Get Your Duke On

by Kathryn Le Veque, Chasity Bowlin, Alexa Aston

Welcome to a rollicking summer in Regency England, where the weather is warm, the ladies warmer, and the dukes sizzling-hot!

For lovers of historical romance, lose yourself in this collection of never before published Regency tales. From gambling halls to ballrooms, you’ll enjoy a summer with a wide cast of unforgettable characters. Themes from your favorite summertime songs have inspired these tales, so get ready for fun, fun, fun or a little old lady who drives her phaeton far too fast.

It’s glamour, passion, and adventure in one magical summer in Regency England!

Authors in this collection include:

Kathryn Le Veque - Georgina and the Red Charger
Chasity Bowlin - The Boys of Summer
Alexa Aston - The Duke That I Want
Maggi Andersen - The Duke's Brown-Eyed Lady
Meara Platt - Moonstone Angel
Mary Lancaster - Blue Skies
Caroline Lee - The Yellow Polka-Dotted Bathing Costume
Elizabeth Johns - A Cruel Summer
Cerise Deland - Lady, You're Mine
Bianca Blythe - Summer in the City
Nadine Millard - A Duke Never Tells
Amy Jarecki - The Duke's Secret Longings
Sofie Darling - Nell and the Runaway Duke
Merry Farmer - Love Shack Baby

Genres: Anthologies, Historical Romance, Historical, Regency, Romance, Short Stories, Fiction

1061 pages, ebook

First published August 17, 2022

About the author

Juggernaut Indie author Kathryn Le Veque is a 'tour de force' in publishing.

Kathryn is a critically acclaimed 21-time USA TODAY Bestselling author, a charter Amazon All-Star author, an Indie Reader top seller, and a #1 bestselling, award-winning, multi-published author in Medieval Historical Romance with over 100 published novels.

Among her many accomplishments, she is the CEO of Dragonblade Publishing, the #1 Historical Romance e-book publisher on Amazon. In 2020, Kathryn collaborated with Sourcebooks publishing for a Medieval Fight Club series set in Scotland.

Reviews

[Pooja Peravali · Rating 4 out of 5]

It’s summer in Regency England, and there is lots of romance to go around – for there are many dukes on the lookout for a wife!

I love a good anthology. They’re a nice way to dive into variations on theme, sure, but even better they are a sampler for various authors, and a good way to find new ones. And considering I had never read any of the authors here, I was certain I’d find a number of new books to read.

And I did! Despite the length of the anthology, I more or less breezed through the book. Though the stories cover a variety of subjects and themes, they all tie back to the theme of summertime – though not necessarily always the Season, which is an important distinction to make. One true strong point of this collection is that none of the stories felt rushed; I thought this length worked very well for them all.

Of course, being an anthology, I did like prefer some stories over others. Some of the authors experimented with less conventional plots and leads, which generally the ones I liked best. I thought the stories toward the beginning and the end of the reading order were not as strong as those in the middle, though I enjoyed pretty much all of them.

My favorites were Maggi Anderson’s “The Duke’s Brown-eyed Lady” for its genteel air, Mary Lancaster’s “Blue Skies” for its lovable leads, and Bianca Blythe’s “Summer in the City” for its humor.

Disclaimer: I received an ARC of this book from NetGalley. This is my honest and voluntary review.

[Lady Nilambari Reads HR · Rating 3 out of 5]

I read about half the stories. They are clean, basic, kiddie romances. Meh!

[Jaime · Rating 5 out of 5]

Another excellent collection of romance brought to us by award winning authors - it’s time to GET YOUR DUKE ON! 😍

I admit that I usually run from anthologies simply because I am one of those greedy readers that loves LONG stories, always wanting more “time” with the happily ever after part of the story. In simple terms - I LIKE BIG BOOKS! 😉 However when I saw this book with the fun title, pretty cover, and stellar authors I decided to jump in and enjoy some sexy Dukes!

📌From the blurb:
Welcome to a rollicking summer in Regency England, where the weather is warm, the ladies warmer, and the dukes sizzling-hot!

For lovers of historical romance, lose yourself in this collection of never before published Regency tales. From gambling halls to ballrooms, you’ll enjoy a summer with a wide cast of unforgettable characters. Themes from your favorite summertime songs have inspired these tales, so get ready for fun, fun, fun or a little old lady who drives her phaeton far too fast.

It’s glamour, passion, and adventure in one magical summer in Regency England!

❤️‍🔥🧯📚 I loved every story and am already anxious to see which ones will be expanded into full length books!

Overall Rating - 5 Stars ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ | 4 Flames 🔥🔥🔥🔥

📚Disclosure: I received a review copy of this book from Dragonblade Publishing via Netgalley. All thoughts, opinions, comments, and interpretations of the story are my own and bias free. I did not receive any money in exchange for this review. Thank you to the publisher for allowing me the opportunity to review. 🦄

[🦉Maggie Whitworth · Rating 5 out of 5]

Overall rating ❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️

This is just a couple of stories that I’ve read and reviewed from this wonderful compilation, I’ll put them all up as I read them .
Highly recommended!

Kathryn Le Veque
Georgina and the red charger

❤️❤️❤️❤️
💋

A sweet and amusing interfering mother, sorts out the perfect romance for her son and an unsuspecting young lady.
This girl really need to learn to step back from the kerb.
Georgina is a menace in her red charger, her son is quite aware.
But when she brings home a beautiful girl he’s thankful.
Sweet and romantic read.


Alexa Aston
The Duke that I want

❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️
💋💋

This is a series is adored, and it’s wonderful to see Elizabeth’s story.
This is a brilliant novella that will make you feel that anything is achievable.
The Duke of Dewberry/Philip Ware had a rough start to his life, a lost mother an inattentive father and a much older brother.
School was rough and then he met a man who’s family would change his destiny.
This is a wonderful ending for the series. Great reading.

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

[Lana Birky · Rating 5 out of 5]

I am going to do a short review of each book as I read them:

GEORGINA AND THE RED CHARGER by Kathryn LeVeque - What a fun read and I loved the Little Old Lady and her Red Charger! However, she was a typical mom when it came to finding a bride for her son, Joshua and her pick of a bride was Georgina. This was a clever and enjoyable story, with a cute and quick romance that left me laughing!

THE BOYS OF SUMMER by Chasity Bowlin - The couple in this romance met one summer while visiting and staying by the sea. Both Clarissa and Augustus, came from abusive father situations and they made a promise to each other that they would wait for each other and marry someday. Fifteen years later at a house party, the two meet again. I really enjoyed the reunion the entertaining set of problems to overcome but a wonderful HEA is experienced!

THE DUKE THAT I WANT by Alexa Aston - One of the main things I liked about this story was the strong friendships formed by the men. Elizabeth is the sister of one of the dukes and is introduced to Philip, a newly titled duke, and a school acquaintance of her brother many years ago when Philip was only seven years old. The love at first sight between the soul mates was exciting, the friendships and love that wrapped you up in the pages was heartwarming -the HEA was wonderful!

THE DUKE'S BROWN-EYED LADY by Maggi Andersen -Gene and Mellie were the perfect couple and I fell in love with both instantly. Their friendship turned romance had several problems - her parents wanted her to marry an awful man, Gene felt he was too old for Mellie, Mellie thought he only wanted a friend but in the end love won. This was a well written, sweet story with a wonderful HEA.

