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Regency in Color #3
Designing His Duchess
Marry or find herself penniless and ousted from her aunt and uncle's home. Those are Miss Juliana Drake's current options. Having never felt the need to know how long she could survive without basic provisions, she chooses the latter. Only she knows as much about charming a suitor as she does about charming a snake.
Nothing.
The solution? Colin Lewis Francis Latham, Duke of Herstshire. The man who offered her marriage years ago, then vanished without as much as a by your leave. When he returns to London and offers to instruct her in the art of husband hunting, Juliana is both insulted and desperate enough to accept his offer.
She's no longer the gullible young woman of her youth. She can handle being near him without losing her head. Although, it would be much easier if she could finally expel him from her heart.
Nothing.
The solution? Colin Lewis Francis Latham, Duke of Herstshire. The man who offered her marriage years ago, then vanished without as much as a by your leave. When he returns to London and offers to instruct her in the art of husband hunting, Juliana is both insulted and desperate enough to accept his offer.
She's no longer the gullible young woman of her youth. She can handle being near him without losing her head. Although, it would be much easier if she could finally expel him from her heart.
108 pages, Kindle Edition
Published January 21, 2022
34 people are currently reading
141 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 51 reviews
June 11, 2022
Overall: 3.5 rounded to ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Plot/Storyline: 📖📖📖📖
Feels: 🦋🦋
Emotional Depth: 💔💔
Sexual Tension: ⚡⚡
Romance: 💞💞💞
Sensuality: 💋💋💋
Sex Scene Length: 🍑🍑🍑
Steam Scale (Number of Sex Scenes): 🔥
Humor: Just a bit
Perspective: Third person perspective from both the hero and the heroine
(These are all personal preference on a scale of 1-5 (yours ratings may vary depending what gives you feels and how you prefer you sex scenes written, etc) except the Steam Scale which follows our chart from The Ton and Tartans Book Club )
Should I read in order?
You don’t have to – but the series has 7 lovely novellas featuring diverse characters so I highly recommend picking them all up!
Basic plot:
Juliana is told by her guardians she must choose a husband herself by the end of the season, or marry a distasteful man 3 times her age. Colin, the man who broke her heart 4 years ago, champions to help her find a husband.
Give this a try if you want:
- London setting
- Regency (1817)
- Second chance romance
- Novella length
- Diversity featured – black heroine (British father/free woman of color from Jamaica mother) with a hearing impairment
- Bargain/repentance – hero wants to atone for his actions to he says he will help her find a husband
- Lower steam – 1 full scene
-Prodigal hero returns after 4 years away
My thoughts:
I really enjoyed a lot about this story and I would definitely try more from Gabrielle Carr, as this was my first by her. I loved the Juliana and was really rooting for her happiness throughout the story. Colin, well, I enjoyed him but we’ll say that I thought his reasoning for doing what he did was bologna and I wouldn’t have forgiven him nearly as easy!
I do wish a bit more had been spent on featuring Juliana’s deafness as it kind of stopped being mentioned half way through the book or so (I have a son with speech apraxia and we are learning sign language and I have a friend with a deaf son and I just love seeing that featured in HR!)
Overall, a pleasant little novella!
Content Warnings:
Locations of kisses/intimate scenes:
Plot/Storyline: 📖📖📖📖
Feels: 🦋🦋
Emotional Depth: 💔💔
Sexual Tension: ⚡⚡
Romance: 💞💞💞
Sensuality: 💋💋💋
Sex Scene Length: 🍑🍑🍑
Steam Scale (Number of Sex Scenes): 🔥
Humor: Just a bit
Perspective: Third person perspective from both the hero and the heroine
(These are all personal preference on a scale of 1-5 (yours ratings may vary depending what gives you feels and how you prefer you sex scenes written, etc) except the Steam Scale which follows our chart from The Ton and Tartans Book Club )
Should I read in order?
You don’t have to – but the series has 7 lovely novellas featuring diverse characters so I highly recommend picking them all up!
Basic plot:
Juliana is told by her guardians she must choose a husband herself by the end of the season, or marry a distasteful man 3 times her age. Colin, the man who broke her heart 4 years ago, champions to help her find a husband.
Give this a try if you want:
- London setting
- Regency (1817)
- Second chance romance
- Novella length
- Diversity featured – black heroine (British father/free woman of color from Jamaica mother) with a hearing impairment
- Bargain/repentance – hero wants to atone for his actions to he says he will help her find a husband
- Lower steam – 1 full scene
-Prodigal hero returns after 4 years away
My thoughts:
I really enjoyed a lot about this story and I would definitely try more from Gabrielle Carr, as this was my first by her. I loved the Juliana and was really rooting for her happiness throughout the story. Colin, well, I enjoyed him but we’ll say that I thought his reasoning for doing what he did was bologna and I wouldn’t have forgiven him nearly as easy!
