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The Rakes of Mayhem #3
The Duke of Disorder
He saves her from a runaway horse. Too late, she realizes her hero is the man she left years ago for another.
Lucas Pemberton, the fourth Duke of Dorman, enjoys the freedom life affords him and has no plans for marriage, having experienced the fickle nature of women years ago. On the way home, a woman’s piercing scream and an out-of-control horse grab his attention. He rescues her, only to discover that she is the woman who had spurned his affections years ago in favor of another.
Unexpectedly, he becomes guardian to two young women—a forgotten promise made long ago. A confirmed bachelor, Lucas finds himself wholly unprepared for the challenges his wards create and force him to seek a solution.
Newly widowed, Lady Harriett Dudley flees her dead husband’s home, and vows to never relinquish her freedom to any man. Distracted by threats from his family, she is almost killed when something spooks her horse, only to be saved by the man who had professed his affection the very day her father betrothed her to another.
Did she owe him an explanation? Would he understand? Could forgiveness revive a long-ago courtship and give them an opportunity to experience everlasting happiness?
Lucas Pemberton, the fourth Duke of Dorman, enjoys the freedom life affords him and has no plans for marriage, having experienced the fickle nature of women years ago. On the way home, a woman’s piercing scream and an out-of-control horse grab his attention. He rescues her, only to discover that she is the woman who had spurned his affections years ago in favor of another.
Unexpectedly, he becomes guardian to two young women—a forgotten promise made long ago. A confirmed bachelor, Lucas finds himself wholly unprepared for the challenges his wards create and force him to seek a solution.
Newly widowed, Lady Harriett Dudley flees her dead husband’s home, and vows to never relinquish her freedom to any man. Distracted by threats from his family, she is almost killed when something spooks her horse, only to be saved by the man who had professed his affection the very day her father betrothed her to another.
Did she owe him an explanation? Would he understand? Could forgiveness revive a long-ago courtship and give them an opportunity to experience everlasting happiness?
231 pages, Kindle Edition
First published March 18, 2022
105 people are currently reading
56 people want to read
About the author
Anna St. Claire
59 books230 followersWho knew I’d become an author? Not me. But when the opportunity knocked, I answered the door and welcomed it in. I approach life with as much positivity as I can—celebrating the hits and laughing at the misses. Nothing worthwhile is easy, and that includes everything in my life. But I have much to smile about—my lovely mother, a beautiful daughter, two precious granddaughters, my adorable dogs, and my sweet husband of over thirty years. He has always supported me—including uprooting to move to the other side of Charlotte, N.C. for a life change, just when we thought we were settled.
If settled means not going after my dreams, then I never want to be settled. I give my all to things I enjoy—and that includes writing. In 2021, I hit the USA Today Bestselling Author list, and recently, two of my books were named RONE Finalists!
I love to express myself to the point that my daughter avoids going to the movies with me because I’m that woman in the row in front of you who gleefully munches her popcorn and laughs at every hilarious scene. Loudly. Besides my family, I love chocolate, popcorn, laughter, and animals. I love animals so much that I frequently sprinkle them in my stories as secondary characters. They usually steal the show! British and American history have always interested me, so writing historical romances set in the U.K. and the US is where my passion is.
When I was barely three years old, my parents divorced, and my mom moved my sister and me from New York to South Carolina to live near her parents. Juggling a full-time job and full-time school, my mother became my first genuine hero—she never waved the white flag when things were tough. And things quickly got tough. My grandmother, who helped care for my sister and me while my mother worked, became ill with cancer, and didn’t survive the surgery, dying before I was seven. Losing Grandma devastated me. She read to me and taught me to read before I started first grade. I credit her for inspiring my love of reading, and I credit my mother for encouraging me to turn my ideas into stories.
When I was ten, my neighbor gave me her book club copy of Margaret Mitchell’s Gone with the Wind and it remains one of my favorite books. But it was Kathleen Woodiwiss’ Shanna and Ashes in the Wind, that hooked me on historical romance and sparked my dream of becoming a published author.
While I primarily write Regency Romance, I enjoy almost any period in American and British history.
I love hearing from readers. To get in touch, email me at annastclaireauthor@gmail.com.
To keep up to date on my new releases, special promotions, contests, giveaways, and more, sign up for my newsletter by clicking here.
You can also follow me on BookBub, Amazon, Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram.
If settled means not going after my dreams, then I never want to be settled. I give my all to things I enjoy—and that includes writing. In 2021, I hit the USA Today Bestselling Author list, and recently, two of my books were named RONE Finalists!
I love to express myself to the point that my daughter avoids going to the movies with me because I’m that woman in the row in front of you who gleefully munches her popcorn and laughs at every hilarious scene. Loudly. Besides my family, I love chocolate, popcorn, laughter, and animals. I love animals so much that I frequently sprinkle them in my stories as secondary characters. They usually steal the show! British and American history have always interested me, so writing historical romances set in the U.K. and the US is where my passion is.
When I was barely three years old, my parents divorced, and my mom moved my sister and me from New York to South Carolina to live near her parents. Juggling a full-time job and full-time school, my mother became my first genuine hero—she never waved the white flag when things were tough. And things quickly got tough. My grandmother, who helped care for my sister and me while my mother worked, became ill with cancer, and didn’t survive the surgery, dying before I was seven. Losing Grandma devastated me. She read to me and taught me to read before I started first grade. I credit her for inspiring my love of reading, and I credit my mother for encouraging me to turn my ideas into stories.
When I was ten, my neighbor gave me her book club copy of Margaret Mitchell’s Gone with the Wind and it remains one of my favorite books. But it was Kathleen Woodiwiss’ Shanna and Ashes in the Wind, that hooked me on historical romance and sparked my dream of becoming a published author.
