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Synneful Spinsters #1
Some Dukes Have All the Luck
Ash Hawkins, Duke of Buckley, no more wants to marry than he wants a stick in his eye. As the owner of a gaming hell, he is all too aware the odds of a happy marriage are against him. But raising his three rebellious wards alone is proving more than he can handle. He needs to find someone who stands to benefit from a marriage of convenience as much as he does. Someone logical, clinical, and rational. And in a stroke of luck, he quite literally stumbles over just such a woman.
After years of ridicule for being more interested in bugs than boys, Bronwyn has accepted that she’ll never marry for love. Her parents, however, are threatening to find her a husband. Bronwyn doesn’t need any scientific research to show her Ash has secrets. But his proposal would give her the freedom to continue her entomology research and perhaps finally get published. Just as long as she can keep her mind on her work and off his piercing eyes, broad shoulders, and wicked, wicked tongue.
After years of ridicule for being more interested in bugs than boys, Bronwyn has accepted that she’ll never marry for love. Her parents, however, are threatening to find her a husband. Bronwyn doesn’t need any scientific research to show her Ash has secrets. But his proposal would give her the freedom to continue her entomology research and perhaps finally get published. Just as long as she can keep her mind on her work and off his piercing eyes, broad shoulders, and wicked, wicked tongue.
343 pages, Mass Market Paperback
First published November 8, 2022
68 people are currently reading
3682 people want to read
About the author
Christina Britton
14 books395 followersChristina Britton developed a passion for writing romance novels shortly after buying her first at the tender age of thirteen. Though for several years she turned to art and put brush instead of pen to paper, she has returned to her first love and is now writing full time. She spends her days dreaming of corsets and cravats and noblemen with tortured souls.
She lives with her husband and two children in the San Francisco Bay Area. A member of Romance Writers of America, she also belongs to her local chapter, Silicon Valley RWA, and is a 2017 RWA® Golden Heart® Winner. You can find her on the web at www.christinabritton.com, Twitter as @cbrittonauthor, or facebook.com/ChristinaBrittonAuthor
She lives with her husband and two children in the San Francisco Bay Area. A member of Romance Writers of America, she also belongs to her local chapter, Silicon Valley RWA, and is a 2017 RWA® Golden Heart® Winner. You can find her on the web at www.christinabritton.com, Twitter as @cbrittonauthor, or facebook.com/ChristinaBrittonAuthor
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 357 reviews
March 13, 2023
Okay upon reread the ending was a bit too angsty for too long for total enjoyment. There were also some questions left unanswered or at least vague, mainly: why was Lord Owens allowed to get the last word?? Shame. The heaviness at the end about his mother was also a little more sad this time around because I wasn’t riding the high of bugwatching turned fucking as much as I was on my initial read.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️.25/5 🌶️🌶️🌶️/5
✨When in doubt, dump tea over his head.✨
Christina is an amazing writer. Seriously her books punch me in the heart and then offer me a hand embroidered handkerchief. They’re so heartwarming and thoughtful and especially the last two have made me so emotional.
But man was Ash a major and I mean MAJOR fool, especially for around 20% at the end there. I just wanted to shake some sense into him because while I understand his motives and beliefs, it was so incredibly cruel to those girls. Obviously, he couldn’t really process what his actions were doing to those around him for myriad reasons, but it still did hurt my soul.
However, I am an absolute sucker for found family and wayward children/wards in historical romances. I eat it up every time and I always get deep in my feels. This book was absolutely no exception, except maybe causing me to have even more ✨feelings✨ (how horrible). I swear when Regina cracked, my soul broke in two.
✨
This is also the spiciest Christina Britton book I’ve read to date! The Isle of Synne series was high on pining, angst, and forbidden touches but relatively low on steam. Maybe a vague scene or two? But this book! This book had multiple! Three scenes at or before 50% and one or two after! My heart! Are you trying to romance me? Hopefully because It’s working.
My kingdom for authors to get spicier as they write!! Combined with the general ✨emotions✨ I was feeling throughout this book, the sex scenes were perfect. They weren’t anything crazy or too explicit but I think they fit the story perfectly. Some were fevered, some were tender, and all were passionate.
I also just love this trend of women who are super passionate about their studies getting passionately railed in the various locales where they passionately study. Here, bug watching turns into giving the bugs a show. In Charis Michaels’ A Duchess by Midnight, sitting on a stump watching birds turned into sitting on a duke sitting on a stump not watching the birds. In A Week to Be Wicked, Minerva has a nice little make out session with Colin in her fossil cavern.
✨
Overall, I really loved this one. I’ll continue to read whatever Christina writes and already can’t wait for the next books in this series. The ending was a lot and I definitely had to bury my face in a pillow for a few seconds, but I got over it. I also wanted more of a telling off of her parents because they were horrible, but we did get a good scene. I don’t think you’ll be disappointed in this one!!
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️.5/5 🌶🌶🌶.25/5
CWs: This book is also pretty fricken heavy. It deals quite closely with fatal domestic abuse of Ash’s mother and assaults of other women in the past duke’s household. These instances happened in the past but Ash can often be found thinking about them. He feels intense guilt because he was away at school when most everything was occurring.
There was also one thing with that Owens guy at the end where he was like you’ll regret this! But nothing ever came of it…will this be in future books?
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️.25/5 🌶️🌶️🌶️/5
✨When in doubt, dump tea over his head.✨
Christina is an amazing writer. Seriously her books punch me in the heart and then offer me a hand embroidered handkerchief. They’re so heartwarming and thoughtful and especially the last two have made me so emotional.
But man was Ash a major and I mean MAJOR fool, especially for around 20% at the end there. I just wanted to shake some sense into him because while I understand his motives and beliefs, it was so incredibly cruel to those girls. Obviously, he couldn’t really process what his actions were doing to those around him for myriad reasons, but it still did hurt my soul.
However, I am an absolute sucker for found family and wayward children/wards in historical romances. I eat it up every time and I always get deep in my feels. This book was absolutely no exception, except maybe causing me to have even more ✨feelings✨ (how horrible). I swear when Regina cracked, my soul broke in two.
✨
This is also the spiciest Christina Britton book I’ve read to date! The Isle of Synne series was high on pining, angst, and forbidden touches but relatively low on steam. Maybe a vague scene or two? But this book! This book had multiple! Three scenes at or before 50% and one or two after! My heart! Are you trying to romance me? Hopefully because It’s working.
My kingdom for authors to get spicier as they write!! Combined with the general ✨emotions✨ I was feeling throughout this book, the sex scenes were perfect. They weren’t anything crazy or too explicit but I think they fit the story perfectly. Some were fevered, some were tender, and all were passionate.
I also just love this trend of women who are super passionate about their studies getting passionately railed in the various locales where they passionately study. Here, bug watching turns into giving the bugs a show. In Charis Michaels’ A Duchess by Midnight, sitting on a stump watching birds turned into sitting on a duke sitting on a stump not watching the birds. In A Week to Be Wicked, Minerva has a nice little make out session with Colin in her fossil cavern.
✨
Overall, I really loved this one. I’ll continue to read whatever Christina writes and already can’t wait for the next books in this series. The ending was a lot and I definitely had to bury my face in a pillow for a few seconds, but I got over it. I also wanted more of a telling off of her parents because they were horrible, but we did get a good scene. I don’t think you’ll be disappointed in this one!!
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️.5/5 🌶🌶🌶.25/5
CWs: This book is also pretty fricken heavy. It deals quite closely with fatal domestic abuse of Ash’s mother and assaults of other women in the past duke’s household. These instances happened in the past but Ash can often be found thinking about them. He feels intense guilt because he was away at school when most everything was occurring.
There was also one thing with that Owens guy at the end where he was like you’ll regret this! But nothing ever came of it…will this be in future books?
December 7, 2022
Read: 11/19/22
3.5
RTC*****
A very well done hr!
The Duke of Buckley is raising his wild wards. Due to his past he always keeps them at a distance. The two youngest take off to his mother's hometown, the Isle of Synne. He decides he needs a wife to take care of them. When he arrives he meets Browyn the spinster who just so happens to already be friended his wards.
Browyn is an intelligent woman who studies bugs specifically Beatles. She wants to be the first woman published in National Quest Magazine. Unfortunately, her socially climbing parents don't understand. They have thrown away her research and forcing her to give up her friends as well.
The Duke and Browyn make a deal. He will spend a fortnight with her and then they will have a sort of business arrangement in name only. I love how Browyn wants 2 weeks so she can learn about sex.
Well, this couple turns out is perfect for each other. He encourages her projects and defends her from her truly vile social climbing parents. She opens him up to his wards. It doesn't hurt that they are both physically and emotionally attractive to each other.
This was a well written and strong book with an unique plot. The story also has it's humorous times. I would highly recommend giving this book a try!!
3.5
RTC*****
A very well done hr!
The Duke of Buckley is raising his wild wards. Due to his past he always keeps them at a distance. The two youngest take off to his mother's hometown, the Isle of Synne. He decides he needs a wife to take care of them. When he arrives he meets Browyn the spinster who just so happens to already be friended his wards.
Browyn is an intelligent woman who studies bugs specifically Beatles. She wants to be the first woman published in National Quest Magazine. Unfortunately, her socially climbing parents don't understand. They have thrown away her research and forcing her to give up her friends as well.
The Duke and Browyn make a deal. He will spend a fortnight with her and then they will have a sort of business arrangement in name only. I love how Browyn wants 2 weeks so she can learn about sex.
Well, this couple turns out is perfect for each other. He encourages her projects and defends her from her truly vile social climbing parents. She opens him up to his wards. It doesn't hurt that they are both physically and emotionally attractive to each other.
This was a well written and strong book with an unique plot. The story also has it's humorous times. I would highly recommend giving this book a try!!
December 18, 2022
Some Dukes Have All the Luck by Christina Britton
Synneful Spinsters #1. Historical romance.
Bronwyn has been a naturalists for years studying all types of bugs and insects. Her parents have forbidden this type of endeavor and insist she marry. She must find a husband or be shipped off to her strict brother.
