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Daring Dukes #3
The Duke in Question
James Bond meets Bridgerton in this steamy enemies-to-lovers historical romance from USA Today bestselling author Amalie Howard:
This lady won’t let a savvy duke sway her from her mission.
The Duke of Thornbury, retired agent of the Crown, has never lost a target.
In a flirty game of cat and mouse, a spy must keep his enemy close to unravel the secrets that threaten to tear them apart.
Lady Bronwyn Chase is far from the paragon of society that her mother expects her to be. Which is why she’s on her brother’s passenger liner bound for America with a secret packet of letters that could get her into trouble. Serious trouble—the kind that a duke’s sister shouldn’t be in; the kind that puts spymaster Valentine Medford, the Duke of Thornbury, on her trail. But as the duke gets closer to Bronwyn and the secrets she’s keeping, he’ll have to decide between the mysterious woman who calls to him, or his allegiance to the Crown.
This lady won’t let a savvy duke sway her from her mission.
The Duke of Thornbury, retired agent of the Crown, has never lost a target.
In a flirty game of cat and mouse, a spy must keep his enemy close to unravel the secrets that threaten to tear them apart.
Lady Bronwyn Chase is far from the paragon of society that her mother expects her to be. Which is why she’s on her brother’s passenger liner bound for America with a secret packet of letters that could get her into trouble. Serious trouble—the kind that a duke’s sister shouldn’t be in; the kind that puts spymaster Valentine Medford, the Duke of Thornbury, on her trail. But as the duke gets closer to Bronwyn and the secrets she’s keeping, he’ll have to decide between the mysterious woman who calls to him, or his allegiance to the Crown.
378 pages, Mass Market Paperback
First published November 8, 2022
158 people are currently reading
4259 people want to read
About the author
Amalie Howard
47 books3,257 followersAMALIE HOWARD is a USA Today and Publishers Weekly bestselling author, most notably of The Beast of Beswick, “a smart, sexy, deliciously feminist romance,” and one of O-The Oprah Magazine’s Top 24 Best Historicals to Read. She is the co-author of the #1 bestsellers in regency romance and Scottish historical romance, My Rogue, My Ruin and What A Scot Wants, and has also penned several young adult novels, critically acclaimed by Kirkus, Publishers Weekly, VOYA, School Library Journal, and Booklist, including Waterfell, The Almost Girl, and Alpha Goddess, a Kid’s INDIE NEXT selection. Of Indo-Caribbean descent, she has written articles on multicultural fiction for The Portland Book Review and Ravishly magazine. She currently resides in Colorado with her husband and three children. Visit her at amaliehoward.com.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 357 reviews
August 27, 2023
✨Why is it always “adrenaline rush from having to speak in front of people” and never “adrenaline rush because we’re on a spy mission and nearly got caught out so now we’re gonna bang against this very public tree in a very vigorous manner” ????✨
Wow. I mean WOW. I was not ready for this book I really wasn’t. Amalie told me there was a tree scene but that hardly prepared me at ALL. This book was so very spicy and delicious. Valentine pretty much despised Bronwyn and was he a dick about it? Absolutely. Was I obsessed with it? Absolutely.
✨
Bronwyn had been putting on a front with polite society for a while and did an incredible job scaring the daylights out of Valentine with her simpering and fake laughter. Obviously Valentine was still incredibly possessive and rock hard whenever he was around her, but that’s just because he’s her brother’s best friend! Totally normal reaction, that rock hard business!
**SPOILER**I also just love that Bronwyn was pining for this man for YEARS. And when he proved to be sexually skilled? What a win for her. Valentine always tried to ignore her because she was his best friend’s sister which is delicious. But that’s incredibly hard to do when she smells like apple pie and he’s got a sweet tooth—very delicious.
I’m just such a fan of her reading romance novels while thinking about him, only to get railed so hard by him. I love poetic justice. One of my favorite tropes methinks.
✨
And now this is where I talk about the steam because my god it was the gift that kept on giving. Commanded masturbation—in a carriage, taunting masturbation—in the bath, up against a tree—in public, in an alcove—in public, in the epilogue—in handcuffs*, in a bed. Each sex scene was brilliant and scorching because their passion was so fevered. It was all very intense and explosive. The high stakes from the spy plot perfectly translated to “I may die tomorrow so I want to live worshipping your body today.”
- *my only note on the handcuffs is that it was teased SO MUCH. (Along with her wanting to ride his face like a jockie.) And while I’m happy we weren’t completely shut out of that scene at the end, I did want the full scene. He unlocked her in the part that we saw, and I wish she would’ve stayed restrained.
✨
**SPOILER** I’m sorry but I’ve never read a deflowering scene better than this one. From behind against a tree in a public park after nearly dying where one character is actively bleeding???? God I love spy books. When he was like “I won’t be gentle”—oooWEE a true hero.
Also I just love that Bronwyn was wet like 24/7 for this man. He was always like “is this all for me?” and her very logical reply was always “duh.”
This scene absolutely gave me A Daring Pursuit by Kate Bateman vibes. If I had a penny for the number of adrenaline fueled sex scenes I’ve read this year, I’d have the two cents to become a spy and/or get chased by a bear.
✨
Overall, it’s no surprise that I loved this book. Amalie Howard is quickly becoming one of my favorite historical romance authors, and she’s already an auto-read. Her heroines are always so strong and, frankly, I want to be every single one of them. Bronwyn and Valentine had such dynamic chemistry, and the extra brother’s best friend element was so juicy. The third act breakup was also handled differently here and I really appreciated it. The Duke in Question was so easy to love, and an even easier five stars.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️/5 🌶🌶🌶.5/5
Thanks so much to the publisher for an eARC via NetGalley. I’m also friendly with the author on socials! All opinions are honest and my own.
Wow. I mean WOW. I was not ready for this book I really wasn’t. Amalie told me there was a tree scene but that hardly prepared me at ALL. This book was so very spicy and delicious. Valentine pretty much despised Bronwyn and was he a dick about it? Absolutely. Was I obsessed with it? Absolutely.
✨
Bronwyn had been putting on a front with polite society for a while and did an incredible job scaring the daylights out of Valentine with her simpering and fake laughter. Obviously Valentine was still incredibly possessive and rock hard whenever he was around her, but that’s just because he’s her brother’s best friend! Totally normal reaction, that rock hard business!
**SPOILER**I also just love that Bronwyn was pining for this man for YEARS. And when he proved to be sexually skilled? What a win for her. Valentine always tried to ignore her because she was his best friend’s sister which is delicious. But that’s incredibly hard to do when she smells like apple pie and he’s got a sweet tooth—very delicious.
I’m just such a fan of her reading romance novels while thinking about him, only to get railed so hard by him. I love poetic justice. One of my favorite tropes methinks.
✨
And now this is where I talk about the steam because my god it was the gift that kept on giving. Commanded masturbation—in a carriage, taunting masturbation—in the bath, up against a tree—in public, in an alcove—in public, in the epilogue—in handcuffs*, in a bed. Each sex scene was brilliant and scorching because their passion was so fevered. It was all very intense and explosive. The high stakes from the spy plot perfectly translated to “I may die tomorrow so I want to live worshipping your body today.”
- *my only note on the handcuffs is that it was teased SO MUCH. (Along with her wanting to ride his face like a jockie.) And while I’m happy we weren’t completely shut out of that scene at the end, I did want the full scene. He unlocked her in the part that we saw, and I wish she would’ve stayed restrained.
✨
**SPOILER** I’m sorry but I’ve never read a deflowering scene better than this one. From behind against a tree in a public park after nearly dying where one character is actively bleeding???? God I love spy books. When he was like “I won’t be gentle”—oooWEE a true hero.
