire to the country for good. The deal is struck, but the two have a hard time following their own guidelines.
This is my first read from Michelle McLean and it appears to be a stand alone. This was a deliciously lighthearted and entertaining story! While Arabella has a bit of a cockamamie scheme, I love when characters think they can dictate their relationship and then can't follow their own plans. Both characters were likable, and the storytelling was fun. It did fall into the miscommunication trap at the end, but thankfully it didn't get dragged out. I would definitely check out more stories from this author.
Tropes: Marriage of Convenience
Steam: 2
* I received an ARC and this is my honest review. #TenRulesForMarryingADuke #NetGalley
This is my first read from Michelle McLean and it appears to be a stand alone. This was a deliciously lighthearted and entertaining story! While Arabella has a bit of a cockamamie scheme, I love when characters think they can dictate their relationship and then can't follow their own plans. Both characters were likable, and the storytelling was fun. It did fall into the miscommunication trap at the end, but thankfully it didn't get dragged out. I would definitely check out more stories from this author.
Tropes: Marriage of Convenience
Steam: 2
* I received an ARC and this is my honest review. #TenRulesForMarryingADuke #NetGalley
February 20, 2024
⭐⭐⭐
3 stars.
➕ What I liked :
Some funny parts.
OK banter.
Some sweet moments.
➖ What I disliked:
Inconsistencies.
Lacked some depth.
The middle part of the story was a little slow/dragged.
The sex scenes are a little too mild….. more or less closed-door romance.
The miscommunication or/and lack of communication.
Somewhat lacking romantic build up and chemistry.
(It needed more depth)
A little too formulaic.
The heroine is too naive/innocent and clueless/ignorant about her own body and sex even for that time period.
3 stars.
➕ What I liked :
Some funny parts.
OK banter.
Some sweet moments.
➖ What I disliked:
Inconsistencies.
Lacked some depth.
The middle part of the story was a little slow/dragged.
The sex scenes are a little too mild….. more or less closed-door romance.
The miscommunication or/and lack of communication.
Somewhat lacking romantic build up and chemistry.
(It needed more depth)
A little too formulaic.
The heroine is too naive/innocent and clueless/ignorant about her own body and sex even for that time period.
February 15, 2022
Ten Rules for Marrying a Duke is a fun and flirty, sexy and funny marriage of convenience story which will have you laughing and reading way past your bedtime. I loved it! I found it totally engrossing and didn’t want to put it down. Arabella Bromley needed someone to marry quickly in order to save her family’s reputation and Silas Spencer fit the bill. She literally stumbles into him and before the end of the day she has a marriage contract of 10 rules to get her sister married to an appropriate suitor and he gets an heir. What they didn’t count on is that they totally loved the process of heir-making and each other’s company.
What made this story work so well for me were the two main characters, Silas and Arabella. Their banter with one another was fun from their first encounter negotiating the rules, and every one after that, they just loved to tease one another. But more than that they began to care for one another and didn’t realize that they wanted more from this arrangement but was afraid to ask for it. I fell in love with Silas even more when he gave Arabella a choice about their rules and let her have the final say on whether or not to continue and made him such a good guy in my eyes.
With a small bit of intrigue and a good cast of supporting characters, this book was superb. I highly recommend this story even if you aren’t a historical reader because the story was just so enjoyable.
Review copy provided for a voluntary review.
What made this story work so well for me were the two main characters, Silas and Arabella. Their banter with one another was fun from their first encounter negotiating the rules, and every one after that, they just loved to tease one another. But more than that they began to care for one another and didn’t realize that they wanted more from this arrangement but was afraid to ask for it. I fell in love with Silas even more when he gave Arabella a choice about their rules and let her have the final say on whether or not to continue and made him such a good guy in my eyes.
With a small bit of intrigue and a good cast of supporting characters, this book was superb. I highly recommend this story even if you aren’t a historical reader because the story was just so enjoyable.
Review copy provided for a voluntary review.
April 8, 2023
Funny, cute and sweet. It needed some finesse but no complaints. More later…
August 13, 2023
Been a while since I’ve read a historical romance book. Haven’t realized how much I missed it.
I liked this book for many reasons. Firstly, Michelle Mclean’s writing is my cup of tea. The writing is easy to understand/digest. The start was quick, but not to the point of rushed. The book did not drag on unnecessarily, and was straight to the point. I’m thankful because I hate it when there’s chunks of words in long paragraphs and stories going round and round just to make the book longer.
Secondly, from the start, it was very obvious that there was very good chemistry between Silas and Arabella and that had continued in the forms of bantering and their interactions throughout the book. Silas was very charming and witty, and Arabella was sassy and daring. I loved them together. It made my heart warm because they were so compatible, be it in the banter they exchanged, or the constant little touches when in public or private. It made me go “ah I love that they were so in love”, it really showed in their actions.
That’s about all I loved about the book, but really, the two points above is enough for me to give it a solid 4 stars rating. I was so engrossed and basically devoured the book in one sitting.
Onto the cons of the book, to me, they’re not a huge problem, just minor things I’d like to point out.
(1) it was implied that Silas was a rake and does questionable activities, however, in the book, we rarely see him doing his rakish activities. He was never written as often visiting gambling hells, having mistresses or drinking excessively—which I’d say are typical rakish activities. In fact, he did none of those and seemed like a perfectly normal and nice man. All I saw was a man besotted with Arabella. So it can be hard to believe that he changed a lot since meeting Arabella.
(2) there was a miscommunication at the back where it seems to be cause of the rift between them, and I’m usually not a fan of that. But I’m closing one eye about this because it was resolved quickly and was not dragged out nor did it turn both of them into bitter or horrible people.
Despite my 2 minor issues, I have really enjoyed this book. Sometimes all I need is a book with a not-so-complicated plot, lovable hero and heroines, some humour and a few sex scenes. This book had it all. It’s not that hard to ask for.
I liked this book for many reasons. Firstly, Michelle Mclean’s writing is my cup of tea. The writing is easy to understand/digest. The start was quick, but not to the point of rushed. The book did not drag on unnecessarily, and was straight to the point. I’m thankful because I hate it when there’s chunks of words in long paragraphs and stories going round and round just to make the book longer.