Ash Hawkins can’t believe his two youngest wards have run away to Caulnedy Manor. Chasing them down, he finds them enamored with a young woman that seems to be somewhat able to control them? Before he can think twice, he’s proposed to Bronwyn and she’s agreed to take over raising his wards.
It was charming to follow Ash as he falls in love with Bronwyn and gets to know and care for his wards. He is tentative because of his past but all the females get under his guarded facade.
Her parents on the other hand, definitely need a set down.
Steamy and heartwarming, it’s a story of a family falling in love.
I received a copy of this from NetGalley.
4.5
Synneful Spinsters #1. Historical romance.
Bronwyn has been a naturalists for years studying all types of bugs and insects. Her parents have forbidden this type of endeavor and insist she marry. She must find a husband or be shipped off to her strict brother.
Ash Hawkins can’t believe his two youngest wards have run away to Caulnedy Manor. Chasing them down, he finds them enamored with a young woman that seems to be somewhat able to control them? Before he can think twice, he’s proposed to Bronwyn and she’s agreed to take over raising his wards.
It was charming to follow Ash as he falls in love with Bronwyn and gets to know and care for his wards. He is tentative because of his past but all the females get under his guarded facade.
Her parents on the other hand, definitely need a set down.
Steamy and heartwarming, it’s a story of a family falling in love.
I received a copy of this from NetGalley.
4.5
December 28, 2022
August 2022 Update: Not only do we have a cover, but I GOT AN eARC!!
Britton's emotional, heartwarming, and sexy Isle of Synne series cemented her place as one of my favorite Historical Romance authors, so naturally I'm over the moon for her upcoming Synneful Spinsters series. It's also set on the isle and will give side characters from the first series love stories of their own. November can't come soon enough!
Thank you to Forever (Grand Central Publishing) via Netgalley for providing an eARC in exchange for an honest review. All opinions expressed are my own
Britton's emotional, heartwarming, and sexy Isle of Synne series cemented her place as one of my favorite Historical Romance authors, so naturally I'm over the moon for her upcoming Synneful Spinsters series. It's also set on the isle and will give side characters from the first series love stories of their own. November can't come soon enough!
Thank you to Forever (Grand Central Publishing) via Netgalley for providing an eARC in exchange for an honest review. All opinions expressed are my own
August 24, 2022
4 Stars
He required someone to raise his wards; she required a husband to escape her parents' quick destruction of her life.
Marriage of convenience trope with steamy scenes and HEA.
Tortured Duke, Ash Hawkins carries a heavy burden and a secret. He owns a gambling hell and is straddled with 3 wards that he keeps at arms length. Bronwyn Pickering is a caring Naturalist, vowing to never fall in love after getting her heart broken - in more ways than one. Ash needs someone to care for his wards and Bronwyn needs to get away from parents' stifling ways. Marriage of convenience ensured, Ash's and Bronwyn's facades slowly crumble, making a marriage of convenience, a marriage of love. This is the first installment of Synneful Spinsters.
I really enjoyed this book! Christina Britton has a way with writing - making sure you feel for all the characters involved - whether that's happiness or madness. This is a first for me by this author. Ash and Bronwyn are a sweet and steamy couple. There is quite a few sex scenes, which makes me happy. I love how Ash supports Bronwyn as a Naturalist. The wards definitely act their ages (10, 12, 16) and adds another layer to the story. This book comes out November 8th, 2022.
One of my favorite quotes:
They moved together, the pleasure climbing, her blood rushing in her ears. Suddenly there was a rapping against her bedroom door.
"Your graces, your breakfast," Veronica called from the other side of the panel.
"Leave the bloody food by the door," Ash growled.
Thanks to Netgalley and Forever (Grand Central Publishing) for a free copy of this arc in exchange for my honest review.
He required someone to raise his wards; she required a husband to escape her parents' quick destruction of her life.
Marriage of convenience trope with steamy scenes and HEA.
Tortured Duke, Ash Hawkins carries a heavy burden and a secret. He owns a gambling hell and is straddled with 3 wards that he keeps at arms length. Bronwyn Pickering is a caring Naturalist, vowing to never fall in love after getting her heart broken - in more ways than one. Ash needs someone to care for his wards and Bronwyn needs to get away from parents' stifling ways. Marriage of convenience ensured, Ash's and Bronwyn's facades slowly crumble, making a marriage of convenience, a marriage of love. This is the first installment of Synneful Spinsters.
I really enjoyed this book! Christina Britton has a way with writing - making sure you feel for all the characters involved - whether that's happiness or madness. This is a first for me by this author. Ash and Bronwyn are a sweet and steamy couple. There is quite a few sex scenes, which makes me happy. I love how Ash supports Bronwyn as a Naturalist. The wards definitely act their ages (10, 12, 16) and adds another layer to the story. This book comes out November 8th, 2022.
One of my favorite quotes:
They moved together, the pleasure climbing, her blood rushing in her ears. Suddenly there was a rapping against her bedroom door.
"Your graces, your breakfast," Veronica called from the other side of the panel.
"Leave the bloody food by the door," Ash growled.
Thanks to Netgalley and Forever (Grand Central Publishing) for a free copy of this arc in exchange for my honest review.
October 24, 2024
⭐⭐⭐💫
3½ stars.
➕ What I liked :
Interesting main characters.
Somewhat interesting side characters.
Good steam.
Good romance/romantic build-up and chemistry.
OK plot.
Almost entirely set outside of London.
Bespectacled heroine.
Good hero.
That the main characters did not obsess over or focus too much on looks.
Not a naive/willfully ignorant heroine.
Somewhat unconventional heroine when it comes to her visual appearance.
(The heroine is slender and small chested… most slender heroines in romance books are often described as busty.)
The children/wards act their age (10, 12, 16).
➖ What I disliked:
Formulaic in the character description/visual appearance/character choice of the hero.
(Tall, muscular, handsome etc.)
The character description/visual appearance of the heroine is a little bit unconventional and that is good👍 …… But she is still rather formulaic (slender, petite/slight etc.)
Some parts dragged a little.
The heroines parents were awful and manipulative and had no remorse for what they did/said etc. …. And they got No real comeuppance…. and/or there was no closure/info on what happened with them and the heroine etc.
The heroine was kind of a pushover when it came to her parents… and she could have stood up to them much more than she did or at least shown some emotions about them sabotaging her work and life and friendships… especially after she married she was a duchess and had a superior rank/title to her parents... they did not respect that and they did not respect that the hero was Duke either…. Or their marriage and privacy.
But also that she did her own thing whenever she could before she was a married woman…. So it seems kind of like a contradicting personality.
Plot-holes.
(What about the heroines parents?…. But also did the hero do something about Lord Owens? Etc.)
Believability/plausibility issues.
(That 2 of the children that were 10 and 12 found their way to the island more or less on their own.)
3½ stars.
➕ What I liked :
Interesting main characters.
Somewhat interesting side characters.
Good steam.
Good romance/romantic build-up and chemistry.
OK plot.
Almost entirely set outside of London.
Bespectacled heroine.
Good hero.
That the main characters did not obsess over or focus too much on looks.
Not a naive/willfully ignorant heroine.
Somewhat unconventional heroine when it comes to her visual appearance.
(The heroine is slender and small chested… most slender heroines in romance books are often described as busty.)
The children/wards act their age (10, 12, 16).
➖ What I disliked:
Formulaic in the character description/visual appearance/character choice of the hero.
(Tall, muscular, handsome etc.)
The character description/visual appearance of the heroine is a little bit unconventional and that is good👍 …… But she is still rather formulaic (slender, petite/slight etc.)
Some parts dragged a little.
The heroines parents were awful and manipulative and had no remorse for what they did/said etc. …. And they got No real comeuppance…. and/or there was no closure/info on what happened with them and the heroine etc.
The heroine was kind of a pushover when it came to her parents… and she could have stood up to them much more than she did or at least shown some emotions about them sabotaging her work and life and friendships… especially after she married she was a duchess and had a superior rank/title to her parents... they did not respect that and they did not respect that the hero was Duke either…. Or their marriage and privacy.
But also that she did her own thing whenever she could before she was a married woman…. So it seems kind of like a contradicting personality.
Plot-holes.
(What about the heroines parents?…. But also did the hero do something about Lord Owens? Etc.)
Believability/plausibility issues.
(That 2 of the children that were 10 and 12 found their way to the island more or less on their own.)
December 29, 2022
I noted while reading that there is an overabundance of Dukes in historical romances. I am an outlier here in that this book did not grab me. It has a rating of over 4* so this is a case of me not you. On to my review. The entire premise of 2 children under the age of 12 finding their way to an island from London seemed a lot of a stretch. Ok, then we have another current book writing theme a woman's club where social outcast meet up. Next, we have a duke meet a stranger twice and asks the commoner to marry him because the children aren't acting out around her. Plus, there was a bad guy for a few pages.... So now I am just beating a dead horse as to my problems with the plot. But alls well that ends well and there is a hea.
October 28, 2022
If you're looking for a straightforward historical romance, this book will hit the mark. Ash (#AshAlert!) is a duke with three young, boisterous, and disobedient wards. Due to his fraught past, Ash doesn't feel that he can be close and affectionate with anyone. Since he can't get a governess to stay in his employ, he decides that it might be best to just get married - a wife can't quit, after all! And when he sees that two of his wards enjoy spending time with Bronwyn, a neighbor, he almost immediately proposes marriage. Due to her fraught past, Bronwyn decides that living with a husband is better than staying with her parents. And once they make a pact not to fall in love, you know exactly what's coming.
Although the book relies on a hefty helping of instalove combined with Ash's childhood trauma, it never feels like a slog. It's fun, sexy, and a great way to spend an afternoon.
This objective review is based on a complimentary copy of the novel.
Although the book relies on a hefty helping of instalove combined with Ash's childhood trauma, it never feels like a slog. It's fun, sexy, and a great way to spend an afternoon.
This objective review is based on a complimentary copy of the novel.
August 29, 2022
This book has major Pride & Prejudice vibes and contains some of the best tropes: found family, marriage of convenience, and forced proximity.