MOONSTONE ANGEL by Meara Platt - Oh, how I love this author's books! Rowan is a duke and Cara is his grandmother's companion and they are a perfect couple - their banter was hilarious, his grandmother was so loving, their romance was sweet and well, romantic! It was such a loving, heart-warming story set in a peaceful and picturesque seaside town. The book was very well written, and the author's descriptions were so clear, I could picture the scenery, the shore, the dolphins as if I was there.

BLUE SKIES by Mary Lancaster - I fell in love with Gideon and Hope. Their first meeting was such fun; the bantering between them was priceless and Gideon really appreciated her telling him how the cow ate the corn, even if he was a crabby, recluse of a duke. They built their romance on honesty, friendship and then love, which ended in a HEA. This eloquently articulated story gave this delightful couple life - loved it!

NELL AND THE RUNAWAY DUKE by Sofie Darling - Nell grew up in the East End but had managed to work her way up to being a seamstress to the elite in a shop she runs in London for her two friends. Lucas is a duke but hates the fact that it is all a young lady sees is his title. When they meet, Lucas decides not to tell her he is a duke & neither can forget the other one. The characters have such substance; the dialogue & bountiful humor are well written with genuinely emotional scenes - it was a wonderful HEA romance!

THE YELLOW POLKA-DOTTED BATHING COSTUME by Caroline Lee - Lady Althea Lindsay is the youngest daughter of a duke, the fiancée of an earl, and she has always loved Sebastian Shaw, the boy next door who unexpectedly inherited a dukedom. After her betrothed’s death, she decides to pursue Sebastian and make him propose to her during a week at the seashore. However, things get complicated when she wears a scandalous French bathing costume that attracts unwanted attention and causes a stir among the ton. A light-hearted and humorous read, with witty dialogue and amusing situations and I loved the references to 1960s lyrics to add some flair to the story. The characters are likable and have good chemistry, and if you are looking for a hot and hilarious historical romance, this is perfect for you!

I voluntarily read & reviewed an Advanced Reader's Copy of this book; all thoughts & opinions are my own.

[Linda J. · Rating 5 out of 5]

Unique! Some of the stories are based on oldies songs I grew up with (Yes I'm Old) - lol. Great collection of amazing author's that I own many books.

1. GEORGINA AND THE RED CHARGER - by Kathryn Le Veque - 5 STARS

This story was based on the summer song The Little Old Lady From Pasadena. What a cute twist to that song. In this the little old lady drives a Red Charger Phaeton.

In such a short novella, it was entertaining, humorous and great character's. This is a very clean story with not even a kiss. Little on romance, HEA, no cheating and sweet.

2. THE BOYS OF SUMMER by Chasity Bowlin - 5 STARS

I've said it many times I'm a sucker when we meet the H/h as children. Your heart will ache for the verbal and physical abuse these two took from their father's, more so for the H. You only experience the aftermath of the physical abuse.

This author can write full novels and short novella's and she hit it out of the park with with novella. I loved the great aunt and her spirit.

The H/h made a pack when they were children and the H is ready to keep his promise. The h knows she is not Duchess material and even though would make her life easier she can't do that to him. As the story unfolds so does her opinion on the Duke.

There is lovemaking within marriage, heat level 4 out of 5 and only described once, full of passion and love. I enjoyed the epilogue one year in the future and was perfect.

No cheating, HEA, romantic and some spice.

3. THE DUKE THAT I WANT by Alexa Aston - 5 STARS

My goodness, how this starts out is so sad. The H is being bullied something awful while he is about 7. He is saved by an older boy who scares the bullies away. The older boy gives him advice on what he needs to succeed in the future. Fast forward many years and they two meet up.

The older boy who saved him has a sister and the two have an instant attraction. The H doesn't want a marriage of love because he was never shown what love was. After a few bumpy starts the h convinces him he is capable of that feeling.

To see the H become aware and realize he can't live without the h was heartwarming and he could love. A sweet and satisfying epilogue about 1 year in the future that tied everything in a sweet bow.

Lovemaking within marriage, heat level 2.5 out of 5 and filled with love. No cheating, HEA, romantic and a tad of steam.

4. THE DUKE'S BROWN-EYED LADY by Maggi Andersen 4.25 STARS

Some suspenseful moments with a man who is interested in the h. The Duke is the opposite of the h. He is sad where she is happy. He keeps to himself mainly, where she is bubbly and enjoys others.

I didn't feel a great connection to this couple. She is 18 and he is almost 29 and he's just lost his younger brother so he is solemn and feels the loss greatly.

No cheating, HEA, love at first sight for the h, clean story. Year listed wrong on Chapter 1 and Chapter 2, made figuring out what was going on with the dates challenging - lol.

5. MOONSTONE ANGEL by Meara Platt - 5 STARS

One of the longer ones so far in this bundle and it hit all the right notes.

The banter between the H/h was down out laugh out loud funny. Then you add the H's sweet grandma to the mix and this story will make you feel good. The h is sweet, honest and holds nothing back with the H. He is floored that anyone would speak to him as such because he is a Duke.

The story unravels at the perfect pace and I hated to see it end. There is tad of suspense, great dialogue, romance and a small tad of spice within marriage, no cheating and HEA.

6. BLUE SKIES by Mary Lancaster -5 STARS

The beginning how the Duke and our h meet was priceless. She thought he was a rude footman and imagine her shock when she discovers he was the Duke and not old at all.

The h is perfect for him and knows it right away. The Duke is socially inept and doesn't know how to deal with people. He was very sickly as a child and everyone treated him as he would break. With the help of the h he discovers he can do almost anything with her by his side.

There is a nasty villain who I kept going back and forth on if he was good or bad, you won't know until the end.

Basically a clean story with only one reference to his anatomy, plus some passionate kisses. No cheating, HEA, romantic with suspense and intrigue.

7. THE YELLOW-POLKA-DOTTED BATHING COSTUME by Caroline Lee - 4.5 STARS

If you're not familiar with this author you need to be. Her stories always make me laugh and push the boundaries of what you think you're getting - always great fun.

Very short novella with H/h having a history together in the kind of best friends with benefits type. I felt I was missing that part of their history because they've had parts in other stories by this author.

Lovemaking within marriage (now) heat level 4 out of 5. Cute take on the oldie song with the similar title of this story.

No cheating, little on romance since they fell in love years ago before story takes place, some crude words and 1 Lord's name used in vain. A funny romp with great dialogue.

8. A CRUEL SUMMER by Elizabeth Johns -4.25 STARS

Sweet story of the h having lost her parents and brother and is staying with an aunt who doesn't want her there. The H has just returned from War and saves the h. She has no idea he is the Duke. I usually don't like secrets to be kept, but you understand his reasons. I thought his mother's reaction was off at the news who he wanted to marry.

I realize this is a short novella, but I wanted more in the ending. No cheating, HEA and clean story.

9. LADY YOU'RE MINE by Cerise DeLand - 4.25 STARS

A story of a girl of 18 and a almost man of 14 who kisses the girl. She is forced to marry an older man and he is sent to the military. Fast forward 18 years and they meet again. He's never stopped loving her, she being a widow and didn't bear children keeps him at arms' length. His father is dying and gives the H his blessing in seeking the h. I thought this was selfish on the H's part. Yes, he had his father's blessing, but there wasn't a hurry to reach the h.

A few sub stories included. The h has 3 triplet cousins, she is seeing find matches and we are given tiny glimpses of their matches. One part of the story, several times the wrong triplets name is used. That is always confusing and makes you reread portions.

Lovemaking outside of marriage, heat level 4 out of 5. No cheating, HEA, little on romance.

10. SUMMER IN THE CITY by Bianca Blythe 4 STARS

Story based on a lie turns out for the best. This story was all over the place for me, think would be better longer.