Secondly, from the start, it was very obvious that there was very good chemistry between Silas and Arabella and that had continued in the forms of bantering and their interactions throughout the book. Silas was very charming and witty, and Arabella was sassy and daring. I loved them together. It made my heart warm because they were so compatible, be it in the banter they exchanged, or the constant little touches when in public or private. It made me go “ah I love that they were so in love”, it really showed in their actions.
That’s about all I loved about the book, but really, the two points above is enough for me to give it a solid 4 stars rating. I was so engrossed and basically devoured the book in one sitting.
Onto the cons of the book, to me, they’re not a huge problem, just minor things I’d like to point out.
(1) it was implied that Silas was a rake and does questionable activities, however, in the book, we rarely see him doing his rakish activities. He was never written as often visiting gambling hells, having mistresses or drinking excessively—which I’d say are typical rakish activities. In fact, he did none of those and seemed like a perfectly normal and nice man. All I saw was a man besotted with Arabella. So it can be hard to believe that he changed a lot since meeting Arabella.
(2) there was a miscommunication at the back where it seems to be cause of the rift between them, and I’m usually not a fan of that. But I’m closing one eye about this because it was resolved quickly and was not dragged out nor did it turn both of them into bitter or horrible people.
Despite my 2 minor issues, I have really enjoyed this book. Sometimes all I need is a book with a not-so-complicated plot, lovable hero and heroines, some humour and a few sex scenes. This book had it all. It’s not that hard to ask for.
February 24, 2022
This is an AMAZING story that had me totally under its spell from beginning to end!!
Michelle McLean has created yet another masterpiece. This story will charm you like no other, you won’t want the book to end!! I have to admit I was immediately drawn to this story by its gorgeous cover and intriguing title, then I noted who the author was, I was all in!
This is the story of a girl who wants to help her families reputation and will do anything she has to in order for her younger sister to make a good match. The MCs are Miss Arabella Bromley and Silas Spencer the Duke of Whittsley. The story begins with Arabella planning to convince Silas (a Duke and distant cousin to the Queen) to help her restore the good reputation of her family - although Silas was “a bit rakish and too unserious for Arabella’s tastes, his background was impeccable, and his opinions carried great weight” - exactly the man Arabella needs to wed! Now she just has to convince Silas to marry her, and quickly. Some simple rules is all these two need to avoid any misunderstandings and to achieve each of their goals as quickly and efficiently as possible. You know what they say about best laid plans…
This story will keep you entertained as our two MCs try their best to follow the rules, yet some rules just beg to be broken! I loved the banter between the characters and the chemistry between Arabella and Silas was smoking hot! Even with the lights on 👀 🔥❤️🔥
If you are looking for a witty, sexy, and playful story — check this book out!
Overall 5 Stars ⭐️ | 5 Flames 🔥 — I hope the author continues with these characters!
Review Copy of Ten Rules for Marrying a Duke provided by Entangled Publishing for an honest Review.
See More Reviews Alpha Book Club
Michelle McLean has created yet another masterpiece. This story will charm you like no other, you won’t want the book to end!! I have to admit I was immediately drawn to this story by its gorgeous cover and intriguing title, then I noted who the author was, I was all in!
This is the story of a girl who wants to help her families reputation and will do anything she has to in order for her younger sister to make a good match. The MCs are Miss Arabella Bromley and Silas Spencer the Duke of Whittsley. The story begins with Arabella planning to convince Silas (a Duke and distant cousin to the Queen) to help her restore the good reputation of her family - although Silas was “a bit rakish and too unserious for Arabella’s tastes, his background was impeccable, and his opinions carried great weight” - exactly the man Arabella needs to wed! Now she just has to convince Silas to marry her, and quickly. Some simple rules is all these two need to avoid any misunderstandings and to achieve each of their goals as quickly and efficiently as possible. You know what they say about best laid plans…
This story will keep you entertained as our two MCs try their best to follow the rules, yet some rules just beg to be broken! I loved the banter between the characters and the chemistry between Arabella and Silas was smoking hot! Even with the lights on 👀 🔥❤️🔥
If you are looking for a witty, sexy, and playful story — check this book out!
Overall 5 Stars ⭐️ | 5 Flames 🔥 — I hope the author continues with these characters!
Review Copy of Ten Rules for Marrying a Duke provided by Entangled Publishing for an honest Review.
See More Reviews Alpha Book Club
December 23, 2022
This was a cute and entertaining marriage of convenience romance!
February 1, 2022
I read Hitched to the Gunslinger by this author last year and had a fun time with it. So when I saw this new regency romance, I couldn’t wait to jump into this marriage of convenience historical romance.
Bookish Arabella Bromley never cared for society’s rules, until her older sister married below her station putting the family’s reputation in ruin and harming any chance of their younger sister marrying well. To restore their ruined reputation, she must marry well—preferably a Duke—and fast! Enter Silas Spencer, Duke of Whittsley. The story kicks off with Arabella purposefully falling into his arms and getting an invitation into his home. He quickly realizes she is not injured and there for a reason, so Arabella jumps right into her deal…if Silas will marry her to help save her family, she will produce an heir for him and then leave him to his devices. They have one year to achieve their goals and ten iron-clad rules to help them stay the course…now if only they don’t break any rules along the way.
This was a cute read. It’s on the shorter side being just under 300 pages and I flew through it. The banter and chemistry between the couple was a lot of fun. I personally like a little more depth in my historical romance reads and this one was very surface-level, while I thought their banter was fun and cute at times, I was never emotionally connected to the characters and a lot of things are glossed over. I would say this is a good starter historical romance read or maybe when you want a lighter read. Moments I liked: a spectacle-wearing heroine who’d rather curl up in a corner reading a book than attend a ball, the setting up their rules and plan, the hero’s gift giving, how important family is to both of them.
Thank you to the publisher (Entangled) for an e-ARC via NetGalley, I am voluntarily leaving my honest thoughts and review. Ten Rules for Marrying a Duke has a publish date of February 14, 2022.