This was such a heartwarming and emotional read. Our heroine, Bronwyn, is considered a disappointment to her parents as she is more focused on having her entomology work published in a scientific paper than finding a husband. Bronwyn desperately needs to get out from under her parents thumb and the perfect opportunity presents itself in the form of Ash Hawkins, Duke of Buckley.
Ash, a Duke and co-owner of a gambling hall, is in charge of three wards and is struggling to raise them. For reasons that are revealed at the end of the book, Ash fears getting close to them and decides that a wife is needed to take care of the girls.
Ash and Bronwyn are two souls in need of healing who come together at the perfect time. I loved seeing them become a family and help one another deal with their past trauma. This was my first book from this author and I can’t wait for the others in the series!
Thank you to Netgalley for an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
4.5 stars
This was such a heartwarming and emotional read. Our heroine, Bronwyn, is considered a disappointment to her parents as she is more focused on having her entomology work published in a scientific paper than finding a husband. Bronwyn desperately needs to get out from under her parents thumb and the perfect opportunity presents itself in the form of Ash Hawkins, Duke of Buckley.
Ash, a Duke and co-owner of a gambling hall, is in charge of three wards and is struggling to raise them. For reasons that are revealed at the end of the book, Ash fears getting close to them and decides that a wife is needed to take care of the girls.
Ash and Bronwyn are two souls in need of healing who come together at the perfect time. I loved seeing them become a family and help one another deal with their past trauma. This was my first book from this author and I can’t wait for the others in the series!
Thank you to Netgalley for an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
4.5 stars
January 28, 2023
Who me? Crying? Bc this book is so sweet? No that’s crazy haha definitely not
(Narrator: she definitely was)
CW: Sexual content, domestic abuse, death of parent, rape
I work for the publisher of this book, but all opinions are my own.
(Narrator: she definitely was)
CW: Sexual content, domestic abuse, death of parent, rape
I work for the publisher of this book, but all opinions are my own.
August 26, 2023
Some Dukes Have All the Luck was a fantastic read featuring a marriage of convenience romance between a duke and a bluestocking.
Ash Hawkins, Duke of Buckley, has no interest in marriage but raising his three wards has proven to be more than he can handle. After a journey to the Isle of Synne to collect his wayward wards, Ash runs into the perfect woman to fulfill his needs. Miss Bronwyn Pickering has always been more interested in bugs than marriage much to the dismay of her parents. After a recent discovery on the isle, Bronwyn's entomology research is more important to her than ever. But with her parents threatening to find her a husband of their choosing, Ash's offer is the answer to all of her problems. Marriage will give her the freedom to continue her work but she'll have to keep herself from becoming distracted by her handsome new husband.
Bronwyn was a wonderful character and I enjoyed her right from the start. She's incredibly passionate about her work and she really came out of her shell when she talked about it. I felt so bad for her with how dismissive her parents were and how they forcibly tried to stop her from continuing her work. Ash took a little longer to grow on me but I really enjoyed him when he did. He has a lot of trauma in his past centered around how his mother died and listening to him talk about it was heartbreaking. Due to what happened, he holds himself back from others and I liked seeing him open up as the book went on.
Marriage of convenience is one of my favorite romance tropes so I was excited by the premise of this book. Bronwyn and Ash's first meeting was interesting and I liked the spark of interest we saw in both of them. I liked how the marriage of convenience came about and that the two had their own reasons for agreeing to it. As part of their bargain, Bronwyn negotiated spending two weeks together on Synne where they'd live like a normal couple. The pair's relationship develops quite a bit during that time and I loved how they couldn't keep away from each other. The chemistry between them was amazing and I thought the steamy scenes were well done. I also liked how the two dealt with the issues present that were preventing them from having a real relationship.
Overall Some Dukes Have All the Luck was a delightful book and I'm looking forward to reading the next book in the series, What’s a Duke Got to Do With It, when it releases later this year.
Ash Hawkins, Duke of Buckley, has no interest in marriage but raising his three wards has proven to be more than he can handle. After a journey to the Isle of Synne to collect his wayward wards, Ash runs into the perfect woman to fulfill his needs. Miss Bronwyn Pickering has always been more interested in bugs than marriage much to the dismay of her parents. After a recent discovery on the isle, Bronwyn's entomology research is more important to her than ever. But with her parents threatening to find her a husband of their choosing, Ash's offer is the answer to all of her problems. Marriage will give her the freedom to continue her work but she'll have to keep herself from becoming distracted by her handsome new husband.
Bronwyn was a wonderful character and I enjoyed her right from the start. She's incredibly passionate about her work and she really came out of her shell when she talked about it. I felt so bad for her with how dismissive her parents were and how they forcibly tried to stop her from continuing her work. Ash took a little longer to grow on me but I really enjoyed him when he did. He has a lot of trauma in his past centered around how his mother died and listening to him talk about it was heartbreaking. Due to what happened, he holds himself back from others and I liked seeing him open up as the book went on.
Marriage of convenience is one of my favorite romance tropes so I was excited by the premise of this book. Bronwyn and Ash's first meeting was interesting and I liked the spark of interest we saw in both of them. I liked how the marriage of convenience came about and that the two had their own reasons for agreeing to it. As part of their bargain, Bronwyn negotiated spending two weeks together on Synne where they'd live like a normal couple. The pair's relationship develops quite a bit during that time and I loved how they couldn't keep away from each other. The chemistry between them was amazing and I thought the steamy scenes were well done. I also liked how the two dealt with the issues present that were preventing them from having a real relationship.
Overall Some Dukes Have All the Luck was a delightful book and I'm looking forward to reading the next book in the series, What’s a Duke Got to Do With It, when it releases later this year.
November 22, 2022
4 Stars
- My first from this author
- Surprisingly cute story
- Enjoyable characters
- Sweet romance
Had fun!
- My first from this author
- Surprisingly cute story
- Enjoyable characters
- Sweet romance
Had fun!
November 6, 2022
Miss Bronwyn Pickering has a problem. Her social climbing parents want her to put aside her bluestocking pursuits and find a titled husband. How fortunate that such a man dropped right in her lap! Ash Hawkins, Duke of Buckley, doesn't want a wife...but he thinks one will be the only way to handle his rebellious wards. When they run away to his mother's childhood home, a chance meeting with Bronwyn might prove an unlikely solution.
This is the first book in the Synneful Spinsters. The heroine, Bronwyn was introduced in book three of the previous series, Isle of Synne.
This story started well but didn't quite get over the hump for me, personally. I liked the beginning, with their meet-cute and Ash's surprising proposal. I feel like I had connection issues with the characters as the story went on. I generally try not to compare books to each other, but this just felt a lot like other stories I've read lately, and I kept waiting for that spark of "something special" that was going to make it stand out. 3.5 stars
Tropes: Bluestocking, Marriage of Convenience, Found Family
Steam: 3 (four scenes, but two were on the shorter side)
* I received an ARC and this is my honest review. #SomeDukesHaveAlltheLuck #NetGalley
This is the first book in the Synneful Spinsters. The heroine, Bronwyn was introduced in book three of the previous series, Isle of Synne.
This story started well but didn't quite get over the hump for me, personally. I liked the beginning, with their meet-cute and Ash's surprising proposal. I feel like I had connection issues with the characters as the story went on. I generally try not to compare books to each other, but this just felt a lot like other stories I've read lately, and I kept waiting for that spark of "something special" that was going to make it stand out. 3.5 stars
Tropes: Bluestocking, Marriage of Convenience, Found Family
Steam: 3 (four scenes, but two were on the shorter side)
* I received an ARC and this is my honest review. #SomeDukesHaveAlltheLuck #NetGalley
September 5, 2022
I received a copy of this from NetGalley and this is my freely given opinion.
I have not read any of the previous Isle of Synne series and chose this one as it seems to be an offshoot of that series, and because of the blurb describing the heroine as a bit of an oddball bluestocking - something I love.
Bronwyn is a naturalist with a love for insects. She is studying a tansy beetle on Synne which may be a new species. Her parents moved to Synne after being run out of London as they are social climbing parvenus who were trying to overreach and given a terrible set down by other members of the Ton after trying to use Bronwyn to improve their social status. In that situation, Bronwyn's heart was broken and she learned to not trust men. However, her parents do not understand Bronwyn and in their desire to marry her to a peer to improve their status, they set down rules that stifle her. They take away her research and tools. They limit her social activities since they involved spending time with other ladies of Synne who the parents do not consider worthy - the Oddments - and spending time tromping through meadows and woods searching out beetles and other insects.
Bronwyn is miserable.
Ash Hawkins, the Duke of Buckley, comes to Synne in search of his runaway wards. They are running wild from neglect and have run to Synne after reading his dead mother's journals, as she grew up on Synne. He appears to be a cold, dangerous owner of a gambling den, but has built a hard wall around his heart to hide an overwhelming burden of shame and guilt because of what he perceives to be his own neglect and selfishness and his bad blood. He is a child of a brutish abusive man who's actions lead to the death of his mother and the abuse of countless others. He is determined to bottle that in himself and not to burden others with it. Because of this, he has not connected with his wards and refuses to be involved in relationships with others, other than his partner and friend in the gambling den. But because of his perceived coldness, his wards have run wild, and run away.
Ash determines, when he goes to Synne to get his wards, that he would engage in a marriage of convenience to gain a wife to care for the wards. Bronwyn appears perfect to job as he can offer her freedom, funds for her research, and the girls have connected with her already. Bronwyn thinks otherwise, considering he proposed literally the second time they meet. But her parents push her into an untenable situation, where her choice was a complete loss of freedom, or marriage to Ash.
I really enjoyed this story. This was another story like one I recently read, where the hero was supportive of the heroine's bluestocking ways, appreciating and supporting her uniqueness and intelligence. Ash is a protector and hides a deeply sensitive, caring man behind a high hard wall - he is punishing himself for what happened to his mother and others, but not realizing that he is also hurting those he cares about in his life by keeping himself away from them. I quite like the Oddments too (what a great name) and they are the girl-power group who give Bronwyn more support and love than her own family does. Now I want to go back and read the other Isle of Synne novels.
