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The Duke's Accidental Bride
Never trust a rake to find you a husband…
Lady Jaqueline Peabody is extremely vexed. Her nemesis, the Duke of Stone, has just ruined her life by matching her sister with a perfect gentleman. Except the gentleman in question has little in the way of income. With the family fortune in tatters, it means Jacqueline is tasked with marrying well—and must bid adieu to her dreams of a lovely spinsterhood with her pianoforte.
James Haven has a respectable title and a rogue’s reputation. After all, love and passion can lead only to disaster. While he’s eschewed marriage for himself, he enjoys great success with matching London’s most eligible ladies and gentlemen. So if Jacqueline needs a wealthy husband, he’ll find her one. Love need not apply!
Only, James is having the devil of time finding the perfect husband for the spirited female. And certainly not because he’s falling for Lady Jacqueline, who heats his desire and dares to stand slipper-to-boot with him. Ridiculous. But, when scandal erupts, Jacqueline’s hopes for the perfect husband might be replaced by the perfect rake…
Lady Jaqueline Peabody is extremely vexed. Her nemesis, the Duke of Stone, has just ruined her life by matching her sister with a perfect gentleman. Except the gentleman in question has little in the way of income. With the family fortune in tatters, it means Jacqueline is tasked with marrying well—and must bid adieu to her dreams of a lovely spinsterhood with her pianoforte.
James Haven has a respectable title and a rogue’s reputation. After all, love and passion can lead only to disaster. While he’s eschewed marriage for himself, he enjoys great success with matching London’s most eligible ladies and gentlemen. So if Jacqueline needs a wealthy husband, he’ll find her one. Love need not apply!
Only, James is having the devil of time finding the perfect husband for the spirited female. And certainly not because he’s falling for Lady Jacqueline, who heats his desire and dares to stand slipper-to-boot with him. Ridiculous. But, when scandal erupts, Jacqueline’s hopes for the perfect husband might be replaced by the perfect rake…
280 pages, Kindle Edition
First published August 1, 2022
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September 13, 2022
✨Duke = stone. Stone = hard. Duke = hard.✨
As a whole, I think this is a fine book but not necessarily one I enjoyed at every turn. I found myself reluctant to pick it back up because I didn’t quite feel the spark. I liked both characters individually, but by the end Stone was really wearing on my last nerve. Then the whole compromise adjacent-scene happened and it wasn’t to my taste.
✨
**spoiler section** I simply didn’t believe that he fundamentally changed his beliefs that quick. She was like oh so you’d have married me without my brother forcing you?” And he was like “yup.” And I was just like… say what now? He was SO against marriage and I really can’t explain that shift using what we received on page.
I also found the way they were compromised to be tiresome. Drexel himself was simply tiresome. I know his character type is commonplace, but a man forcing a woman to get married simply because he could (and because she rejected him) left a bitter taste in my mouth.
I understand that they literally had to get married but I really wish Jack would have made Stone work harder for it. She acquiesced so quickly and then boom sex scene. He was a complete ass multiple times and I don’t think he really groveled to my standards. Blaming her for breaking the rules and presenting her with the marriage the way he did really annoyed me.
✨
People are calling this a novella and that may be true in actual page count (however Goodreads says this book is 323 Kindle pages?), but it felt pretty long. Long enough to sort out the issues I had. It also felt long to read. It gave a lot of space to almost philosophical talk or paragraphs of inner back-and-forth battles. I must say I skimmed many sections when the two weren’t together and it was more internally bent. I understand the need for the inner musings but they ultimately dragged me down.
I do love Eva’s writing and the story did have its moments. The epilogue was cute and I did like his grand gesture. I’m always a sucker for brother’s best friend and that moment when the brother loses his shit and fisticuffs ensue. That moment here ~wasn’t~ as dramatic as I’d have liked (and I didn’t particularly like what happened after) but it was still juicy. I also liked his drunk scene, because yes sir, you were an ass.
There were around one and a half sex scenes and they were fine but nothing noteworthy. I’m sorry but I want to see something besides missionary, which probably means adding an extra scene.
Overall, I’d have preferred this to be shorter and more concise. Get rid of Drexel early on and have the two together on the page more frequently. Use the brothers best friend trope more effectively to replace the angst that Drexel attempted to add. Also, if the man is going to waffle SO much on marriage, make the payoff and moment he realizes he wants to marry her and that he DOES love her even more prevalent.
⭐️⭐️⭐️.25/5 🌶🌶.25/5
Thanks to the publisher for my eARC via NetGalley! All opinions are honest and my own.
As a whole, I think this is a fine book but not necessarily one I enjoyed at every turn. I found myself reluctant to pick it back up because I didn’t quite feel the spark. I liked both characters individually, but by the end Stone was really wearing on my last nerve. Then the whole compromise adjacent-scene happened and it wasn’t to my taste.
✨
**spoiler section** I simply didn’t believe that he fundamentally changed his beliefs that quick. She was like oh so you’d have married me without my brother forcing you?” And he was like “yup.” And I was just like… say what now? He was SO against marriage and I really can’t explain that shift using what we received on page.
I also found the way they were compromised to be tiresome. Drexel himself was simply tiresome. I know his character type is commonplace, but a man forcing a woman to get married simply because he could (and because she rejected him) left a bitter taste in my mouth.