While I primarily write Regency Romance, I enjoy almost any period in American and British history.
I love hearing from readers. To get in touch, email me at annastclaireauthor@gmail.com.
To keep up to date on my new releases, special promotions, contests, giveaways, and more, sign up for my newsletter by clicking here.
You can also follow me on BookBub, Amazon, Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 57 reviews
March 19, 2022
❤️❤️❤️❤️
💋
Very enjoyable book and by an author I don’t read to often, that will have to change.
I’m looking for to more from this series.
It was just a pleasure to follow her characters in their adventures into happiness and love.
Very entertaining and addictive reading.
I received an Arc copy of this book and chose to post this review
💋
Very enjoyable book and by an author I don’t read to often, that will have to change.
I’m looking for to more from this series.
It was just a pleasure to follow her characters in their adventures into happiness and love.
Very entertaining and addictive reading.
I received an Arc copy of this book and chose to post this review
March 17, 2022
Newly widowed and free of an abusive husband, Lady Harriet Dudley vows never to give up her independence to a man. When her horse is spooked, Harriet is rescued by her first love, Lucas Pemberton, the Duke of Dorman. Lucas has no desire to marry, especially after having his heart broken when he went to ask for Harriet’s hand only to learn her father married her to another. However, Harriet and Lucas quickly realize that old feelings still remain.
This is the third book in the Rakes of Mayhem series, and I was eager to read it after being introduced to the characters in the earlier books. Harriet and Lucas are well-developed protagonists, and I like how they slowly work their way back to each other. They have a lot to work through because of their complicated past and the feelings they still share, and they both have to face their fears before finding happiness with each other. They have great chemistry, and I liked their love story.
No one ever understood why Harriet’s father arranged a marriage between her and such a loathsome man, especially since everyone knew how much she cared for Lucas. Harriet’s father staunchly refuses to explain himself, which has fractured many relationships. Then, when her husband’s heir contacts her, Harriet worries the past is coming back to haunt her. Harriet has suffered so much. Abused, separated from her family, cut off from society, and completely controlled by her husband, Harriet searches for answers while trying to reconnect with those she missed most.
I love Harriet’s relationship with her sister. They have a strong bond, and when they’re together, it’s almost as if no time has passed. I also really liked Lucas’s mother. She and Harriet’s sister work together to reunite Lucas and Harriet, and they are a great team. Other characters, like Lucas’s friends and his wards, are also wonderful additions to the story. Lucas’s youngest ward is a delight! She’s so fun and spunky, and she’s a little troublemaker but in the cutest of ways.
Overall, I enjoyed the story, though I wanted more resolution and apology from Harriet’s father, especially after all Harriet went through. There are definite messages throughout the story about the lack of choice women had and the control med exerted over the women in their lives. Other messages about friendship, family, and taking chances, as well as the lovely romance, balance the story well.
Special thanks to NetGalley, Dragonblade Publishing, and the author for providing me with a copy of the book. All thoughts are my own.
This is the third book in the Rakes of Mayhem series, and I was eager to read it after being introduced to the characters in the earlier books. Harriet and Lucas are well-developed protagonists, and I like how they slowly work their way back to each other. They have a lot to work through because of their complicated past and the feelings they still share, and they both have to face their fears before finding happiness with each other. They have great chemistry, and I liked their love story.
No one ever understood why Harriet’s father arranged a marriage between her and such a loathsome man, especially since everyone knew how much she cared for Lucas. Harriet’s father staunchly refuses to explain himself, which has fractured many relationships. Then, when her husband’s heir contacts her, Harriet worries the past is coming back to haunt her. Harriet has suffered so much. Abused, separated from her family, cut off from society, and completely controlled by her husband, Harriet searches for answers while trying to reconnect with those she missed most.
I love Harriet’s relationship with her sister. They have a strong bond, and when they’re together, it’s almost as if no time has passed. I also really liked Lucas’s mother. She and Harriet’s sister work together to reunite Lucas and Harriet, and they are a great team. Other characters, like Lucas’s friends and his wards, are also wonderful additions to the story. Lucas’s youngest ward is a delight! She’s so fun and spunky, and she’s a little troublemaker but in the cutest of ways.
Overall, I enjoyed the story, though I wanted more resolution and apology from Harriet’s father, especially after all Harriet went through. There are definite messages throughout the story about the lack of choice women had and the control med exerted over the women in their lives. Other messages about friendship, family, and taking chances, as well as the lovely romance, balance the story well.
Special thanks to NetGalley, Dragonblade Publishing, and the author for providing me with a copy of the book. All thoughts are my own.
March 17, 2022
Lucas Pemberton, the fourth Duke of Dorman, enjoys the freedom life affords him and has no plans for marriage, having experienced a broken heart years ago. On the way home, a woman’s piercing scream and an out-of-control horse grab his attention. He rescues her, only to discover that she is the woman who broke his heart years ago in favour of another. Unexpectedly, he becomes guardian to two young women—a forgotten promise made long ago. A confirmed bachelor, Lucas finds himself wholly unprepared for the challenges his wards create and force him to seek a solution with the help of his mother. Newly widowed, Lady Harriett Dudley flees her dead husband’s home, and vows to never relinquish her freedom to any man. She stays at her family’s country estate but the only man she’s ever loved is their neighbour.