Bookish Arabella Bromley never cared for society’s rules, until her older sister married below her station putting the family’s reputation in ruin and harming any chance of their younger sister marrying well. To restore their ruined reputation, she must marry well—preferably a Duke—and fast! Enter Silas Spencer, Duke of Whittsley. The story kicks off with Arabella purposefully falling into his arms and getting an invitation into his home. He quickly realizes she is not injured and there for a reason, so Arabella jumps right into her deal…if Silas will marry her to help save her family, she will produce an heir for him and then leave him to his devices. They have one year to achieve their goals and ten iron-clad rules to help them stay the course…now if only they don’t break any rules along the way.
This was a cute read. It’s on the shorter side being just under 300 pages and I flew through it. The banter and chemistry between the couple was a lot of fun. I personally like a little more depth in my historical romance reads and this one was very surface-level, while I thought their banter was fun and cute at times, I was never emotionally connected to the characters and a lot of things are glossed over. I would say this is a good starter historical romance read or maybe when you want a lighter read. Moments I liked: a spectacle-wearing heroine who’d rather curl up in a corner reading a book than attend a ball, the setting up their rules and plan, the hero’s gift giving, how important family is to both of them.
Thank you to the publisher (Entangled) for an e-ARC via NetGalley, I am voluntarily leaving my honest thoughts and review. Ten Rules for Marrying a Duke has a publish date of February 14, 2022.
February 6, 2022
Desperate times call for desperate measures, so when her sister Alice creates a scandal by eloping with a groom, Arabella Bromley hatches a plan to save her younger sister Anne from social annihilation. She approaches Silas Spencer, the Duke of Whittsley with an arrangement that would benefit them both, marriage to save her family’s reputation and finding a husband for Anne in exchange for an heir and a wife happy to be shipped off to the country while her husband continues with his current lifestyle. And to her utter amazement, Silas agrees to her madcap plan but insists that they put the agreement in writing and the addition of a few rules.
Everything starts well, Arabella and Silas get along and enjoy each other’s company, in addition to that, Anne is inundated with suitors, including a handsome French Duc (thanks to Silas), and even Silas' grumpy maternal grandfather, Lord Mosley seems to be coming around. But before long, both Arabella and Silas realize that the unthinkable has happened, they are falling in love. Which is something that should be cause for rejoicing, but secrets, insecurities, and self-preservation end up tearing them apart. And unless they are willing to break some rules and lay their hearts bare, their HEA may be over before it even begins!
What a completely enchanting read! This book was an absolute delight to read, it was well-written and nicely paced, it had wonderful characters, witty banter, secrets, warm love scenes, great secondary characters, a little bit of angst, a dash of heartache, and finally, a HEA that was enhanced by a very sweet epilogue as well as a new set of “rules”. I loved this book and was so much fun to read that I would be happy to recommend it to anyone!
*I am voluntarily leaving a review for an eARC that I requested and was provided to me by the publisher. All opinions in this review are my own.*
Everything starts well, Arabella and Silas get along and enjoy each other’s company, in addition to that, Anne is inundated with suitors, including a handsome French Duc (thanks to Silas), and even Silas' grumpy maternal grandfather, Lord Mosley seems to be coming around. But before long, both Arabella and Silas realize that the unthinkable has happened, they are falling in love. Which is something that should be cause for rejoicing, but secrets, insecurities, and self-preservation end up tearing them apart. And unless they are willing to break some rules and lay their hearts bare, their HEA may be over before it even begins!
What a completely enchanting read! This book was an absolute delight to read, it was well-written and nicely paced, it had wonderful characters, witty banter, secrets, warm love scenes, great secondary characters, a little bit of angst, a dash of heartache, and finally, a HEA that was enhanced by a very sweet epilogue as well as a new set of “rules”. I loved this book and was so much fun to read that I would be happy to recommend it to anyone!
*I am voluntarily leaving a review for an eARC that I requested and was provided to me by the publisher. All opinions in this review are my own.*
January 30, 2022
***ARC Provided by the Publisher via NetGalley***
I like Historical romance. I like the romance of the time period (even though the harsher parts of it are glossed over as it's fiction) and the old way of doing things.
That said, I have certain expectations on my way into a historical romance and, sort of like when vampires sparkle in books (they don't sparkle, FYI) when you break with these conventions, it really needs to work or I am not going to be sold.
Well, Silas comes across to me as...silly. I wanted him to be a Duke and instead he seemed, in a lot of places, like an immature child. I think the idea was to make him lighter, more fun, nicer, willing to agree to Arabella's plan, and all that...but the result was a character who, much like those sparkly vampires, sort of stood out in a bad way from the things I need to make a story work. I want to fall in love a little with the hero in any story, and in this one, I just wanted Silas to grow up a little.
He never did. And, I never really believed in the appeal of him as anything other than the solution to the problem of having a Duke in the family working to erase a whole number of other sins of others.
I am not able to recommend this title.
I like Historical romance. I like the romance of the time period (even though the harsher parts of it are glossed over as it's fiction) and the old way of doing things.
That said, I have certain expectations on my way into a historical romance and, sort of like when vampires sparkle in books (they don't sparkle, FYI) when you break with these conventions, it really needs to work or I am not going to be sold.
Well, Silas comes across to me as...silly. I wanted him to be a Duke and instead he seemed, in a lot of places, like an immature child. I think the idea was to make him lighter, more fun, nicer, willing to agree to Arabella's plan, and all that...but the result was a character who, much like those sparkly vampires, sort of stood out in a bad way from the things I need to make a story work. I want to fall in love a little with the hero in any story, and in this one, I just wanted Silas to grow up a little.
He never did. And, I never really believed in the appeal of him as anything other than the solution to the problem of having a Duke in the family working to erase a whole number of other sins of others.
I am not able to recommend this title.
January 31, 2022
Ten Rules for Marrying a Duke is a fun and sexy historical romance that follows Arabella Bromley and Silas, the Duke of Whittsley as they enter into a marriage contract and find more than they ever bargained for. Arabella is desperate to restore her family’s reputation after her sister’s scandalous marriage tarnished it. With a younger sister’s future to ensure, Arabella proposes a marriage of convenience with the Duke of Whittsley, a rake who needs an heir. Though Silas has no interest in marrying, he is intrigued and bemused by Arabella’s proposal and agrees that a marriage could be the answer to both of their problems. The pair strikes a deal complete with rules they must abide by, and once Arabella gives Silas an heir and Silas helps Arabella’s sister make an appropriate match, they can go their separate ways and live life apart. Will this pair stick to the rules when their hearts are on the line?