I understand that they literally had to get married but I really wish Jack would have made Stone work harder for it. She acquiesced so quickly and then boom sex scene. He was a complete ass multiple times and I don’t think he really groveled to my standards. Blaming her for breaking the rules and presenting her with the marriage the way he did really annoyed me.
✨
People are calling this a novella and that may be true in actual page count (however Goodreads says this book is 323 Kindle pages?), but it felt pretty long. Long enough to sort out the issues I had. It also felt long to read. It gave a lot of space to almost philosophical talk or paragraphs of inner back-and-forth battles. I must say I skimmed many sections when the two weren’t together and it was more internally bent. I understand the need for the inner musings but they ultimately dragged me down.
I do love Eva’s writing and the story did have its moments. The epilogue was cute and I did like his grand gesture. I’m always a sucker for brother’s best friend and that moment when the brother loses his shit and fisticuffs ensue. That moment here ~wasn’t~ as dramatic as I’d have liked (and I didn’t particularly like what happened after) but it was still juicy. I also liked his drunk scene, because yes sir, you were an ass.
There were around one and a half sex scenes and they were fine but nothing noteworthy. I’m sorry but I want to see something besides missionary, which probably means adding an extra scene.
Overall, I’d have preferred this to be shorter and more concise. Get rid of Drexel early on and have the two together on the page more frequently. Use the brothers best friend trope more effectively to replace the angst that Drexel attempted to add. Also, if the man is going to waffle SO much on marriage, make the payoff and moment he realizes he wants to marry her and that he DOES love her even more prevalent.
⭐️⭐️⭐️.25/5 🌶🌶.25/5
Thanks to the publisher for my eARC via NetGalley! All opinions are honest and my own.
August 22, 2022
ARC provided by NetGalley and Entangled Publishing in exchange for a honest review.
James Haven, The Duke of Stone is a match maker in the ton and his latest couple is Lady Jaqueline's sister who he pares with a second son vicar for a love match. And now Lady Jaqueline, Jack, has to marry for money because her family is in financial trouble, thanks to her father. And Jack's dream was to remain a happy spinster.
James one evening has an uninvited guest, his childhood friend Jack. She wants to let him know she is not happy with what has transpired and the ramification for her. James hasn't seen Jack in a while and is a little taken aback at his attraction to the young woman she's become. So he agrees to assist her in finding a match and a wealthy one at that.
Now James is one who also never wanted to marry, as he has had a very unpleasant example of love in his parents marriage. It definitely left some major issue and hangups for The Duke of Stone.
In the process of finding her a match he spends more and more time with he. He is trying to help her overcome of her wallflower reputation.
Well you can see that this opens up both their eye and feeling. They navigate through James issues and Jacks. They find their HEA.
This was cute read. But I found that I was not engaged as I should be and the story was a little flatline for me. I have enjoyed other books by this author but this one took me longer to finish as I wasn't really pulled into their romance.
James Haven, The Duke of Stone is a match maker in the ton and his latest couple is Lady Jaqueline's sister who he pares with a second son vicar for a love match. And now Lady Jaqueline, Jack, has to marry for money because her family is in financial trouble, thanks to her father. And Jack's dream was to remain a happy spinster.
James one evening has an uninvited guest, his childhood friend Jack. She wants to let him know she is not happy with what has transpired and the ramification for her. James hasn't seen Jack in a while and is a little taken aback at his attraction to the young woman she's become. So he agrees to assist her in finding a match and a wealthy one at that.
Now James is one who also never wanted to marry, as he has had a very unpleasant example of love in his parents marriage. It definitely left some major issue and hangups for The Duke of Stone.
In the process of finding her a match he spends more and more time with he. He is trying to help her overcome of her wallflower reputation.
Well you can see that this opens up both their eye and feeling. They navigate through James issues and Jacks. They find their HEA.
This was cute read. But I found that I was not engaged as I should be and the story was a little flatline for me. I have enjoyed other books by this author but this one took me longer to finish as I wasn't really pulled into their romance.
July 20, 2022
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book via NetGalley. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
Rating: 4/5 Stars
Publishing: August 1, 2022
Pages: 323
“The Duke’s Accidental Bride” is a first time read by Eva Devon, new author to this reader. This story centers on Lady Jaqueline Peabody, who by all accounts is very upset with her brother’s childhood friend, now the Duke of Stone, who had taken it upon himself to become matchmaker to her sister and in the process ruining her life and thus leaves her as the sole source of income for her family’s monetary woes. Jacqueline “Jack” has to marry well and give up her aspirations of spinsterhood with her pianoforte.
James Haven, Duke of Stone has enough on his hands to go along with his roguish reputation. Although he doesn’t want to be shackled down, he fancies himself very successful in the matchmaking business and enjoys matching London’s most eligible ladies and gentlemen. So, when his friend’s little sister climbs into his bedroom seeking to give him a piece of mind for his interfering ways, Jack finds herself left in the hands of Stone to obtain a wealthy husband…problem? Stone is having a hard time finding her a husband and, in the process falling for this vixen that sparks his desires. Unfortunately, scandal rears its ugly head that leaves a rake entangled with a spirited lady.