Also I just love that Bronwyn was wet like 24/7 for this man. He was always like “is this all for me?” and her very logical reply was always “duh.”
This scene absolutely gave me A Daring Pursuit by Kate Bateman vibes. If I had a penny for the number of adrenaline fueled sex scenes I’ve read this year, I’d have the two cents to become a spy and/or get chased by a bear.
✨
Overall, it’s no surprise that I loved this book. Amalie Howard is quickly becoming one of my favorite historical romance authors, and she’s already an auto-read. Her heroines are always so strong and, frankly, I want to be every single one of them. Bronwyn and Valentine had such dynamic chemistry, and the extra brother’s best friend element was so juicy. The third act breakup was also handled differently here and I really appreciated it. The Duke in Question was so easy to love, and an even easier five stars.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️/5 🌶🌶🌶.5/5
Thanks so much to the publisher for an eARC via NetGalley. I’m also friendly with the author on socials! All opinions are honest and my own.
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November 18, 2022ARC provided by Edelweiss and Sourcebooks Casablanca in exchange for a honest review.
November 12, 2022
This is a well-written, entertaining, fast paced, steamy, historical romance novel. It has a likable, bold, strong and capable female protagonist, sizzling chemistry, a diverse cast of characters, wit, a touch of humor, engaging banter, intrigue, and a happily ever after ending. The author's notes are enlightening and truly appreciated. This is the third entry in Ms. Howard's Daring Dukes series, and can easily be read and enjoyed as a stand alone.
NetGalley, Sourcebooks Casablanca and Amalie Howard kindly provided me with an ARC of this novel, and this is my honest opinion.
NetGalley, Sourcebooks Casablanca and Amalie Howard kindly provided me with an ARC of this novel, and this is my honest opinion.
July 15, 2023
I'm listening to the audiobook for the Historical Romance Book Club's Book of the Month for July 2023. I'm a few days ahead of schedule.
The first sex scene took me completely by surprise because I was not expecting the heroine to be that comfortable with her own sexuality. I was like, "She did what?! And she's a virgin?!" Nevertheless, it was steamy!
The heroine used the F word once or twice, which took me off guard. That just goes to show how furious she was with the hero. I can't recall if the hero used it, too, at some point in the book.
I felt their relationship was based more on lust. I wonder if we needed to read the previous books to see how these two interacted with one another. 🤔🤔🤔 I read the first book in the series but I don't remember anything from it. I haven't read the second book because it didn't interest me.
Espionage is one of my least favorite tropes to read in HR. I'm not patient to see how the mystery unravels. I decided to listen to the audiobook since it was available at my library, so I thought, "Why not?"
For some reason, I had anxiety listening to the first couple of chapters. I kept worrying about how the hero was going to learn about the heroine being a spy. I did stop listening for a day or two and considered trying again a few months from now when I'm in the right mood for an HR with spies. Somehow I managed to pick it back up and complete it.
The first sex scene took me completely by surprise because I was not expecting the heroine to be that comfortable with her own sexuality. I was like, "She did what?! And she's a virgin?!" Nevertheless, it was steamy!
The heroine used the F word once or twice, which took me off guard. That just goes to show how furious she was with the hero. I can't recall if the hero used it, too, at some point in the book.
I felt their relationship was based more on lust. I wonder if we needed to read the previous books to see how these two interacted with one another. 🤔🤔🤔 I read the first book in the series but I don't remember anything from it. I haven't read the second book because it didn't interest me.
Espionage is one of my least favorite tropes to read in HR. I'm not patient to see how the mystery unravels. I decided to listen to the audiobook since it was available at my library, so I thought, "Why not?"
For some reason, I had anxiety listening to the first couple of chapters. I kept worrying about how the hero was going to learn about the heroine being a spy. I did stop listening for a day or two and considered trying again a few months from now when I'm in the right mood for an HR with spies. Somehow I managed to pick it back up and complete it.
November 17, 2022
The Duke in Question by Amelia Howard
Daring Dukes series book #3. Historical diverse (own voice) romance. Can be read as a stand-alone but better as part of the series, for the family dynamics.
Lady Bronwyn wants to be a source of good and help her country. She has taken on dangerous spy missions but on the ship across the ocean to the States, she is being hunted by a former spymaster, Valentine Medford, the Duke of Thornbury. He doesn’t know the Kestral is female or the lucious Bronwyn as she leads him on a wicked chase of seduction and secrets.
Wicked hot with amusing antics among the ton parties. Too much giggling but pretty accurate shooting. I liked the intrigue and layers within the premise of society parties.
Don’t skip the authors notes at the end that detail the actual history and research notes and how the story unfolded to it’s ending result.
I received a copy of this from NetGalley.
Daring Dukes series book #3. Historical diverse (own voice) romance. Can be read as a stand-alone but better as part of the series, for the family dynamics.
Lady Bronwyn wants to be a source of good and help her country. She has taken on dangerous spy missions but on the ship across the ocean to the States, she is being hunted by a former spymaster, Valentine Medford, the Duke of Thornbury. He doesn’t know the Kestral is female or the lucious Bronwyn as she leads him on a wicked chase of seduction and secrets.
Wicked hot with amusing antics among the ton parties. Too much giggling but pretty accurate shooting. I liked the intrigue and layers within the premise of society parties.
Don’t skip the authors notes at the end that detail the actual history and research notes and how the story unfolded to it’s ending result.
I received a copy of this from NetGalley.
November 11, 2022
My thanks to NetGalley and the publisher, Sourcebooks Casablanca, for the ARC. All opinions are my own.
I was first introduced to Amalie Howard’s writing when I read her novella The Wolf of Westmore in the Big Duke Energy anthology. I absolutely loved the story, especially the incredible chemistry and smokin hot sexytimes. So when I requested this ARC, I’ll admit my expectations were pretty high. I’m happy to say I was not disappointed, and I will definitely be reading more by this very talented author!
This was a five-star read for me for so many reasons… top-notch writing, great world building, likeable characters with depth (especially Bronwyn), a plot that reeled me in from the start, chemistry, passion, intrigue, adventure, and of course, love.
I’m always all about the H in a historical romance, but this was definitely Bronwyn’s story and she captured my heart right along with Thornbury’s. She was so much more than she appeared on the surface. Valentine, the Duke of Thornbury, thought he had her pegged and I enjoyed his utter bewilderment as he watched her go from a seemingly vapid, simpering bubble head (her cover) to a woman dancing sensuously on a ship’s private deck to the badass spy chick meeting up with a contact at a tavern (and saving his life twice in one night). I just loved how she constantly threw him off balance as the layers of her personality and her true role in the spy plot came to light. He was deeply intrigued by her, thinking who is this woman, and what better draw for a former spy than a compelling mystery. Especially if that mystery is a beautiful, confident, intelligent, headstrong woman.
No other woman would ever compare to the tempest that was Bronwyn Chase. His perfect storm.
Chemistry in an HR is my jam, and the chemistry between Bronwyn and Valentine was simply delicious. And oh my, who knew danger could be such an aphrodisiac. The sex-against-a-tree-after-almost-dying scene was so raw and intense it took my breath away. They burned. This happened early in the story and that powerful physical connection was the magnetic draw that kept pulling them together even though each initially thought of the other as the enemy.
Valentine thought Bronwyn was working for the wrong side, so he took her into his custody as they traveled from America to France and back to England. Forced proximity meant they had a lot of page time together which is something I need in my HRs. This allowed them to get to know one another and slowly, each came to the realization that in the other, they not only met their match, but found someone they couldn’t live without.
I usually find spy plots take away from a romance, but in this case it was essential to the story, which was, at its heart, a passionate romance with an adventurous spirit.
When they knelt facing each other in the altogether, bare of everything but skin and burning passion, in the middle of his bed, Bronwyn felt an odd sense of accord. That this was right where she was supposed to be in this moment. Here with him, her body making a forever pledge that only his could hear. I am yours.