I really enjoyed this romance. The characters are great, and the romance is quite sexy and filled with fun banter. Arabella is a bluestocking introvert who prefers hiding and reading at social events or avoiding them altogether. Silas is extroverted and has a delightfully mischievous side, and his wit and charm, as well as his extroversion, often make him the center of attention. Theirs is an opposites-attract romance, and it totally works for them. There’s so much chemistry between Silas and Arabella, and I love how they bring out the best in each other.
Arabella and Silas make a list of rules to follow during their courtship and marriage, and it’s fun to see them trying to adhere to them. Luckily, Silas is great at bending the rules, as he proves many times, much to Arabella’s delight. They have so much chemistry, and there is an instant spark when they meet, which only grows as the story progresses. I love how Silas and Arabella tease and taunt and flirt, and they have the best conversations – witty, fun, occasionally acerbic, and smart. You can tell they enjoy their time together, and their connection is amazing! I love romances where a marriage of convenience becomes a love match instead, and Arabella and Silas’s love story does just that.
Silas and Arabella have a steamy romance, and they both enjoy the perks of marriage. Get yourself a fan for this one, because once they take that step, they can’t keep their hands off each other! It’s sweet and charming and very sexy. Also, throughout their relationship, there’s a strong emphasis on consent, which I really liked especially since Arabella and Silas have entered into a contract. Silas never wants Arabella to feel pressured or forced to do something she’s not comfortable with regardless of their contract or their promises to each other, and he repeatedly tells her she is in control of what they do. It made me love him even more because he never treats Arabella as anything less than an equal and someone to be respected, admired, and listened to.
I read my first Michelle McLean romance last year when I picked up Hitched to the Gunslinger. I adored the story and the author’s unique and humorous voice. Ten Rules for Marrying a Duke reaffirms why I enjoy this author so much. It’s fun and funny and romantic, and the storytelling and characters are great. I would definitely recommend this book to readers of historical romance or historical rom-coms and am especially thankful to NetGalley, Entangled Publishing, and the author for providing a copy of the book in exchange for my honest review.
I really enjoyed this romance. The characters are great, and the romance is quite sexy and filled with fun banter. Arabella is a bluestocking introvert who prefers hiding and reading at social events or avoiding them altogether. Silas is extroverted and has a delightfully mischievous side, and his wit and charm, as well as his extroversion, often make him the center of attention. Theirs is an opposites-attract romance, and it totally works for them. There’s so much chemistry between Silas and Arabella, and I love how they bring out the best in each other.
Arabella and Silas make a list of rules to follow during their courtship and marriage, and it’s fun to see them trying to adhere to them. Luckily, Silas is great at bending the rules, as he proves many times, much to Arabella’s delight. They have so much chemistry, and there is an instant spark when they meet, which only grows as the story progresses. I love how Silas and Arabella tease and taunt and flirt, and they have the best conversations – witty, fun, occasionally acerbic, and smart. You can tell they enjoy their time together, and their connection is amazing! I love romances where a marriage of convenience becomes a love match instead, and Arabella and Silas’s love story does just that.
Silas and Arabella have a steamy romance, and they both enjoy the perks of marriage. Get yourself a fan for this one, because once they take that step, they can’t keep their hands off each other! It’s sweet and charming and very sexy. Also, throughout their relationship, there’s a strong emphasis on consent, which I really liked especially since Arabella and Silas have entered into a contract. Silas never wants Arabella to feel pressured or forced to do something she’s not comfortable with regardless of their contract or their promises to each other, and he repeatedly tells her she is in control of what they do. It made me love him even more because he never treats Arabella as anything less than an equal and someone to be respected, admired, and listened to.
I read my first Michelle McLean romance last year when I picked up Hitched to the Gunslinger. I adored the story and the author’s unique and humorous voice. Ten Rules for Marrying a Duke reaffirms why I enjoy this author so much. It’s fun and funny and romantic, and the storytelling and characters are great. I would definitely recommend this book to readers of historical romance or historical rom-coms and am especially thankful to NetGalley, Entangled Publishing, and the author for providing a copy of the book in exchange for my honest review.
February 22, 2022
4.5 Stars
A marriage of convenience, a charming duke, and a bookish heroine. Michelle McLean was able to create a refreshing take on the most common romance trope and characters and make it totally delightful.
Silas and Arabella feel that setting up a contract will ensure both parties keep their promise and a marriage of convenience will forever stay a convenience. We all know how that will end. After all, rules are meant to be broken. Something they both love doing. :)
Silas and Arabella together are just fire, and it was fun seeing them fall in love and break their well-planned contract one rule at a time. Their interactions and witty banter had me grinning throughout. Silas was so charming and genuinely such a nice person I found it hard to believe that he had an irresponsible reputation.
Though some dialogues sound modern, this book was well written and amazingly paced. And in case you are wondering if it is all a bed of roses, the story has the right amount of angst to make it enjoyable till the very end. This book is a must-read for all historical romance lovers.
I received an ARC from Netgalley in exchange for my honest review
A marriage of convenience, a charming duke, and a bookish heroine. Michelle McLean was able to create a refreshing take on the most common romance trope and characters and make it totally delightful.
Silas and Arabella feel that setting up a contract will ensure both parties keep their promise and a marriage of convenience will forever stay a convenience. We all know how that will end. After all, rules are meant to be broken. Something they both love doing. :)
Silas and Arabella together are just fire, and it was fun seeing them fall in love and break their well-planned contract one rule at a time. Their interactions and witty banter had me grinning throughout. Silas was so charming and genuinely such a nice person I found it hard to believe that he had an irresponsible reputation.
Though some dialogues sound modern, this book was well written and amazingly paced. And in case you are wondering if it is all a bed of roses, the story has the right amount of angst to make it enjoyable till the very end. This book is a must-read for all historical romance lovers.
I received an ARC from Netgalley in exchange for my honest review
February 6, 2022
I had read another book from Michelle and really enjoyed it, so I was thrilled to try this one.