This would have rated higher if not many holes left unanswered in the story. Lady Jack studied abroad for four years without family...hmm could have been the cause to her high spiritedness and wanting to remain a spinster. This was not clearly addressed. In the case of Stone’s reluctance to marrying…did it have to do with his father’s illness (precept of Alzheimer) and believing it hereditary, thus his avoidance to marriage. In any case, the getting to the marriage took quite a bit of time in the story that I found myself saying “hurry it up already”. These are the “what I didn’t like” about this story.
In the end, the trope of friends-to-lovers is evident. There were some steamy moments between the main characters who are very likeable individuals and both figuring it all out to get to that HEA. It didn’t hurt to have Olivia and Alexander’s characters build towards the story. A well-written, entertaining and enjoyable read.
Rating: 4/5 Stars
Publishing: August 1, 2022
Pages: 323
“The Duke’s Accidental Bride” is a first time read by Eva Devon, new author to this reader. This story centers on Lady Jaqueline Peabody, who by all accounts is very upset with her brother’s childhood friend, now the Duke of Stone, who had taken it upon himself to become matchmaker to her sister and in the process ruining her life and thus leaves her as the sole source of income for her family’s monetary woes. Jacqueline “Jack” has to marry well and give up her aspirations of spinsterhood with her pianoforte.
James Haven, Duke of Stone has enough on his hands to go along with his roguish reputation. Although he doesn’t want to be shackled down, he fancies himself very successful in the matchmaking business and enjoys matching London’s most eligible ladies and gentlemen. So, when his friend’s little sister climbs into his bedroom seeking to give him a piece of mind for his interfering ways, Jack finds herself left in the hands of Stone to obtain a wealthy husband…problem? Stone is having a hard time finding her a husband and, in the process falling for this vixen that sparks his desires. Unfortunately, scandal rears its ugly head that leaves a rake entangled with a spirited lady.
This would have rated higher if not many holes left unanswered in the story. Lady Jack studied abroad for four years without family...hmm could have been the cause to her high spiritedness and wanting to remain a spinster. This was not clearly addressed. In the case of Stone’s reluctance to marrying…did it have to do with his father’s illness (precept of Alzheimer) and believing it hereditary, thus his avoidance to marriage. In any case, the getting to the marriage took quite a bit of time in the story that I found myself saying “hurry it up already”. These are the “what I didn’t like” about this story.
In the end, the trope of friends-to-lovers is evident. There were some steamy moments between the main characters who are very likeable individuals and both figuring it all out to get to that HEA. It didn’t hurt to have Olivia and Alexander’s characters build towards the story. A well-written, entertaining and enjoyable read.
August 12, 2022
Bu yazarın kitaplarında hep Dük'ler var galiba 🙄😅 İsimleri hep Dük'lü😁
Yaaaaani'lik bir kitaptı. Asla bir olayı yada okunur bu kitap denilecek bir yanı yoktu. Puanı iki bile olabilir bilemedim. Çok sıradan ve bilindik mevzulardı.
Erkek karakter açısından daha çok okuduğumuz sahneler vardı. Kadın karakterin adını Jack diye kısaltınca, erkek karakter de James olunca bende bazen devreler yandı 😅Kim anlatıyordu bu sahneyi felan diye düşündüm.
Çöpçatanlık yapan Stone Dükü James, evliliklerin temelinin aşk, tutku üzerine değil, arkadaşlık, saygı üzerine kurulması gerektiğini düşünür. Zaten birleştirdiği her çift mutludur. Kimsenin akıbetinin kendi ebeveynleri gibi olmaması için çalışır. Mesela kendisi hiç evlenmeyecektir. Böyle düşünenler de hemen evlenir ya neyse 🙄
Jacqueline biraz sinirlidir. Piyano üzerine eğitim alma hayalleri, çocukluk arkadaşı tarafından sekteye uğratılır.Ablası şan, şöhret, para için evlenmesi gerekirken bir papazla evlenmeye karar verir. Doğal olarak aileye para getirecek bir evlilik yapmak ona düşer.Hangi soylu adam karısının özgür ruhlu ve istediğini yapan-söyleyen bir kadın olmasını ister ki? Gidip hıncını James'ten almalıdır.
Erkek kılığına gir ✓
Ağaca tırman ve dükün odasına gir ✓
Ağzına geleni söyle ✓
Kendisine uygun bir koca bulması konusunda anlaş ✓
Olayların seyri çabuk değişti ama olsun 🤣
Kurgu şaşırtıcı değildi ama okurken çok fazla arka plan yada olay örgüsü yoktu. Bu açıdan yetersizdi biraz. Bir de karakter derinliği açısından eksikti. Pek önermiyorum okumayı 🙈
Yaaaaani'lik bir kitaptı. Asla bir olayı yada okunur bu kitap denilecek bir yanı yoktu. Puanı iki bile olabilir bilemedim. Çok sıradan ve bilindik mevzulardı.
Erkek karakter açısından daha çok okuduğumuz sahneler vardı. Kadın karakterin adını Jack diye kısaltınca, erkek karakter de James olunca bende bazen devreler yandı 😅Kim anlatıyordu bu sahneyi felan diye düşündüm.