Her parents though - ugh. What a terrible duo of superficial, neglectful, selfish, toxic people. They seem like caricatures more than anything else, but talk about wanting to cut off limbs off the family tree!
4.25 stars out of 5
I have not read any of the previous Isle of Synne series and chose this one as it seems to be an offshoot of that series, and because of the blurb describing the heroine as a bit of an oddball bluestocking - something I love.
Bronwyn is a naturalist with a love for insects. She is studying a tansy beetle on Synne which may be a new species. Her parents moved to Synne after being run out of London as they are social climbing parvenus who were trying to overreach and given a terrible set down by other members of the Ton after trying to use Bronwyn to improve their social status. In that situation, Bronwyn's heart was broken and she learned to not trust men. However, her parents do not understand Bronwyn and in their desire to marry her to a peer to improve their status, they set down rules that stifle her. They take away her research and tools. They limit her social activities since they involved spending time with other ladies of Synne who the parents do not consider worthy - the Oddments - and spending time tromping through meadows and woods searching out beetles and other insects.
Bronwyn is miserable.
Ash Hawkins, the Duke of Buckley, comes to Synne in search of his runaway wards. They are running wild from neglect and have run to Synne after reading his dead mother's journals, as she grew up on Synne. He appears to be a cold, dangerous owner of a gambling den, but has built a hard wall around his heart to hide an overwhelming burden of shame and guilt because of what he perceives to be his own neglect and selfishness and his bad blood. He is a child of a brutish abusive man who's actions lead to the death of his mother and the abuse of countless others. He is determined to bottle that in himself and not to burden others with it. Because of this, he has not connected with his wards and refuses to be involved in relationships with others, other than his partner and friend in the gambling den. But because of his perceived coldness, his wards have run wild, and run away.
Ash determines, when he goes to Synne to get his wards, that he would engage in a marriage of convenience to gain a wife to care for the wards. Bronwyn appears perfect to job as he can offer her freedom, funds for her research, and the girls have connected with her already. Bronwyn thinks otherwise, considering he proposed literally the second time they meet. But her parents push her into an untenable situation, where her choice was a complete loss of freedom, or marriage to Ash.
I really enjoyed this story. This was another story like one I recently read, where the hero was supportive of the heroine's bluestocking ways, appreciating and supporting her uniqueness and intelligence. Ash is a protector and hides a deeply sensitive, caring man behind a high hard wall - he is punishing himself for what happened to his mother and others, but not realizing that he is also hurting those he cares about in his life by keeping himself away from them. I quite like the Oddments too (what a great name) and they are the girl-power group who give Bronwyn more support and love than her own family does. Now I want to go back and read the other Isle of Synne novels.
Her parents though - ugh. What a terrible duo of superficial, neglectful, selfish, toxic people. They seem like caricatures more than anything else, but talk about wanting to cut off limbs off the family tree!
4.25 stars out of 5
October 8, 2023
"She deserved happiness, and no one was going to hand it to her on a silver platter; no, she had to reach out and take it for herself."
°•*⁀➷
Thank you NetGalley for granting me access to a digital copy of this book in exchange for an honest review. Ash and Bronwyn are two hearts full of need they don't know how to ask for. Wow was it sweet to watch them grow together. They just needed some healing, and I'm so glad they were able to bring it to each other.
This is my first read by this author and boy did it become a favorite. I can't wait to find some time to check out some more. The way Britton weaved through love was beautiful, and I just wanted more.
I think the only reason I can't give this five stars is because of the... well, bugs. Did I know about them going into this? Absolutely, but who can pass up a free book with incredible writing? I'm so lucky to be able to review books, and I don't want to let one little phobia keep me from the greats.
And this one is just that: one of the greats.
Its disappointment turned into love. Making your way in a world that doesn't make space for you. Making a family when yours doesn't treat you like a part of theirs. It's kind, and understanding, and loving. Words can be so fun when put together like this.
- Paige
°•*⁀➷
Thank you NetGalley for granting me access to a digital copy of this book in exchange for an honest review. Ash and Bronwyn are two hearts full of need they don't know how to ask for. Wow was it sweet to watch them grow together. They just needed some healing, and I'm so glad they were able to bring it to each other.
This is my first read by this author and boy did it become a favorite. I can't wait to find some time to check out some more. The way Britton weaved through love was beautiful, and I just wanted more.
I think the only reason I can't give this five stars is because of the... well, bugs. Did I know about them going into this? Absolutely, but who can pass up a free book with incredible writing? I'm so lucky to be able to review books, and I don't want to let one little phobia keep me from the greats.
And this one is just that: one of the greats.
Its disappointment turned into love. Making your way in a world that doesn't make space for you. Making a family when yours doesn't treat you like a part of theirs. It's kind, and understanding, and loving. Words can be so fun when put together like this.
- Paige
August 30, 2022
Ash Hawkins, Duke of Buckley is the owner of a popular gaming hell and in charge of three hoydens that are quite a handful. Ash had a very hard childhood; he was beaten at school, witnessed his mother die at the hands of his abusive father and decided to run away to London, away from his abusive father to start a gaming hell.
Bronwyn Pickering would love nothing more than to become a spinster so she is free to continue her entomology research. But her parents are social climbers and want her to make a way for them to advance in society by making an advantageous match.
When two of the girls run away to his family estate, he follows after they have two chance meetings. At which the second, he proposes a marriage of convenience; she will look after his wards for him in Synne and she can pursue her research.
After a whirlwind two weeks, they married and settled into their new home. Ash had promised her two weeks before he left her and the girls to return to London and his gaming hell. But suddenly, neither thought that was what they wanted anymore. Ash was realizing that he no longer wanted to be alone and that Bronwyn made him happier than he can remember and the peace of the countryside was wonderful. Bronwyn, in turn, realized that Ash truly supported her research and genuinely thought she was a beautiful and amazing woman.
When the girls finally join them after a few days ‘honeymoon’, Ash agrees to Bronwyn’s plan of family outings and time together to get the girls to behave and listen to her. But in spending time together, Ash, Bronwyn and the girls settle into a wonderful family unit, truly enjoying their time together!
But when the bubble of their wonderful time together is burst by the arrival of visitors, Ash is forced to face the fact that he will never get away from the stigma of his father’s legacy and he decides it best to leave for London. Both feel they are unworthy of love, but neither can find happiness apart.
Bronwyn and Ash were so delicious as a couple! He absolutely adored her and poured encouragement and confidence into her broken spirit. These two pulled at my heart strings because they desperately needed each other in their lives and fought it with all their might, but watching them give in was made all the sweeter!
Tropes
Historical Romance, Regency Era, Country Life, Seaside, Titled Hero, Tortured Hero, Damaged Hero, Single Dad, Unworthy Hero, Bluestocking Heroine, Damaged Heroine, Scientist Heroine, Virgin Heroine, Outdoor Steam, Marriage of Convenience/Arranged Marriage
Bronwyn Pickering would love nothing more than to become a spinster so she is free to continue her entomology research. But her parents are social climbers and want her to make a way for them to advance in society by making an advantageous match.
When two of the girls run away to his family estate, he follows after they have two chance meetings. At which the second, he proposes a marriage of convenience; she will look after his wards for him in Synne and she can pursue her research.
After a whirlwind two weeks, they married and settled into their new home. Ash had promised her two weeks before he left her and the girls to return to London and his gaming hell. But suddenly, neither thought that was what they wanted anymore. Ash was realizing that he no longer wanted to be alone and that Bronwyn made him happier than he can remember and the peace of the countryside was wonderful. Bronwyn, in turn, realized that Ash truly supported her research and genuinely thought she was a beautiful and amazing woman.
When the girls finally join them after a few days ‘honeymoon’, Ash agrees to Bronwyn’s plan of family outings and time together to get the girls to behave and listen to her. But in spending time together, Ash, Bronwyn and the girls settle into a wonderful family unit, truly enjoying their time together!
But when the bubble of their wonderful time together is burst by the arrival of visitors, Ash is forced to face the fact that he will never get away from the stigma of his father’s legacy and he decides it best to leave for London. Both feel they are unworthy of love, but neither can find happiness apart.
Bronwyn and Ash were so delicious as a couple! He absolutely adored her and poured encouragement and confidence into her broken spirit. These two pulled at my heart strings because they desperately needed each other in their lives and fought it with all their might, but watching them give in was made all the sweeter!
Tropes
Historical Romance, Regency Era, Country Life, Seaside, Titled Hero, Tortured Hero, Damaged Hero, Single Dad, Unworthy Hero, Bluestocking Heroine, Damaged Heroine, Scientist Heroine, Virgin Heroine, Outdoor Steam, Marriage of Convenience/Arranged Marriage
January 7, 2023
Ash Hawkins, the Duke of Buckley, has no interest in marrying and carrying on his father’s tainted title. He’d be content to just run his gaming club, but he has the responsibility of three young girls as his wards and their open rebellion is becoming more than he can manage on his own. A marriage of convenience would be ideal if he could find a logical, intelligent woman who would stand to gain from such an arrangement as much as he would. On a madcap trip to the Isle of Synne in pursuit of his runaway wards, he just happens to stumble across the perfect woman for his plan.
Bronwyn Pickering has faced her parents ridicule her entire life because she prefers her entomological studies to furthering their social climbing efforts through an advantageous marriage. She’s managed to avoid marriage for a few years, but now her parents are threatening to banish her from her beloved Isle until she comes around to their way of thinking. When she meets Ash, Bronwyn knows he’s hiding quite a bit, but since his proposal of a businesslike marriage would give her the freedom she needs to pursue her research, she accepts, all the while trying to keep in mind that their arrangement is purely for convenience, not a matter of the heart.
Though the pacing of this book was a bit slow at first and it took me a while to get into it, I think that was more down to the busyness of the holidays than anything else. Ash was frustrating with his insistence on believing in his unworthiness, but I loved seeing how Bronwyn gradually brought him out of his self-imposed isolation while he in turn gave her the opportunity to stand up for herself and what she wanted. I very much loved that she finally stood up to her parents, though I would’ve liked possibly a couple more pages on what happened with them after being told off.