I was first introduced to Amalie Howard’s writing when I read her novella The Wolf of Westmore in the Big Duke Energy anthology. I absolutely loved the story, especially the incredible chemistry and smokin hot sexytimes. So when I requested this ARC, I’ll admit my expectations were pretty high. I’m happy to say I was not disappointed, and I will definitely be reading more by this very talented author!
This was a five-star read for me for so many reasons… top-notch writing, great world building, likeable characters with depth (especially Bronwyn), a plot that reeled me in from the start, chemistry, passion, intrigue, adventure, and of course, love.
I’m always all about the H in a historical romance, but this was definitely Bronwyn’s story and she captured my heart right along with Thornbury’s. She was so much more than she appeared on the surface. Valentine, the Duke of Thornbury, thought he had her pegged and I enjoyed his utter bewilderment as he watched her go from a seemingly vapid, simpering bubble head (her cover) to a woman dancing sensuously on a ship’s private deck to the badass spy chick meeting up with a contact at a tavern (and saving his life twice in one night). I just loved how she constantly threw him off balance as the layers of her personality and her true role in the spy plot came to light. He was deeply intrigued by her, thinking who is this woman, and what better draw for a former spy than a compelling mystery. Especially if that mystery is a beautiful, confident, intelligent, headstrong woman.
No other woman would ever compare to the tempest that was Bronwyn Chase. His perfect storm.
Chemistry in an HR is my jam, and the chemistry between Bronwyn and Valentine was simply delicious. And oh my, who knew danger could be such an aphrodisiac. The sex-against-a-tree-after-almost-dying scene was so raw and intense it took my breath away. They burned. This happened early in the story and that powerful physical connection was the magnetic draw that kept pulling them together even though each initially thought of the other as the enemy.
Valentine thought Bronwyn was working for the wrong side, so he took her into his custody as they traveled from America to France and back to England. Forced proximity meant they had a lot of page time together which is something I need in my HRs. This allowed them to get to know one another and slowly, each came to the realization that in the other, they not only met their match, but found someone they couldn’t live without.
I usually find spy plots take away from a romance, but in this case it was essential to the story, which was, at its heart, a passionate romance with an adventurous spirit.
When they knelt facing each other in the altogether, bare of everything but skin and burning passion, in the middle of his bed, Bronwyn felt an odd sense of accord. That this was right where she was supposed to be in this moment. Here with him, her body making a forever pledge that only his could hear. I am yours.
December 27, 2022
My favorite of the series so far! If you love spies in your historical romances, you will love The Duke in Question. It’s an enemies to lovers + brother's best friend romance. The Duke hero is a retired agent of the Crown, and the heroine is secretly a spy herself. Their romance is HOT and so much fun to read.
Bronwyn is trying to deliver secret letters to a mysterious person, and Valentine is on the hunt for these same letters for the Crown. He just has no idea that his best friend's little sister is the one who’s taken them because on the surface, Bronwyn acts like a vapid, spoiled brat, so there’s no way that this girl could secretly be a spy right??? Obviously, Valentine is dead wrong – Bronwyn schools him and plays him so many times. It was incredibly entertaining to read about him getting all confused over Bronwyn and how she makes him feel.
The steam here is fantastic. They're first time together was up against a tree!! And we have a heroine who knows exactly what she wants out of her man. Both the main characters are fantastic, and I had a great time reading their romance.
Bronwyn is trying to deliver secret letters to a mysterious person, and Valentine is on the hunt for these same letters for the Crown. He just has no idea that his best friend's little sister is the one who’s taken them because on the surface, Bronwyn acts like a vapid, spoiled brat, so there’s no way that this girl could secretly be a spy right??? Obviously, Valentine is dead wrong – Bronwyn schools him and plays him so many times. It was incredibly entertaining to read about him getting all confused over Bronwyn and how she makes him feel.
The steam here is fantastic. They're first time together was up against a tree!! And we have a heroine who knows exactly what she wants out of her man. Both the main characters are fantastic, and I had a great time reading their romance.
November 13, 2022
5 Secret-Agents-in-Love Stars
Ratings
Overall: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Plot/Storyline: 📖📖📖📖📖
Feels: 🦋🦋🦋🦋🦋
Emotional Depth: 💔💔💔💔
Sexual Tension: ⚡⚡⚡⚡⚡
Romance: 💞💞💞💞💞
Sensuality: 💋💋💋💋💋
Sex Scene Length: 🍑🍑🍑🍑
Steam Scale (Number of Sex Scenes): 🔥🔥🔥🔥
My Thoughts
- Amalie Howard is a truly talented author. She has an arsenal of great stories ranging from "The Beauty and the Beast, Second Chancers, Star Crossed Lovers, Ethnically Diverse, Classical Recreations" to the latest one with "The Love Story of a Spy".
- This book was sheer perfection. It had a great plot, amazing characters, intrigue, passion, romance and steam. Did I leave something out? If yes, it had that too. I read it in one sitting with a mad smile on my face, as that is the litmus test for my rating of a book (how big was my smile).
- This is one of those few examples where a great romance blends seamlessly with the sub-plot. The secret mission and spy stuff were integral to character detailing, development, depth, understanding and the HEA. That it was well written is a given.
- Ms Howard can pen down these truly great heroines, and I have always admired that about her writing. Bronwyn was a breath of fresh air. She was not only steel spined spy (which I love) but also clever, fun, kind, adorable and loving. This girl could think on her feet, act/ talk/ fight/ flirt/ laugh her way out of any sticky situation. Nothing about her felt forced, and her character flowed naturally with the story. There were a couple of things that stood out to me about her. One, she stuck to her guns, be it completing her mission, not divulging all just because she had the man of her dreams wrapped around her finger (although this stands out on its own), refusing the proposal at least six times (that I remember), not settling for anything less than her desire and the best of all, taking charge, dictating terms during sexual encounters. (You go, girlfriend!)
- Valentine, oh, this sweet, besotted man. He fell for this spirited girl hook, line and sinker. It was exhilarating watching him fight duty with desire, run after her time and again, pine for her, be with her, cursing himself for being with her, try and fail to figure out what was happening to finally trust himself to be vulnerable with her. It was all very delicious, I assure you. (His name was Valentine, for God's sake, of course, he was going to be delicious)
- What can I tell you about the romance? It was all wrapped up in deep-rooted lust, can't seem to keep your hands off of each other, unable to figure out your feeling until you do. These two talked (as much as their secrets would allow), let their relationship grow, spent time with each other (some of it while fighting villains), and lit the page on fire. She was always in love with him, he took a little time to get there, but it was worth the wait.
My Recommendation
A book that combines a great plot with sweet romance and steamy goodness, what's not to love?
Ratings
Overall: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Plot/Storyline: 📖📖📖📖📖
Feels: 🦋🦋🦋🦋🦋
Emotional Depth: 💔💔💔💔
Sexual Tension: ⚡⚡⚡⚡⚡
Romance: 💞💞💞💞💞
Sensuality: 💋💋💋💋💋
Sex Scene Length: 🍑🍑🍑🍑
Steam Scale (Number of Sex Scenes): 🔥🔥🔥🔥
My Thoughts
- Amalie Howard is a truly talented author. She has an arsenal of great stories ranging from "The Beauty and the Beast, Second Chancers, Star Crossed Lovers, Ethnically Diverse, Classical Recreations" to the latest one with "The Love Story of a Spy".
- This book was sheer perfection. It had a great plot, amazing characters, intrigue, passion, romance and steam. Did I leave something out? If yes, it had that too. I read it in one sitting with a mad smile on my face, as that is the litmus test for my rating of a book (how big was my smile).