The third book in the series & it could be read on its own, however characters from the earlier books do feature heavily. I loved both Lucas & Harriet who were in love six years ago but Harriet’s father forced her to marry the despicable Lord Dudley. Whilst they tried to reach out to each other others conspired against them. Now they meet again both are hurt but both are still in love. I enjoyed their road to a HEA but would have liked more time spent with them & for their chemistry to be shown more. I did enjoy the secondary characters especially the delightful Cat, I’d love to read her story (hint). The most touching scene was an unexpected reunion for Matthew. There were also a couple of surprises when everything was revealed. A well written book, which I thoroughly enjoyed, whilst not my favourite of the series I would still recommend it
My honest review is for a special copy I voluntarily read
The third book in the series & it could be read on its own, however characters from the earlier books do feature heavily. I loved both Lucas & Harriet who were in love six years ago but Harriet’s father forced her to marry the despicable Lord Dudley. Whilst they tried to reach out to each other others conspired against them. Now they meet again both are hurt but both are still in love. I enjoyed their road to a HEA but would have liked more time spent with them & for their chemistry to be shown more. I did enjoy the secondary characters especially the delightful Cat, I’d love to read her story (hint). The most touching scene was an unexpected reunion for Matthew. There were also a couple of surprises when everything was revealed. A well written book, which I thoroughly enjoyed, whilst not my favourite of the series I would still recommend it
My honest review is for a special copy I voluntarily read
March 20, 2022
London 1818
Of all the people to have saved from a run away horse, he could not believe it was her. She, who had married another five years ago, forced by her father.. it had left him broken hearted, with no thought of ever marrying. Her husband had passed over a year ago and she had not contacted him, although he had not tried to get in touch with her either. Now she was riding in front of him on his horse.. all he could think was "I am in trouble."
She could not believe if was him! He had saved her from the runaway horse... If only she had been able to marry him and not that horrible man. She knew though she had lost him forever....
A wonderful cast of characters, a few determined family and friends and a love that truly never died may just bring these two back together! Another delightful addition to this great series I have enjoyed so much!
Of all the people to have saved from a run away horse, he could not believe it was her. She, who had married another five years ago, forced by her father.. it had left him broken hearted, with no thought of ever marrying. Her husband had passed over a year ago and she had not contacted him, although he had not tried to get in touch with her either. Now she was riding in front of him on his horse.. all he could think was "I am in trouble."
She could not believe if was him! He had saved her from the runaway horse... If only she had been able to marry him and not that horrible man. She knew though she had lost him forever....
A wonderful cast of characters, a few determined family and friends and a love that truly never died may just bring these two back together! Another delightful addition to this great series I have enjoyed so much!
March 13, 2022
There are so many unresolved issues in the lives of the main characters, that when Lucas, the Duke of Dorman and Lady Harriett finally meet once more, the years of hurt and mistrust almost derail any chance of a reconciliation. Forced into a marriage that was not of her choosing, Harriett suffered under the cruel treatment of her husband, until his unexpected death. Returning to her father's house, she finds that the marriage he pushed her into has also caused discord between her parents. Coming face to face with Lucas when he brings her runaway horse under control, causes all the heartache and pain to the fore once more. Lucas is similarly affected by his chance encounter with the only woman he has ever loved, but having vowed never to give his heart again, he finds it difficult to let go of the pain of the past. Fortunately, between his mother and her sister, not to mention a little help from a mischievous imp and his wily friends, Lucas and Harriett finally get their chance to clear the air. However, when the past comes knocking at her door, fear once again grips Harriett's heart and forces Lucas to face up to his feelings. There are a few holes in the plot of this romance, and one has to guess at some of the missing details which frustrated me. Nevertheless, the novel comes to a happy conclusion, with more than one celebration bringing friends together. I received a copy of this romance as a gift from Dragonblade Publishing and NetGalley and this is my honest and voluntary review.
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March 18, 2022This is the third in a series about four friends who swore to never marry and be rakes about time. Lucas, the Duke of Dorman, is the only know still single but he’s never even considered marriage since five years ago the woman he was about to propose to was forced to marry another man to pay her father’s debts. While out with his friends he saves a woman on a runaway horse and it turns out to be Lady Dudley, the now-widowed woman who broke his heart.
Harriet was abused by her late husband and even though she’s always loved Lucas, she had such a horrible marriage that she’ll never marry again. She never knew why she was sold to her first husband and never had any closure with her father.
This felt very overwritten. You don’t have to always pen a missive, you can just write a letter, even in 1818. Instead of requesting some sustenance to be readied, you can just order dinner. It was very distracting.
I don’t think the author knows how a sidesaddle works or that you can’t get a woman with a sprained ankle up onto another horse and on a man’s lap. I hoped once we moved on from horses this second chance romance would take off but it never did for me. Too many horses and flat secondary characters and subplots with new wards took a lot of time away from the couple. I never connected with them and wasn’t too sure why they still liked one another.
I received an arc from NetGalley
Harriet was abused by her late husband and even though she’s always loved Lucas, she had such a horrible marriage that she’ll never marry again. She never knew why she was sold to her first husband and never had any closure with her father.
This felt very overwritten. You don’t have to always pen a missive, you can just write a letter, even in 1818. Instead of requesting some sustenance to be readied, you can just order dinner. It was very distracting.
I don’t think the author knows how a sidesaddle works or that you can’t get a woman with a sprained ankle up onto another horse and on a man’s lap. I hoped once we moved on from horses this second chance romance would take off but it never did for me. Too many horses and flat secondary characters and subplots with new wards took a lot of time away from the couple. I never connected with them and wasn’t too sure why they still liked one another.
I received an arc from NetGalley
June 10, 2022
Rating: 2.5/5.0
Calling all second chance love trope fans, this book is for you! There are a few trigger warnings.
Read full review in the 2022 June issue of InD'tale Magazine.
Calling all second chance love trope fans, this book is for you! There are a few trigger warnings.
Read full review in the 2022 June issue of InD'tale Magazine.