Çöpçatanlık yapan Stone Dükü James, evliliklerin temelinin aşk, tutku üzerine değil, arkadaşlık, saygı üzerine kurulması gerektiğini düşünür. Zaten birleştirdiği her çift mutludur. Kimsenin akıbetinin kendi ebeveynleri gibi olmaması için çalışır. Mesela kendisi hiç evlenmeyecektir. Böyle düşünenler de hemen evlenir ya neyse 🙄
Jacqueline biraz sinirlidir. Piyano üzerine eğitim alma hayalleri, çocukluk arkadaşı tarafından sekteye uğratılır.Ablası şan, şöhret, para için evlenmesi gerekirken bir papazla evlenmeye karar verir. Doğal olarak aileye para getirecek bir evlilik yapmak ona düşer.Hangi soylu adam karısının özgür ruhlu ve istediğini yapan-söyleyen bir kadın olmasını ister ki? Gidip hıncını James'ten almalıdır.
Erkek kılığına gir ✓
Ağaca tırman ve dükün odasına gir ✓
Ağzına geleni söyle ✓
Kendisine uygun bir koca bulması konusunda anlaş ✓
Olayların seyri çabuk değişti ama olsun 🤣
Kurgu şaşırtıcı değildi ama okurken çok fazla arka plan yada olay örgüsü yoktu. Bu açıdan yetersizdi biraz. Bir de karakter derinliği açısından eksikti. Pek önermiyorum okumayı 🙈
July 10, 2022
The Duke’s Accidental Bride is a new historical romance novella from Eva Devon. I’ve read a handful of books from this author and was excited to see what this novella would bring! This is a brother’s best friend romance where James, Duke of Stone, is a matchmaker and tries to find the “right husband” for Lady Jacqueline “Jack”.
The story starts with Jacqueline climbing through the Duke’s window. She’s upset with James that he set up her sister with a vicar, while they’re very happy with their love match, Jack’s family is low on finds and now it means Jack will have to marry for money and position. She’d much rather spend her time with her music and out in nature, not at balls looking for a husband. After spending 4 years abroad with her family and her lessons with the pianoforte in Vienna, Jack is upset to be back in London now on the marriage mart. She sets out to let James have all of her wrath but then he tells her that he will help her find a worthy husband she will be happy with.
Shortly after agreeing to help her, he realizes it’s going to be quite the task since Jack is unlike the other ladies of the ton. First off she climbed a tree into his home to talk to him, shows up in breeches, and demands a husband who will give her freedom to do as she pleases. He very quickly starts to feel desire for Jack, but has to keep reminding himself she is off limits as his best friend’s younger sister. James also is dealing with has things from his past to overcome, which had lead him to put love, marriage, and children off the table for himself. Once they’re caught during their kissing lessons, a marriage of convenience is forced upon Jack and James to save her from ruin.
I thought this was an okay read. I always get pulled in by the premises of this author’s books, but once I’m in the read I do find the writing style and dialogue a bit bland and dry. There is a lot of inner thoughts and telling instead of showing. I did like that they had history, Jack always joined her older brother and James, as they adventured when they were children.
Thank you to the publisher (Entangled) for an e-ARC via NetGalley. All thoughts in this review are my own. The Duke’s Accidental Bride has a publish date of August 1, 2022.
The story starts with Jacqueline climbing through the Duke’s window. She’s upset with James that he set up her sister with a vicar, while they’re very happy with their love match, Jack’s family is low on finds and now it means Jack will have to marry for money and position. She’d much rather spend her time with her music and out in nature, not at balls looking for a husband. After spending 4 years abroad with her family and her lessons with the pianoforte in Vienna, Jack is upset to be back in London now on the marriage mart. She sets out to let James have all of her wrath but then he tells her that he will help her find a worthy husband she will be happy with.
Shortly after agreeing to help her, he realizes it’s going to be quite the task since Jack is unlike the other ladies of the ton. First off she climbed a tree into his home to talk to him, shows up in breeches, and demands a husband who will give her freedom to do as she pleases. He very quickly starts to feel desire for Jack, but has to keep reminding himself she is off limits as his best friend’s younger sister. James also is dealing with has things from his past to overcome, which had lead him to put love, marriage, and children off the table for himself. Once they’re caught during their kissing lessons, a marriage of convenience is forced upon Jack and James to save her from ruin.
I thought this was an okay read. I always get pulled in by the premises of this author’s books, but once I’m in the read I do find the writing style and dialogue a bit bland and dry. There is a lot of inner thoughts and telling instead of showing. I did like that they had history, Jack always joined her older brother and James, as they adventured when they were children.
Thank you to the publisher (Entangled) for an e-ARC via NetGalley. All thoughts in this review are my own. The Duke’s Accidental Bride has a publish date of August 1, 2022.
August 10, 2022
I love Eva Devon. This is my 46th book by her. I read one of her books in 2016 and then picked her up for good in 2018 and have been reading her ever since. She is one of my top favorites. I keep a list of her new releases and their due dates. Can't wait for the next week.
This was a really good read. I loved the story and the characters. An all around good read.
This was a really good read. I loved the story and the characters. An all around good read.
August 22, 2022
The Duke's Accidental Bride is a sweet and fairly light hearted, boy-next-door, brother's-best-friend romance. Eva Devon easily crafts this romance with a charming tone, light pace and a bit of a slice of life feel. If you are looking for an easy read with a delightful little romance then this is a great quick read to check out.