Didn't feel a connection to the H/h but did have some sweet moments with the grandmother. No cheating, only kisses, HEA no romance.

11. A DUKE NEVER TELLS by Nadine Millard - 5 STARS

I started out loving the H. He was 22 and she 16, he seemed to genuinely care for her. Fast forward 10 years and when they meet again he is absolutely awful and condescending to her. He does it because he is now the Duke and everyone hangs on his every word. But, the h is hurt, but takes it. I wanted her to show more spunk in her dealings with him. She does finally near the end.

Great main and secondary characters, great writing, Lords name used in vain once. No cheating, HEA, romantic and some foreplay prior to marriage, heat level 3 out of 5.

12. THE DUKE'S SECRET LONGINGS by Amy Jarecki - 5 STARS

Sweet tale of a couple being promised to each other when she was a baby and the H 11 years her senior. The h is bubbly and outgoing and the man she is promised too is direct opposite.

He invites his best friend to the h's house party and sparks fly from the onset. All works out in the end for 2 couples. Cute ending. No cheating, clean only kisses, HEA and romantic.

13. NELL AND THE RUNAWAY DUKE by Sofie Darling - 5 STARS

You know by the title of this story we have the H pretending to be someone else. I dislike big secrets kept but in this one I made an exception. You understand why he hid his identity, he was tired of people seeing only his title and wealth. The h is a dressmaker who has made a huge mistake in her life. She is totally honest with the H which makes him feel bad for keeping his secret.

As the h sees the man, she starts falling for him. When he decides to tell her who he is, it doesn't go as plan. I loved the ending and the epilogue 2 years in the future.

There is lovemaking, outside of marriage, heat level 3 out of 5 and filled with love and passion.

No cheating, HEA, romance and a tad of spice. Great story that had you understanding each of their perspectives.

14. LOVE SHACK BABY by Mary Farmer -5 STARS

Enjoyable novella about a couple who've been married for 18 months and still not pregnant. Everyone around them has children and the h feels it is her fault.

I felt a connection to this couple as they were very loving and caring with each other. A touch of magic with the Love Shack made the story more endearing. Lovemaking within marriage - heat level 5 out of 5 and only described once.

No cheating, HEA, romantic and a steam. (ljb)

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

Rating: 3.5/5.0

The stories in this anthology vary in both style and quality. Overall, they are exactly what a fan of the era expects in a Regency romance.

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

[Janet · Rating 5 out of 5]

Themes from your favorite summertime songs have inspired these tales, so get ready for fun, fun, fun

Georgina and the Red Charger by Kathryn Le Veque

The Boys of Summer by Chasity Bowlin

The Duke That I Want by Alexa Aston
I loved catching up with the group of close friends who were Dukes of distinction. Elizabeth and Philip fell for each other straightaway & I loved how she persevered to make him realise he could love. future.

The Duke's Brown-eyed Lady by Maggi Anderson

Moonstone Angel by Meara Platt

Blue Skies by Mary Lancaster
Hope Darbly falls from her horse in the rain, she sees a nearby house so trudges through the rain & mud with her injured mount. There she meets Gideon a handsome but rude man. Gideon is a newly minted Duke who wants peace & quiet but he's fascinated by the intelligent bedraggled woman who gives him a sharp set down. A lovely story where we find Hope all grown up.

The Yellow-Polka-Dotted Bathing Costume by Caroline Lee
Sebastian and Thea are wonderful, childhood friends find each other again in this fun, hilarious second chance novella which wonderfully completes a series & leads us into the next one.

A Cruel Summer by Elizabeth Johns

Lady, You're Mine by Cerise Deland
Delighted that Cass had her story & with the lovely Magnus. Both are mature & I loved how he wooed & won her.

Summer in the City by Bianca Blythe

A Duke Never Tells by Nadine Millard

The Duke's Secret Longings by Amy Jarecki

Nell and the Runaway Duke by Sofie Darling

Love Shack Baby by Merry Farmer
Deane and Chloe are already much in love and married & are wanting a baby. A fun and steamy romance & it was lovely to catch up with characters from a previous series

What a delight, an anthology featuring Dukes & based around summer songs. Delightful novellas each one ideal for a quick read. I loved that somet whilst stand alones featured secondary characters from the authors’ series
My honest review is for a special copy I voluntarily read

[Carolyn · Rating 4 out of 5]

This anthology reminded me why I love Regency romances. It has been years since I only read Regency and Highlanders books. They were beginning to become "same old, same old." This collection had 14 different stories. I thoroughly enjoyed 11 of them. They were adorable and unique. Two of the stories were from authors I haven't read before and intend on exploring further. An overall delightful read.

[Lori D · Rating 5 out of 5]

Wow! An amazing collection of authors that are at the top of their genre' and each with a new story!

Regency England will never be the same again! With each story based on a themed summer song and the endless Dukes and the women that capture their heart!

Georgina and the Red Charger by Kathryn LeVeque
I am thinking of a Prince song? More like a red phantom charging down the road! A delightful, fun story of a mother wanting the best bride for her son. Oh yes, she finds one!

The Duke that I Want by Alexa Aston
A heart warming story of love at first sight as only this author can tell. Wonderful characters and friends and an sigh worthy journey to love!

Moonstone Angel by Meara Platt
A duke and his grandmother's companion set up a sweet, funny story that will make your heart swell with the romance!! Love, love Meara and her stories and she always leaves me with a smile!

Lady, You're Mine by Cerise Deland
You know when you read a story by this author, you will be entertained with humor and intense romance that never stops! Magnus and Cass light up the pages as they journey to their happy ever after!

The Yellow Polka Dotted Bathing Costume by Caroline Lee
Well the song started in my head just at the title and of course with this wonderful author, the fun begins! Sebastian and Thea rekindle their romance that cannot be denied!

The Duke's Secret Longings by Amy Jarecki
What happens when you attend a house party to support a friend and his betrothed... But find she is pulling at your heart? Wynn and Lydia might just shake up things and find a love of their own!

Blue Skies by Mary Lancaster
Blue skies will be smiling with delight at the romantic journey of Gideon and Hope! Wonderful characters, witty banter and a journey to love!

More to come!

[CATHERINE BURHANS · Rating 5 out of 5]

Wow! What an amazing collection at an incredible price! This is the deal of the summer! Fourteen of our favorite authors put together this wonderful compilation of new summer stories! Who doesn’t love a handsome, arrogant Duke?!
A favorite of mine is “Nell and the Runaway Duke” by Sofie Darling. It’s an endearing five star read, featuring Elinor Tait (Nell) , a seamstress for aristocrats, who worked her way up from a scullery maid. She meets her Duke, Lucas, when his horse steps in a puddle of mud that covers her head to toe. He is smitten from the beginning and so pretends to be a Valet to a Duke, not wanting to scare her away by his title. It works, because she falls head over heels for Lucas the man. She sees him for who he truly is, and he sees her the same way. Together they’re amazing! A total delight! Loved it!

[Mary Hart · Rating 4 out of 5]

4 stars

I've averaged for 4 stars but some authors scored more. Good anthology

[jayne hay · Rating 5 out of 5]

A great book full of plenty of my authors who I love to read

[Jill booksandescape · Rating 5 out of 5]

I received an advance ebook copy of this book from the publisher in exchange for review.