April 19, 2022
Good second chance historical romance. Poor Lucas was dumped before he could ask Harriet to marry him because her father made her marry someone else. She was a victim of DV and the circumstances were truly depressing. All the characters in this book were fun.
March 17, 2022
I received a free copy from NetGalley and this is my freely given opinion.
This is the third book for the Rakes of Mayhem... really, this series and the various titles are a bit of a misnomer in my mind. None of the men in the titles really seem all that rakish, and this duke does not seem very disorderly, all things considered. Regardless this book had a great premise for a plot; boy loves girl, girl loves boy. Boy will be future duke, family loves girl, and boy plans on marrying girl. Goes to home of girl to ask for her hand in marriage... only to find out that father has married daughter off to another man without telling anyone why, despite the wishes of his daughter and wife, and his prior willingness to let the boy court the girl formally.
Move to current day. Boy is Lucas Pemberton, now the fourth Duke of Dorman, and it has taken years for him to get over the heartbreak of losing the woman he loved, now the Lady Harriett Dudley. He has vowed not to marry. One day, he saves a woman on a runaway horse, only to find out it is Harriett, who has come home to visit her family, after 5 years. She is a widow and has just ended her mourning period to the Viscount Dudley, who was an abusive spouse. Neither she nor anyone else ever found out why her father married her to the man who isolated her from her family and friends, but surprisingly left her a well off widow. She has determined that she will relish her independence, and never marry again.
Lucas is hurt that Harriett never contacted him, even after becoming a widow, and does not want a relationship with her, and put his heart at risk. In the meantime, he becomes a guardian to two young orphaned girls and has to figure out how to secure their education and futures, with help from his mother, and the spouses of his fellow Rake friends. But his mother wants him to marry, and the perfect candidate has shown back up. Harriett's sister is visiting with her, and also wants to correct the past, and secure her sister's happiness... the two become co-conspirators in matchmaking, with a bit of help from other characters.
Again, the premise of the story is good. But I found that the story itself was a bit meandering and tedious. There was a lot of unnecessary details that bogged down or detracted from the story line, including a lot of detail of multiple bouts of billiards, and having actual commentary from animals. Anyone who has read some of my reviews knows my appreciation for all things furry and feathered, but really, does the story really need several "Meow", said the cat, or "Neeeigh" said the horse???
Whereas, the ultimate revelation of the mystery of why the Earl married Harriett off to the reviled, abusive Dudley seemed rather like it got short shrift, and there was no real resolution to the strained relationships in that family, considering the number of years that has gone on. If my parents forced a marriage that lead to my abuse by a spouse, his family, and servants, including physical/sexual abuse, isolation, financial abuse, servants spying and tattling, confinement, etc. no matter what my love, with no reasonable explanation and sincere groveling apologies, I likely would not want anything to do with that parent again. But the father continued to refuse any apology, or justification, and also read her missives and accused her of conspiracy with the new Viscount Dudley. For something that was such a pivotal component to their lives, the resolution of this seemed rather abrupt and unfinished.
Also, Lucas - I can understand why he may not want to marry again, when his heart got broken. But he is given a second chance with the woman he loved... and he knows she did not spurn him or trick him, or purposefully break his heart in any way. I could not understand his reticence initially to be friendly with her, if not actively pursue a relationship with her. What did he expect from her, considering the constraints on women at the time, and how the men in her life failed and disappointed her?
There were sweet moments though. I liked the care that Lucas spent in welcoming the orphaned wards, and his connection with the younger Catherine. The brotherly relationship he had with his fellow Rakes was nice as well, since it appeared they were staying with him. The reunion of Romney (the Earl of Excess) with his horse was quite lovely and sentimental. But then his own brothers barely get a mention when there was a lot of attention paid to their childhood haunts and activities - maybe the brothers were too young? Also, not a lot of involvement of the wives, who were also staying with them. They were definitely background characters and it felt like the cats and horses got more attention than the wives.
Anyways, good premise, but I felt that the story definitely got bogged down by frequent small details that did not add to the story.
2.75 stars out of 5. I liked the previous two books in the series more. I wanted to like this one, but felt it fell a bit short for me - bogged down by details.
There were some minor editing issues also (but keep in mind this was an ARC) - such as calling Madame Tussaud's "Madame Trousseau", stating the horse's names was Colton, and he is renaming it Colton, and mixing up Harriett's title a few times (Countess/Viscountess).
This is the third book for the Rakes of Mayhem... really, this series and the various titles are a bit of a misnomer in my mind. None of the men in the titles really seem all that rakish, and this duke does not seem very disorderly, all things considered. Regardless this book had a great premise for a plot; boy loves girl, girl loves boy. Boy will be future duke, family loves girl, and boy plans on marrying girl. Goes to home of girl to ask for her hand in marriage... only to find out that father has married daughter off to another man without telling anyone why, despite the wishes of his daughter and wife, and his prior willingness to let the boy court the girl formally.
Move to current day. Boy is Lucas Pemberton, now the fourth Duke of Dorman, and it has taken years for him to get over the heartbreak of losing the woman he loved, now the Lady Harriett Dudley. He has vowed not to marry. One day, he saves a woman on a runaway horse, only to find out it is Harriett, who has come home to visit her family, after 5 years. She is a widow and has just ended her mourning period to the Viscount Dudley, who was an abusive spouse. Neither she nor anyone else ever found out why her father married her to the man who isolated her from her family and friends, but surprisingly left her a well off widow. She has determined that she will relish her independence, and never marry again.