- This is one of those few examples where a great romance blends seamlessly with the sub-plot. The secret mission and spy stuff were integral to character detailing, development, depth, understanding and the HEA. That it was well written is a given.
- Ms Howard can pen down these truly great heroines, and I have always admired that about her writing. Bronwyn was a breath of fresh air. She was not only steel spined spy (which I love) but also clever, fun, kind, adorable and loving. This girl could think on her feet, act/ talk/ fight/ flirt/ laugh her way out of any sticky situation. Nothing about her felt forced, and her character flowed naturally with the story. There were a couple of things that stood out to me about her. One, she stuck to her guns, be it completing her mission, not divulging all just because she had the man of her dreams wrapped around her finger (although this stands out on its own), refusing the proposal at least six times (that I remember), not settling for anything less than her desire and the best of all, taking charge, dictating terms during sexual encounters. (You go, girlfriend!)
- Valentine, oh, this sweet, besotted man. He fell for this spirited girl hook, line and sinker. It was exhilarating watching him fight duty with desire, run after her time and again, pine for her, be with her, cursing himself for being with her, try and fail to figure out what was happening to finally trust himself to be vulnerable with her. It was all very delicious, I assure you. (His name was Valentine, for God's sake, of course, he was going to be delicious)
- What can I tell you about the romance? It was all wrapped up in deep-rooted lust, can't seem to keep your hands off of each other, unable to figure out your feeling until you do. These two talked (as much as their secrets would allow), let their relationship grow, spent time with each other (some of it while fighting villains), and lit the page on fire. She was always in love with him, he took a little time to get there, but it was worth the wait.
My Recommendation
A book that combines a great plot with sweet romance and steamy goodness, what's not to love?
October 21, 2022
Valentine, Duke of Thornbury and retired agent of the crown, heads out on another mission to intercept a spy. He could never imagine that the person he’s looking for is his best friend’s sister, Lady Bronwyn Chase. She acts like a vapid, silly chit but there’s more to this once-sheltered miss. Bronwyn needs to avoid Valentine’s suspicions, but actually she’s imagining all the fun they might have if he “caught” her.
This is the third book in the Daring Dukes series. The heroine, Bronwyn, is the half-sister of book two's hero, Courtland. The events of this story take place directly after the end of the previous novel. It can mostly be read alone, although some characters and events are mentioned.
This book was fast paced, super sexy, and made me want to keep reading! Bronwyn is young, impulsive, and eager for a sense of purpose. She doesn't want to have a loveless society marriage where she becomes her husband's property; she wants to help fight for the rights of others. An accidental eavesdrop turns into a job passing along government messages, and now she's on a ship to America carrying sensitive intel about the American president! It's just her rotten luck that Valentine, who she's had a crush on for years, is on her tail. They annoy the heck out of one another, but their attraction is explosive!
I also really loved the author notes at the end about the real history surrounding the events of the story.
Tropes: Spy/Govt Work, Forced Proximity, Opposites Attract, Brother's Best Friend, Ship Trip Romance
Steam: 5 (four full scenes, two short scenes)
* I received an ARC and this is my honest review. #TheDukeInQuestion #NetGalley
This is the third book in the Daring Dukes series. The heroine, Bronwyn, is the half-sister of book two's hero, Courtland. The events of this story take place directly after the end of the previous novel. It can mostly be read alone, although some characters and events are mentioned.
This book was fast paced, super sexy, and made me want to keep reading! Bronwyn is young, impulsive, and eager for a sense of purpose. She doesn't want to have a loveless society marriage where she becomes her husband's property; she wants to help fight for the rights of others. An accidental eavesdrop turns into a job passing along government messages, and now she's on a ship to America carrying sensitive intel about the American president! It's just her rotten luck that Valentine, who she's had a crush on for years, is on her tail. They annoy the heck out of one another, but their attraction is explosive!
I also really loved the author notes at the end about the real history surrounding the events of the story.
Tropes: Spy/Govt Work, Forced Proximity, Opposites Attract, Brother's Best Friend, Ship Trip Romance
Steam: 5 (four full scenes, two short scenes)
* I received an ARC and this is my honest review. #TheDukeInQuestion #NetGalley
November 8, 2022
4.5 stars. ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Amalie Howard never disappoints....this was so much fun....cheeky and spicy...a tale of two spies, there's plenty of adventure and it definitely lives up to it's billing : Bridgerton meets James Bond it was exactly that and so much more.
A fabulous read indeed.
I really need to delve into the other two books in this series soon....this book could definitely be read as a standalone though.
Thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for this ARC from one of my favorite authors.
Amalie Howard never disappoints....this was so much fun....cheeky and spicy...a tale of two spies, there's plenty of adventure and it definitely lives up to it's billing : Bridgerton meets James Bond it was exactly that and so much more.
A fabulous read indeed.
I really need to delve into the other two books in this series soon....this book could definitely be read as a standalone though.
Thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for this ARC from one of my favorite authors.
November 4, 2022
"The truth is, Bronwyn, I don't know when you stole my heart, ragged, undeserving this that it is, from right beneath my nose, but you have. It's yours, even if you decide you don't want it."
4.5 stars!
I don't know how Amalie does it, but she has once again written an amazing, adventurous, and swoony romance that will capture your bookish soul! I've come to really love and look forward to her easy and charming writing style as she is a master at weaving real-life issues into her romance stories in a way that is easily palatable. However beneath this story of the American Civil War is a sweeping romance between two souls who are looking to make a difference and do the right thing, even if they might be standing on two different sides.
"You've always been enough, Valentine, whether you were an earl, a spy, or a duke. You just weren't ready to accept that."
Valentine is a seasoned spy, jaded by the secretive life he has led in service of the Crown. He is used to being in control--both of himself and those around him--so when his path crosses with Bronwyn's aboard a ship to America, his sense of equilibrium is completely upended. Bronwyn has been living a double life as a notorious spy, delivering messages while maintaining her persona as a vapid chit of the ton. But as their paths continue to cross and their lies get more and more entangled in one another, Valentine is forced to confront his growing feelings for Bronwyn, while she attempts to guard her heart from further rejection. I absolutely loved their interactions and slow courtship! Their witty encounters were so steamy and Valentine's complete bewilderment was so adorable. This was another knockout by Amalie Howard, and I cannot wait for more♡
Tropes: brother's best friend, heroine-in-disguise/heroine-in-danger, retired spy hero, secret pining, hate-to-love-you, forced proximity, grumpy/sunshine, opposites attract, age-gap romance, protector hero, virgin heroine, STEAMY🔥
*ARC provided by Netgalley, and I voluntarily reviewed it*
February 12, 2023
“I’m sorry I’m such a buffon and it took me so long to realize it.” 🚢📜🔥🔥👁️🫦👁️❤️
Mi muy personal y breve opinión:
La trama está bien, aunque hay alguna escena demasiado exagerada. La atracción entre la pareja es buenísima y las escenas de sexo una maravilla.
Mi muy personal y breve opinión:
La trama está bien, aunque hay alguna escena demasiado exagerada. La atracción entre la pareja es buenísima y las escenas de sexo una maravilla.
August 16, 2022
I received an Advance Reader Copy from the publisher via NetGalley. This in no way impacted on my view.
After being expected to be the perfect lady, Lady Bronwyn Chase longs for adventure. She has seen her brother and sister in law take what they want, and be happy, so why can't she? Soon, she finds herself on a liner bound for America, transporting secret documents to the American war effort. If she was discovered to be the mysterious Kestral, she would be in a world of danger, so discovering that her brother's friend, Valentine Medford, the Duke of Thornbury, is also on board the SS Valor has thrown a spanner in the works. Valentine may be a duke, but he's also a retired crown agent, and his last mission is to find, and stop, the spy known as the Kestral. This Kestral has state secret's which may bring down the government, and prove disastrous to all, and so Valentine will do whatever it takes to stop him - though discovering Bronwyn and needing to protect her proves difficult, especially when the truth is revealed.