The writing is so lush and, even though sometimes I absolutely wanted to shake Ash, you have to give props for such a good conveyance of emotions. I loved the found family aspect here, especially as it was really a solidification/admission of feelings that were already in existence, but which Bronwyn was able to bring out into the open with a gentle influence. I also appreciated that this book was a bit higher in steam than this author’s previous works, especially since that physical connection was also very important to these MCs connecting on a deeper level emotionally. Overall, this book tackles some pretty heavy themes and does a good job with them. I look forward to further installments in this new series.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own. Blog link: https://mustreadalltheromance.blogspo...
Bronwyn Pickering has faced her parents ridicule her entire life because she prefers her entomological studies to furthering their social climbing efforts through an advantageous marriage. She’s managed to avoid marriage for a few years, but now her parents are threatening to banish her from her beloved Isle until she comes around to their way of thinking. When she meets Ash, Bronwyn knows he’s hiding quite a bit, but since his proposal of a businesslike marriage would give her the freedom she needs to pursue her research, she accepts, all the while trying to keep in mind that their arrangement is purely for convenience, not a matter of the heart.
Though the pacing of this book was a bit slow at first and it took me a while to get into it, I think that was more down to the busyness of the holidays than anything else. Ash was frustrating with his insistence on believing in his unworthiness, but I loved seeing how Bronwyn gradually brought him out of his self-imposed isolation while he in turn gave her the opportunity to stand up for herself and what she wanted. I very much loved that she finally stood up to her parents, though I would’ve liked possibly a couple more pages on what happened with them after being told off.
The writing is so lush and, even though sometimes I absolutely wanted to shake Ash, you have to give props for such a good conveyance of emotions. I loved the found family aspect here, especially as it was really a solidification/admission of feelings that were already in existence, but which Bronwyn was able to bring out into the open with a gentle influence. I also appreciated that this book was a bit higher in steam than this author’s previous works, especially since that physical connection was also very important to these MCs connecting on a deeper level emotionally. Overall, this book tackles some pretty heavy themes and does a good job with them. I look forward to further installments in this new series.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own. Blog link: https://mustreadalltheromance.blogspo...
October 30, 2022
5 🌟's!
📝 tropes: marriage of convenience, entomologist heroine x duke hero, single guardian hero, angst
🌶 spice: 2.75/5
❌ CW: violent parent, parental abandonment, grief, death of a parent, misogyny
when i tell y'all this book from start to finish was one of my favorite things i've read... it single-handedly pulled me out of my HR reading slump.. a feat indeed 👏🏽
this romance follows entomologist heroine Bronwyn and our duke hero Ash. being a single guardian to rambunctious girls, he's in search of a wife that can relieve some of that burden off his shoulders.. in comes Bronwyn, a woman looking for any reason to be able to continue her research... a marriage of convenience thus ensues!
i adored Bronwyn as the heroine. she's always been ridiculed by her parents for her lack of fitting in with the rest of society's women.. preferring to spend her time studying the natural world and insects.. there's a lot of deep hurt and insecurity that she deals with throughout the book related to this and it's absolutely both relatable yet soul crushing to read. i appreciated SO MUCH that she was able to find someone like Ash who does anything to support her for her passion. A MAN. the way he treats her like an actual human being, taking interest in her work, making an effort to show he cares... it revealed so much of the mistreatment Bronwyn faced at the hands of her parents and i am so glad she was able to find someone finally that loved her for her. the fact that once they moved in together, he literally made a WHOLE study space for her to continue her work.. like a talk about #supportivehubby we lOVEEE 🥵
her approaching the marriage of convenience through a scientific approach had me CACKLING .. when she was like "I would very much like to consummate the relationship. For scientific purposes, of course" PLS / this romance exemplified the slow but perfect build of a marriage of convenience relationship.. they're budding feelings grew steadily throughout the course of the book and it was just chef's kiss🤌🏽 they have such a beautiful relationship .. spending so many moments together even if it is in silence as Bronwyn tends to be more introverted.. the moments where she would be out in nature and doing studies and he would just stay near and read or watch her doing work .. LIKE UGHGHDHGH I WANT THAT. the pond scene. the POND SCENE. not only was the moment itself fucking riveting but so was the descriptions for the natural setting itself... i was transfixed. it really felt like Bronwyn drew in both Ash and the reader into the way she views the world around us as the most majestic thing ... it was so spectacular.
the wards that Ash and Bronwyn were in charge of added another fun/heartbreaking element to the story... especially the ending when they had to say . i loved having that added layer of complexity and dynamics to the story.
this was just such a fantastic romance and i really will not stop talking about it so i need to end this review here. GO READ IT WHEN IT COMES OUT NOVEMBER 8TH.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own. Thank you to the publisher Forever for this e-ARC via Netgalley. Releases November 8th, 2022!
📝 tropes: marriage of convenience, entomologist heroine x duke hero, single guardian hero, angst
🌶 spice: 2.75/5
❌ CW: violent parent, parental abandonment, grief, death of a parent, misogyny
when i tell y'all this book from start to finish was one of my favorite things i've read... it single-handedly pulled me out of my HR reading slump.. a feat indeed 👏🏽
this romance follows entomologist heroine Bronwyn and our duke hero Ash. being a single guardian to rambunctious girls, he's in search of a wife that can relieve some of that burden off his shoulders.. in comes Bronwyn, a woman looking for any reason to be able to continue her research... a marriage of convenience thus ensues!
i adored Bronwyn as the heroine. she's always been ridiculed by her parents for her lack of fitting in with the rest of society's women.. preferring to spend her time studying the natural world and insects.. there's a lot of deep hurt and insecurity that she deals with throughout the book related to this and it's absolutely both relatable yet soul crushing to read. i appreciated SO MUCH that she was able to find someone like Ash who does anything to support her for her passion. A MAN. the way he treats her like an actual human being, taking interest in her work, making an effort to show he cares... it revealed so much of the mistreatment Bronwyn faced at the hands of her parents and i am so glad she was able to find someone finally that loved her for her. the fact that once they moved in together, he literally made a WHOLE study space for her to continue her work.. like a talk about #supportivehubby we lOVEEE 🥵
her approaching the marriage of convenience through a scientific approach had me CACKLING .. when she was like "I would very much like to consummate the relationship. For scientific purposes, of course" PLS / this romance exemplified the slow but perfect build of a marriage of convenience relationship.. they're budding feelings grew steadily throughout the course of the book and it was just chef's kiss🤌🏽 they have such a beautiful relationship .. spending so many moments together even if it is in silence as Bronwyn tends to be more introverted.. the moments where she would be out in nature and doing studies and he would just stay near and read or watch her doing work .. LIKE UGHGHDHGH I WANT THAT. the pond scene. the POND SCENE. not only was the moment itself fucking riveting but so was the descriptions for the natural setting itself... i was transfixed. it really felt like Bronwyn drew in both Ash and the reader into the way she views the world around us as the most majestic thing ... it was so spectacular.
the wards that Ash and Bronwyn were in charge of added another fun/heartbreaking element to the story... especially the ending when they had to say . i loved having that added layer of complexity and dynamics to the story.
this was just such a fantastic romance and i really will not stop talking about it so i need to end this review here. GO READ IT WHEN IT COMES OUT NOVEMBER 8TH.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own. Thank you to the publisher Forever for this e-ARC via Netgalley. Releases November 8th, 2022!
November 7, 2022
Thank you to NetGalley and St. Martin’s Press for this eARC.
This book fell flat for me. The prose was overwritten to the point that the characters felt cartoonish. I cringed most of the way through any dialogue. And the plot…what plot?
Don’t get me wrong, I like historical romance, but usually there’s a hint of a plot. But this was so thin.
So, overwritten prose and underwritten plot. Overall, not my cup of tea.
This book fell flat for me. The prose was overwritten to the point that the characters felt cartoonish. I cringed most of the way through any dialogue. And the plot…what plot?
Don’t get me wrong, I like historical romance, but usually there’s a hint of a plot. But this was so thin.
So, overwritten prose and underwritten plot. Overall, not my cup of tea.
November 8, 2022
Some Dukes Have All the Luck by Christina Britton
Rating: 4 stars
Steam: 1 chili
Pub date: 11/8
I don’t usually go for historical romance, but something about this gorgeous cover drew me in. I’m so glad I made the choice to pick this one up because I really enjoyed it!
I just love books about women who shirk the rules of society and forge their own path. Bronwyn is one of those women…or at least she’s trying to be. She had her heart broken years ago and hasn’t been able to secure a husband since. She’s fine with that, but her parents are not. In fact, they’re threatening to send her away to live with her strict brother and sister in law unless she forgets about becoming a naturalist and gets serious about finding a husband. Enter Duke Ash Hawkins who needs a wife to care for his wards while he works at his gaming hall in London. He’s not interested in getting married but a marriage of convenience will solve both his and Bronwyn’s problems.
Brownwyn is a fantastic FMC, pushing the boundaries of what is proper for the time period and always being unequivocally herself. Although she’s misunderstood by her family and most of society, her supportive group of friends inspires her to find her own way, which she does with Ash’s help.
My favorite part about this book is how Ash supports Bronwyn’s dreams of becoming a naturalist and doesn’t try to stifle her, even before he falls in love with her. He’s protective of her from the start and I love how she brings out the best in him and helps him become a better caregiver for his girls.
It doesn’t take long for things to heat up between the MC’s and there is some great spice in this book! The girls (Ash’s wards) give this story a ‘single-dad’ feel (which I love) and they’re written well.
The story feels heavy at times which made me a little emotional. It deals with domestic abuse towards Ash’s mother, and some of the other women in the house, by Ash’s father. This all happens in the past, but Ash carries the burden of his father’s actions and dwells on it a lot in the present.
This book surprised me in the best way! It was heartwarming, emotional, and steamy and I wil definitely be looking out for more books by this author. Read if you like historical romance with headstrong heroines, swoony Dukes, rambunctious children and a little alpha possessiveness. Thank you so much to Forever and Netgalley for the early copy to read and review. Some Dukes Have All The Luck is available on 11/8.