Get Your Duke On is a historical romance anthology where each story is inspired by a summer song. The authors featured in the collection are Kathryn Le Veque, Chasity Bowlin, Alexa Aston, Maggi Andersen, Meara Platt, Mary Lancaster, Caroline Lee, Elizabeth Johns, Cerise Deland, Bianca Blythe, Nadine Millard, Amy Jarecki, Sofie Darling, and Merry Farmer.

I had a great time reading this super fun anthology. The stories were wonderful. This is definitely a top tier anthology!

[Terri · Rating 4 out of 5]

Liked most of them.

[Aj · Rating 5 out of 5]

A gorgeous collection of romances by wonderful authors in the regency world. I got lost in these stories and enjoyed each and every one, each one different and engaging in their own way.

::::Georgina and the Red Charger by Kathryn Le Veque::::
Loved this original story, quite unique and very engaging. Georgina and Joshua stood no chance, an instant attraction with the help of the red charger.

::::The Boys of Summer by Chasity Bowlin::::
Two lonely hearts find love in this story where childhood friends Clarissa and Augustus, a newly minted Duke, reacquaint after fifteen years and he arrives to keep a long held promise. It's not an easy journey as both have had unhappy childhoods and they have a few obstacles in the way before they make their way to a lovely happily ever after.

::::The Duke That I Want by Alexa Aston::::
I loved the friendships in this story, it was all so heart felt and a joy to read. Elizabeth and Philip are soul mates, their love shone through to a wonderful and enduring future.

::::The Duke's Brown-eyed Lady by Maggi Anderson::::
This was such a sweet and cosy story. Well crafted, lovely characters. I adored Gene and Mellie.

::::Moonstone Angel by Meara Platt::::
I loved this heart warming and romantic story set in a beautiful and idyllic seaside town. It was perfectly crafted and I felt like I was part of Moonstone Landing. The seaside scenes were gorgeously descriptive. Rowan and Cara are perfect, I loved their banter and their awakening of love.

::::Blue Skies by Mary Lancaster::::
A delightful and romantic journey for Gideon and Hope. I was captivated by their banter and honesty, and a well thought out story brings about a lovely happily ever after.

::::The Yellow-Polka-Dotted Bathing Costume by Caroline Lee::::
A fun and steamy romance. Sebastian and Thea are wonderful, and they revisit a rekindled love that's just meant to be.

::::A Cruel Summer by Elizabeth Johns::::
An engaging story of a stormy summer and a love found for Henry and Marianne. Heart warming and honest. An easy story to read with wonderful and witty characters.

::::Lady, You're Mine by Cerise Deland::::
Enticing and steamy, loved the battle of wills between Magnus and Cass. A mature age romance, a touch of persuasion and lots of wooing brings about a well deserved happy ending for our couple.

::::Summer in the City by Bianca Blythe::::
A delightful story where a pretend Duke is after all the real Duke and wins his lady love.

::::A Duke Never Tells by Nadine Millard::::
I could feel the longing and desire between Sebastian and Clara. A well crafted plot, leading to an enduring happily ever after.

::::The Duke's Secret Longings by Amy Jarecki::::
Delightful, centred around a house party. Wonderful written characters. Wynn, the Duke is there to support his friend and his betrothal to Lydia except he starts to have a secret longing for her. A reticent match and a rehearsal play leads to the right love match.

::::Nell and the Runaway Duke by Sofie Darling::::
Lucas and Nell, just one man and one woman, not the Duke and dressmaker. I was swept up in this beautiful and enduring love story. It was effortless to read and well crafted.

::::Love Shack Baby by Merry Farmer::::
Deane and Chloe are already much in love and married, all they want is a baby and that's where the love shack comes in. A fun and steamy romance.

[Donique Collins · Rating 4 out of 5]

GEORGINA AND THE RED CHARGER BY KATHRYN LE VEQUE. Finished 8/19/22
Georgina Poyington…newly arrived in Oxford, unmarried, and the daughter of the owner of the town tobacco shop. Joshua Wethersfield… Viscount Sunbury, a barrister, only son to an impetuous mother, and has no time for courtship. This is definitely an adorable story about parental matchmaking.

THE BOYS OF SUMMER BY CHASITY BOWLIN. Finished 8/20/22
Clarissa Milson…only child to a selfish father who has betrothed her to a much older man, decides to runaway. Lord Augustus Brandeis…Duke of Atherton, recently received title, and wants to collect on a childhood promise. Once again a controlling parent is the nemesis in this story causing angst. Ok so although this story is romantic it is also steamy.

THE DUKE THAT I WANT BY ALEXA ASTON. Finished 8/21/22
Philip Ware…Duke of Dewberry, lost father and older brother in a terrible accident, needs to find a wife, and doesn’t believe in love. Lady Elizabeth Sutton…daughter of a duke , sister of a duke, and is finally ready to get married but only when she finds love. The h is very forward, no shy wilting flower here LOL. The H is damaged but highly fixable. There are hints from previous stories. I was tickled when the series was named, I had read it! LOL. This story, I believe, was the completion of a group of characters lives. It was really just a feel good story. There is a little violence, adult language, and of course some steam.

THE DUKES BROWN-EYED LADY BY MAGGIE ANDERSON. Finished 8/22/22
Eugene Felsted…Duke of Chandon, greatly mourning his younger brother, and a loaner. Lady Mellicent Fredericks…daughter of Lord Abbersley, having her first season, and slightly impetuous. A knight in shining armor could be the title LOL. This was a delightful story of love being discovered when it is not even desired.

MOONSTONE ANGEL BY MEARA PLATT. Finished 8/22/22
Rowan …Duke of Strathmore, newly returned to London after being with his regiment, and is annoyed with the woman who has taken his grandmother from London. Miss Cara Angel …has absconded with a Duke’s grandmother, is not intimidated by society, and has a very straight forward way of speaking. The H was attracted and annoyed with the h at the same time. This is a semi enemies to lovers story. Family greed becomes a catalyst to an unintentional courtship.

BLUE SKIES BY MARY LANCASTER. Finished 8/22/22
Hope Darnley…sister-in-law to Earl of Harcourt (Lord Wenning), unmarried, and an unfortunate accident has surprising results. Gideon Lyle…Duke of Oakland, not active in London society, spent his youth in a sick bed, and has relatives who are leeches and condescending. Eww an annoying character that I wished would fall off a cliff, you know a story is good when you get emotionally involved. Irony the title is blue skies but in the opening scene it’s raining.

THE YELLOW-POLKA-DOTTED BATHING COSTUME BY CAROLINE LEE.
Finished 8/23/22
Sebastian Shaw…son of a country vicar, newly minted Duke of Morningwood, and is still in love with his childhood sweetheart. Lady Althea Lindsay…youngest daughter of a duke, betrothed recently died, and still in love with her childhood sweetheart. Summer fun and righting wrongs, this is a delightful Scottish love tale. Steam Friends to lovers.

A CRUEL SUMMER BY ELIZABETH JOHNS. Finished 8/24/22
Marianne…lost all her immediate family members in a short amount of time, under the guidance of a very strict and religious spinster aunt, and waiting until she can possibly find respectable employment. Henry Adams…Duke of Sonderby, not a people person, and unfamiliar with love or companionship. Forced proximity and antagonist behaviors are the flavor of the day LOL. A reluctant hero and the damsel who pierced his emotional armor. A cute little story of two who never knew they needed one another.

LADY, YOU’RE MINE BY CERISE DELAND. Finished 8/25/22
Lady Cassandra Downs…a widow, a respectable leader of young ladies, and a childhood friend of Colonel Welles. Colonel Lord Magnus Welles…military man, heir to a dukedom, and determined to win the woman of his dreams. I was delightfully surprised by the roll reversal of the H and the h. A wonderful story about a love that never died. Some steam but not overly graphic. Friends to lovers.