I wanted to learn more about Bronwyn after seeing what she had to put up with with her wicked mother in the previous book, and her story was even better than I could expect! She had lived a sheltered, and privileged life, but wanted to help others in any way she could, and when she learnt about the opportunity to transport letters to help, Bronwyn jumped at the chance. Yes, it is dangerous, but being the 'Kestral' was fun, and seemed helpful, so Bronwyn was willing to risk it. However, she could never have expected it to get as bad as it did, and though she wasn't happy to see Valentine originally, she would have been lost without him, and his help. Valentine was a hard nut to crack, but his history as an agent had hardened him, and he wasn't new to espionage, like Bronwyn, so didn't have any rose tinted glasses on when it came to what she was doing. I liked the dynamic between the couple, and though they were very different people, they brought out the best in each other, and changed for the better. The mystery aspect to the story wasn't that difficult to crack, but enjoyable nonetheless, and I couldn't put the book down once I started it. Another great book from Amalie, and I look forward to her next one!
After being expected to be the perfect lady, Lady Bronwyn Chase longs for adventure. She has seen her brother and sister in law take what they want, and be happy, so why can't she? Soon, she finds herself on a liner bound for America, transporting secret documents to the American war effort. If she was discovered to be the mysterious Kestral, she would be in a world of danger, so discovering that her brother's friend, Valentine Medford, the Duke of Thornbury, is also on board the SS Valor has thrown a spanner in the works. Valentine may be a duke, but he's also a retired crown agent, and his last mission is to find, and stop, the spy known as the Kestral. This Kestral has state secret's which may bring down the government, and prove disastrous to all, and so Valentine will do whatever it takes to stop him - though discovering Bronwyn and needing to protect her proves difficult, especially when the truth is revealed.
I wanted to learn more about Bronwyn after seeing what she had to put up with with her wicked mother in the previous book, and her story was even better than I could expect! She had lived a sheltered, and privileged life, but wanted to help others in any way she could, and when she learnt about the opportunity to transport letters to help, Bronwyn jumped at the chance. Yes, it is dangerous, but being the 'Kestral' was fun, and seemed helpful, so Bronwyn was willing to risk it. However, she could never have expected it to get as bad as it did, and though she wasn't happy to see Valentine originally, she would have been lost without him, and his help. Valentine was a hard nut to crack, but his history as an agent had hardened him, and he wasn't new to espionage, like Bronwyn, so didn't have any rose tinted glasses on when it came to what she was doing. I liked the dynamic between the couple, and though they were very different people, they brought out the best in each other, and changed for the better. The mystery aspect to the story wasn't that difficult to crack, but enjoyable nonetheless, and I couldn't put the book down once I started it. Another great book from Amalie, and I look forward to her next one!
October 31, 2022
Lady Bronwyn Chase, the half-sister of Courtland Chase, the Duke of Ashvale, didn’t intentionally set out to be a spy, rather she stumbled into espionage. But once she had a taste, she was hooked and began working for an agent of the crown, just passing on the occasional message, but it soon became apparent that she was actually good at it and the “Kestrel” was born and caught the interest of other agents, particularly Valentine Medford, the new Duke of Thornbury, a retired agent who is helping his former partner track the Kestrel. Which is how they all end up on a ship bound for Philadelphia in March of 1865.
Bronwyn plays her part as a shallow, self-absorbed debutante to perfection and annoys Thornbury to no end. Bronwyn has long had a crush on Thornbury, but he is one of her brother’s best friends and until recently, married, so he is off-limits – or is he? She reminds herself that she has a mission and can’t waste time mooning over a man who could never love her and one who is too smart to fool for long with her foolish society girl facade, so she tries to avoid him and focus on her mission.
Valentine doesn’t know that she is the Kestrel, but isn’t happy about her traipsing about Philadelphia alone and wonders what she is up to. He follows her and is stunned to see what she is up to. And when her mission goes awry and her life is on the line, he wastes no time saving her. But when she turns the tables and saves him, twice – everything changes and he finds himself torn between duty and desire.
This was a very interesting read and I am torn about how to rate this – as far as writing, plot, and character development are concerned, the book is spot on with lots of action, steamy love scenes, interesting characters, true historical events tie-ins, and a HEA, but it is supposed to be a “historical romance” set in the very uptight Victoria Era and that is where it doesn’t work for me. The characters have very progressive, modern views on sex, relationships, and equality, that came across as very cavalier, making this more of a “contemporary in period dress” than a true to the era historical. Then there were things that just shook me – the hero is “divorced” which is almost unheard of in the Victorian era and would take years to accomplish as well as an act of Parliament and a lot of money, not to mention a better reason than “we wanted different things”, but they apparently got it done quickly and quietly and he and his ex are still friends and everyone seems to think this is no big deal as they are not shunned and are still accepted everywhere – but then it is implied that they were not really married, even though the ex still uses the title that she had as his “wife”, but the hero never tells the heroine any of this, which bothered me probably more than it should have. And don’t even get me started on the virgin heroine’s attitude toward sex. I understand that authors are trying to appeal to a 21st-century audience and the popularity of shows like Bridgerton has brought a host of new readers who are not familiar with the rules and strictures of the eras and would be put off by them – so there has to be some leeway – but I feel that this one went too far – I read historicals for those strictures and rules and how different times were – making characters “too modern” ruins that for me and honestly by implying that the views of the day were the same as they are now, diminishes the challenges and hardships people in that time overcame and in some cases are still overcoming. But that is just my personal opinion and if adherence to historical protocols isn’t a big deal for you – I am sure you will really enjoy this story. This is the third book in the series, but it could easily be read and enjoyed as a standalone title.
*I am voluntarily leaving a review for an eARC that I requested and was provided to me by the publisher. All opinions in this review are my own.*
Bronwyn plays her part as a shallow, self-absorbed debutante to perfection and annoys Thornbury to no end. Bronwyn has long had a crush on Thornbury, but he is one of her brother’s best friends and until recently, married, so he is off-limits – or is he? She reminds herself that she has a mission and can’t waste time mooning over a man who could never love her and one who is too smart to fool for long with her foolish society girl facade, so she tries to avoid him and focus on her mission.
Valentine doesn’t know that she is the Kestrel, but isn’t happy about her traipsing about Philadelphia alone and wonders what she is up to. He follows her and is stunned to see what she is up to. And when her mission goes awry and her life is on the line, he wastes no time saving her. But when she turns the tables and saves him, twice – everything changes and he finds himself torn between duty and desire.
This was a very interesting read and I am torn about how to rate this – as far as writing, plot, and character development are concerned, the book is spot on with lots of action, steamy love scenes, interesting characters, true historical events tie-ins, and a HEA, but it is supposed to be a “historical romance” set in the very uptight Victoria Era and that is where it doesn’t work for me. The characters have very progressive, modern views on sex, relationships, and equality, that came across as very cavalier, making this more of a “contemporary in period dress” than a true to the era historical. Then there were things that just shook me – the hero is “divorced” which is almost unheard of in the Victorian era and would take years to accomplish as well as an act of Parliament and a lot of money, not to mention a better reason than “we wanted different things”, but they apparently got it done quickly and quietly and he and his ex are still friends and everyone seems to think this is no big deal as they are not shunned and are still accepted everywhere – but then it is implied that they were not really married, even though the ex still uses the title that she had as his “wife”, but the hero never tells the heroine any of this, which bothered me probably more than it should have. And don’t even get me started on the virgin heroine’s attitude toward sex. I understand that authors are trying to appeal to a 21st-century audience and the popularity of shows like Bridgerton has brought a host of new readers who are not familiar with the rules and strictures of the eras and would be put off by them – so there has to be some leeway – but I feel that this one went too far – I read historicals for those strictures and rules and how different times were – making characters “too modern” ruins that for me and honestly by implying that the views of the day were the same as they are now, diminishes the challenges and hardships people in that time overcame and in some cases are still overcoming. But that is just my personal opinion and if adherence to historical protocols isn’t a big deal for you – I am sure you will really enjoy this story. This is the third book in the series, but it could easily be read and enjoyed as a standalone title.