Rating: 4 stars
Steam: 1 chili
Pub date: 11/8
I don’t usually go for historical romance, but something about this gorgeous cover drew me in. I’m so glad I made the choice to pick this one up because I really enjoyed it!
I just love books about women who shirk the rules of society and forge their own path. Bronwyn is one of those women…or at least she’s trying to be. She had her heart broken years ago and hasn’t been able to secure a husband since. She’s fine with that, but her parents are not. In fact, they’re threatening to send her away to live with her strict brother and sister in law unless she forgets about becoming a naturalist and gets serious about finding a husband. Enter Duke Ash Hawkins who needs a wife to care for his wards while he works at his gaming hall in London. He’s not interested in getting married but a marriage of convenience will solve both his and Bronwyn’s problems.
Brownwyn is a fantastic FMC, pushing the boundaries of what is proper for the time period and always being unequivocally herself. Although she’s misunderstood by her family and most of society, her supportive group of friends inspires her to find her own way, which she does with Ash’s help.
My favorite part about this book is how Ash supports Bronwyn’s dreams of becoming a naturalist and doesn’t try to stifle her, even before he falls in love with her. He’s protective of her from the start and I love how she brings out the best in him and helps him become a better caregiver for his girls.
It doesn’t take long for things to heat up between the MC’s and there is some great spice in this book! The girls (Ash’s wards) give this story a ‘single-dad’ feel (which I love) and they’re written well.
The story feels heavy at times which made me a little emotional. It deals with domestic abuse towards Ash’s mother, and some of the other women in the house, by Ash’s father. This all happens in the past, but Ash carries the burden of his father’s actions and dwells on it a lot in the present.
This book surprised me in the best way! It was heartwarming, emotional, and steamy and I wil definitely be looking out for more books by this author. Read if you like historical romance with headstrong heroines, swoony Dukes, rambunctious children and a little alpha possessiveness. Thank you so much to Forever and Netgalley for the early copy to read and review. Some Dukes Have All The Luck is available on 11/8.
February 15, 2023
This is my first book by Christina Britton and definitely won't be the last. Ash and Bronwyn enter into a marriage of convenience so that Ash can have help with his three wards and so that Bronwyn can escape her insufferable parents.
I loved their banter and chemistry.
I loved their swoon-worthy romance.
I loved their interactions with the other characters. Bronwyn's friends and Ash's wards.
I loved the Isle of Synne
I loved that Bronwyn suggests that in the name of scientific research, that their union should not be in name only.
I loved that they engaged in a lot of satisfying scientific research.
I loved it all and can't wait for more in this series. In the meantime, I will absolutely be reading the prior series.
I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are my own.
I loved their banter and chemistry.
I loved their swoon-worthy romance.
I loved their interactions with the other characters. Bronwyn's friends and Ash's wards.
I loved the Isle of Synne
I loved that Bronwyn suggests that in the name of scientific research, that their union should not be in name only.
I loved that they engaged in a lot of satisfying scientific research.
I loved it all and can't wait for more in this series. In the meantime, I will absolutely be reading the prior series.
I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are my own.
November 8, 2022
Naturally Synneful!
Ash Hawkins, Duke of Buckley and owner of the premier gaming hell of London has a problem. Three tearaway wards who need taming. A marriage of convenience is not off the cards! Preferably someone who can interest the girls and later steer them through the traps of society.
Miss Bronwyn Pickering, resident of the Isle of Synne is being pushed into a titled marriage she doesn’t want by her parents upwardly mobile dreams. All Bronwyn wants to do is study her beloved insects. Maybe even have a paper accepted on her research by the Royal Society. Her only joy is a weekly gathering for tea with like minded young wome who call themselves the Oddments.
What she didn’t expect was an invitation to marriage—of convenience!
A truly delightful story spun into being from the magical pen of Christina Britton. All the ingredients are present; over reaching parents disapproving of their daughter’s pursuits, a Duke with secrets, a young woman naturalist who wants the freedom to follow her calling, and three unruly wards who always come up fighting. Put them together and we have? Well a story that surely zings!
A Forever (Grand Central) ARC via NetGalley.
Many thanks to the author and publisher.
Ash Hawkins, Duke of Buckley and owner of the premier gaming hell of London has a problem. Three tearaway wards who need taming. A marriage of convenience is not off the cards! Preferably someone who can interest the girls and later steer them through the traps of society.
Miss Bronwyn Pickering, resident of the Isle of Synne is being pushed into a titled marriage she doesn’t want by her parents upwardly mobile dreams. All Bronwyn wants to do is study her beloved insects. Maybe even have a paper accepted on her research by the Royal Society. Her only joy is a weekly gathering for tea with like minded young wome who call themselves the Oddments.
What she didn’t expect was an invitation to marriage—of convenience!
A truly delightful story spun into being from the magical pen of Christina Britton. All the ingredients are present; over reaching parents disapproving of their daughter’s pursuits, a Duke with secrets, a young woman naturalist who wants the freedom to follow her calling, and three unruly wards who always come up fighting. Put them together and we have? Well a story that surely zings!
A Forever (Grand Central) ARC via NetGalley.
Many thanks to the author and publisher.
November 2, 2022
As always, Christina Britton has made me want to visit the Isle of Synne! Isolated from London society, nature surrounding grand homes, young women who have found comfort in each other and acceptance of their unique qualities...yes, please, to all of those things. This book is a classic tale of marriage of convenience, though don't expect these two to remain chaste. Our heroine is a scientist, after all, and what better way to understand the intricacies of human intimacy than to experience it yourself? There is a passel of children involved as well, whose identities remain somewhat of a mystery, and there is a pair of utterly wretched parents who need to be shipped off to some cold, desolate place immediately. So much drama abounds in this story, but one thing is for sure - this couple is going to get their happy ending, even if the hero has to be conked over the head with a very large stick and dragged there. By the heroine or the eldest child, I'll leave it to you to decide as you read.
Miss Bronwyn Pickering doesn't appear to be anyone's idea of a perfect wife. More content to study the insects native to her beloved Isle of Synne than standing on the edges of a dance floor in a crowded ballroom, she has no interest in a husband. Most especially one with a title who would require her to move to London and abandon her dream of sending off her research paper to the Royal Society and being admitted as the first woman member. Bumping into Ash Hawkins and finding he is in need of a wife should have been a happy miracle for her, most especially because it would be a marriage in name only. Until she finds out he is not just Ash Hawkins but also the Duke of Buckley, and he intends to abandon her directly after the wedding. So she makes a deal with him - stay for two weeks before returning to London, consummate the marriage, and then he is free to do as he pleases in London. What neither count on is that their physical intimacy and close proximity would lead to deeper feelings...but Ash has a secret that prevents him from giving his heart to anyone. Even to Bronwyn, who may have captured it already.
These two were so good together, I was smiling almost the whole time. Except for the moments when Ash would be annoying...that happened several times. Mostly because he was so utterly blind to how his actions would impact Bronwyn, how her tender heart would feel seeing him leave their marriage bed before morning, how she may actually want him to stay. Of course, Bronwyn was equally blind to seeing the effect she had on him, and it took quite some time and a lot of intervention by their friends before they both realized what they had found in each other. Love, healing, a sense of a future they both never expected to achieve. And then the children were equally delightful, even the eldest who took some time to warm up to Bronwyn. They were starving for affection, and it was frustrating to see how little they received from Ash due to his secret. It made me wish he were more open with them, even though I could somewhat understand why he would keep them in the dark. I will say I expected the secret to be much worse than it was...and I daresay Bronwyn did as well. She was so utterly accepting of it, and I think that's exactly what Ash needed. Someone to tell him to stop living in the dark and accept those girls for who they were. Overall, this was a couple who needed each other, and once they could accept that, love burst forth for them both.
So many intriguing side characters in this book, I doubt I will mind no matter who gets a book next. Everyone was so unique and intriguing, I so look forward to reading more about these Synneful Spinsters.
**I received a free copy via NetGalley and this is my honest review.**
Miss Bronwyn Pickering doesn't appear to be anyone's idea of a perfect wife. More content to study the insects native to her beloved Isle of Synne than standing on the edges of a dance floor in a crowded ballroom, she has no interest in a husband. Most especially one with a title who would require her to move to London and abandon her dream of sending off her research paper to the Royal Society and being admitted as the first woman member. Bumping into Ash Hawkins and finding he is in need of a wife should have been a happy miracle for her, most especially because it would be a marriage in name only. Until she finds out he is not just Ash Hawkins but also the Duke of Buckley, and he intends to abandon her directly after the wedding. So she makes a deal with him - stay for two weeks before returning to London, consummate the marriage, and then he is free to do as he pleases in London. What neither count on is that their physical intimacy and close proximity would lead to deeper feelings...but Ash has a secret that prevents him from giving his heart to anyone. Even to Bronwyn, who may have captured it already.
These two were so good together, I was smiling almost the whole time. Except for the moments when Ash would be annoying...that happened several times. Mostly because he was so utterly blind to how his actions would impact Bronwyn, how her tender heart would feel seeing him leave their marriage bed before morning, how she may actually want him to stay. Of course, Bronwyn was equally blind to seeing the effect she had on him, and it took quite some time and a lot of intervention by their friends before they both realized what they had found in each other. Love, healing, a sense of a future they both never expected to achieve. And then the children were equally delightful, even the eldest who took some time to warm up to Bronwyn. They were starving for affection, and it was frustrating to see how little they received from Ash due to his secret. It made me wish he were more open with them, even though I could somewhat understand why he would keep them in the dark. I will say I expected the secret to be much worse than it was...and I daresay Bronwyn did as well. She was so utterly accepting of it, and I think that's exactly what Ash needed. Someone to tell him to stop living in the dark and accept those girls for who they were. Overall, this was a couple who needed each other, and once they could accept that, love burst forth for them both.
So many intriguing side characters in this book, I doubt I will mind no matter who gets a book next. Everyone was so unique and intriguing, I so look forward to reading more about these Synneful Spinsters.