Lucas is hurt that Harriett never contacted him, even after becoming a widow, and does not want a relationship with her, and put his heart at risk. In the meantime, he becomes a guardian to two young orphaned girls and has to figure out how to secure their education and futures, with help from his mother, and the spouses of his fellow Rake friends. But his mother wants him to marry, and the perfect candidate has shown back up. Harriett's sister is visiting with her, and also wants to correct the past, and secure her sister's happiness... the two become co-conspirators in matchmaking, with a bit of help from other characters.
Again, the premise of the story is good. But I found that the story itself was a bit meandering and tedious. There was a lot of unnecessary details that bogged down or detracted from the story line, including a lot of detail of multiple bouts of billiards, and having actual commentary from animals. Anyone who has read some of my reviews knows my appreciation for all things furry and feathered, but really, does the story really need several "Meow", said the cat, or "Neeeigh" said the horse???
Whereas, the ultimate revelation of the mystery of why the Earl married Harriett off to the reviled, abusive Dudley seemed rather like it got short shrift, and there was no real resolution to the strained relationships in that family, considering the number of years that has gone on. If my parents forced a marriage that lead to my abuse by a spouse, his family, and servants, including physical/sexual abuse, isolation, financial abuse, servants spying and tattling, confinement, etc. no matter what my love, with no reasonable explanation and sincere groveling apologies, I likely would not want anything to do with that parent again. But the father continued to refuse any apology, or justification, and also read her missives and accused her of conspiracy with the new Viscount Dudley. For something that was such a pivotal component to their lives, the resolution of this seemed rather abrupt and unfinished.
Also, Lucas - I can understand why he may not want to marry again, when his heart got broken. But he is given a second chance with the woman he loved... and he knows she did not spurn him or trick him, or purposefully break his heart in any way. I could not understand his reticence initially to be friendly with her, if not actively pursue a relationship with her. What did he expect from her, considering the constraints on women at the time, and how the men in her life failed and disappointed her?
There were sweet moments though. I liked the care that Lucas spent in welcoming the orphaned wards, and his connection with the younger Catherine. The brotherly relationship he had with his fellow Rakes was nice as well, since it appeared they were staying with him. The reunion of Romney (the Earl of Excess) with his horse was quite lovely and sentimental. But then his own brothers barely get a mention when there was a lot of attention paid to their childhood haunts and activities - maybe the brothers were too young? Also, not a lot of involvement of the wives, who were also staying with them. They were definitely background characters and it felt like the cats and horses got more attention than the wives.
Anyways, good premise, but I felt that the story definitely got bogged down by frequent small details that did not add to the story.
2.75 stars out of 5. I liked the previous two books in the series more. I wanted to like this one, but felt it fell a bit short for me - bogged down by details.
There were some minor editing issues also (but keep in mind this was an ARC) - such as calling Madame Tussaud's "Madame Trousseau", stating the horse's names was Colton, and he is renaming it Colton, and mixing up Harriett's title a few times (Countess/Viscountess).
March 21, 2022
The Duke of Disorder by Anna St. Claire is a very cute second chance romance: Lucas and Harriet planned to marry. It was known by all with only the formalities left before them. When he arrived at her home that morning, the butler, Nicholas, greeted him with the news she was married. How could she be married? He'd seen her only two days past. When speaking with her father the man couldn't look him in the eye as he imparted the same news but refused to reveal to whom or where she was. In five years he had not heard from her and now here she was hanging from her horse by her ankle. He was devastated upon seeing her. To be fair, she was as well. He was a gentleman. He had to help her. His two friends looked on in amusement. She was lovely and he felt his heart leap, but he would not be taken in again. It was over. He was a duke so he would have to marry, but he didn't plan to engage his heart. Plus he had his two wards to think of: young women. What did he know about raising a daughter?
This was an enchanting story, amusing and heart breaking from one moment to the next. A man taken advantage of and solved the problem by sentencing his daughter to a life of misery. They hadn't spoken in five years. his wife barely spoke to him: he could hardly stand himself. Then, all of a sudden she was home, her husband having taken a fall from his horse and died of the injury. Everyone in the house was miserable, as was the reader, hearing this recounted. Her life had been horrid, but now to everyone's surprise, her husband had left her well off, financially, and her solicitor was looking for an appropriate house for her. She had sworn off men as thoroughly as Lucas had sworn off love. It was heart breaking, but amusing as his mother and her sister conspired to reunite the pair. The younger of the two wards also provided some comic relief with her antics. It was an amazing entertaining book.
I was invited to read a free e-ARC of the Duke of Disorder by Dragonblade through Netgalley. All thoughts and opinions are mine. #netgalley #dragonblade #thedukeofdisorder #annastclaire
This was an enchanting story, amusing and heart breaking from one moment to the next. A man taken advantage of and solved the problem by sentencing his daughter to a life of misery. They hadn't spoken in five years. his wife barely spoke to him: he could hardly stand himself. Then, all of a sudden she was home, her husband having taken a fall from his horse and died of the injury. Everyone in the house was miserable, as was the reader, hearing this recounted. Her life had been horrid, but now to everyone's surprise, her husband had left her well off, financially, and her solicitor was looking for an appropriate house for her. She had sworn off men as thoroughly as Lucas had sworn off love. It was heart breaking, but amusing as his mother and her sister conspired to reunite the pair. The younger of the two wards also provided some comic relief with her antics. It was an amazing entertaining book.
I was invited to read a free e-ARC of the Duke of Disorder by Dragonblade through Netgalley. All thoughts and opinions are mine. #netgalley #dragonblade #thedukeofdisorder #annastclaire
March 19, 2022
Lucas and Harriet were young and in love. When Lucas came to ask her father for her hand, he was told that she had married and was gone. Her father had forced her to wed to pay off a debt. He never explained what the debt was and why forcing her to wed Viscount Dudley was the only way to pay it. That was five years ago. The next time they meet, Lucas, now the Duke of Dorman, rescues Harriet, now a widow, from her runaway horse. Their meeting is to say the least uncomfortable. Is it, however, possible that it might be the start to their second chance at happiness?