*I am voluntarily leaving a review for an eARC that I requested and was provided to me by the publisher. All opinions in this review are my own.*
October 31, 2022
book: The Duke In Question
series: Daring Dukes #3 - can be read as standalone
genre: historical romance
tropes & themes: mystery solving, spies, brother's friend, traveling together, intrigue, banter, independent heroine, opposite attract
steam: 🔥🔥🔥🔥
rating: 🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟
release date: November 08, 2022
One thing I always notice while reading this author is how incredibly talented she is. It's the wit, dialogue, and construction of the story and characters that do it for me. We have a heroine who acts and thinks outside of the box but we (the readers) are not hit on the head with the points the author is trying to make.
Our leading couple has that "I hate you but I would bang you in a heartbeat" energy. Later on, this opposite attraction goes into a proper romance story with a lovely happy end, marriage, and all. But it is so so so fun to witness their journey.
Would recommend it to regency historical romance readers who enjoy a thrilling spy side storyline.
Thanks to @NetGalley and the publisher for the copy of the book in exchange for my honest opinions and ratings!
series: Daring Dukes #3 - can be read as standalone
genre: historical romance
tropes & themes: mystery solving, spies, brother's friend, traveling together, intrigue, banter, independent heroine, opposite attract
steam: 🔥🔥🔥🔥
rating: 🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟
release date: November 08, 2022
One thing I always notice while reading this author is how incredibly talented she is. It's the wit, dialogue, and construction of the story and characters that do it for me. We have a heroine who acts and thinks outside of the box but we (the readers) are not hit on the head with the points the author is trying to make.
Our leading couple has that "I hate you but I would bang you in a heartbeat" energy. Later on, this opposite attraction goes into a proper romance story with a lovely happy end, marriage, and all. But it is so so so fun to witness their journey.
Would recommend it to regency historical romance readers who enjoy a thrilling spy side storyline.
Thanks to @NetGalley and the publisher for the copy of the book in exchange for my honest opinions and ratings!
September 28, 2022
This just wasn't for me. The spy genre is one of my favorites, especially worked into historical romance. I will say that I enjoyed the multicultural angle, along with the research involving the Civil War era (I tend to read Regencies but have always been interested in the Civil War and the events leading up to Lincoln's assassination). And this book does have scenes that are fun, humorous, fast-moving, and allow you to suspend disbelief--but only to a point.
Holes in logic bog things down. For example, why does Brownwyn come onto the ship under an assumed name and then let everyone know who her brother is? Why does Thornbury not notice that her dance card has the same name on it as the mystery name on the ship registry? Why is Thornbury so convinced early on that Bronwyn is a turncoat when she's saved his life multiple times?
Flat characterization is another problem. In so many of these books, the female leads mysteriously have perfect action-movie-type skills that rival those of seasoned men. But realistically, how would a woman with such a sheltered, strict upbringing as Lady Bronwyn secretly have been taught enough self defense to escape hardened thugs, how to shoot, and how to perform certain (ahem) acts.? (OK, I know, dirty books. Right.) Honestly, I never felt as if I could get a handle on her character. I know she's supposed to be complicated, but instead she's just a superwoman stereotype.
Thornbury, for his part, is your stereotypical hot/cold alpha. He spends a lot of time deriding Bronwyn either verbally or mentally, speaking about her in terms of being a clueless little girl, and it started to grate. I'm OK with the enemies-to-lovers trope as long as real emotion seems to be involved, but these characters seemed more in lust rather than love. Speaking of lust, the sex scenes are definitely steamy (level 4) but to be honest, they weren't really my thing. More erotica than romance.
Speaking of the plot...well, I did get into it, until things fell apart at the end. The ending involving the baddie was super silly. I also didn't like how one character sold out.
Overall, parts of this book are entertaining, some of the humor works, and if you like steam there's plenty. But I was looking for more substance and emotion. It's too bad, because I did really like the premise.
Note: The Americanisms are pretty pervasive; don't expect language that is true to the region or period.
I read an advanced reader copy of this book. Opinions are my own. Thanks to the author, publisher, and Net Galley.
Holes in logic bog things down. For example, why does Brownwyn come onto the ship under an assumed name and then let everyone know who her brother is? Why does Thornbury not notice that her dance card has the same name on it as the mystery name on the ship registry? Why is Thornbury so convinced early on that Bronwyn is a turncoat when she's saved his life multiple times?
Flat characterization is another problem. In so many of these books, the female leads mysteriously have perfect action-movie-type skills that rival those of seasoned men. But realistically, how would a woman with such a sheltered, strict upbringing as Lady Bronwyn secretly have been taught enough self defense to escape hardened thugs, how to shoot, and how to perform certain (ahem) acts.? (OK, I know, dirty books. Right.) Honestly, I never felt as if I could get a handle on her character. I know she's supposed to be complicated, but instead she's just a superwoman stereotype.
Thornbury, for his part, is your stereotypical hot/cold alpha. He spends a lot of time deriding Bronwyn either verbally or mentally, speaking about her in terms of being a clueless little girl, and it started to grate. I'm OK with the enemies-to-lovers trope as long as real emotion seems to be involved, but these characters seemed more in lust rather than love. Speaking of lust, the sex scenes are definitely steamy (level 4) but to be honest, they weren't really my thing. More erotica than romance.
Speaking of the plot...well, I did get into it, until things fell apart at the end. The ending involving the baddie was super silly. I also didn't like how one character sold out.
Overall, parts of this book are entertaining, some of the humor works, and if you like steam there's plenty. But I was looking for more substance and emotion. It's too bad, because I did really like the premise.
Note: The Americanisms are pretty pervasive; don't expect language that is true to the region or period.
I read an advanced reader copy of this book. Opinions are my own. Thanks to the author, publisher, and Net Galley.
November 7, 2022
When I saw The Duke in Question described as Bridgerton meets James Bond, I knew I had to read it. The story sounded so intriguing! Plus, it’s written by Amelie Howard, and I love her historical romances. Her storytelling and writing style is fantastic, the plots are always entertaining, and the romances are super swoon-worthy. I have to say, I wasn't disappointed. The Duke in Question is one of the most entertaining historical romances I’ve read all month.
Bronwyn and Valentine are such fantastic protagonists, and I like that the story includes both of their perspectives. Bronwyn is an intelligent, capable, and independent woman who plays the stereotypical debutante, but underneath she has a big secret. She’s a spy known as Kestral. Sailing to Philadelphia to pass on a message that could save the President, Bronwyn meets her match with Valentine, a former agent to the Crown. He and his partner are trying to expose a spy known only as Kestral. Little does he know the spy he’s looking for is the beautiful and enticing sister of his friend. Valentine is as developed and layered as Bronwyn, and boy do they make a great couple!
The story takes place around the globe as Bronwyn and Valentine become embroiled in overlapping missions, and Bronwyn becomes a target of a deadly and unknown enemy. Valentine is determined to protect her no matter the cost. It’s an exciting and suspenseful game of espionage, and the relationship between Bronwyn and Valentine is fantastic.