SUMMER IN THE CITY BY BIANCA BLYTHE. Finished 8/25/22
Juno … only daughter/child of the Earl of Epping, has a dog named Raphael, her father wants her to marry one of his closest friends, and so she snuck out of the house to explore London and prove to her father that she can handle herself. Alfie…has a cat named Abigail, has been an orphan for as long as he can remember, and has fallen in love with a girl he met just once. A hero coming to the rescue of a damsel in distress, even if she was somewhat responsible. This story focuses on the lengths a man will go to win a woman’s heart. Friends to lovers.

A DUKE NEVER TELLS BY NADINE MILLARD. Finished 8/26/22
Clara Allen…has grown up in the West Indies due to her father’s political position, has returned to London for the first time after the death of her father, and shocked that her aunt wants her to have a season at twenty-six. Sebastian Brier…a marquess and heir to a dukedom, has traveled frequently to the holdings and businesses owned by his family, and a shining light to a young teenage girl. The infamous betting book at Whites strikes again. Maintaining your social persona can cost you dearly. Semi steam. Friends to lovers.

THE DUKE’S SECRET LONGINGS BY AMY JARECKI. Finished 8/27/22
Wynnstan Edgeworth…Duke of Hardwick, attending a house party at the request of his friend, finds himself extremely attracted to his friend’s fiancée. Lydia Dashwood…daughter to a baroness, a superb soprano, and betrothed to a newly titled viscount. A reluctant suitor and a faithful friend. I like this story it is the first time I’ve read its kind.

NELL AND THE RUNAWAY DUKE BY SOFIE DARLING. Finished 8/27/22
Elinor(Nell)Tait…a dressmaker, from the East End, and has no desire to attract a man’s attention. Lucas Kendall…Duke of Amherst, enjoys the peace and quiet of the country life, and desires a wife/companion and a family of his own. An accidental meeting has benefits, emphasis being on accident hehe. Unintentional deception and real feelings. The commoner and an aristocrat. Steam

LOVE SHACK BABY BY MERRY FARMER. Finished 8/27/22
Chloe O’Shea…a County Antrim O’Shea, now the Duchess of Blackburn, and very desirous of a baby. Deane Crenshaw…the Duke of Blackburn, former victim of a great scandal, and now beloved husband of Chloe Crenshaw. A trip to Ireland and the reuniting of some family is invigorating, but cruel and vindictive family add to frustration. Superstition or folklore are a mighty inducement in times of desperation. Astrology Oh this one had me laughing continuously. Steam.

[Elizabeth S · Rating 3 out of 5]

Stories range from 1 star to 5 stars. Here is the breakdown:

3 -- Georgina and the Red Charger by Kathryn Le Veque -- His grandma runs her down repeatedly so they meet.

4 -- The Boys of Summer by Chasity Bowlin -- They both have abusive dads, friends one summer as kids, he seeks her out to marry her as soon as he becomes duke, has to save her from her dad.

2 -- The Duke That I Want by Alexa Aston -- Back in school, her brother saved him from bullies. His father and older brother unexpectedly die, making him an uncomfortable duke. He needs to marry, but doesn't believe in love. She shows him that love is possible. Go, girl. [This connects with a series about 5 dukes who are friends, and he is yet another duke. When they get together, gets confusing because all the dukes are "your grace" and the wives are "your grace" and, gracious me, we need someone to be ackward to balance things out. How many dukes are there at any one time, anyway? I digress.]

3 -- The Duke's Brown-eyed Lady by Maggi Andersen -- He first sees her almost dancing along the beach, he is mourning his brother. She likes him, he is shy, they have intelligent conversations, he is not interested in marriage, her parents expect her to marry a neighbor who is abusive, he finally saves her from the bad guy.

3 -- Moonstone Angel by Meara Platt -- She runs off with his grandma and he chases after them. He stays in her cottage with them so she can show how much better off the grandma is.

5 -- Blue Skies by Mary Lancaster -- He is an absent-minded, reclusive young duke, oversheltered as a child, he finally thrived abroad. She falls in mud and seeks help at his house. His cousin turns up, patronizing him, and tries to kill him. [She sister of Rollo Darblay in The Devil and the Viscount. Also the sister-in-law of Wenning in Unmasking the Hero.] I love Mary Lancaster's stories.

3 -- The Yellow-Polka-Dotted Bathing Costume by Caroline Lee -- This story gets 3 stars just for being about a "teeny-weeny yellow polka-dotted bathing costume" during late 19th century England. Hilarious. Not much plot, however. Takes place between the author's book "Sinner's Tempting Captor" book and the "Surprise! Dukes" series and includes characters from both.

4 -- A Cruel Summer by Elizabeth Johns -- He finds her in the mud and rain with a broken arm and takes her home. But he hasn't been home in years and his mother and servants are all away at the moment. So it is just the two of them and his batman with a washed-out bridge between them and the village. The characters a quite fun. I'd enjoy reading an expanded version of this story.

1 -- Lady, You're Mine by Cerise DeLand -- She is four years his senior, widowed, and in charge of chaperoning triplets. He returns from years of the army and decides she is the one to marry. But she knows she is too old, plus the triplets need to all be married off first. The triplets issue is resolved with a series of rushed marriages. Rushed in the sense that there was scandal involved, but also rushed in the sense that there was little to no plot explanation. Confusing. The age issue is resolved as he entices her with lots and lots of sex. Boring.

3 -- Summer in the City by Bianca Blythe -- Her father wants her to marry this totally self-absorbed misogynistic jerk. To rebel, she goes for a walk on the wrong side of town and is saved by Alfie from being attacked. Alfie gets her home where the butler thinks he is yet another claimant to being the long-lost Duke Alfred. His friend helps set him up to be the duke, he courts her but she finds out he is a fraud. The story is a little over-the-top. But I like Alfie enough to bump up to 3 stars.

3 - A Duke Never Tells by Nadine Millard -- Years ago she had a crush on him back in Barbados. Now she is a London debutante (at the age of 26?) and he has become a snotty duke. His friends make a bet about who will be the first to kiss her. He regrets snubbing her at first and then begins courting her to protect her from his friends.

4 -- The Duke's Secret Longings by Amy Jareki -- Based on the song "Jessie's Girl." His friend is practically engaged to the girl he begins falling for. The friend, Jessie, is a social recluse who doesn't know what to do with her. She finds Jessie boring and they have nothing in common. He rescues her repeatedly as he falls deeper in love.

1 -- Nell and the Runaway Duke by Sofie Darling -- She is a seamstress from the East End waiting to meet a rich client in a small resort town. He comes through town lies about being a duke. He decides to confess by taking her home where, surprise!, his whole family is waiting. His mother wants to know what he is doing with her seamstress. And the whole family is perfectly happy with them getting married. Uh...

3 -- Love Shack Baby by Merry Farmer -- The plot itself is rather benign. However, I laughed out loud repeatedly over how the author used exact phrases from the B-52's "Love Shack" throughout the story. A sequel to the author's That Wicked O'Shea Family series specifically focused on the main characters from All About That Duke.

[Rachel · Rating 5 out of 5]

*I received a free ARC from the publisher through NetGalley in exchange for my honest review*

Dragonblade Publishing has once again put together an amazing collection of short stories that highlights their wonderful authors. I loved the theme of using popular songs as the inspiration for each story. It also gave me stories from some of my favorite authors and introduced me to some new authors I'm sure will become favorites in no time at all. I don't think there was a single story in this collection that I did not like. A few quick notes on the stories:

Georgina & the Red Charger - Loved Lady Wethersfield! She was so much fun and mischievous. I also really liked that it ended with Georgina and Joshua entering a courtship rather than a marriage (although it's clear that's where they ended up).