When Jaqueline's sister is wed to the love of her life, who happens to be low on the income, Jaqueline finds her life in disarray. Now she must wed well to restore her families fortunes which are in tatters, but she has had her heart set on a life of spinsterhood filled with her music. So she takes it upon herself to confront her neighbor, James who had a hand in the matchmaking. James, a duke, is a childhood friend and her brother's best friend, who she has harbored a crush for years, but James does not ever plan on marrying due to a secret illness of his fathers. So, in order to help out Jack, James has tasked himself with finding her the perfect bridegroom, but he is having a hard time finding anyone he can deem fully worthy.
Jack is such a fun heroine, we are introduced to her climbing a tree to enter James' bedchamber, and this is the perfect way for us to see that she is willing to take matters into her own hands and stand up for herself. James is a sweet hero, he ultimately wants the best for Jack, but out of fear he keeps himself at length from her. I love that James plays the matchmaker in this situation, where often we see the female heroine take on this role, it was definitely a refreshing take on the matchmaker trope. This romance really becomes James journey into learning to life in the moment and not fear what the future might hold. I love that James who is cautious can be balanced and challenged by Jack who is willing to take a risk. This novel has a sweet layer of sensuality, it is not extremely steamy, but it works well with the endearing chemistry that these two have that has been built through their past relationship and growing up around each other. I also really enjoy that even though this is a brother's-best-friend romance, we never see Jack's brother thinking that James is not worthy of his sister. Rather he encourages James to open his heart fully and see the love he holds that everyone else can clearly see.
I would recommend this as a quick and refreshing read. This novel is well written and a nice introduction to Eva Devon if you have never read from her before, and it will hopefully give you the inspiration to seek out more of her work.
3.5 Stars rounded up to 4. Thank you to Entangled Publishing and NetGalley for an eARC, all thoughts and opinions are my own.
When Jaqueline's sister is wed to the love of her life, who happens to be low on the income, Jaqueline finds her life in disarray. Now she must wed well to restore her families fortunes which are in tatters, but she has had her heart set on a life of spinsterhood filled with her music. So she takes it upon herself to confront her neighbor, James who had a hand in the matchmaking. James, a duke, is a childhood friend and her brother's best friend, who she has harbored a crush for years, but James does not ever plan on marrying due to a secret illness of his fathers. So, in order to help out Jack, James has tasked himself with finding her the perfect bridegroom, but he is having a hard time finding anyone he can deem fully worthy.
Jack is such a fun heroine, we are introduced to her climbing a tree to enter James' bedchamber, and this is the perfect way for us to see that she is willing to take matters into her own hands and stand up for herself. James is a sweet hero, he ultimately wants the best for Jack, but out of fear he keeps himself at length from her. I love that James plays the matchmaker in this situation, where often we see the female heroine take on this role, it was definitely a refreshing take on the matchmaker trope. This romance really becomes James journey into learning to life in the moment and not fear what the future might hold. I love that James who is cautious can be balanced and challenged by Jack who is willing to take a risk. This novel has a sweet layer of sensuality, it is not extremely steamy, but it works well with the endearing chemistry that these two have that has been built through their past relationship and growing up around each other. I also really enjoy that even though this is a brother's-best-friend romance, we never see Jack's brother thinking that James is not worthy of his sister. Rather he encourages James to open his heart fully and see the love he holds that everyone else can clearly see.
I would recommend this as a quick and refreshing read. This novel is well written and a nice introduction to Eva Devon if you have never read from her before, and it will hopefully give you the inspiration to seek out more of her work.
3.5 Stars rounded up to 4. Thank you to Entangled Publishing and NetGalley for an eARC, all thoughts and opinions are my own.
April 29, 2024
I received an advance ebook copy of this book from the publisher in exchange for review.
The Duke’s Accidental Bride by Eva Devon follows Lady Jaqueline Peabody. She loves to play the pianoforte and doesn’t want to marry. But the Duke of Stone has ruined her plans by matchmaking her sister with the perfect husband. Her sister didn’t marry for money, so it is especially important now that Jack marry someone wealthy to help the family. James, the Duke of Stone, has no interest in marriage for himself. He enjoys matchmaking others into perfect pairs. When Jack comes to him in need of a husband, he agrees to find her one. But James struggles to find anyone suitable for her. He fights the emotions that he feels regarding Jack. Then a scandal erupts, and he and Jack may not have a choice after all.
I was thoroughly engrossed in this story. I loved Jack and James. It was such an emotional journey.
The Duke’s Accidental Bride by Eva Devon follows Lady Jaqueline Peabody. She loves to play the pianoforte and doesn’t want to marry. But the Duke of Stone has ruined her plans by matchmaking her sister with the perfect husband. Her sister didn’t marry for money, so it is especially important now that Jack marry someone wealthy to help the family. James, the Duke of Stone, has no interest in marriage for himself. He enjoys matchmaking others into perfect pairs. When Jack comes to him in need of a husband, he agrees to find her one. But James struggles to find anyone suitable for her. He fights the emotions that he feels regarding Jack. Then a scandal erupts, and he and Jack may not have a choice after all.
I was thoroughly engrossed in this story. I loved Jack and James. It was such an emotional journey.
July 31, 2022
Lady Jaqueline Peabody aka Jack is back in England after four years abroad with her parents. She's annoyed with her brother's best friend James Haven, the Duke of Stone, who matched her sister with a vicar with little in the way of income. With the family fortune in tatters, it means Jacqueline is tasked with marrying well—and must bid adieu to her dreams of a lovely spinsterhood with her pianoforte.