I love when the MMC is desperately in love, and everyone else knows but him. That’s Valentine. He’s so closed off with his feelings that he doesn’t even realize what he is feeling. Bronwyn knows her heart better, but she’s afraid to give it to a man she believes is incapable of love. There’s so much yearning and a sense of forbidden love between them that creates tension and angst. And the heat between these two is sizzling! Their chemistry is on fire, and I enjoyed every clandestine, scandalous, and steamy minute of it! Between that and the delicious banter – oh my word, I love these two together!
I loved this story! It’s entertaining and exciting, and the romance is perfection. I also love all of the history. I always enjoy reading Howard’s notes about the historical elements in the novel, and I’ve learned a bunch about the time period from her books. From the political and social climate to the cities and people, to the foiled kidnapping and assassination of Lincoln, the story is steeped in history and includes strong messages about bigotry, privilege, sexism, and more. I swear, I’ve learned more about history from romance novels than I ever did in school.
Special thanks to NetGalley and Sourcebooks Casablanca for providing me with a copy of the book. All thoughts are my own.
Bronwyn and Valentine are such fantastic protagonists, and I like that the story includes both of their perspectives. Bronwyn is an intelligent, capable, and independent woman who plays the stereotypical debutante, but underneath she has a big secret. She’s a spy known as Kestral. Sailing to Philadelphia to pass on a message that could save the President, Bronwyn meets her match with Valentine, a former agent to the Crown. He and his partner are trying to expose a spy known only as Kestral. Little does he know the spy he’s looking for is the beautiful and enticing sister of his friend. Valentine is as developed and layered as Bronwyn, and boy do they make a great couple!
The story takes place around the globe as Bronwyn and Valentine become embroiled in overlapping missions, and Bronwyn becomes a target of a deadly and unknown enemy. Valentine is determined to protect her no matter the cost. It’s an exciting and suspenseful game of espionage, and the relationship between Bronwyn and Valentine is fantastic.
I love when the MMC is desperately in love, and everyone else knows but him. That’s Valentine. He’s so closed off with his feelings that he doesn’t even realize what he is feeling. Bronwyn knows her heart better, but she’s afraid to give it to a man she believes is incapable of love. There’s so much yearning and a sense of forbidden love between them that creates tension and angst. And the heat between these two is sizzling! Their chemistry is on fire, and I enjoyed every clandestine, scandalous, and steamy minute of it! Between that and the delicious banter – oh my word, I love these two together!
I loved this story! It’s entertaining and exciting, and the romance is perfection. I also love all of the history. I always enjoy reading Howard’s notes about the historical elements in the novel, and I’ve learned a bunch about the time period from her books. From the political and social climate to the cities and people, to the foiled kidnapping and assassination of Lincoln, the story is steeped in history and includes strong messages about bigotry, privilege, sexism, and more. I swear, I’ve learned more about history from romance novels than I ever did in school.
Special thanks to NetGalley and Sourcebooks Casablanca for providing me with a copy of the book. All thoughts are my own.
January 5, 2023
Amazing, steamy best friend's sister story with some spying thrown in for good measure. Loved Lady Bronwyn Chase, a strong, capable woman and Valentine Medford, the Duke of Thornbury, a man convinced that the life he has led means he will forever be unlovable. Part of the Daring Dukes series, but can be read as a standalone. Couldn't put it down.
August 18, 2022
A modern romance set in a historic period, not a historical romance, this was a fun book. Not for readers who want realism, but if you're willing to suspend your disbelief, you'll be entertained. Enemies-to-lovers, Bronwyn and Valentine sizzle. They can't imagine being together, but they can't bear for the other to be with anyone else either. I dislike when former lovers are part of the story as Valentine's former lover/spy partner is in this book, especially when it doesn't really add anything. The situations are unbelievable, but the historic details that the author chooses to focus on are fascinating. The story seemed a little underdeveloped. The couple doesn't have conversations that they should have and their HEA could have been flushed out more. Keep your expectations in check, and you'll enjoy this book.
I was provided with an ARC for an honest review.
I was provided with an ARC for an honest review.
November 11, 2022
Spy historical romances aren’t ever really my favorite, but this one worked for me so well! I always enjoy Amalie Howard’s historical romances and this series in particular has been great. I love the different settings we have been getting and the diverse cast of characters and stories. I picked this up on audio and it was just at the right time, because I had such a fun time!
I loved the adventure, the espionage/spy storyline, the steamy times (wow did they deliver every time 🔥), the trans-Atlantic journey to the U.S., the trying to stop a political assassination, the couple and their chemistry! The hero is a Duke in this one so we do get some society settings, but he’s also a spymaster! And then Lady Bronwyn has some secrets of her own. We also do get to hear about some of the characters of the previous book, as Bronwyn’s brother was the hero of book 2 in the series.
I loved the adventure, the espionage/spy storyline, the steamy times (wow did they deliver every time 🔥), the trans-Atlantic journey to the U.S., the trying to stop a political assassination, the couple and their chemistry! The hero is a Duke in this one so we do get some society settings, but he’s also a spymaster! And then Lady Bronwyn has some secrets of her own. We also do get to hear about some of the characters of the previous book, as Bronwyn’s brother was the hero of book 2 in the series.
November 28, 2022
I’m generally not much of a fan of historical romance but thought I would give this one a go. I have no doubt this is a solid read for that genre, but the genre isn’t for me. I find it very hard to continuously read about how ignorant certain types of women are, I know it’s going to come around and it turns out the women is incredibly intelligent etc but as a reader I still find it draining. I think perhaps this author relied on that too heavily in the early chapters. It made it hard for me to care about the story.
June 1, 2024
This was such a pleasant surprise! I loved it so much?! Genuinely wasn’t expecting to enjoy the spy plot as much as I did if I’m being honest, haha. I wasn’t planning on finishing the rest of this series, but now I’m tempted! 😮💨
Read
July 9, 2023Quite boring but a fun red cover.
January 6, 2023
“James Bond meets Bridgerton in this steamy enemies-to-lovers historical romance…” This comparison piqued my curiosity. And I have to say, it is wholly accurate and did not disappoint! I could not put it down!
I fell in like with Lady Bronwyn and the Duke of Thornbury. They are both accomplished operatives and truly like two sides of the same coin. Both fighting for justice in very different ways. When they come together…it is fireworks. The heat is a 20 out of 10! 🥵 Sizzling and scorching hot. In need of an ice bath, a cold shower will not be enough.
The backdrop of the Lincoln assassination, and all of the amazing cameos and nods to true female heroes in history… 👏 I urge you to read the author’s note at the end. Amalie Howard is a refreshing voice in one of my favorite genres.
Thank you NetGalley, Sourcebooks Casablanca, and Amalie Howard for the ARC of this wonderful book! I will be making my way through Howard’s other work…
I fell in like with Lady Bronwyn and the Duke of Thornbury. They are both accomplished operatives and truly like two sides of the same coin. Both fighting for justice in very different ways. When they come together…it is fireworks. The heat is a 20 out of 10! 🥵 Sizzling and scorching hot. In need of an ice bath, a cold shower will not be enough.
The backdrop of the Lincoln assassination, and all of the amazing cameos and nods to true female heroes in history… 👏 I urge you to read the author’s note at the end. Amalie Howard is a refreshing voice in one of my favorite genres.