The Boys of Summer - This is one I would have happily read as a full-length novel. Mostly just to let Clarissa and Gus get to know one another as adults. Even in such a short story you get a good amount of romance and drama as Clarissa and Gus find their way to their happy ending.

The Duke that I Want - I'm a big Alexa Aston fan so it was so great to have a story that tied into one of her previous series. It was great to see characters from that series as well as to get to see what happens with Elizabeth. You don't have to have read that series to thoroughly enjoy this story, but if you have this will serve as a nice addition for you.

The Duke's Brown-Eyed Lady - There is so much included here that it should have seemed like too much for a short story, but the author does a perfect job of balancing it all that it doesn't feel rushed.

Moonstone - I loved the chemistry between Rowan and Cara that is established right from the very beginning. I would have liked to have had just one scene with Rowan and his awful family members - there are few things as frustrating as the unseen villains of a story.

Blue Skies - This was definitely one of my favorite stories in the series. I loved Hope and Gideon together. And the little intrigue involving Gideon's cousin - it added just the right amount of drama to the story.

The Yellow-Polka-Dotted Bathing Costume - Definitely one of the funnier stories in the collection. It also has a really sweet second-chance romance.

A Cruel Summer - I'm sorry it took a terrible injury to bring Marianne and Henry together, but I'm sure she would agree it was worth it. And I'll forgive him for holding back his full name and title because I'm not sure Marianne would have been fully herself had she known.

Lady, You're Mine - I'm glad that Magnus was not easily put off his plan for wooing Cass because they are perfect for one another!

Summer in the City - I liked the little twist involving the duchess - did she really recognize Alfie or was she just so happy to have her grandson back that she didn't really care? I'm not sure how Juno fell in love with Alfie so quickly, but I'll let that pass because this story was so enjoyable.

A Duke Never Tells - I was definitely not a fan of Sebastian when he is reunited with Clara 10 years after their initial introduction when she was a young girl, in fact I did not like him at all. Which is what made this story so enjoyable because then I got to see him become someone worthy of Clara. I really liked that she was the catalyst for his change rather than having her set out to change him. He's lucky Clara was such a good person.

The Duke's Secret Longings - Falling in love with your best friend's fiance is hard enough, having to act alongside her in a romantic play is just torture - as Wynn learns the hard way.

Nell & the Runaway Duke - These characters will definitely have a great story for their children and grandchildren when they are asked how they met. I really liked that Nell admits that if she had known Lucas was a duke from the beginning she would have had nothing to do with him and missed out on learning who he really was.

Love Shack Baby - The perfect example of how even a family with your best intentions in mind can ruin your plans. I loved when Chloe loses it and yells as them - so funny!

[Lesley · Rating 4 out of 5]

Fourteen Novellas, Averaging 8 Chapters per Story
Georgina and the Red Charger 4* by Kathryn Le Veque - While a cute story, I felt you had to take it with a pinch of salt. A viscount who though he has money, works for a living as a barrister, that would surely be looked down upon by the ton? A mother encouraging a relationship between her son and the daughter of a tobacconist, surely a mésalliance in the Regency period?
The Boys of Summer 5* by Chastity Bowlin - a beaten young boy becomes a Duke and a long ago promise is unexpectedly redeemed. Loved this romance.
The Duke That I Want 5* by Alexa Aston - the reader is introduced to Philip as a young boy of seven and have some idea of his miserable childhood. Roll on twenty years and he is unexpectedly a Duke, one who knows his duty is to marry but what he doesn’t want is a love match. Lady Elizabeth however will only marry for love and her heart is set on Philip. Who will win the battle of wills?
The Duke’s Brown-eyed Lady 4* by Maggi Andersen - a grieving Duke meets a vivacious young lady. Is it love at first sight or are their characters two different for them to be happy together?
Moonstone Angel 4* by Meara Platt - Cara has a Duke banging on her front door claiming she has abducted his grandmother, when nothing could be further from the truth. With his grandmother refusing to return to London, the Duke moves into Cara’s home worried that she is scamming the old lady.
Blue Skies 4* by Mary Lancaster - a Duke who was sickly as a child, is now a fully grown man, it’s just a shame his family doesn’t acknowledge this and so he escapes them. It takes a special young lady to make him see that he is hiding from life.
The Yellow-Polka-Dotted Bathing Costume 3* by Caroline Lee - Now that both her father and fiancé are dead, Thea can go after the man she truly wants. But not in the bathing costume that looks like a potato sack, but when she puts on the new French costume she feels she has taken a step too far.
A Cruel Summer 5* by Elizabeth Johns - life as Marianne knows it has been totally changed, both parents and her brother have died and during her mourning she is living with an elderly and bitter spinster aunt. Things get worse when she is caught in a storm, slips and breaks her arm and is unable to move due to the pain; though rescued she is unfortunately compromised.
Lady, You’re Mine 5* by Cerise DeLand - second chance romance, older couple - will she be able to give him an heir?
Summer in the City 4* by Bianca Blythe - Alfie pretends to be a long lost Duke in order to see the lady he is enamoured with but what happens when someone threatens to expose him as a fraud?
A Duke Never Tells 5* by Nadine Millard - The young man she was infatuated with ten years before, has become an arrogant and cruel rake. Can they recover the friendship they once had, and perhaps more?
The Duke’s Secret Longings 4* by Amy Jarecki - being smitten by the voice and person of a young lady at a houseparty, Wynn is devastated on realising that she is his best friend’s betrothed.
Nell and the Runaway Duke 5* by Sofie Darling - a beautiful Cinderella romance.
Love Shack Baby 4* by Merry Farmer - a childless Duchess gets a tip that she hopes will prove fruitful but is constantly thwarted in her attempts to carry out her plan by her oblivious family.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book from NetGalley. All thoughts and opinions are my own.

[Texastwang · Rating 5 out of 5]

I absolutely adored this short story by Katherine Le Veque. Oh my word! Does it ever remind me about scheming, oh excuse me, concerned and involved, moms. I loved how she used her red charger to get what she wants. Fantastic story.
Chastity Bowlin story focused on two people who were abused as children befriended each other and were reunited as adults. I enjoyed these two reuniting. I found that the ending chapter unnecessary and distracted from the story but I did enjoy everything but that.
Alexis Aston has a delightful story with a very strong willed lady and a stubborn duke. The battle of the wills. It has one chapter that I skipped over. She did a wonderful job of incorporating all in this story.
Maggi Anderson has intertwined a bubbled brown eyed girl and a morose Duke. They are complete opposites but perfect. This clean read is perfectly enjoyable.
Mary Lancaster takes a supposedly reclusive man and a particular women who find solace with each other. As he learns to stand up for himself in England as he did in Europe he finds the young woman remarkable.
Caroline Lee story was funny and quirky which I enjoyed. However there is cussing and steamy scenes all the way through it.. so if thats not your thang you can skip through it.. i will tell you that this is my first story from her, if there wasn't so much cussing I'd probably go buy most of her books. She is hilarious!
Elizabeth Johns story is quite serious. A lovely story bringing two hearts together through tragic events. Clean read.
Cerise DeLand writes a beautiful story of 2nd chances with 30 somethings. A little steamy near the end but plenty of action (out of the bedroom too).
Biana Blythe story was about a lady who wants freedom and a man who wants pretending to be a lost duke. What a wonderfully charming story. Leaves you with a fell good day.
Nadine Mallards clean read is an exciting tale of a naive "spinster" and rake who met long ago and are reuniting. The tale kept me captivated.
Amy Jarecki writing is very predictable. However, that didn't lessen how enjoyable it was to read. I still read through the whole thing because I enjoyed her sweet and clean writing style. This is my first of her stories to read.
Sophie Darling has two people who just want for people to see them as they are. Proving that and moving that into reality are two different things. I loved how the duke woos a commoner never knowing if she will accept just the man.
Merry Farmers book was true to her style all in all enjoyable read.
I enjoyed all the authors tales although some more than others.