James eschews marriage for himself, he enjoys great success with matching London’s most eligible ladies and gentlemen. So if Jacqueline needs a wealthy husband, he’ll find her one. Then scandal erupts, when they are caught during their kissing lessons & they are forced to marry.
A well written book with strong characters & a well paced story. I really liked both James & Jack, he has secrets from his past & she’s unconventional. I enjoyed their road to a HEA but wanted to shake James several times for not acknowledging his feelings but he got there in the end
My honest review is for a special copy I voluntarily read
James eschews marriage for himself, he enjoys great success with matching London’s most eligible ladies and gentlemen. So if Jacqueline needs a wealthy husband, he’ll find her one. Then scandal erupts, when they are caught during their kissing lessons & they are forced to marry.
A well written book with strong characters & a well paced story. I really liked both James & Jack, he has secrets from his past & she’s unconventional. I enjoyed their road to a HEA but wanted to shake James several times for not acknowledging his feelings but he got there in the end
My honest review is for a special copy I voluntarily read
July 15, 2022
The Duke’s Accidental Bride is the first Eva Devon book I’ve ever read, but not my last! It was just such a light and easy read, and a total binger!
The book follows Lady Jacqueline (Jack) Peabody and her childhood friend James Haven, the Duke of Stone, who are thrown together when Jack breaks into the bedroom window to give him an earful after he pairs her elder sister with a vicar. Because of his scheming ways, it now puts the pressure on her to find a match for money to save her family’s tarnished reputation, and Jack demands he help her find a husband. James agrees, enamored by Jack’s tenacity, and sets out to find her the best match.
Unfortunately, his schemes do not go according to plan—Jack is unlike any other lady of the ton and therefore not marriageable to most. His extreme denial of his feelings for her don’t help the situation either. The Duke is legit so blind (*cough* stupid) and hellbent on never marrying to see that his plans for finding Jack a husband are failing because he wants her for himself.
No seriously, the man has some major relationship hang ups thanks to some childhood trauma, and doesn’t get his shit together until his hand is forced when a scorned suitor threatens Jack’s reputation. Cue third act conflict, a scandal, and him finally pulling his head out of his ass. Jack gets the happily ever after she deserves with the man who loves her for her.
Thank you Netgalley and Entangled for the arc!
The book follows Lady Jacqueline (Jack) Peabody and her childhood friend James Haven, the Duke of Stone, who are thrown together when Jack breaks into the bedroom window to give him an earful after he pairs her elder sister with a vicar. Because of his scheming ways, it now puts the pressure on her to find a match for money to save her family’s tarnished reputation, and Jack demands he help her find a husband. James agrees, enamored by Jack’s tenacity, and sets out to find her the best match.
Unfortunately, his schemes do not go according to plan—Jack is unlike any other lady of the ton and therefore not marriageable to most. His extreme denial of his feelings for her don’t help the situation either. The Duke is legit so blind (*cough* stupid) and hellbent on never marrying to see that his plans for finding Jack a husband are failing because he wants her for himself.
No seriously, the man has some major relationship hang ups thanks to some childhood trauma, and doesn’t get his shit together until his hand is forced when a scorned suitor threatens Jack’s reputation. Cue third act conflict, a scandal, and him finally pulling his head out of his ass. Jack gets the happily ever after she deserves with the man who loves her for her.
Thank you Netgalley and Entangled for the arc!
July 25, 2022
I recieved a free copy from netgalley in exchange for an honest review.
Jacqueline aka Jack is desperate to marry since her father lost all of their money trying to secure wealth to protect the family. Jack planned on being a spinster and playing her music but every one of the siblings must marry for money.
Jack breaks into the duke of Stone's townhouse. James is the reason Jack has to marry since he is the one that paired Louisa( Jacks's sister) to her love who is not wealthy.
James has decided never marry but he is good at pairing up every one else. Except nobody seems good enough for his childhood friend Jack.
I liked thr relationship between Jack and James even though I was frustrated by James for most of the book.
Definitely recommend this one.
Jacqueline aka Jack is desperate to marry since her father lost all of their money trying to secure wealth to protect the family. Jack planned on being a spinster and playing her music but every one of the siblings must marry for money.
Jack breaks into the duke of Stone's townhouse. James is the reason Jack has to marry since he is the one that paired Louisa( Jacks's sister) to her love who is not wealthy.
James has decided never marry but he is good at pairing up every one else. Except nobody seems good enough for his childhood friend Jack.
I liked thr relationship between Jack and James even though I was frustrated by James for most of the book.
Definitely recommend this one.
August 6, 2022
I received a copy of this from NetGalley and this is my unsolicited opinion.
Lady Jaqueline, Jack, is disappointed and upset with the Duke of Stone, James Haven. He has a reputation of playing a successful matchmaker for members of the Ton and had found Jack's sister a future husband that makes her sister very happy.
Except Jack is not happy because her family has had quite a downturn in their circumstances due to very poor financial decisions by her father before his death. They are destitute and they need advantageous matches to repair the family finances. James made a match that makes her sister happy; but the fiance is a vicar and not going to help their coffers in any way. Because of this, Jack has to kiss her hopes of a happy spinsterhood playing piano in a cottage somewhere goodbye and find a rich husband. So far, she has not had a successful debut herself, not being in the mold of socially expected beauty, personality, and accomplishments that her sister is. She decides to confront her former childhood friend and neighbour James, dressing in breeches and climbing into his bedroom one night.