I really liked Arabella and Silas. She needs to right her family name and he needs an heir, of course they come up with a plan that gives them both what they want, but surprising no one, not what they need. I truly enjoyed reading them get under each other’s skin and push buttons.
Plot wise, it was good. The story is short, but still feels fleshed out and the few reveals didn’t take away from the main romance. I could have easily read 100 more pages of these two getting to know each other, but I’m probably just being greedy. Especially when the epilogue was so good.
Overall, this was a quick and fun read and I look forward to other titles from this author.
**Huge thanks to the publisher for providing the arc free of charge**
I really liked Arabella and Silas. She needs to right her family name and he needs an heir, of course they come up with a plan that gives them both what they want, but surprising no one, not what they need. I truly enjoyed reading them get under each other’s skin and push buttons.
Plot wise, it was good. The story is short, but still feels fleshed out and the few reveals didn’t take away from the main romance. I could have easily read 100 more pages of these two getting to know each other, but I’m probably just being greedy. Especially when the epilogue was so good.
Overall, this was a quick and fun read and I look forward to other titles from this author.
**Huge thanks to the publisher for providing the arc free of charge**
February 12, 2022
3.5 stars rounded up to four! Ten Rules for Marrying a Duke is a satisfying historical romance, if not groundbreaking. Arabella approaches the duke of Whittsley with a bargain: they will marry, she'll provide him with an heir and then get out of his hair. In return, he will sponsor her sister in Society and find her an appropriate husband. Anyone who reads romance knows that their marriage of convenience will soon blossom into a love match!
The banter is nicely written and the circumstances of their marriage make for a fun read. We would have loved a little more steam (McLean gets points for unexpected locations). The final conflict relies heavily on miscommunication, which can be frustrating. All in all, a low-key, satisfying romance without huge fireworks.
This objective review is based on a complimentary copy of the novel.
The banter is nicely written and the circumstances of their marriage make for a fun read. We would have loved a little more steam (McLean gets points for unexpected locations). The final conflict relies heavily on miscommunication, which can be frustrating. All in all, a low-key, satisfying romance without huge fireworks.
This objective review is based on a complimentary copy of the novel.
May 9, 2023
Released as a standalone—with a marriage of convenience trope.
This story follows our hero Silas, Duke of Whittsley, and our heroine Arabella Bromley. Arabella’s family name needs restored now that it is unfavorably viewed by the ton. This happened after her older sister marries a servant. Silas also needs to marry soon to satisfy his cranky grandfather by siring an heir.
Arabella must convince the Duke to marry her to regain her family’s good reputation.. all for her younger sister Anne’s coming out into society. They strike a deal with ten rules they agree to follow that includes Arabella and Silas procreating his heir + Silas finding a reputable suitor for Anne.
What they don’t count on is falling in love, which they do, head over heels! But Silas has a tight-lipped secret that is causing Arabella to back away from him. I loved this mystery aspect of the story. What or whom is Silas hiding and why? I never guessed it! This was a fun, light read that I would recommend to anyone who enjoys a clean, closed door HEA. ❥ 4 stars — Pub. 2/14/23
This story follows our hero Silas, Duke of Whittsley, and our heroine Arabella Bromley. Arabella’s family name needs restored now that it is unfavorably viewed by the ton. This happened after her older sister marries a servant. Silas also needs to marry soon to satisfy his cranky grandfather by siring an heir.
Arabella must convince the Duke to marry her to regain her family’s good reputation.. all for her younger sister Anne’s coming out into society. They strike a deal with ten rules they agree to follow that includes Arabella and Silas procreating his heir + Silas finding a reputable suitor for Anne.
What they don’t count on is falling in love, which they do, head over heels! But Silas has a tight-lipped secret that is causing Arabella to back away from him. I loved this mystery aspect of the story. What or whom is Silas hiding and why? I never guessed it! This was a fun, light read that I would recommend to anyone who enjoys a clean, closed door HEA. ❥ 4 stars — Pub. 2/14/23
February 13, 2022
Simply delightful and full of humor and witty banter, it doesn't get much better than this!
What do you do when you need to get married quickly, due to a scandal your sister just produced?
Why find a ducal man to marry and that is just what Arabella does! After all, she is good at rules and is ready to agree!
Silas, Duke of Whittsby, was enchanted by Arabella's suggestion. It was time he married and if she was going to produce an heir and then they can go their own way, why not?
Of course in all the rules they had agreed upon, the word "love" was not to be found. Fortunately rules are sometimes made to be broken, so who knows what will happen?
Pure enjoyment and not to be missed!
What do you do when you need to get married quickly, due to a scandal your sister just produced?
Why find a ducal man to marry and that is just what Arabella does! After all, she is good at rules and is ready to agree!
Silas, Duke of Whittsby, was enchanted by Arabella's suggestion. It was time he married and if she was going to produce an heir and then they can go their own way, why not?
Of course in all the rules they had agreed upon, the word "love" was not to be found. Fortunately rules are sometimes made to be broken, so who knows what will happen?
Pure enjoyment and not to be missed!
February 7, 2022
2.5 stars
Premise? Great. Execution? Eh.
Michelle McLean's Ten Rules for Marrying a Duke starts out well enough with our headstrong, bookish heroine Arabella convincing a rowdy duke that it is in both of their best interests to enter into a marriage of convenience. This first encounter and its aftermath, which take up about 20% of the book, is probably the best scene in the book with some really delightful banter and relationship development.
From there, however, we get a story where there is a lot of telling instead of showing and a relationship that feels like it is only advanced through sex. The conflict, which is introduced fairly early on, is abandoned for the majority of the novel and conveniently returns in the third act, resulting in a somewhat dragged out final 20%. The great banter is sprinkled throughout, but it simply was not enough to completely redeem this read. It is, however, enough to keep me interested in keeping up another book from McLean to see if I enjoy it more.
Thank you to NetGalley and Kensington Books for an ARC of this book in exchange for a fair and honest review!
Premise? Great. Execution? Eh.
Michelle McLean's Ten Rules for Marrying a Duke starts out well enough with our headstrong, bookish heroine Arabella convincing a rowdy duke that it is in both of their best interests to enter into a marriage of convenience. This first encounter and its aftermath, which take up about 20% of the book, is probably the best scene in the book with some really delightful banter and relationship development.