Lucas is still nursing the hurt of what happened years ago. Harriet even more so, because her forced marriage was to a cruel man who abused her. While Lucas and Harriet seem determined not to reconnect, his mother and her sister have other ideas. Along with Lucas’s two new wards, they come up with plans and activities to put them in the same place at the same time. Just as it appears all the fuss and matchmaking will succeed, some drama and a bit of mystery come along. Why does the new Viscount Dudley want to see Harriet? The story has a little bit of everything - heartache, secrets, mystery, drama, some fun, and finally a long awaited happily ever after. This is a compelling story with a variety of engaging characters. A good read.
I received an ARC of this book from the publisher via NetGalley. My review is voluntary.
Lucas is still nursing the hurt of what happened years ago. Harriet even more so, because her forced marriage was to a cruel man who abused her. While Lucas and Harriet seem determined not to reconnect, his mother and her sister have other ideas. Along with Lucas’s two new wards, they come up with plans and activities to put them in the same place at the same time. Just as it appears all the fuss and matchmaking will succeed, some drama and a bit of mystery come along. Why does the new Viscount Dudley want to see Harriet? The story has a little bit of everything - heartache, secrets, mystery, drama, some fun, and finally a long awaited happily ever after. This is a compelling story with a variety of engaging characters. A good read.
I received an ARC of this book from the publisher via NetGalley. My review is voluntary.
March 22, 2022
I received this book as an ARC. I was drawn to the book's title. This is the first Anna St. Claire book that I've read but I will be finding more now! I love the reunited lovers trope. The Duke of Disorder is a pleasant, lovely book that I really enjoyed reading. I wish we had gotten a little look into Harriet and Lucas' relationship before they were split apart, I think that would be beneficial. The characters' dialogue sometimes was a little stilted and some of it felt unnecessary, but it wasn't anything that took away from the book. I liked the friendships that Lucas had, and also little what I am assuming are updates from previous books' characters. I wish there was more scenes between Lucas and Harriet. The scene description was really good. There was just the right amount of angst for me-- I am not too into a lot of angst and this was a good amount. The wards and machinations of Lucas' mother and Harriet's sister were a fun addition to the book, adding a little of the disorder. Overall, this was a nice, sweet book that I had a good time reading.
March 18, 2022
Lucas Pemberton, the fourth Duke of Dorman, was still single after he lost the chance to marry the one woman he loved. Lady Harriett’s father decided for reasons, no one understood, to marry her off suddenly to Lord Dudley. Dudley was an older peer; a cruel husband, who made her life with him wretched. Luckily for her, he fell from his horse and broke his neck. Now after five years, Lady Harriett is back home after her mourning period had passed. During an outing, Lucas saved Lady Harriett from a run a way horse and once again feelings begin to surface for both. I enjoyed the characters that made up this story that filled it with hope and romance. Even the two little wards that come into Lord Lucas’s life were enjoyable. I wish there had been more of a chance to have their characters grow and enlighten the story. Bea and Cat were quite the smart and enjoyable personalities that helped to make the story line flourish.
March 17, 2022
Widowed Lady Harriett Dudley is free at last from the abusive husband. Her father forced her to marry without explaining why.
While visiting the family she had been forbidden to see during her marriage the past raises it head again.
Lucas Pemberton, Duke of Dorman always tries to keep his life organised but has a reputation as the Duke of Disorder because his plans always seem to get complicated.
Our hero is a very nice guy, with great relationships with friends and family. One of his good deeds will bring past heartache back to him.
There are a few giggles in this historical romance and lots of lovable characters. A real feel good story to lighten your day.
Good fun.
While visiting the family she had been forbidden to see during her marriage the past raises it head again.
Lucas Pemberton, Duke of Dorman always tries to keep his life organised but has a reputation as the Duke of Disorder because his plans always seem to get complicated.
Our hero is a very nice guy, with great relationships with friends and family. One of his good deeds will bring past heartache back to him.
There are a few giggles in this historical romance and lots of lovable characters. A real feel good story to lighten your day.
Good fun.
March 12, 2022
Lucas was all set to get engaged to Harriet when she suddenly ran off and married someone else her father forced her to. This leaves Lucas to have an aversion to ever getting married. Lucas had not seen her for 5 years. Widowed, Harriet has come to town to get away from the reminders of her deceased abusive husband. When Lucas becomes the guardian of two teenaged girls he realizes he must marry. His married friends and his family keep putting him and Harriet together. Can a long ago injustice be finally corrected? I received an ARC from NetGalley and Dragonblade Publishing for my honest review.
March 18, 2022
Harriet and Lucas grew up together on neighboring estates. Is it any wonder they fell in love? Before Lucas could propose, her father married her to someone else. From then on Lucas closed his heart to love. Five years later Harriet is a widow, but an abusive marriage makes her hesitant to trust anyone in marriage again. If only Lucas and Harriet can let go of the past, maybe they will have a chance for a future. A second chance romance that moves at a steady pace, but continues extending their pain through most of the book. The only relief is the mischievous Cat, one of Lucas' new wards. She is a handful and I was constantly snickering. I hope she and her sister Beatrice will have their own books.
Closed door sex.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book.
Closed door sex.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book.
March 22, 2022
First time I read this author
Overall the story was good but needs a good proofread. Some terminology seemed out of place for the time period. I don't believe they did any "reaching out" or said a thing was "doable" or that they were "appreciative ". Also Harriet received a puppy from her sister but at some point she had a kitten in her bed. I doubt I will go back and read the first two books in the series. I like more steam.