James, not having seen Jack in a while, is surprised by his attraction to Jack's boldness and energy. But because of his experiences witness his parent's fractious relationship, and how his father's erratic behaviour was so devastating (it sounds like he had terrible fits of madness with violent outbursts and paranoia) to his mother and him, that James had determined that he would not ever marry. However he does find great personal satisfaction in finding good matches for his friend - not matches made in love, since he saw how flawed and hurtful love was in his parent's relationship... but rational matches made in consideration of rational concepts such as compatibility, companionship, and respect. He determines that he would do the same for Jack, and her brother, his friend.
As he spends more time with her, they learn more about each other and are attracted to each other, while trying to find a solution to her family situation, which includes sneaking some private time in so Jack can learn how to be less of a wallflower, which is how the rest of the Ton sees her (in that they do not actually see her). James cannot fathom how people cannot see Jack for the wonderful, passionate, intelligent person that she is, but denies his own feelings because of his fear of becoming like his father.
This was a cute book with likeable characters in Jack and James. But I did not feel it had the fire and passion that other books of Eva Devon have had, that I have have enjoyed and have been fully engaged by in the past.
3.25 stars out of 5.
Lady Jaqueline, Jack, is disappointed and upset with the Duke of Stone, James Haven. He has a reputation of playing a successful matchmaker for members of the Ton and had found Jack's sister a future husband that makes her sister very happy.
Except Jack is not happy because her family has had quite a downturn in their circumstances due to very poor financial decisions by her father before his death. They are destitute and they need advantageous matches to repair the family finances. James made a match that makes her sister happy; but the fiance is a vicar and not going to help their coffers in any way. Because of this, Jack has to kiss her hopes of a happy spinsterhood playing piano in a cottage somewhere goodbye and find a rich husband. So far, she has not had a successful debut herself, not being in the mold of socially expected beauty, personality, and accomplishments that her sister is. She decides to confront her former childhood friend and neighbour James, dressing in breeches and climbing into his bedroom one night.
James, not having seen Jack in a while, is surprised by his attraction to Jack's boldness and energy. But because of his experiences witness his parent's fractious relationship, and how his father's erratic behaviour was so devastating (it sounds like he had terrible fits of madness with violent outbursts and paranoia) to his mother and him, that James had determined that he would not ever marry. However he does find great personal satisfaction in finding good matches for his friend - not matches made in love, since he saw how flawed and hurtful love was in his parent's relationship... but rational matches made in consideration of rational concepts such as compatibility, companionship, and respect. He determines that he would do the same for Jack, and her brother, his friend.
As he spends more time with her, they learn more about each other and are attracted to each other, while trying to find a solution to her family situation, which includes sneaking some private time in so Jack can learn how to be less of a wallflower, which is how the rest of the Ton sees her (in that they do not actually see her). James cannot fathom how people cannot see Jack for the wonderful, passionate, intelligent person that she is, but denies his own feelings because of his fear of becoming like his father.
This was a cute book with likeable characters in Jack and James. But I did not feel it had the fire and passion that other books of Eva Devon have had, that I have have enjoyed and have been fully engaged by in the past.
3.25 stars out of 5.
October 30, 2022
I received an Advance Reader Copy from the publisher via NetGalley. This in no way impacted on my view.
Lady Jacqueline Peabody never expected to find herself in her current situation, but when the Duke of Stone organises for her sister to marry her perfect husband, though a poor one, Jacqueline is out for revenge. They may have been friends as children, but Jack cares nothing for it when she's now going to be forced to marry money, to help the family. James has no qualms about matching couples who are meant to be together, so is less than repentant, but he's concerned for Jack, and will find her a husband. But no one seems to suit a woman like Jack, or is that just his own feelings causing him to misjudge what he's seeing in front of him?
Another historical romance that had the matchmaker plotline. There seems to be a lot of them at the minute, and I think this was one of the best. Jack and James had a history, which I loved, and though they had been apart for some time, their banter and connection when they met again was ever present. I loved how feisty and independent Jack was. She had no intention to marry, and relished in her independence, but she couldn't see her family suffer, so when it fell on her to marry well, she would do it, but reluctantly. And not without making James suffer for being the cause of it all. James' reasons for not wanting to marry were somewhat commendable, and it was a laugh to see how he fell for Jack, but refused to believe it. The story definitely picks up towards the end, and I think the events of the final few chapters are what pushed this to a 4 star read for me. Another great book from Eva.
Lady Jacqueline Peabody never expected to find herself in her current situation, but when the Duke of Stone organises for her sister to marry her perfect husband, though a poor one, Jacqueline is out for revenge. They may have been friends as children, but Jack cares nothing for it when she's now going to be forced to marry money, to help the family. James has no qualms about matching couples who are meant to be together, so is less than repentant, but he's concerned for Jack, and will find her a husband. But no one seems to suit a woman like Jack, or is that just his own feelings causing him to misjudge what he's seeing in front of him?