I do wish a bit more had been spent on featuring Juliana’s deafness as it kind of stopped being mentioned half way through the book or so (I have a son with speech apraxia and we are learning sign language and I have a friend with a deaf son and I just love seeing that featured in HR!)
Overall, a pleasant little novella!
Content Warnings:
Locations of kisses/intimate scenes:
January 26, 2022
A Perfect Match . . .
When forced to either marry or be tossed out of her aunt and uncle’s home, Miss Juliana Drake chose to find her own way. Unfortunately, she has no clue how to do that.
Four years ago, she had been offered marriage but her betrothed ran off without a word. Now that man, Colin Lewis Francis Latham, Duke of Herstshire, is back in London and willing to help her find a husband. But apparently his feelings for her are still there. Will he want her for his own? Will the two of them give love a second chance?
When forced to either marry or be tossed out of her aunt and uncle’s home, Miss Juliana Drake chose to find her own way. Unfortunately, she has no clue how to do that.
Four years ago, she had been offered marriage but her betrothed ran off without a word. Now that man, Colin Lewis Francis Latham, Duke of Herstshire, is back in London and willing to help her find a husband. But apparently his feelings for her are still there. Will he want her for his own? Will the two of them give love a second chance?
February 21, 2022
This is such a delightfully sweet and charming romance. I was gently swept away in Gabrielle Carr's second chance romance. This is the first novel/novella that I have read by Gabrielle Carr, and I found her writing to be lovely and easily enjoyable. This novella is well paced and swiftly brings the reader into the world and up to speed on the characters. I found this novella to be a wonderfully introduction to Carr's writing style and I am definitely intrigued to discover more by her.
Carr builds this romance between two people in their present day, without spending time on how they first fell in love. Rather the reader must relay on how the characters feel and present themselves toward each other in understanding how they still feel and what broke them up in the first place. I find the over all concept to this series to be wonderfully inclusive and I love that this series and publisher is providing readers with authors of color who write historical romances. Carr's edition to this series is low angst and really about two people coming back together, learning to forgive for childish mistakes, and understanding the importance of moving forward with someone you love and trust to provide you with the life you want. This novella has a light bit of steam that is perfect for the length and the chemistry that the characters building throughout the story.
Definitely check this novella out if you are looking to discover a new author or if you already love this one. This will definitely not be the last novel I read from Gabrielle Carr and I am looking forward to exploring other novels in this series and by this publisher!
Thank you to Brown Lady Publishing and NetGalley for an eARC, all thoughts and opinions are my own.
Carr builds this romance between two people in their present day, without spending time on how they first fell in love. Rather the reader must relay on how the characters feel and present themselves toward each other in understanding how they still feel and what broke them up in the first place. I find the over all concept to this series to be wonderfully inclusive and I love that this series and publisher is providing readers with authors of color who write historical romances. Carr's edition to this series is low angst and really about two people coming back together, learning to forgive for childish mistakes, and understanding the importance of moving forward with someone you love and trust to provide you with the life you want. This novella has a light bit of steam that is perfect for the length and the chemistry that the characters building throughout the story.
Definitely check this novella out if you are looking to discover a new author or if you already love this one. This will definitely not be the last novel I read from Gabrielle Carr and I am looking forward to exploring other novels in this series and by this publisher!
Thank you to Brown Lady Publishing and NetGalley for an eARC, all thoughts and opinions are my own.
March 2, 2022
4 stars. I love unique points of view in historical romances. This was a great example of this. Is was amazing reading about a Black, hearing impaired heroine. I also loved that the story didn’t focus on Black trauma. I quickly felt connected to the characters, and felt their chemistry. I wish we could’ve seen some of their flashback time together, to full understand the travesty of them no longer being together.
Something I noticed as the book went on, we stopped hearing about how she navigated her hearing impairment, I wish there was more about that. I also wish I was able to read about some of the signaling language that was mentioned they they created together.
Something I noticed as the book went on, we stopped hearing about how she navigated her hearing impairment, I wish there was more about that. I also wish I was able to read about some of the signaling language that was mentioned they they created together.
January 29, 2023
This was very cute! Not a lot of depth, which is unfortunate given some of the heavy topics introduced, but short and sweet.
CW: Sexual content, racism, misogyny, slavery
CW: Sexual content, racism, misogyny, slavery
January 22, 2022
He got caught in his own plan.
The theme of the book is one I have read before but the author’s telling was done so well. The heroine is fantastic with all her problems she is strong and a bit unforgiving. Hero is wonderfully human but in the end becomes just what Juliana needs. I really enjoyed this book and I am happy to recommend. I did receive a free copy of this book from Booksprout and voluntarily chose to review it.
The theme of the book is one I have read before but the author’s telling was done so well. The heroine is fantastic with all her problems she is strong and a bit unforgiving. Hero is wonderfully human but in the end becomes just what Juliana needs. I really enjoyed this book and I am happy to recommend. I did receive a free copy of this book from Booksprout and voluntarily chose to review it.