Thank you NetGalley, Sourcebooks Casablanca, and Amalie Howard for the ARC of this wonderful book! I will be making my way through Howard’s other work…
June 18, 2023
BOTM for HRBC in JULY 2023. I gave this 5 stars. I loved this story. The H Valentine Medford, the Duke of Thornbury, best retired spy for the home office and the h Bronwyn Chase, daughter of a Marquess is a spy also for the crown the illustrious Kestral. He and his pretend ex Countess of Waterstone were hot on the trail of the Kestral. Bronwyn has secretly had a crush on Valentine for years as he is the best friend of her 1/2 brother Courtland the Duke of Ashvale ( married to Roweena expecting a baby). They are on their way to America where Bronwyn is suppoesed to deliver some information to her contact in Philadelphia to help with freeing slaves but helping with Abraham Lincoln. Lisbeth (Countess Waterstone) asked Valentine to help catch the Kestral who they believed was an enemy. They were told to look for a man and had not fereted out anyone on the ship. Bronwyn put on a great fake act of being a featherbrain and only interested in making a good match. She repulsed Valentine so he stayed clear of her until one night when he was supposed to dance a waltz with her and she ran away. He followed her and found her in another part of the ship where they were having a (dirty dancing) moment like "Dirty Dancing" movie. Bronwyn also ran into her cousin Rawley (dating her ladies maid Cora) through her brother Courtland Duke of Ashvale who had been keeping tabs on her for her brother. Valentine and Bronwyn danced together and on the way back to her cabin they stepped into an alclove and made out.
Once they landed in Philadelphia, Bronwyn went to her rendevous but the wrong contact showed up. She got away but was chased luckily Valentine was there watching her along with Rawley. He followed her but lost her. He came upon one of the brutes that were chasing her and got into a brawl and was cut with a knife on his neck but Bronwyn heard him and came out of her hiding place to warn him shooting the man with her gun. They kept running and finally found there way into the country getting caught in a summer rainstorm. With the excitement and adrenalin so high she needed a release and grabbed Valentine kissing him asking him to make love to her. They had wild animal sex. They found a old log cabin and stripped drying their clothes. He lit a fire and the kept each other warm with body heat. The next morning he discovered she had been a virgin and he told her they would marry. She said no because he didn't love her. She loved him but only wanted a love match. Things get a little bit more complicated with the cat and mouse game. The passion and intrirgue in the HR suspense novel keep you turning the pages. It was well written and the characters were wll developed. The sex scenes woo hoo! I definitely will read more books by Amalie Howard.
Once they landed in Philadelphia, Bronwyn went to her rendevous but the wrong contact showed up. She got away but was chased luckily Valentine was there watching her along with Rawley. He followed her but lost her. He came upon one of the brutes that were chasing her and got into a brawl and was cut with a knife on his neck but Bronwyn heard him and came out of her hiding place to warn him shooting the man with her gun. They kept running and finally found there way into the country getting caught in a summer rainstorm. With the excitement and adrenalin so high she needed a release and grabbed Valentine kissing him asking him to make love to her. They had wild animal sex. They found a old log cabin and stripped drying their clothes. He lit a fire and the kept each other warm with body heat. The next morning he discovered she had been a virgin and he told her they would marry. She said no because he didn't love her. She loved him but only wanted a love match. Things get a little bit more complicated with the cat and mouse game. The passion and intrirgue in the HR suspense novel keep you turning the pages. It was well written and the characters were wll developed. The sex scenes woo hoo! I definitely will read more books by Amalie Howard.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
March 19, 2024
3.5ish.
Read
December 25, 2022he literally didn’t have the authority to arrest her though like???
May 26, 2023
This was so so good! It had everything I like in an HR: espionage, starchy mmc, great banter, very very good steam, attempted murders, very good side characters that made this book feel even more alive (aunt Esther and the Marquis were my favorites).
Also the author’s note in this is definitely worth reading! I learned about a lot of new information and loved the research that Howard put in writing this book.
The easiness that went with the divorce of Thornbury had me raising my eyebrows a bit. Especially after reading how difficult it was to get a divorce in the Victorian era.
This was my first read by Amalie Howard and it definitely won’t be the last, I am so excited to read more!
Also the author’s note in this is definitely worth reading! I learned about a lot of new information and loved the research that Howard put in writing this book.
The easiness that went with the divorce of Thornbury had me raising my eyebrows a bit. Especially after reading how difficult it was to get a divorce in the Victorian era.
This was my first read by Amalie Howard and it definitely won’t be the last, I am so excited to read more!
November 28, 2022
Valentine Medford, the Duke of Thornbury, a semi-retired Crown agent never lost a target and he doesn't plan to now that he's come out of retirement to help his former partner find a rogue agent. His mission requires him to keep his target close and uncover all the secrets that cold keep them apart.
Lady Bronwyn Chase is not the airhead she presents to society. She wants to be much more than society expects of a young lady which is why she's found herself on her brother's passenger ship on the way to America in possession of a packet of information that could get her into serious trouble, the kind that could ruin even a duke's sister and which has set Valentine in pursuit. As he gets closet to Bronwyn and her secrets, Valentine soon realizes that more is going on here than meets the eye and he must find a way to marry his loyalty to the Crown with his desire for more with Bronwyn.
This story sucked me in early on and had me eager to get to the next scene. I loved the spy element and the fact that our characters traveled around to various settings. Valentine brought a lot to the story just by the nature of his experience as a former (now semi-retired) spymaster. He's grumpy and jaded but full of fire underneath that tough exterior. Bronwyn wiggled right under his skin without much effort, having quietly longed for him for years, and despite his reluctance to reveal his entire self to someone else, he couldn't help himself when it came to her. I loved that she acknowledged her feelings for him and refused to settle for less than everything he had to give without being forced into a marriage of convenience. The downside of that for me was that she also was cutting off her nose to spite her face a bit, because much of the time Valentine was viewing this as a rejection. She just needed to give him a little time to catch up and be willing to take the risk of exposing himself to another person. The obvious effort it took Valentine to open himself up to Bronwyn made their relationship really special and made it clear that they weren't just reacting to the adrenaline bonding of having been through several dangerous situations together. I think these two were a good match with Valentine curbing some of Bronwyn's naivete and her bringing him out of his shell a bit and helping him not dwell so much on all he'd seen and done in his espionage career. I also enjoyed seeing Bronwyn challenge her mother a bit, though I definitely wanted to see more of her standing up to that awful woman. All in all, I really enjoyed this book and I look forward to more of this series.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own. Blog link: https://mustreadalltheromance.blogspo...
Lady Bronwyn Chase is not the airhead she presents to society. She wants to be much more than society expects of a young lady which is why she's found herself on her brother's passenger ship on the way to America in possession of a packet of information that could get her into serious trouble, the kind that could ruin even a duke's sister and which has set Valentine in pursuit. As he gets closet to Bronwyn and her secrets, Valentine soon realizes that more is going on here than meets the eye and he must find a way to marry his loyalty to the Crown with his desire for more with Bronwyn.
This story sucked me in early on and had me eager to get to the next scene. I loved the spy element and the fact that our characters traveled around to various settings. Valentine brought a lot to the story just by the nature of his experience as a former (now semi-retired) spymaster. He's grumpy and jaded but full of fire underneath that tough exterior. Bronwyn wiggled right under his skin without much effort, having quietly longed for him for years, and despite his reluctance to reveal his entire self to someone else, he couldn't help himself when it came to her. I loved that she acknowledged her feelings for him and refused to settle for less than everything he had to give without being forced into a marriage of convenience. The downside of that for me was that she also was cutting off her nose to spite her face a bit, because much of the time Valentine was viewing this as a rejection. She just needed to give him a little time to catch up and be willing to take the risk of exposing himself to another person. The obvious effort it took Valentine to open himself up to Bronwyn made their relationship really special and made it clear that they weren't just reacting to the adrenaline bonding of having been through several dangerous situations together. I think these two were a good match with Valentine curbing some of Bronwyn's naivete and her bringing him out of his shell a bit and helping him not dwell so much on all he'd seen and done in his espionage career. I also enjoyed seeing Bronwyn challenge her mother a bit, though I definitely wanted to see more of her standing up to that awful woman. All in all, I really enjoyed this book and I look forward to more of this series.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own. Blog link: https://mustreadalltheromance.blogspo...
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