**I received a free copy via NetGalley and this is my honest review.**
November 8, 2022
CW: domestic violence (memories)
Ash, Duke of Buckley reluctantly returns to his mother’s home on the Isle of Synne to chase after his young wards who’ve run off. He’s avoided this place due to painful memories of his beloved mother. In catching up with his wards, he meets Bronywn, a highly intelligent and affable young woman who’s a naturalist, and whose greatest ambition is to have her research paper on a certain insect published. Unfortunately, her overbearing parents have other ideas. Ash is so taken by Bronwyn that he impulsively proposes to her. She agrees if only to get away from her parents. Ash benefits, too, as she’ll keep an eye on his wards so he can return to London. It’s an ideal marriage of convenience, but Ash hasn’t planned on Bronwyn’s blunt request that they should consummate their marriage, for “research purposes”. He obliges her as long as his heart doesn’t get involved.
I was happily surprised by this story and absolutely admired Bronwyn. With her straightforwardness and knowledge - yes, even of human biology of which she was unashamed to discuss - she was a nice change from the usual polite society ladies. She’s my new favorite Regency heroine. I also loved how Ash adored her mind and spirit, helping her to achieve her dream. The spice level was perfect!! I enjoyed reading this, though the trauma that Ash carried was sad and disturbing. With Bronwyn’s compassion, he begins to make peace with the past.
Christina Britton is a new-to-me author and I liked her style. I’m already looking forward to the next book in the series.
Many thanks to @netgalley & @readforeverpub for my ARC. This is my honest review.
Ash, Duke of Buckley reluctantly returns to his mother’s home on the Isle of Synne to chase after his young wards who’ve run off. He’s avoided this place due to painful memories of his beloved mother. In catching up with his wards, he meets Bronywn, a highly intelligent and affable young woman who’s a naturalist, and whose greatest ambition is to have her research paper on a certain insect published. Unfortunately, her overbearing parents have other ideas. Ash is so taken by Bronwyn that he impulsively proposes to her. She agrees if only to get away from her parents. Ash benefits, too, as she’ll keep an eye on his wards so he can return to London. It’s an ideal marriage of convenience, but Ash hasn’t planned on Bronwyn’s blunt request that they should consummate their marriage, for “research purposes”. He obliges her as long as his heart doesn’t get involved.
I was happily surprised by this story and absolutely admired Bronwyn. With her straightforwardness and knowledge - yes, even of human biology of which she was unashamed to discuss - she was a nice change from the usual polite society ladies. She’s my new favorite Regency heroine. I also loved how Ash adored her mind and spirit, helping her to achieve her dream. The spice level was perfect!! I enjoyed reading this, though the trauma that Ash carried was sad and disturbing. With Bronwyn’s compassion, he begins to make peace with the past.
Christina Britton is a new-to-me author and I liked her style. I’m already looking forward to the next book in the series.
Many thanks to @netgalley & @readforeverpub for my ARC. This is my honest review.
November 4, 2022
Miss Bronwyn Pickering prefers insects to people. Passionate about her entomology research, Bronwyn has accepted that she will not marry, especially after a disastrous experience years ago. However, her social-climbing parents are relentless in their pressure to see Bronwyn wed. When she bumps into the handsome Ash Hawkins, Duke of Buckley, she never expects that her life will irrevocably change, but a marriage of convenience with him is just what Bronwyn needs to be free of her parents and to continue studying the subjects with the hope of getting her work published.
When Ash travels to Synne in search of his runaway wards, he has no intention of marriage. However, he needs someone to help him with his rebellious wards, and when he meets the intriguing Bronwyn, he finds his solution. Ash offers Bronwyn a marriage of convenience with no emotional attachment, but he quickly realizes it’s an impossibility because Bronwyn is more than he ever hoped for.
Bronwyn is such a unique and interesting character, and I loved her passion for insects. She is an entomologist, and her knowledge of insects is immense. Bronwyn is not a people person and often feels awkward in social settings, but when in nature, she comes alive. There are some great scenes where she shares her enthusiasm for insects and the natural world with Ash and his wards that not only highlight her intellect, but also her growing relationship with Ash and the girls, and the beautiful setting.
Synne sounds like a gorgeous place to live, and I can see why Bronwyn and Ash’s mother love it so much. It’s a great backdrop to the story, and the landscape adds to the romantic feel of the story. Though Ash has haunting memories of the island, he slowly comes to appreciate its beauty. Poor Ash! He has a traumatic backstory, and I can see why he pushed everyone away. The guilt and regret and shame he feels consume him, but the more time he spends with his wards and Bronwyn, the more he lets the walls he built around his heart crumble.
The secondary characters are also entertaining, especially Ash’s three wards and Bronwyn’s friend group. Ash’s wards are a handful! Rebellious and incorrigible, they are hellions in many ways. I like that Bronwyn sees past their outrageous actions and words and seems to deeply understand the root of their behavior. She doesn’t believe she’s good with people, but her kind and caring ways prove otherwise. Bronwyn’s friends are fabulous too, and I can’t wait to read each of their stories! I love books that show strong female friend groups who lift each other up and support each other. Bronwyn is lucky to have found these amazing women, especially considering her parents’ are increasingly restrictive and hurtful in their treatment of her and in their pressures to have her marry someone of esteem.
Ugh. Bronwyn’s parents are the worst! There are several antagonists in the book, and I hated Bronwyn’s selfish, social-climbing mother and father. They are so phony and mean, and the way they treat Bronwyn is inexcusable. Neither Bronwyn nor Ash have the best parental influences (with the exception of Ash’s mother who was exceptional), and I think it connects them at an even deeper level.
Bronwyn and Ash have a wonderful, slow-building romance. This marriage of convenience turns into so much more as Ash remains on Synne to get his wards and new wife acclimated to their new life. I love how Ash and Bronwyn grow together, and the way Ash supports Bronwyn’s interests and encourages her is outstanding. He is so interested in what she does, much to her surprise, and he shows her in so many ways how much he admires her. It just makes their budding romance even more swoon-worthy!
Thanks so much to Forever Publishing and NetGalley for providing me with a copy of the book. All thoughts are my own.
When Ash travels to Synne in search of his runaway wards, he has no intention of marriage. However, he needs someone to help him with his rebellious wards, and when he meets the intriguing Bronwyn, he finds his solution. Ash offers Bronwyn a marriage of convenience with no emotional attachment, but he quickly realizes it’s an impossibility because Bronwyn is more than he ever hoped for.
Bronwyn is such a unique and interesting character, and I loved her passion for insects. She is an entomologist, and her knowledge of insects is immense. Bronwyn is not a people person and often feels awkward in social settings, but when in nature, she comes alive. There are some great scenes where she shares her enthusiasm for insects and the natural world with Ash and his wards that not only highlight her intellect, but also her growing relationship with Ash and the girls, and the beautiful setting.
Synne sounds like a gorgeous place to live, and I can see why Bronwyn and Ash’s mother love it so much. It’s a great backdrop to the story, and the landscape adds to the romantic feel of the story. Though Ash has haunting memories of the island, he slowly comes to appreciate its beauty. Poor Ash! He has a traumatic backstory, and I can see why he pushed everyone away. The guilt and regret and shame he feels consume him, but the more time he spends with his wards and Bronwyn, the more he lets the walls he built around his heart crumble.
The secondary characters are also entertaining, especially Ash’s three wards and Bronwyn’s friend group. Ash’s wards are a handful! Rebellious and incorrigible, they are hellions in many ways. I like that Bronwyn sees past their outrageous actions and words and seems to deeply understand the root of their behavior. She doesn’t believe she’s good with people, but her kind and caring ways prove otherwise. Bronwyn’s friends are fabulous too, and I can’t wait to read each of their stories! I love books that show strong female friend groups who lift each other up and support each other. Bronwyn is lucky to have found these amazing women, especially considering her parents’ are increasingly restrictive and hurtful in their treatment of her and in their pressures to have her marry someone of esteem.
Ugh. Bronwyn’s parents are the worst! There are several antagonists in the book, and I hated Bronwyn’s selfish, social-climbing mother and father. They are so phony and mean, and the way they treat Bronwyn is inexcusable. Neither Bronwyn nor Ash have the best parental influences (with the exception of Ash’s mother who was exceptional), and I think it connects them at an even deeper level.
Bronwyn and Ash have a wonderful, slow-building romance. This marriage of convenience turns into so much more as Ash remains on Synne to get his wards and new wife acclimated to their new life. I love how Ash and Bronwyn grow together, and the way Ash supports Bronwyn’s interests and encourages her is outstanding. He is so interested in what she does, much to her surprise, and he shows her in so many ways how much he admires her. It just makes their budding romance even more swoon-worthy!
Thanks so much to Forever Publishing and NetGalley for providing me with a copy of the book. All thoughts are my own.
March 18, 2023
thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for the arc!!
I’m not crying you’re crying
I’m not crying you’re crying
September 3, 2022
Some Dukes Have All the Luck is the first book in the Synneful Spinsters series by Christina Britton. This was my first experience reading a book by Britton and I was pleasantly surprised.
Bronwyn is firmly on the shelf at age twenty four. Her parents are upset that she spends more time catching insects than catching a husband. Ash Hawkins, the Duke of Buckley is struggling to keep control of this three wards. His tactic of ignoring them so they don't become attached backfires when the two youngest flee to his seaside estate. Ash literally runs into Bronwyn and her beetles on his way to find them . When they meet again at his estate, he proposes a marriage of convenience. Bronwyn will watch after the girls in Synne and he will reside at his London home. Bronwyn agrees to the terms as long as Ash commits to spending two weeks together as a family before heading back to London. It's hard to avoid catching feelings when you spend so much time together.
Bronwyn is a naturalist. She loves studying insects and has the goal of being published for her findings. Her parents are verbally abusive and horrible. They shame her for her body, personality, hobbies, and anything else you can imagine. It's no surprise that she would agree to marry a complete stranger in order to escape her abusive household.
Ash is a tortured hero of his own making. He's feeling guilt over the death of his mother even though he was just a boy when it happened. He keeps his wards at a distance to avoid hurting them with the secret he carries. I loved the little moments of seeing him spend time with the girls. Ash is always supportive of Bronwyn and her hobbies. He praises her intelligence and urges her to continue submitting her work to be published.