February 7, 2022
Thanks to NetGalley for a free copy for review; this is my freely given opinion.
This was a very short (less than 100 pages) story of Miss Juliana Drake and Colin Latham. She is out in society to look for a husband or risk being married to a man of her Uncle's choosing. But she is a woman of colour (it sounds like) and has a (non visible) disability. He is a second son, not expected to inherit the title, but because of the passing of his father and older brother, has become the newest Duke of Herstshire. He seems to have trouble fitting into his new role and world, having some past regrets, and having a history as a soldier in the Napoleonic wars, and is acting out by being a drunken rake. One of his regrets is Juliana, as they were childhood loves, and he betrayed her trust.
This actually was a lovely story of second chances at love, with the added twist of the heroine being a woman of colour, and having a disability. I quite loved the premise of it. There were some editing issues where I think the wrong word may have been used (or otherwise the intended word was used - but was probably not an appropriate word?), and some minor spelling issues, but nothing that detracts from the story.
The biggest issue I had was that it was less than 100 pages long - the last few pages that edges it into the 100+ pages were actually the preview of another book. Therefore, what I read just skimmed the surface on what could be a wonderful story, with much more character development on two interesting characters and their history. What is Juliana's background and her parent's history - interacial relationships seemed quite rare then, and I would have loved to have known more about her family history, and it's impact on her relationship with Colin as they grew up. What happened to her parents to cause her to be in the care of her aunt and uncle, who do not seem to value her very much. What is the story of her disability? There is allusions to his PTSD that are just glanced on, and to her artistic bent. This story was quite lovely but too brief and as such was a touch superficial; glancing on so many intriguing bits. So I my appetite was whetted, but I was not given a real meal....
3.25 stars out of 5 - because I was left wanting MORE.
This was a very short (less than 100 pages) story of Miss Juliana Drake and Colin Latham. She is out in society to look for a husband or risk being married to a man of her Uncle's choosing. But she is a woman of colour (it sounds like) and has a (non visible) disability. He is a second son, not expected to inherit the title, but because of the passing of his father and older brother, has become the newest Duke of Herstshire. He seems to have trouble fitting into his new role and world, having some past regrets, and having a history as a soldier in the Napoleonic wars, and is acting out by being a drunken rake. One of his regrets is Juliana, as they were childhood loves, and he betrayed her trust.
This actually was a lovely story of second chances at love, with the added twist of the heroine being a woman of colour, and having a disability. I quite loved the premise of it. There were some editing issues where I think the wrong word may have been used (or otherwise the intended word was used - but was probably not an appropriate word?), and some minor spelling issues, but nothing that detracts from the story.
The biggest issue I had was that it was less than 100 pages long - the last few pages that edges it into the 100+ pages were actually the preview of another book. Therefore, what I read just skimmed the surface on what could be a wonderful story, with much more character development on two interesting characters and their history. What is Juliana's background and her parent's history - interacial relationships seemed quite rare then, and I would have loved to have known more about her family history, and it's impact on her relationship with Colin as they grew up. What happened to her parents to cause her to be in the care of her aunt and uncle, who do not seem to value her very much. What is the story of her disability? There is allusions to his PTSD that are just glanced on, and to her artistic bent. This story was quite lovely but too brief and as such was a touch superficial; glancing on so many intriguing bits. So I my appetite was whetted, but I was not given a real meal....
3.25 stars out of 5 - because I was left wanting MORE.
April 15, 2023
I received an Advance Reader Copy from the publisher, via NetGalley. This in no way impacted on my view.
Well, this is going to be a short review. Designing His Duchess is a short book, which was both a good and bad thing. The main characters had a history, as when they were children they had grown up together, and had planned to elope to Gretna Green to marry. But the hero never turned up, and later enlisted and fought at Waterloo. Now that he’s returned, and found himself duke following the deaths of his father and elder brother, he asks for forgiveness from the heroine. She has been told she needs to marry by the season’s end, or she will be kicked out of her uncle’s home. However, this part of the plot was never really explored. She hated the hero, but then forgave him in the next chapter. It was a book that may have had potential, but there was so little substance to it, that I couldn’t honestly rate it as any more than 2 stars. And to be honest, I’m not interested in reading anything from this author again.
Well, this is going to be a short review. Designing His Duchess is a short book, which was both a good and bad thing. The main characters had a history, as when they were children they had grown up together, and had planned to elope to Gretna Green to marry. But the hero never turned up, and later enlisted and fought at Waterloo. Now that he’s returned, and found himself duke following the deaths of his father and elder brother, he asks for forgiveness from the heroine. She has been told she needs to marry by the season’s end, or she will be kicked out of her uncle’s home. However, this part of the plot was never really explored. She hated the hero, but then forgave him in the next chapter. It was a book that may have had potential, but there was so little substance to it, that I couldn’t honestly rate it as any more than 2 stars. And to be honest, I’m not interested in reading anything from this author again.