Overall the story was good but needs a good proofread. Some terminology seemed out of place for the time period. I don't believe they did any "reaching out" or said a thing was "doable" or that they were "appreciative ". Also Harriet received a puppy from her sister but at some point she had a kitten in her bed. I doubt I will go back and read the first two books in the series. I like more steam.
March 20, 2022
All of his friends have married and the Duke of Dorman is the last to be single. He has suddenly found himself the guardian of two young ladies. Their parents have died and he has promised to take care of them. The neighbor who he has loved all of his life is now widowed and returned to her parents' home for awhile. Can they find the love they once had? Thank you NetGalley for an interesting read.
March 21, 2022
My one true love 💗
Lucas had been broken hearted for five years. His love, Lady Harriett, had become a widow but his hurt and mistrust became an issue. A second chance love story with great friends, family, and a forever love!
Lucas had been broken hearted for five years. His love, Lady Harriett, had become a widow but his hurt and mistrust became an issue. A second chance love story with great friends, family, and a forever love!
Read
June 8, 2022"Calling all second chance love trope fans, this book is for you!"
Check out my full review at InD'tale Magazine:
https://issuu.com/indtalemagazine/doc...
Check out my full review at InD'tale Magazine:
https://issuu.com/indtalemagazine/doc...
June 1, 2022
I received an Advance Reader Copy from the publisher via NetGalley. This in no way impacted on my view.
Years ago, Lucas Pemberton, Duke of Dorman, was ready to marry the woman of his dreams. But as he goes to her home before the wedding, he's told that she's already left and married another. Angry, and heartbroken, he buries himself in parties and fun, and is a consummate rake. Now, racing after a woman on a runaway horse, he realises that the woman he's just rescued is his ex-fiancee, Lady Harriett Dudley, returned home after being widowed. The angry and pain has returned, but when he finds two orphaned children on his doorstep, in his care due to a past agreement, he needs Harriett's help. Harriett never wished to marry her late husband, but was forced into it by her weak father, and found herself at the hands of a monster. Widowed, she vows never to fall into the hands of a man again, and welcomes her freedom for the first time in her life. Reconnecting with Lucas, and remembering all that she lost, it's hard, but she starts to care for the girls, and struggles to keep her feelings to herself. Will they both be able to get over their past hurt, or will the danger on the horizon keep them apart?
I loved this book, and it's definitely my favourite of the series. Lucas and Harriett have loved and lost, and due to actions wholly out of their control, were forced apart. They may have grown, but they both have demons which are hard to face, and being in each other's company is hard, but not impossible. I really liked how they were willing to let go of the past for the girls, and though some of the actions made to push them together were questionable, I was pleased with the ending! A great way to finish off the series.
Years ago, Lucas Pemberton, Duke of Dorman, was ready to marry the woman of his dreams. But as he goes to her home before the wedding, he's told that she's already left and married another. Angry, and heartbroken, he buries himself in parties and fun, and is a consummate rake. Now, racing after a woman on a runaway horse, he realises that the woman he's just rescued is his ex-fiancee, Lady Harriett Dudley, returned home after being widowed. The angry and pain has returned, but when he finds two orphaned children on his doorstep, in his care due to a past agreement, he needs Harriett's help. Harriett never wished to marry her late husband, but was forced into it by her weak father, and found herself at the hands of a monster. Widowed, she vows never to fall into the hands of a man again, and welcomes her freedom for the first time in her life. Reconnecting with Lucas, and remembering all that she lost, it's hard, but she starts to care for the girls, and struggles to keep her feelings to herself. Will they both be able to get over their past hurt, or will the danger on the horizon keep them apart?
I loved this book, and it's definitely my favourite of the series. Lucas and Harriett have loved and lost, and due to actions wholly out of their control, were forced apart. They may have grown, but they both have demons which are hard to face, and being in each other's company is hard, but not impossible. I really liked how they were willing to let go of the past for the girls, and though some of the actions made to push them together were questionable, I was pleased with the ending! A great way to finish off the series.
May 9, 2022
All indeed seems lost when Lucas arrives to ask Harriet’s father for her hand, only to be informed that she wed 2 days prior and is gone. Despite knowing that she was given no choice, he is hurt and angry. This anger pushes him to forget her. But when she returns home a year after her husbands death and is rescued by the Duke old wounds open. She has never understood why her father forced her into a horrible marriage, but is determined to never be under a man’s control again. While Lucas is determined never to open his heart to that kind of pain again. They must both overcome these demons in order to see that they still love each other. The Duke of disorder has acquired 2 young girls he must now raise, and this provides the opportunity for their families to come together under the ruse of providing help for the girls. This actually provides time for these two to spend in each other’s company and see what is clear to everyone.
This was a nice light read with a compelling story. Some mystery in the reasons why, and plenty of love. It is also a beautiful story of friendship and the bonds that brings.
This was a nice light read with a compelling story. Some mystery in the reasons why, and plenty of love. It is also a beautiful story of friendship and the bonds that brings.
January 5, 2023
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This is a gentle slice of life book where there is very little conflict and a lot of 'warm' moments. While the romance is understated, the plot and character felt bland, not much happens, there isn't a lot of depth, and we've probably read this story before. Like an old worn stuffed chair next to a fireplace, the book has its cozy moments but I found myself nodding off too often.Story: Years ago, Harriet and Lucas fell in love and were to be married. But when Lucas arrived at Harriet's house to ask for her hand in marriage, he discovered she had already been married at her father's behest and against her wishes. Heartbroken, Lucas withdrew and swore off marriage. Now a widow, Harriet is finally freed of the nightmare marriage and sure Lucas has given up on her. When they meet again, family and friends come together to help remind the two that there is always room for a second chance.