I recieved a free copy so that I can tell you what I honestly think. Hope you enjoyed my review. Now go enjoy the book

[AmazingJ · Rating 5 out of 5]

Wonderful, Delightful, Entertaining & Romantic Anthology.

This book was Absolutely Wonderful & Fantabulous.
I really enjoyed each Novella, I may be biased with a few authors in this Anthology for I believe my favorite Novella was "The Yellow Polka Dot Bathing Costume" by Caroline Lee

1. Georgina and the red charger by Katherine Le Veque
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
This was Absolutely Wonderful & Delightful Novella.

2. The Boys of Summer by Chasity Bowlin
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
This Novella was Absolutely Wonderful & Delightful.

3. The Duke That I Want by Alexa Aston
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Another Wonderful Novella. So far this book has been Absolutely Wonderful.

4. The Duke's Brown Eyed Lady by Maggi Andersen
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
A Very Adorable & AdorableRead.
I enjoyed reading this Novella.

5. Moonstone Angel by Meara Platt
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
An Absolutely Wonderful Novella. Then again, I may be biased, I love reading her books

6. Blue Skies by Mary Lancaster
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
A very enjoyable read.
This Story & Characters had me turning page after page.

7. The Yellow Polka Dot BathingvCostume by Caroline Lee
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Exhilarating, Fantabulous, Hysterical & Romantic
Omg, I was laughing & turning page after page with this Story.

8. A Cruel Summer by Elizabeth John's
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
This was a very Wonderful & Delightful Story.

9. Lady You're Mine by Cerise DeLand
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Another Wonderful Book. This Story was so wonderful, I was hoping for a bit more.

10. Summer In The City by Bianca Blythe
⭐️⭐️⭐️
I am not sure how I feel about this Story. It was good to a certain point, but not written in a way that I was excited or seeking to find that something special in it. I hope that makes sense.

11. A Duke Never Tells by Nadine Millard
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Another Wonderful Story.
This Story had me up all night & finishing in the early evening.

12. The Duke's Secret Longings by Amy Jakari
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
This Story was Absolutely Wonderful, Delightful, Entertaining & Romantic

13. Nell and The Runaway Duke by Sophie Darling
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
And yet another great Story. This one was Absolutely Fantabulous.

14. Love Shack Baby by Merry Farmer
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
This Story was Delightful, Entertaining & Very Romantic

[Amy · Rating 5 out of 5]

In her thank you note to readers at the front of the anthology, Kathryn Le Veque said she hoped we’d find some new favorite authors. Get Your Duke On reunited me with some of my absolute favorite authors and introduced me to some new authors with the potential to become favorites. Below are some of the highlights of the anthology for me.

The Red Charger by Kathryn Le Veque is a hoot. I love Josephine! She’s the type of little old lady I aspire to be: witty, energetic, and independent.

I knew I’d enjoy The Yellow-Polka-Dotted Bathing Costume by Caroline Lee. I love the names in Caroline’s stories! The Duke of Morningwood made me laugh out loud. Thea and Sebastian whetted my appetite for Caroline’s new series Surprise! Dukes. I adore her historical romcoms.

Love Shack Baby reunites us with the O’Shea family, most specifically Chloe and Deane. I love the warmth and affection evident between them in the story. I also appreciated the humor infused throughout. This felt like the perfect epilogue to Those Wicked O’Sheas! Merry Farmer never lets me down.

Cruel Summer is the first book I read by Chasity Bowlin, and I loved how she brought the characters of Augustus, Clarissa, and Great Aunt Agatha to life. I’m going to have to check out her backlist!

The Duke That I Want by Alexa Aston allowed me to visit with a few old friends from her Dukes of Distinction series. I love a story with a determined heroine who goes after what she wants, and Elizabeth definitely set her sights on Philip. I loved the epilogue too!

The Duke’s Brown-eyed Lady by Maggi Andersen has both of age gap and love at first sight tropes. Gene tried his best to restrain his emotions, but I love the fact that he couldn’t stop himself from being a gallant protector. Rosie the cat stole my heart because I have a red cat named Rosie too!

Gideon and Hope’s story in Mary Lancaster’s Blue Skies won over my heart. I relate to Gideon as a sickly child. I loved reading his story and seeing him come into his own. The thriller aspect of the novella elevated it to the next level!

[Milica]

This collection of short stories is a delightful bundle of nonsense. As I am reading it, I am realizing that every story is more ridiculously incredible than the last - and I am loving it! The authors are not holding back their imaginations. The number of dukes in circulation is, of course, remarkable. There are misalliances in just about every story underscoring the fairy tale.

My favorite character is Aunt Agatha from Margrave. Her story - excuse me, Clarissa and Gus’ story - is my favorite, too. Gus could have been improved. Clarissa could not. Then again, I frequently find “heroes” lacking.

In general, this collection made me realize I needed to raise my trashy-novel standards. Despite my initial ebullience, by the end of the book, the stereotypes started to grate instead of being comforting. What’s more off putting is the sloppy proofreading. As I understand it, the authors of this compendium are all - as a rule - self published. I am used to typos, and grammatical errors, and wrong names, but some of the short stories in this collection are criminally off. I am not even starting to think about inconsistencies in the characters’ behaviors. About modern language used throughout. About males apparently pining for specific females but not depriving themselves of female companionship of a different kind. All I am asking is:

(1) Run a spell checker; it’s not hard and is nowadays automatic for most Word-like software. Homophones will be tricky, I know, but it’s a first step.

(2) It’s okay not to be able to afford a free-lance editor. Ask a friend to read through the short story; do not let the said friend be one of the other authors since they seem to make the same mistakes.

(3) Do not introduce too many characters. Many characters are an easy-peasy way to increase your word count. However, the practice should be avoided if there is historical evidence of difficulty in keeping track of their names.

[Dorel · Rating 3 out of 5]

In this set I liked 9 out of 14 books 📚GEORGINA AND THE RED CHARGER 🚘: This is the 2nd book I read by Kathryn Le Veque. I liked this book's storyline. I liked Josephine's character. I liked Georgina's character. I liked Lord Joshua's character. I liked the ending. THE BOYS 👦 OF SUMMER 🌞: This is the 2nd book I read by Chasity Bowlin. This book's storyline was okay. I liked the hot 🔥 & steamy scenes. Clarissa's character was okay. Augustus's character was okay. I liked the ending. THE DUKE THAT I WANT: This is the 2nd book I read by Alexa Aston. This book's storyline was okay. Phillip's character was okay. Elizabeth's character was okay. I liked the ending. THE DUKE'S BROWN-EYED 👁 LADY 👩: Andersen. This book's storyline was okay. I liked Mellie's character. I liked Gene's character. I liked the ending. MOONSTONE ANGEL 😇: I enjoyed this book's storyline. I really liked the hot 🔥 & steamy scenes. I really liked Cara's character. I really liked Rowan's character. I really liked the ending. BLUE SKIES: This is the 2nd book I read by Mary Lancaster. I liked this book's storyline. I liked Hope's character. I liked G1ideon's character. I liked the ending. A CRUEL SUMMER 🌞: This is the 3rd book I read by Elizabeth Johns. This book's storyline was okay. Marianne's character was okay. Henry's character was okay. The ending was okay. NELL AND THE RUNAWAY 🏃 DUKE: This is the 1st book I read by Sofie Darling. I liked this book's storyline. I liked Nell's character. I liked Lucas's character. I liked the ending. LOVE SHACK BABY 👶 🍼: This is the 1st book I read by Merry Farmer 👩‍🌾. I liked this book's storyline. I liked the hot 🔥 & steamy scenes. I liked Chloe's character. I liked Deane's character. I liked the ending. I'm happy 😊 this set introduced me to Caroline Lee, Cerise Deland, Bianca Blythe, Nadine Millard, Amy Jarecki, Sofie Darling, & Merry Farmer 👩‍🌾.