January 14, 2023
3.5
I would have rounded it up to a five but it’s not historically accurate and just like the other two, it could be set in 2022. There’s no reason for it to be set in the 1800’s, the authors uses todays grammar and has the characters behaving as if her reputation wouldn’t be ruined. That’s my main criticism. But I enjoyed this more than the previous two
Trope: fmc is hard of hearing, mmc has war ptsd and both lost their parents
I would have rounded it up to a five but it’s not historically accurate and just like the other two, it could be set in 2022. There’s no reason for it to be set in the 1800’s, the authors uses todays grammar and has the characters behaving as if her reputation wouldn’t be ruined. That’s my main criticism. But I enjoyed this more than the previous two
Trope: fmc is hard of hearing, mmc has war ptsd and both lost their parents
December 11, 2024
Content warnings: racism, ableism
3.5 stars
Short and sweet. While the title perhaps seems a little out of place given the premise, I had a good time reading this, and I liked that the heroine's hearing impairment is presented as a constant thing in her life rather than a plot device.
3.5 stars
Short and sweet. While the title perhaps seems a little out of place given the premise, I had a good time reading this, and I liked that the heroine's hearing impairment is presented as a constant thing in her life rather than a plot device.
August 15, 2023
this was adorable and sweet. I would have liked the heroine to make him grovel a bit more before being forgiven but it's only 100 pages so time is of the essence!
February 8, 2022
Facing a choice of either being penniless or getting married, shy painter Juliana Drake applies herself to finding a husband. Colin is the newly minted Duke of Herstshire who is coping with the horrors of his time in the army with excessive drinking. When they meet again four years after Colin broke Juliana’s heart, he offers to give her lessons on how to attract a husband as an apology. But what happens when the only husband Juliana wants is Colin?
I liked this book – it was fast-paced (I would characterize it more as a novella given the length) and the characters were sweet and loveable. I loved Juliana – her desire to be a painter and her willingness to fight for what she wants made her a heroine to root for. Collin was sweet and loveable, and you got a sense of his character development. I wished the grandmother had a larger role – she was great.
One of the things that was a little jarring is that the ending happened really quickly and that there was a huge time leap. After the slower build up, it felt a little rushed. While there was definitely urgency around her getting married, it would have been great to see her interact with the man her uncle would have made her marry. He was merely an off-screen boogeyman and I would have loved to have seen the clash with Colin. I would have also liked to know more about her parents. I think this book could have benefitted a lot from being longer – more chance to get into the characters as sometimes it felt superficial. I wanted more of these interesting characters!!
That being said, I was appreciative of how the book represents mental health, race and disability, three things that are often missing in historical romance. It was a charming read with interesting characters and I’d definitely read another book by Gabrielle Carr!
Thank you NetGalley, Brown Lady Publishing, and the author for the opportunity to review the book. All opinions given freely and are my own.
I liked this book – it was fast-paced (I would characterize it more as a novella given the length) and the characters were sweet and loveable. I loved Juliana – her desire to be a painter and her willingness to fight for what she wants made her a heroine to root for. Collin was sweet and loveable, and you got a sense of his character development. I wished the grandmother had a larger role – she was great.
One of the things that was a little jarring is that the ending happened really quickly and that there was a huge time leap. After the slower build up, it felt a little rushed. While there was definitely urgency around her getting married, it would have been great to see her interact with the man her uncle would have made her marry. He was merely an off-screen boogeyman and I would have loved to have seen the clash with Colin. I would have also liked to know more about her parents. I think this book could have benefitted a lot from being longer – more chance to get into the characters as sometimes it felt superficial. I wanted more of these interesting characters!!
That being said, I was appreciative of how the book represents mental health, race and disability, three things that are often missing in historical romance. It was a charming read with interesting characters and I’d definitely read another book by Gabrielle Carr!
Thank you NetGalley, Brown Lady Publishing, and the author for the opportunity to review the book. All opinions given freely and are my own.
March 7, 2022
Julianna has the odds stacked against her in the marriage mart, her half Jamaican heritage being part of the difficulty of making a match among the elite of Regency society. But circumstances make finding her match an imperative for the beautiful bluestocking. Colin, the man who broke her heart years ago, has become a bit dissolute since inheriting a dukedom and hatches a plan to help Julianna. Deep in his cups, he decides that as he is no longer worthy of her, he will be the one to teach her to attract other men. Perhaps not the best of plans, as Colin realizes once he sobers up, but what fun it adds to the story!
I enjoyed the relationship, as constrained as it was, between Julianna and her aunt. I loved the inclusion of sign language and Julianna’s hearing issues and that, in the end, Colin finally shows himself to be a man deserving of Julianna’s love - including his actions in an epilogue that is (ahem) surprising and adorable. And I must say, any story with the hero saying “As you wish” with sincerity and follow through gets bonus points from me.