From there, however, we get a story where there is a lot of telling instead of showing and a relationship that feels like it is only advanced through sex. The conflict, which is introduced fairly early on, is abandoned for the majority of the novel and conveniently returns in the third act, resulting in a somewhat dragged out final 20%. The great banter is sprinkled throughout, but it simply was not enough to completely redeem this read. It is, however, enough to keep me interested in keeping up another book from McLean to see if I enjoy it more.
Thank you to NetGalley and Kensington Books for an ARC of this book in exchange for a fair and honest review!
February 3, 2022
Thanks to NetGalley for an ARC copy of this ebook, and this is my freely given opinion.
This quick read historical romance was super appealing to me as I was looking for something lighthearted, and romantic - a bit of something to lighten things up after the gothic darkness of Emmanuelle De Maupassant's Dangerous Desire, and something that works to lighten my mood after my brief dalliances with the reality of work.
This story gave me a smile right away when we meet Silas, the Duke of Whittsley, because he is definitely a rogue with an irreverent sense of humour, and I loved his interactions with Arabella. She and her family suffered a change to their social status when her eldest sister dared to fall in love with a man far below her social status and eloped with him. Unfortunately this tarnished the rest of her family. Arabella doesn't care for herself so much, she has always been happy to sneak off into a nook somewhere to read (preaching to the choir here!), and is happy with the thought of being a bluestocking spinster aunt... but she cares very much about her youngest sister Anne, and her marriage prospects. Her plan to help her sister and repair their family's reputation is to offer a proposal to the Silas; herself as a wife who will bear him an heir, but once that is done, retire to his country estate with it's famed library, and have the two of them living separate lives. Silas doesn't want a clinging wife, but is aware that, as the last of his line, he needs to sire an heir, and agrees to her plan, so long as there are the eponymous rules they follow.
I won't detail the rules; I found the laying down of them, and the execution of them amusing and rather sweet. Silas and Arabella initially thought they would spend a few months together to re-establish her family's standing in society, find a suitable husband for her sister, and engage in "heir-making activities" and once she was pregnant, they would go their separate ways to lead separate, but merry lives. But they found that, as they spent more time together, they liked each other more than they expected. However, because of the rules and expectations of they each espoused at the beginning, neither one of them were comfortable expressing their growing affection for each other. Also, there is a mystery of something Silas hides from Arabella, which leads to a bit of angsty confusion before they reach their HEA.
This was a very sweet, heart warming read that I enjoyed. Both characters were likeable, and I enjoyed their banter. This was satisfying, like a beautiful hot latte, with fresh baked buttery cookies on a cold winter's day, and reading it gave me a warm and happy feeling. Definitely a treat - but not a full meal. Having a furry friend in it - albeit a cat, not a dog, helped too. It's not a deep thinker - but it was a happy maker.
4.5 stars out of 5.
This quick read historical romance was super appealing to me as I was looking for something lighthearted, and romantic - a bit of something to lighten things up after the gothic darkness of Emmanuelle De Maupassant's Dangerous Desire, and something that works to lighten my mood after my brief dalliances with the reality of work.
This story gave me a smile right away when we meet Silas, the Duke of Whittsley, because he is definitely a rogue with an irreverent sense of humour, and I loved his interactions with Arabella. She and her family suffered a change to their social status when her eldest sister dared to fall in love with a man far below her social status and eloped with him. Unfortunately this tarnished the rest of her family. Arabella doesn't care for herself so much, she has always been happy to sneak off into a nook somewhere to read (preaching to the choir here!), and is happy with the thought of being a bluestocking spinster aunt... but she cares very much about her youngest sister Anne, and her marriage prospects. Her plan to help her sister and repair their family's reputation is to offer a proposal to the Silas; herself as a wife who will bear him an heir, but once that is done, retire to his country estate with it's famed library, and have the two of them living separate lives. Silas doesn't want a clinging wife, but is aware that, as the last of his line, he needs to sire an heir, and agrees to her plan, so long as there are the eponymous rules they follow.
I won't detail the rules; I found the laying down of them, and the execution of them amusing and rather sweet. Silas and Arabella initially thought they would spend a few months together to re-establish her family's standing in society, find a suitable husband for her sister, and engage in "heir-making activities" and once she was pregnant, they would go their separate ways to lead separate, but merry lives. But they found that, as they spent more time together, they liked each other more than they expected. However, because of the rules and expectations of they each espoused at the beginning, neither one of them were comfortable expressing their growing affection for each other. Also, there is a mystery of something Silas hides from Arabella, which leads to a bit of angsty confusion before they reach their HEA.
This was a very sweet, heart warming read that I enjoyed. Both characters were likeable, and I enjoyed their banter. This was satisfying, like a beautiful hot latte, with fresh baked buttery cookies on a cold winter's day, and reading it gave me a warm and happy feeling. Definitely a treat - but not a full meal. Having a furry friend in it - albeit a cat, not a dog, helped too. It's not a deep thinker - but it was a happy maker.
4.5 stars out of 5.
February 12, 2022
Bookish Arabella Bromley never gave a fig for society’s rules—until her elder sister Alice ran off with the family’s groom. Now Arabella is desperate to restore her family’s ruined reputation so that her younger sister Anne can have the season she deserves. Ari will have to marry quickly and well. But in order to carry off her plan, she needs a duke and she has just the rakish fellow in mind. Silas Spencer, The Duke of Whittsley has an ungentlemanly tendency to disregard the rules. Unfortunately, a sense of mischief doesn’t excuse a high-ranking noble from family duty—especially where it concerns producing a son. And that’s where he can’t quite resist Arabella’s distinctly outrageous plan: if he saves her family, she’ll give him an heir. Now the deal’s been struck. They have one year to achieve their goals and ten iron-clad rules to keep them on track.