[Rosemary · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a collection of stores, by authors I have read in the past and some new authors to me. At this time, I have not read all the stories, but I will tell you a little about some of the stories I have read.

The Duke That I Want by Alexa Aston. Was a cute love story about a Duke’s Daughter/Sister who has finally found the man she wants to spend the rest of her life with. He does not think or want to love her or anyone, but she changes his mind, and he becomes the husband of her dreams.

The Duke’s Brown-eyed Lady by Maggi Andersen. This story is a love at first sight, at least for Mellicent (Mellie). Gene was ten years older than her and was set in his ways and did not really want the whole London social scene, he wanted to stay in the country. He felt he would hold her down, and she would not enjoy herself, but Mellie and Gene together were perfect.

Moonstone Angel by Meara Platt. How do you not fall in love with a Duke who does not take himself to seriously and loves his grandmother, you don’t. Cara and I both fell in love with Rowan. I also loved his grandmother the Duchess. A nice put a smile on your face story.

Summer in the City by Bianca Blythe. I will be honest, this was not my favorite Bianca Blythe story I have ever ready. It seemed very simple, not written in her usual style.

Nell and the Runaway Duke by Sofie Darling. Was a nice book about a Duke who would like to be liked and loved as a man not a duke. He hides who he is when he meets Nell. Nell is a seamstress and gets to know Lucas before knowing he is a Duke.

I always love books with a collection of stories, because they can be nice quick reads that make you smile.
I received an ARC of this book from Net Galley and am leaving my honest opinion.

[Marcy G · Rating 5 out of 5]

Get Your Duke On is a wonderful collection of short stories. Great Authors filled with easy reading, fascinating, and romantic tales.All to
totally captivate, entertain, and fantasize you .

Nell and The Runaway Duke
Sofie Darling
The Farmer Duke and Dressmaker Face Life With A Smile
A Fairytale like story where a commoner meets a Duke and can live a totally different life. Only there is a twist to that. A delightful one at that.
Nell Tait and Lucas the Duke of Amherst met when his horse threw a shoe. She a established dressmaker and he hiding who he was.
A Beautiful uplifting story. One to teach you not judge people. Not all Dukes and Commoners are alike. Perhaps they are just a Farmer and a Dressmaker. Truly Romantic.

Georgina and The Red Charger
Kathryn LeVeque
An Accidental Encounter
An Enchanting Story about a eccentric Mother only wanting to Matchmake for her son. Taking the most unusual way about doing so.
Georgina Poyington and Joshua Wethersfield Viscount of Sunbury met when his Mother had a plan.
This light short story is entertaining, uplifting, and romantic.

The Duke Secret Longings
Amy Jarecki
Her Voice Captured His Heart
Caught between a rock and a hard place, how to choose between your best friend and a women that melted his heart ?
Lydia Dashwood and Wynn Edgewood Duke of Hardwick met because she was betrothed to his best friend and he was at her family’s house party. The betrothal was not going as planned and fate seemed to have a totally different direction for them.
This Enchanting Romantic Tale is is most delightful.

[Angela · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Duke that I Want – Alexa Aston
I have been reading Alexa’s stories for a while and they fantastic. I love when secondary characters show up with their own stories. Elizabeth is the sister of Jon from the Duke of Arrogance (go read that story, not that you have to but because it is a great book). Okay, so this is a little different from several of Alexa’s other stories. The heroine decides that the hero is the one for her and pursues him – you go girl. LOVED IT! It is short but tells a great story.

The Yellow-Polka-Dotted Bathing Costume – Caroline Lee
She wore an itsy-bitsy, teeny-weeny…you get the gist. I have not laughed so much at a story in a very long time. From the first page to the end I could not help giggling (from the names, Morningwood and Lickering to the “sexy” talk, two ham hunks). Caroline knows how to make us laugh. I love a good dark story (in fact they are my favorites) but sometimes laughter is just the thing. Fantastic story!

Nell and the Runaway Duke - Sofie Darling
Ahhh! This was such a sweet and endearing story. Both characters are great with fantastic personalities and genuine care. The story was so bright and fresh. If you want to read a nice lovely story this is for you.

Love Shack Baby - Merry Farmer
Thwarted over and over from going to that little ole place known as the love shack. Loved the play on words. It was great seeing all of the siblings. A very touching story that I am sure many go through. Merri is such a good storyteller.

I received a complimentary copy from the publisher through NetGalley.

[BookishMya · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Dukes Secret Longings by Amy Jarecki

Utterly charming! This short and delightful tale was a treat. From the Dukes first initial encounter with Lydia he is well and truly besotted but she is his best friend’s betrothed. As the house party continues it is clear that Lydia and her betrothed do not suit whereas the duke is simply perfect for her. The story takes us through a series of attempts to push the betrothed together, but each becomes an example of how better suited they are to others. I truly enjoyed each encounter between Lydia & Wynn. Their attraction was delightful. Even without knowing the influence to the song “Jessie’s Girl”, it would inevitably play in your head as it reflected the story perfectly. A truly enjoyable read.

Nell and the Runaway Duke by Sofie Darling

Sweetness and light! The embodiment of Nell Tait, a woman of simple means who can laugh after being covered head to toe in mud by a passing horse. It takes a special kind of woman to see the humour in that. It is precisely that that catches Lucas Kendall’s attention, the Duke of Amherst. Sensing that he needs to be on even ground with this woman, he keeps his ducal identity from her. What follows is a whirlwind courtship of two simple people learning the true value in each other. The story is incredibly sweet, their connection undeniable. A delightful light read of two people of very different standing learning to stand together.

[Glittergirl · Rating 4 out of 5]

So far I've only read Amy Jarecki's story in the box set. This review is for The Duke's Secret Longings which is #3.5 in her Devilish Dukes Series. Each of the stories in the box set has taken inspiration from a popular song. Amy's is Jessie's Gair by Rick Springfield. I found it a delightful short story about Duke Hardwick, Wynn Edgeworth, who comes to a house party for his friend Jesse Chambers, Viscount Falmouth. Jessie is about as introverted as you can get. He's 32 and betrothed to Miss Lydia Dashwood, 21 since he was 18 and she was 7. He has no interest in getting married but her family are pressing him to propose. He askes his friend Wynn to come to the house party and help him out. Wynn is in big trouble because he is instantly drawn to Lydia, a superb soprano. This explores their interactions for the week of the house party. Needless to say things go sideways.

I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced readers copy of this story. I also purchased the box set. All thoughts and opinions are my own.