The version of Gabrielle Carr’s novella Designing His Duchess that I read is the "sweet/closed door" version (that epilogue, though…) rather than the steamier version. If you enjoy an adorable second chance historical, this novella is a quick read that will delight readers with a cross-class, diverse Regency romance.
Designing His Duchess is a general market regency romance. This review refers to an uncorrected digital copy that I voluntarily received from the author. A positive review was not required and all opinions expressed are my own.
I enjoyed the relationship, as constrained as it was, between Julianna and her aunt. I loved the inclusion of sign language and Julianna’s hearing issues and that, in the end, Colin finally shows himself to be a man deserving of Julianna’s love - including his actions in an epilogue that is (ahem) surprising and adorable. And I must say, any story with the hero saying “As you wish” with sincerity and follow through gets bonus points from me.
The version of Gabrielle Carr’s novella Designing His Duchess that I read is the "sweet/closed door" version (that epilogue, though…) rather than the steamier version. If you enjoy an adorable second chance historical, this novella is a quick read that will delight readers with a cross-class, diverse Regency romance.
Designing His Duchess is a general market regency romance. This review refers to an uncorrected digital copy that I voluntarily received from the author. A positive review was not required and all opinions expressed are my own.
February 26, 2022
Marry or find herself penniless and ousted from her aunt and uncle's home. Those are Miss Juliana Drake's current options. Having never felt the need to know how long she could survive without basic provisions, she chooses the latter. Only she knows as much about charming a suitor as she does about charming a snake.
Nothing.
The solution? Colin Lewis Francis Latham, Duke of Herstshire. The man who offered her marriage years ago, then vanished without as much as a by your leave. When he returns to London and offers to instruct her in the art of husband hunting, Juliana is both insulted and desperate enough to accept his offer.
She's no longer the gullible young woman of her youth. She can handle being near him without losing her head. Although, it would be much easier if she could finally expel him from her heart.
Colin is in love with her but he can't admit it. Juliana finds herself in desperate straits but is Colin the answer to her problem?
This book is a second chance at love story. I have never read a book by Gabrielle Carr before although I own one, The Regency in Color Collection has a story by her. This is an awesome book which I loved from the first chapter.
I received a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher and NetGalley. This in no way affects my opinion of this book which I read and reviewed voluntarily.
Nothing.
The solution? Colin Lewis Francis Latham, Duke of Herstshire. The man who offered her marriage years ago, then vanished without as much as a by your leave. When he returns to London and offers to instruct her in the art of husband hunting, Juliana is both insulted and desperate enough to accept his offer.
She's no longer the gullible young woman of her youth. She can handle being near him without losing her head. Although, it would be much easier if she could finally expel him from her heart.
Colin is in love with her but he can't admit it. Juliana finds herself in desperate straits but is Colin the answer to her problem?
This book is a second chance at love story. I have never read a book by Gabrielle Carr before although I own one, The Regency in Color Collection has a story by her. This is an awesome book which I loved from the first chapter.
I received a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher and NetGalley. This in no way affects my opinion of this book which I read and reviewed voluntarily.
February 28, 2022
After the death of her parents two years ago, Juliana is living with her aunt and uncle who demand she come out during the season or be cut off financially. At her first ball Juliana encounters the man she loved, the same man who abandoned her four years ago.
I enjoyed Juliana’s character. She is an artist and pays attention to the details others might overlook. She is kind, loving, and entirely too quick to forgive. I wish this story was longer so that we could see her developed even further.
Colin is a second son who inherited the title after his father and brother passed away. Colin is a war veteran and struggles with losing himself in alcohol and women. He realizes too late that he should have faced Juliana instead of running away.
Due to the length of the novel the resolution happened in one giant leap. I wanted so much more for Juliana in terms of the resolution. I found Colin’s reasoning plausible, but still thin for all that he did during those in between years. I believe Juliana deserved better.
Overall, I enjoyed Gabrielle Carr’s writing and look forward to seeing more stories from her in the future.
Thank you to Brown Lady Publishing via NetGalley and Gabrielle Carr for providing an eARC in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own.
I enjoyed Juliana’s character. She is an artist and pays attention to the details others might overlook. She is kind, loving, and entirely too quick to forgive. I wish this story was longer so that we could see her developed even further.
Colin is a second son who inherited the title after his father and brother passed away. Colin is a war veteran and struggles with losing himself in alcohol and women. He realizes too late that he should have faced Juliana instead of running away.
Due to the length of the novel the resolution happened in one giant leap. I wanted so much more for Juliana in terms of the resolution. I found Colin’s reasoning plausible, but still thin for all that he did during those in between years. I believe Juliana deserved better.
Overall, I enjoyed Gabrielle Carr’s writing and look forward to seeing more stories from her in the future.
Thank you to Brown Lady Publishing via NetGalley and Gabrielle Carr for providing an eARC in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own.