A very well written, entertaining book with strong characters & a well paced plot. I loved Ari the bookish wallflower. I found Silas to be puerile at the start of the book but I grew to like him more & more & his words to Ari in the church had me loving him. I was totally invested in their road to a HEA, which wasn’t easy but was hugely entertaining. I loved the ten rules, which were negotiated & how they were stretched & loved the epilogue with the new rules. I highly recommend this captivating read
My honest review is for a special copy I voluntarily read
A very well written, entertaining book with strong characters & a well paced plot. I loved Ari the bookish wallflower. I found Silas to be puerile at the start of the book but I grew to like him more & more & his words to Ari in the church had me loving him. I was totally invested in their road to a HEA, which wasn’t easy but was hugely entertaining. I loved the ten rules, which were negotiated & how they were stretched & loved the epilogue with the new rules. I highly recommend this captivating read
My honest review is for a special copy I voluntarily read
January 27, 2022
There is something so simple yet so relaxing about historical romances. They always bring fond memories back from my childhood when my mother lent me her collection of Harlequin books and that joy still comes back whenever I open one.
Ten Rules for Marrying A Duke is about Arabella and Silas who agrees to a marriage of convenience to get what they both want: Silas wants an heir and Arabella wants her sister to be able to find a husband despite their family's ruined reputation. I have said it before and I will say it again (because I always find myself reading books with this trope): when the characters starts to fall for each other despite them agreeing and making rules not to? It is fantastic.
It might not happen anything too surprising in the book, but it helped my brain relax for a bit and just enjoy the love story taking place without giving it too much thought.
Thank you to Entangled Publishing for providing me this ARC via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
Ten Rules for Marrying A Duke is about Arabella and Silas who agrees to a marriage of convenience to get what they both want: Silas wants an heir and Arabella wants her sister to be able to find a husband despite their family's ruined reputation. I have said it before and I will say it again (because I always find myself reading books with this trope): when the characters starts to fall for each other despite them agreeing and making rules not to? It is fantastic.
It might not happen anything too surprising in the book, but it helped my brain relax for a bit and just enjoy the love story taking place without giving it too much thought.
Thank you to Entangled Publishing for providing me this ARC via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
March 31, 2025
The dreaded non-communication trope…oh how I hate it!
October 29, 2022
I received an Advance Reader Copy from the publisher via NetGalley. This in no way impacted on my view.
When Arabella's sister runs off with a man below their station, Arabella is forced to repair the family's reputation, and so plans to marry in order to do so. Turning to the Duke of Whittsley, she gives him a proposition - marry and she'll bear his sons, and in return, he'll restore the family. But, there are rules for their bargain, and a year in which to succeed. And as the year progresses, both soon find that they might be falling in love, once and for all.
A true marriage of convenience is a joy to read, and this one was fantastic. Both Arabella and Silas were upfront with their needs and wants before the marriage, and went into it without any misconceptions. I liked how quick a read this book was, as well as being one you could switch off too. It was a great romantic read for a cold winters afternoon.
When Arabella's sister runs off with a man below their station, Arabella is forced to repair the family's reputation, and so plans to marry in order to do so. Turning to the Duke of Whittsley, she gives him a proposition - marry and she'll bear his sons, and in return, he'll restore the family. But, there are rules for their bargain, and a year in which to succeed. And as the year progresses, both soon find that they might be falling in love, once and for all.
A true marriage of convenience is a joy to read, and this one was fantastic. Both Arabella and Silas were upfront with their needs and wants before the marriage, and went into it without any misconceptions. I liked how quick a read this book was, as well as being one you could switch off too. It was a great romantic read for a cold winters afternoon.
February 19, 2022
Ten Rules for Marrying a Duke was just what I needed to get me out of the reading slump I have been having this week. It involves Arabella, who proposes to the most eligible bachelor in London, Silas. She knows his status will help quiet the scandal of her older sister marrying below her station and will secure a good match for her younger sister. In exchange, he will get an heir and a wife he can ignore.
I thought this was such an adorable love story. Right fri\om the beginning, I was sucked into their love story. They had great banter and chemistry. It was just so much fun watching them fall for each other. There were times that I was yelling for them to just admit their feelings. The list of rules was a neat idea. That scene where they came up with the list was really cute. I highly recommend this one if you are looking for a sweet and romantic romance.
I thought this was such an adorable love story. Right fri\om the beginning, I was sucked into their love story. They had great banter and chemistry. It was just so much fun watching them fall for each other. There were times that I was yelling for them to just admit their feelings. The list of rules was a neat idea. That scene where they came up with the list was really cute. I highly recommend this one if you are looking for a sweet and romantic romance.
February 1, 2022
5 - "Life with you will never be boring... will it?" Stars!
Outstanding read.
Michelle McLean always manages to pull me into her historical stories and Arabella and Silas's had all of the things I have some to expect from her writing.
Wit, emotion a great story-line and cast of characters and I pretty much read it in one sitting!
ARC generously provided via Netgalley, in exchange for the above honest review.
Outstanding read.
Michelle McLean always manages to pull me into her historical stories and Arabella and Silas's had all of the things I have some to expect from her writing.
Wit, emotion a great story-line and cast of characters and I pretty much read it in one sitting!
ARC generously provided via Netgalley, in exchange for the above honest review.
September 21, 2022
Regency romance with a slight twist. Enjoyed!
January 29, 2022
“She needs a husband with the money and connections to make her family scandal disappear, and I need a wife who is able to tolerate me long enough to provide an heir and willing to disappear afterward. I think the arrangement suits us both rather nicely.”
Silas and Arabella strike their deal, establish their ten rules, and set a one-year time frame to reach their goals all within the first few pages. This was fun and fast-paced, if a little predictable, and Silas and Arabella’s amusement with one another carried me through.
“You’re incorrigible.”
“True. But that’s part of my charm.”
“I hate that you aren’t wrong.”
“You mean I’m right?”
“I wouldn’t go that far.”
Marriage of convenience tropes can be boring, but this one was a fun romp. I enjoyed their back and forth banter and easy way with one another from the beginning, and it’s clear Silas and Arabella enjoy baiting one another.
The misunderstanding was expected and all their conflicted and pesky feelings that violated their agreement were what you’d think they’d be. Silas’s charm and Arabella’s wit kept me turning the pages, but the ending dragged and the plot itself was nothing unique. A fun read for a snowy morning.