This book is fairly low angst. I kind of breezed right through it. I started it last night and by the time I looked I was already seventy percent done. I really wished the "villians" of the book had gotten their comeuppance. Bronwyn's parent and prior suitor deserved a lot more in the end. I'm looking forward to read the other books in the series although none of her friends really wowed me into getting excited for their characters.
Thank you to NetGalley, Christina Britton, and Forever (Grand Central Publishing) for this eARC. All opinions expressed are my own.
Bronwyn is firmly on the shelf at age twenty four. Her parents are upset that she spends more time catching insects than catching a husband. Ash Hawkins, the Duke of Buckley is struggling to keep control of this three wards. His tactic of ignoring them so they don't become attached backfires when the two youngest flee to his seaside estate. Ash literally runs into Bronwyn and her beetles on his way to find them . When they meet again at his estate, he proposes a marriage of convenience. Bronwyn will watch after the girls in Synne and he will reside at his London home. Bronwyn agrees to the terms as long as Ash commits to spending two weeks together as a family before heading back to London. It's hard to avoid catching feelings when you spend so much time together.
Bronwyn is a naturalist. She loves studying insects and has the goal of being published for her findings. Her parents are verbally abusive and horrible. They shame her for her body, personality, hobbies, and anything else you can imagine. It's no surprise that she would agree to marry a complete stranger in order to escape her abusive household.
Ash is a tortured hero of his own making. He's feeling guilt over the death of his mother even though he was just a boy when it happened. He keeps his wards at a distance to avoid hurting them with the secret he carries. I loved the little moments of seeing him spend time with the girls. Ash is always supportive of Bronwyn and her hobbies. He praises her intelligence and urges her to continue submitting her work to be published.
This book is fairly low angst. I kind of breezed right through it. I started it last night and by the time I looked I was already seventy percent done. I really wished the "villians" of the book had gotten their comeuppance. Bronwyn's parent and prior suitor deserved a lot more in the end. I'm looking forward to read the other books in the series although none of her friends really wowed me into getting excited for their characters.
Thank you to NetGalley, Christina Britton, and Forever (Grand Central Publishing) for this eARC. All opinions expressed are my own.
August 10, 2022
Ash Hawkins, Duke of Buckley, believes that marriage is the most effective way to tame his recalcitrant wards. After all, a wife cannot leave the position unlike a governess, right? And he can resume his work as a gaming hell owner. Enter the bespectacled entomologist, Miss Bronwyn Pickering. When two of Ash’s wards befriend Bronwyn, Ash realizes she’s the perfect candidate for what he has in mind: A marriage of convenience. My jaw dropped at his abrupt proposal. It was reminiscent of Mr. Darcy’s proposal. Albeit less insulting, ha! Bronwyn, for her part, is desperate to leave her cruel parents. So, a marriage of convenience is an ideal solution to both their problems.
Some Dukes Have All the Luck is a moving story that explores love, trust, and forgiveness. Ash unfairly blames himself for his father’s misdeeds. Ash is a great character. It was gratifying to see him learn to love, heal, and forgive himself. Similarly, Bronwyn is a charming character. She is smart and kind. Unfortunately, a spiteful suitor from her past left her believing she is unattractive. But Ash shows her that she is beautiful and cherished. I love how supportive Ash is of Bronwyn’s dreams and aspirations. I loathe Bronwyn’s parents, and I cheered when Bronwyn finally reprimands them. Also, the three wards are a heart-warming addition to the story. The Oddments are an unconventional and interesting bunch, and I look forward to their books.
This book is as spicy as it is emotional. I really enjoyed it. Do I spy Bronwyn’s spectacles on the cover? How clever!
Thanks to Netgalley and Forever (Grand Central Publishing) for providing me with an e-ARC in exchange for an honest review.
Some Dukes Have All the Luck is a moving story that explores love, trust, and forgiveness. Ash unfairly blames himself for his father’s misdeeds. Ash is a great character. It was gratifying to see him learn to love, heal, and forgive himself. Similarly, Bronwyn is a charming character. She is smart and kind. Unfortunately, a spiteful suitor from her past left her believing she is unattractive. But Ash shows her that she is beautiful and cherished. I love how supportive Ash is of Bronwyn’s dreams and aspirations. I loathe Bronwyn’s parents, and I cheered when Bronwyn finally reprimands them. Also, the three wards are a heart-warming addition to the story. The Oddments are an unconventional and interesting bunch, and I look forward to their books.
This book is as spicy as it is emotional. I really enjoyed it. Do I spy Bronwyn’s spectacles on the cover? How clever!
Thanks to Netgalley and Forever (Grand Central Publishing) for providing me with an e-ARC in exchange for an honest review.
June 28, 2023
It would've been more enjoyable for me if
(1) Ash doesn't have this FOOLISH notion about guilt, that makes him unwilling to get close to his wards. Seriously, FOOLISH reasons annoy me to no end.
(2) That HORRIBLE parents of Bronwyn are being banished somewhere, never to be seen again.
Other that that, a nice book. I am happy that Bronwyn (who appeared in the previous series as one of Daniel's possible wife) finally gets her man.
(1) Ash doesn't have this FOOLISH notion about guilt, that makes him unwilling to get close to his wards. Seriously, FOOLISH reasons annoy me to no end.
(2) That HORRIBLE parents of Bronwyn are being banished somewhere, never to be seen again.
Other that that, a nice book. I am happy that Bronwyn (who appeared in the previous series as one of Daniel's possible wife) finally gets her man.
November 23, 2022
❤️ 1 Sexy Duke + 3 mischievous Young Wards + 1 Bluestocking Naturalist = Happiness 4 All ❤️
Some Dukes Have All the Luck begins the Synneful Spinsters series off with a bang! Christina Britton has once again created magic on Synne Isle. This series is related to her Isle of Synne series and although there are some character overlaps, this story is able to be enjoyed without reading the other series.
Synopsis
“Ash Hawkins, Duke of Buckley, no more wants to marry than he wants a stick in his eye. As the owner of a gaming hell, he is all too aware the odds of a happy marriage are against him. But raising his three rebellious wards alone is proving more than he can handle. He needs to find someone who stands to benefit from a marriage of convenience as much as he does. Someone logical, clinical, and rational. And in a stroke of luck, he quite literally stumbles over just such a woman.
After years of ridicule for being more interested in bugs than boys, Bronwyn has accepted that she’ll never marry for love. Her parents, however, are threatening to find her a husband. Bronwyn doesn’t need any scientific research to show her Ash has secrets. But his proposal would give her the freedom to continue her entomology research and perhaps finally get published. Just as long as she can keep her mind on her work and off his piercing eyes, broad shoulders, and wicked, wicked tongue.”
My Reaction:
I read this book from beginning to end without stopping and stayed up way past my bedtime, just couldn’t put the book down! Britton combined some of my favorite tropes in this story including the marriage of convenience and love between different classes. I loved watching Bronwyn quite literally save Ash and his wards and I loved seeing Ash learn to enjoy life as he realizes his fate is not determined by his father. There are quite a few scorching hot scenes, all in the name of research, 😉which I of course loved!
Things I could have done without - the multiple interactions between Bronwyn, Ash, and Bronwyn’s ridiculous parents. The visit from Bronwyn’s past “suitor” in combination with Bronwyn’s idiotic parents. I am seeing a trend. However these things were not enough to ruin any aspect of the story.
Overall rating 5 Stars ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ | 5 Flames 🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥 and I can’t wait for the next book in the series!
📚Disclosure: I received a review copy of this book from Avon and Harper Voyager publishing via Netgalley. All thoughts, opinions, comments, and interpretations of the story are my own and bias free. I did not receive any money in exchange for this review. Thank you to the publisher for allowing me the opportunity to review. Reviews are cross-posted to social media, goodreads, and blog. 🦄
Some Dukes Have All the Luck begins the Synneful Spinsters series off with a bang! Christina Britton has once again created magic on Synne Isle. This series is related to her Isle of Synne series and although there are some character overlaps, this story is able to be enjoyed without reading the other series.
Synopsis
“Ash Hawkins, Duke of Buckley, no more wants to marry than he wants a stick in his eye. As the owner of a gaming hell, he is all too aware the odds of a happy marriage are against him. But raising his three rebellious wards alone is proving more than he can handle. He needs to find someone who stands to benefit from a marriage of convenience as much as he does. Someone logical, clinical, and rational. And in a stroke of luck, he quite literally stumbles over just such a woman.
After years of ridicule for being more interested in bugs than boys, Bronwyn has accepted that she’ll never marry for love. Her parents, however, are threatening to find her a husband. Bronwyn doesn’t need any scientific research to show her Ash has secrets. But his proposal would give her the freedom to continue her entomology research and perhaps finally get published. Just as long as she can keep her mind on her work and off his piercing eyes, broad shoulders, and wicked, wicked tongue.”
My Reaction:
I read this book from beginning to end without stopping and stayed up way past my bedtime, just couldn’t put the book down! Britton combined some of my favorite tropes in this story including the marriage of convenience and love between different classes. I loved watching Bronwyn quite literally save Ash and his wards and I loved seeing Ash learn to enjoy life as he realizes his fate is not determined by his father. There are quite a few scorching hot scenes, all in the name of research, 😉which I of course loved!
Things I could have done without - the multiple interactions between Bronwyn, Ash, and Bronwyn’s ridiculous parents. The visit from Bronwyn’s past “suitor” in combination with Bronwyn’s idiotic parents. I am seeing a trend. However these things were not enough to ruin any aspect of the story.
Overall rating 5 Stars ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ | 5 Flames 🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥 and I can’t wait for the next book in the series!
📚Disclosure: I received a review copy of this book from Avon and Harper Voyager publishing via Netgalley. All thoughts, opinions, comments, and interpretations of the story are my own and bias free. I did not receive any money in exchange for this review. Thank you to the publisher for allowing me the opportunity to review. Reviews are cross-posted to social media, goodreads, and blog. 🦄
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