March 5, 2022
I have read several books by Ms. Carr and loved every one of them. She has such a creative writing style and I love the way she brings diversity into the Regency world. It is a charming second chance romance that will sweep you away. After Juliana's parents died two years ago, she has been living with her aunt and uncle. She is being forced to either find a husband or be thrown out. In her quest to find a husband, she encounters Colin, the new Duke of Herstshire. Colin had proposed to her four years ago and left and broke her heart. As he regrets and feels guilty at betraying her trust and leaving her without a word, he offers to help her with lessons on how to attract a husband. Juliana is insulted, but desperate enough to accept his help. She is wiser and stronger now than she was in her youth, and is confident she will not succumb to his charms again. But her heart says something else as she spends more time with him, both of them realize those feelings have not gone away. Will Juliana be able to forgive Colin and give him a second chance?
Though a short story, Ms. Carr does a beautiful job of creating an entertaining and well-developed story that captured my attention from the start and kept my interest till the end, and great characters that had me rooting for them the whole time.
I received a complimentary copy from Netgalley and am voluntarily leaving my review.
Though a short story, Ms. Carr does a beautiful job of creating an entertaining and well-developed story that captured my attention from the start and kept my interest till the end, and great characters that had me rooting for them the whole time.
I received a complimentary copy from Netgalley and am voluntarily leaving my review.
March 1, 2022
3.6/5
🌱THE EXCELLENT
~ IR romance with a heroine of English + Jamaican descent
~ Reforming the rake trope
~ HEA
~ Regency in color (I liked this)
Colin, the once 2nd son, now Duke, is a rake of the first order, and a man drowning in sadness, alcohol and skirts, after his return from the war. He has finally decided to look for a wife, but this does not mean that he has to give up his heart - since it already belongs to someone he hurt terribly. Instead, he can go about his merry way, or so he thinks. Enter Juliana, the young lady he promised himself to and who now desperately needs a husband or her uncle will give her to the highest bidder. Colin plans to teach Juliana how to attract other men, but for how long can he resist the charms of the one he still loves?
✨Give it a read.
🌱THE MEH
~ I have an issue with alcoholism/alcohol being used as a crutch, it’s such a terrible and insidious addiction and few people take it as seriously as they should
~ Some of the actions taken in public for the time are BEYOND THE PALE
~ Things progress very quickly and superficially
~ After we are introduced to some of characters they go poof :(
♡🌱 But that’s just me ;)
—
🎁 Thank you @netgalley for the gift.
🌱THE EXCELLENT
~ IR romance with a heroine of English + Jamaican descent
~ Reforming the rake trope
~ HEA
~ Regency in color (I liked this)
Colin, the once 2nd son, now Duke, is a rake of the first order, and a man drowning in sadness, alcohol and skirts, after his return from the war. He has finally decided to look for a wife, but this does not mean that he has to give up his heart - since it already belongs to someone he hurt terribly. Instead, he can go about his merry way, or so he thinks. Enter Juliana, the young lady he promised himself to and who now desperately needs a husband or her uncle will give her to the highest bidder. Colin plans to teach Juliana how to attract other men, but for how long can he resist the charms of the one he still loves?
✨Give it a read.
🌱THE MEH
~ I have an issue with alcoholism/alcohol being used as a crutch, it’s such a terrible and insidious addiction and few people take it as seriously as they should
~ Some of the actions taken in public for the time are BEYOND THE PALE
~ Things progress very quickly and superficially
~ After we are introduced to some of characters they go poof :(
♡🌱 But that’s just me ;)
—
🎁 Thank you @netgalley for the gift.
January 24, 2022
Juliana is heartbroken about a decision Colin made four years ago, and he’s heartbroken about having made that decision. Now they both find themselves on the marriage mart tiptoeing around each other when all they really want is to be together. This is a heartwarming tale where love prevails. Colin’s quite the character. He drowns his sorrows in alcohol, misinterprets his best friend’s advice and appears to be in over his head with his ducal responsibilities. But he is likeable, rather funny, fiercely loyal and hopelessly in love. Juliana just wants to be left alone to paint and lick her wounds. Her frustration at still being in love with a man whose actions devestated her four years prior, vibrate off the page. This is a quick, well written story that will have you shaking your head one minute and chuckling the next. Such a fun read!
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
February 13, 2022
Miss Juliana Drake has few options left to her. Ultimately, her uncle requires her to marry. The only solution seems to be that she accept Colin, the Duke of Herstshire’s offer to help her in finding a husband. Yet Juliana is uncertain that she can spend any time with Colin, the man who proposed marriage and left her waiting, believing that they would elope.