The central plot of the book of the two giving up on each other was hard to hold on to considering both were still clearly in love with each other. So there really was no way for the author to sustain some kind of conflict or hurdle for the two to cross other than time and pushy family members. In this way, the book feels like a Christian historical romance full of the typical family values and children who follow their parents' biddings.
There are several subplots that really didn't add to the story and felt like filling since there wasn't much in the way of story between Lucas and Harriet. Lucas has to take care of two young nieces and we get a lot of scenes of him being a loving Uncle to the two girls. Then there are the endless billiard nights where Lucas and his buddies from the previous books get together to talk about their new wives. There is a 'mystery' about why Harriet was forced to marry a reprehensible man but it isn't very interesting and not much time is spent on it. It all felt like window dressing.
The main characters were a bit too idealized to ring true or be interesting. I had a hard time finding nuances and depth in either plot or people. It would have been nicer to have some foibles other than giving up on a good thing and then not going for it again when it is thrown in your face by your relatives.
I ended up not finishing the book at 65%. There are many who love this style of gentle slice-of-life historical romance, where the sun always shines, the women are virtuous, and the men are heroic and upstanding. Admittedly, I need more for a story to really capture my attention. Reviewed from an advance reader copy provided by the publisher.
April 22, 2022
I enjoyed the trope and reading Lucas and Harriet’s story. Hard to believe that a father could ruin his family the way Harriet’s did. Even sadder that there are people like Lord Dudley who would put people in that position. Nice to see the outcome.
** I was fortunate to receive an ARC of this book in return for an honest review. **
** I was fortunate to receive an ARC of this book in return for an honest review. **
April 6, 2022
This is the third book of the Rakes of Mayhem series. The series follows four friends who swore that they would never get married. This is Lucas' story. Five years ago, he was going to propose to Harriet, but she was forced to marry another. Life has not been easy for Harriet since then. She had suffered much abuse by her late husband, and because of that, she vowed never to marry again. When fate brings them together again, it is not necessarily a happy reunion. All the heartache and pain on both sides are once again brought front and center. Despite his feelings for her, he refuses to give his heart like that again. But with the help of the many well-meaning and determined family members and friends, they are able to clear up the misunderstandings and misconceptions they have harbored all these years. They just may have a second chance.
I found this to be a very entertaining and enjoyable read and the story captured my attention from the start. The characters were nicely developed and there was no question as to how strong their chemistry was. A very well-written story and great addition to the series!
I received a complimentary copy from Dragonblade Publishing via Netgalley and am voluntarily leaving my review.
I found this to be a very entertaining and enjoyable read and the story captured my attention from the start. The characters were nicely developed and there was no question as to how strong their chemistry was. A very well-written story and great addition to the series!
I received a complimentary copy from Dragonblade Publishing via Netgalley and am voluntarily leaving my review.
April 4, 2022
Oh wow! The writer did such a wonderful job with introducing Harriet and Lucas love story. Creating Whitt characters that humorously hounded Lucas in his journey of raising his two wards while placating his mother was quite entertaining. I love the simple telling of a love story about a couple who battled the hardships of having decisions made for your well being without your input. And how decisions made by family that effect the ones you love.
The writer shared a story behind those tragedies that have the readers believing that love always conquers the things that try to destroy it. Until next time my fellow readers… read in!
The writer shared a story behind those tragedies that have the readers believing that love always conquers the things that try to destroy it. Until next time my fellow readers… read in!
March 23, 2022
Lucas Pemberton is the Duke of Dorman, but he really is the Duke of Disorder, as his life is all turned upside down. All his friends are happily married and he’s alone since his would be betrothed was married to another some five years ago. Then suddenly two young wards are dumped on him, and the woman of his dreams turns up in town on a runaway horse. Seeing lady Harriett again, he wants closure on why she left him for another. Only she doesn’t know any more than he does. They both still love each other but neither believes that a second chance is possible.
A sweet second chance romance
A sweet second chance romance
April 1, 2022
A great read!
I enjoyed reading about Lucas and Harriett, how they had five years taken from them by a cruel man. She was forced to marry a man who we later found out was blackmailing her father for something he didn't do. It broke the Duke's heart when he went to talk to her father and found out he had given her to a cruel man. Five years later they were able to have their HEA, and they were starting the process of adopting his two wards. I highly recommend this book! 👍👍👍👍👍❤❤❤❤❤
I enjoyed reading about Lucas and Harriett, how they had five years taken from them by a cruel man. She was forced to marry a man who we later found out was blackmailing her father for something he didn't do. It broke the Duke's heart when he went to talk to her father and found out he had given her to a cruel man. Five years later they were able to have their HEA, and they were starting the process of adopting his two wards. I highly recommend this book! 👍👍👍👍👍❤❤❤❤❤
March 27, 2022
Love wins out
A standalone book but a satisfying conclusion to the Rakes of Mayhem series. All four of the friends from Eton have found women worthy of them. After 5 years of a horrendous marriage, Harriet finally has a chance to re-acquaint herself with the betrothed she was forced to leave. With enough mysterious circumstances to keep you turning the pages, it’s an excellent read.
A standalone book but a satisfying conclusion to the Rakes of Mayhem series. All four of the friends from Eton have found women worthy of them. After 5 years of a horrendous marriage, Harriet finally has a chance to re-acquaint herself with the betrothed she was forced to leave. With enough mysterious circumstances to keep you turning the pages, it’s an excellent read.
March 30, 2022
The character's were written with such depth that you could feel their anguish at times a good story with mystery, misfortunes, and love interests, gripping plot, so many assumptions, misunderstandings that is well written.
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