I received an ARC from NetGalley
Silas and Arabella strike their deal, establish their ten rules, and set a one-year time frame to reach their goals all within the first few pages. This was fun and fast-paced, if a little predictable, and Silas and Arabella’s amusement with one another carried me through.
“You’re incorrigible.”
“True. But that’s part of my charm.”
“I hate that you aren’t wrong.”
“You mean I’m right?”
“I wouldn’t go that far.”
Marriage of convenience tropes can be boring, but this one was a fun romp. I enjoyed their back and forth banter and easy way with one another from the beginning, and it’s clear Silas and Arabella enjoy baiting one another.
The misunderstanding was expected and all their conflicted and pesky feelings that violated their agreement were what you’d think they’d be. Silas’s charm and Arabella’s wit kept me turning the pages, but the ending dragged and the plot itself was nothing unique. A fun read for a snowy morning.
I received an ARC from NetGalley
July 20, 2022
This is a delightful read!
What I loved the most was how - after that initial SHOCKING proposal that Arabella presented to Silas - both characters ended up having good times with each other. Even the secondary characters are lovely.
Yes, Arabella is the introvert one, prefer to be with her books than in social situations, while Silas is the outgoing guy who seems unable to take things seriously -- but they compliment one another. Silas finds that Arabella is surprising and that with her, being engaged and married gives him pleasure. Arabella also finds Silas to be entertaining yet thoughtful of her requests.
The book is not without conflict... Silas does keep a secret from Arabella... and we have the "misunderstanding" trope as once Arabella is wiith a child, Silas thinks that his wife cannot wait to get away from him while Arabella thinks that her husband cannot wait to be free again. But it doesn't take too much time for the resolution, and that they realize that the rules they make in the beginning no longer applied because they both fall in love with another.
It's a wonderful, fun, read for me.
What I loved the most was how - after that initial SHOCKING proposal that Arabella presented to Silas - both characters ended up having good times with each other. Even the secondary characters are lovely.
Yes, Arabella is the introvert one, prefer to be with her books than in social situations, while Silas is the outgoing guy who seems unable to take things seriously -- but they compliment one another. Silas finds that Arabella is surprising and that with her, being engaged and married gives him pleasure. Arabella also finds Silas to be entertaining yet thoughtful of her requests.
The book is not without conflict... Silas does keep a secret from Arabella... and we have the "misunderstanding" trope as once Arabella is wiith a child, Silas thinks that his wife cannot wait to get away from him while Arabella thinks that her husband cannot wait to be free again. But it doesn't take too much time for the resolution, and that they realize that the rules they make in the beginning no longer applied because they both fall in love with another.
It's a wonderful, fun, read for me.
February 12, 2022
Arabella Bromley has decided on a scheme to propose to the Duke of Whittsley to help salvage her family name for herself and her younger sister after her older sister ran off with the groom. Silas was quite intrigued by Arabella and was being pressured to marry by his grandfather anyways and this young woman was offering to sire him an heir then move off to the country to enjoy his vast libraries in his country estate. Well why not?
Once they agreed on rules as to not overstep since neither of them wanted a relationship they set about a courtship, quick betrothal and marriage. Though with two such personalities to enter into such an arrangement and can they keep their heart out of it?
Oh my! I just loved how inexperienced Arabella was making rules and Silas was agreeing to them like a cat that got the cream. She didn't even know what boons she was giving him.
Though there were some secrets that they both had to overcome and the fact that neither of them wanted to share their feelings because of the Rules and the contract they drew up.
This book definitely helped lighten my mood from some of the other books I have been trying to get through and starting other books lately. It is fitting that is is releasing on Valentine's Day, a very sweet romance that will make you laugh!
Read if you like:
🌹Witty banter
💌Marriage of Convenience
🌹Rakish dukes that fall pretty hard
Thank you tlcbooktours entangled_publishing and netgalley for the e-ARC for my honest and voluntary review.
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐💫
Once they agreed on rules as to not overstep since neither of them wanted a relationship they set about a courtship, quick betrothal and marriage. Though with two such personalities to enter into such an arrangement and can they keep their heart out of it?
Oh my! I just loved how inexperienced Arabella was making rules and Silas was agreeing to them like a cat that got the cream. She didn't even know what boons she was giving him.
Though there were some secrets that they both had to overcome and the fact that neither of them wanted to share their feelings because of the Rules and the contract they drew up.
This book definitely helped lighten my mood from some of the other books I have been trying to get through and starting other books lately. It is fitting that is is releasing on Valentine's Day, a very sweet romance that will make you laugh!
Read if you like:
🌹Witty banter
💌Marriage of Convenience
🌹Rakish dukes that fall pretty hard
Thank you tlcbooktours entangled_publishing and netgalley for the e-ARC for my honest and voluntary review.
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐💫
January 28, 2022
This one was a fun read! Pet Semetary had been killing my brain, and this was the perfect thing to counter it. It was a super fast read, but one that delivered what I wanted.
My favorite thing about it was definitely the first 30%. The spark between Arabella and Silas was tangible, and their interactions were so fun to read. Both of them were so fiery. And to me, it felt like it was the phase in which most of the action happened. The characters met, fell in love, made their contracts, and had their most memorable moments. After that, although still enjoyable, the book plateaued a bit. It fell into the trap of miscommunication after miscommunication. It wasn't as bad as some others I'd read, but it was still frustrating.
I'm tired (stayed up way too late reading this) so I'm cutting my review short. Main thing is that this one was a super fun read, and I'd definitely recommend it!
Thanks to Netgalley for providing a free copy in exchange for an honest review!
My favorite thing about it was definitely the first 30%. The spark between Arabella and Silas was tangible, and their interactions were so fun to read. Both of them were so fiery. And to me, it felt like it was the phase in which most of the action happened. The characters met, fell in love, made their contracts, and had their most memorable moments. After that, although still enjoyable, the book plateaued a bit. It fell into the trap of miscommunication after miscommunication. It wasn't as bad as some others I'd read, but it was still frustrating.
I'm tired (stayed up way too late reading this) so I'm cutting my review short. Main thing is that this one was a super fun read, and I'd definitely recommend it!
Thanks to Netgalley for providing a free copy in exchange for an honest review!
Displaying 1 - 30 of 232 reviews