A sweet novella brings together a couple who were destined to be together but found their families kept them apart. Whilst the novel was well paced, I did wish that this book could have been drawn out more. It would have been wonderful to read about their prior history, before reading of their second chance at love. However, I do look forward to reading more by this author, as her style of writing is easy to read.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book from NetGalley. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
A sweet novella brings together a couple who were destined to be together but found their families kept them apart. Whilst the novel was well paced, I did wish that this book could have been drawn out more. It would have been wonderful to read about their prior history, before reading of their second chance at love. However, I do look forward to reading more by this author, as her style of writing is easy to read.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book from NetGalley. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
February 14, 2022
A cute second-chance historical romance.
Juliana Drake is about to be kicked out of her uncle's house and left penniless if she doesn't marry by the end of the season. Colin Lewis Francis Latham, Duke of Herstshire might be able to help her out with some instruction on catching a husband. But Colin broke Juliana's heart in the past and she's not sure she's ready to risk that experience again...
Overall, this was a really cute, quick story. I think the biggest struggle was the pacing. It seemed to draft quite a bit at the beginning and then wrap up really quickly at the end. I enjoyed the diversity introduced in this book (Juliana is half-black and hearing impaired) and that it was present but wasn't the defining feature of conflict in the story. I think if you enjoy fun historical romance novellas, this one is worth giving a try.
Thank you to NetGalley and Victory Editing NetGalley Co-op for providing an advanced copy of this book for review. All opinions are my own.
Juliana Drake is about to be kicked out of her uncle's house and left penniless if she doesn't marry by the end of the season. Colin Lewis Francis Latham, Duke of Herstshire might be able to help her out with some instruction on catching a husband. But Colin broke Juliana's heart in the past and she's not sure she's ready to risk that experience again...
Overall, this was a really cute, quick story. I think the biggest struggle was the pacing. It seemed to draft quite a bit at the beginning and then wrap up really quickly at the end. I enjoyed the diversity introduced in this book (Juliana is half-black and hearing impaired) and that it was present but wasn't the defining feature of conflict in the story. I think if you enjoy fun historical romance novellas, this one is worth giving a try.
Thank you to NetGalley and Victory Editing NetGalley Co-op for providing an advanced copy of this book for review. All opinions are my own.
February 14, 2022
I'd like to thank the publisher for sending me an arc of this book through NetGalley
Designing his duchess is a historical second chance romance novel that somehow severely lacked in the romance department. I got into this book excited to read a romance novel after bouncing around a few YA books for a bit and this was disappointing, to say the least.
The main issue with the book was that there was no real tension between the characters and I just couldn't believe the fact that this seemingly strong woman who in the first chapter would rather live in the French countryside than marry a man is so quick to forgive Colin for what he did and marries his without reservations. Don't even get me started on the sex scene.
Overall I wouldn't recommend this book to anyone and did not enjoy this in the least.
Designing his duchess is a historical second chance romance novel that somehow severely lacked in the romance department. I got into this book excited to read a romance novel after bouncing around a few YA books for a bit and this was disappointing, to say the least.
The main issue with the book was that there was no real tension between the characters and I just couldn't believe the fact that this seemingly strong woman who in the first chapter would rather live in the French countryside than marry a man is so quick to forgive Colin for what he did and marries his without reservations. Don't even get me started on the sex scene.
Overall I wouldn't recommend this book to anyone and did not enjoy this in the least.
February 12, 2022
Juliana needs to marry this season as her uncle will no longer provide for her. Colin has is no longer a second son, but is now the Duke. He is also the only man she’s ever loved. He agrees to help her find a match to make up for abandoning her all those years ago but he still loves her. Can these two find their way back to each other, or will they be blinded by the pains of the past?
This is a light story of unfulfilled love. Both are still in love with each other, but are blinded by their own insecurities and regrets. I found it a quick read with some light humour, plenty of love and a beautiful happy ever after!
This is a light story of unfulfilled love. Both are still in love with each other, but are blinded by their own insecurities and regrets. I found it a quick read with some light humour, plenty of love and a beautiful happy ever after!
February 13, 2022
Designing His Duchess by Gabrielle Carr
Julianna must marry by the end of the season as her uncle will no longer support her. Colin was the only man Juliana ever loved but he jilted her 4 years ago. As a second son his father threatened to disinherit him if he eloped . He is now the Duke as his father and brother are now dead and he still loves Juliana.
A really lovely second chance romance between Juliana Drake and Colin Duke of Herstshire.
It is well written and enjoyable reading how Colin has to regain favour after treating Juliana so badly in the past .
An easy beautiful book to read on a lazy afternoon.
Julianna must marry by the end of the season as her uncle will no longer support her. Colin was the only man Juliana ever loved but he jilted her 4 years ago. As a second son his father threatened to disinherit him if he eloped . He is now the Duke as his father and brother are now dead and he still loves Juliana.
A really lovely second chance romance between Juliana Drake and Colin Duke of Herstshire.
It is well written and enjoyable reading how Colin has to regain favour after treating Juliana so badly in the past .
An easy beautiful book to read on a lazy afternoon.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
February 26, 2022
Colin Latham, Duke of Herstshire, deserted the lady he loves and joined the army. Now back in London to take his place as the duke, can he ask for her forgiveness? Miss Juliana Drake does not see herself forgiving Colin for leaving her without an explanation four years ago, What seemed ludicrous when he first offers to help her catch a husband, becomes her only option, If she does not find a husband, the alternative is marrying some one picked out by her uncle. How ridiculous can it be when they both still love each other and have no desire to be with anyone else. A very short second chance romance.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book.
March 6, 2022
Designing His Duchess is a novella by Gabrielle Carr. Julianna Drake is being forced to find a marriage to prevent herself from being left penniless. She is determined to find someone who will marry her and not some dodgy old man who may or may not have killed his first wife.
But how… She does not know how to move forward. Colin Lewis Francis Latham, Duke of Herstshire was her first love and when asked agrees to help her find a proper match. The problem… They still have feelings for each other. Is it possible that they will lose their second chance at love?
Designing his Duchess by Gabrielle Carr is a fun, fast read.
But how… She does not know how to move forward. Colin Lewis Francis Latham, Duke of Herstshire was her first love and when asked agrees to help her find a proper match. The problem… They still have feelings for each other. Is it possible that they will lose their second chance at love?
Designing his Duchess by Gabrielle Carr is a fun, fast read.
February 16, 2023
Juliana and Colin have a past he was a second son and madly in love with Juliana until he wasn’t.
He disappeared off to war and never let her know why he abandoned her!
Four years later Juliana just wants to paint and then take a spinster cottage by the sea,
She is given an ultimatum by her uncle marry by end of the season or he will pick a horrible groom for her! You guessed it a lecherous old man!
Will Colin and Juliana share the truth and be open and honest before it’s too late!?
I love the openness about them to each other even when it is painful!
Juliana can read lips but can she read hearts?
He disappeared off to war and never let her know why he abandoned her!
Four years later Juliana just wants to paint and then take a spinster cottage by the sea,
She is given an ultimatum by her uncle marry by end of the season or he will pick a horrible groom for her! You guessed it a lecherous old man!
Will Colin and Juliana share the truth and be open and honest before it’s too late!?
I love the openness about them to each other even when it is painful!
Juliana can read lips but can she read hearts?
January 25, 2022
Designing His Duchess by G. S. Carr was a well written and fantastic read! Author G. S. Carr storytelling was well done and flowed flawlessly. Juliana was a fantastic character, even with all the issues she had, she showed strength and perseverance. Juliana could be a tad bit unforgiving at times, but I understood why she didn’t let her guard down. Colin was an awesome and wonderfully human being who loved Juliana the way she deserved to be loved. He turned out to be exactly what she needed. I would highly recommend this story.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
February 20, 2022
I recieved a free copy from netgalley in exchange for an honest review.
A short novella, so there is quick plot.
A second chance at love for Colin. Colin abandoned Juliana on the day they were to elope. Colin knows he will never be able win her love again but as a new duke he can help her find a husband. Juliana needs a husband now or her uncle will marry her off to a horrible man at the end of the season. Seeing Colin breaks her heart but what other choice does she have.
I liked this short novella. A quick romance.
A short novella, so there is quick plot.
A second chance at love for Colin. Colin abandoned Juliana on the day they were to elope. Colin knows he will never be able win her love again but as a new duke he can help her find a husband. Juliana needs a husband now or her uncle will marry her off to a horrible man at the end of the season. Seeing Colin breaks her heart but what other choice does she have.
I liked this short novella. A quick romance.
March 23, 2022
this book was ok but it was really short. Juliana Drake is told either find her a man to marry or risk marry an old man that her uncle will force her to marry. Colin Latham, Duke of Herstshire broke Juliana's heart four years ago. He promise to help her find a husband but he still has feelings for her. this book would have been a lot better if it had more chapters and a little more history on the two characters. I just reviewed Designing His Duchess by Gabrielle Carr. #DesigningHisDuchess #NetGalley
[NetGalley URL]
[NetGalley URL]
August 24, 2022
I received this book from Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.
First, Designing His Duchess is a short historical romance novel. We follow Colin, a young duke, as he navigates society with the goal of finding a wife. But he encounters Juliana, a young lady who doesn't have a lot of options since he let her down years ago. Colin makes a proposition to Juliana to help her find a husband.
Secondly, I enjoyed this story despite its shortness. The characters were great and you could really get into their story. As well as that, the plot was addictive and it was a quick read.
Overall, a great historical novella with a Bridgerton vibe.
First, Designing His Duchess is a short historical romance novel. We follow Colin, a young duke, as he navigates society with the goal of finding a wife. But he encounters Juliana, a young lady who doesn't have a lot of options since he let her down years ago. Colin makes a proposition to Juliana to help her find a husband.
Secondly, I enjoyed this story despite its shortness. The characters were great and you could really get into their story. As well as that, the plot was addictive and it was a quick read.
Overall, a great historical novella with a Bridgerton vibe.
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