Another historical romance that had the matchmaker plotline. There seems to be a lot of them at the minute, and I think this was one of the best. Jack and James had a history, which I loved, and though they had been apart for some time, their banter and connection when they met again was ever present. I loved how feisty and independent Jack was. She had no intention to marry, and relished in her independence, but she couldn't see her family suffer, so when it fell on her to marry well, she would do it, but reluctantly. And not without making James suffer for being the cause of it all. James' reasons for not wanting to marry were somewhat commendable, and it was a laugh to see how he fell for Jack, but refused to believe it. The story definitely picks up towards the end, and I think the events of the final few chapters are what pushed this to a 4 star read for me. Another great book from Eva.
July 11, 2022
2.5 stars. Lady Jaqueline Peabody is vexed. because her childhood nemesis and her brother’s friend, the Duke of Stone, has matched her sister with a younger son with no fortune. That means Jack is tasked with marrying well—and forgoing her planned spinsterhood with her pianoforte.
James Haven has a respectable title and a rogue’s reputation. While he’s eschewed marriage for himself, he enjoys success with matching London’s eligible ladies and gentlemen. So if Jack needs a wealthy husband, he’ll just find her one.
There was so much telling and the insta-lust was a little over the top. I almost didn’t make it through the first two chapters. There is a strong “I like her because she’s not like other girls” from both James and the villain. James’s backstory has its trauma, but I still got tired with his back and forth.
This is a new author for me but this book was a miss because the dry telling made this a struggle to get in to. The pacing was slow for me. I didn’t like James or Jack because I never got to know them. Nothing that was told to me made me care about these two.
I received an arc from NetGalley
There was so much telling and the insta-lust was a little over the top. I almost didn’t make it through the first two chapters. There is a strong “I like her because she’s not like other girls” from both James and the villain. James’s backstory has its trauma, but I still got tired with his back and forth.
This is a new author for me but this book was a miss because the dry telling made this a struggle to get in to. The pacing was slow for me. I didn’t like James or Jack because I never got to know them. Nothing that was told to me made me care about these two.
I received an arc from NetGalley
July 12, 2022
The Duke's Accidental Bride by Eva Devon was an entertaining historical romance read. The premise was interesting, even if the action seemed a bit far-fetched at times. Jacqueline was a fun character. James I liked well enough, but I found his struggles a bit tedious and repetitive. Overall, I would say I enjoyed the story, as it kept me entertained until the end, but it didn't capture me so absolutely that I'd want to read it again. Still, on the strength of this story, I would try more works by this author in the future. Check it out if you like historical romance that is more at the bodice-ripper end of the scale.
I received this book as a free eBook ARC via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
I received this book as a free eBook ARC via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
July 12, 2022
4 🌟's | this novella was so fun and cute from the beginning omgggg✨ the heroine sneaks into the hero's chambers (yes, romeo and juliet style LOL) and asks him to find a husband for her (YES WE GET A MATCHMAKING TROPEEE) / this is a quick, fun and entertaining read friends, definitely would recommend!
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own. Thank you to the publisher Entangled Amara for the e-ARC via Netgalley.
📝 tropes: matchmaker, forced marriage of convenience, anti-heroine, brothers best friend
🌶 spice: 2.5/5
CW: memory loss, domestic violence, harassment
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own. Thank you to the publisher Entangled Amara for the e-ARC via Netgalley.
📝 tropes: matchmaker, forced marriage of convenience, anti-heroine, brothers best friend
🌶 spice: 2.5/5
CW: memory loss, domestic violence, harassment
August 5, 2022
I had so much fun reading this one! It's the first book I read where the MMC is the matchmaker and the MFC doesn’t want to marry - usually, in HR it's the other way around. I liked Jack so much, she was so daring and independent, and James was such a cute and silly guy. They clicked right away from the moment she climbed into his bed chamber and accused him of ruining her life plans! The only issue I had with this one was that some parts of the story were not developed, so you as a reader don’t know what happened or how it ended. Beyond that, it was sweet.
August 21, 2023
Disappointing read. It seems there isn’t any development of romance as they were in love with each other from the start, which started when they were younger. It felt more of an insta lust at the start. Book felt dragged out, and it was not good that James didn’t care to communicate his fears to jack until almost the very end. Slow burn, except nothing really happens until the end of the book.
January 5, 2025
A new historical fiction romance from an author who has written many books but is brand new to me. Lady Jaqueline (Jack) Peabody is livid at her childhood friend James Haven, the Duke of Stone. He has become a match maker in the ton and his latest couple is her sister who he pares with a second son vicar. They’ll be happy but now Jack must marry for money for her family when she never had plans to marry at all. She’s never been on the marriage mart and instead has happily been studying music in Vienna from the masters.
James decides to find the perfect husband for Jack but of course he stumbles and bumbles on the way. And there is a wicked man with a title that wants Jaqueline for himself because she is different from other ladies. James is willing to coach Jack a little on what is pleasing to gentleman. There is a lot of humor and interesting situations in this childhood friend to lover adventure. Together Jack and James are sweet. And Jack’s family add with their romances as well. For a formula romance I thought the author added some surprising twists and turns. I expected James lessons to go further but Jack is properly chaste on her wedding night. The wedding night is the only steamy scene and I was a little disappointed that while Jack gets her pleasure she doesn’t get a chance to be an active participant. She was never shy or hesitant before this moment.
Overall a fun romance with a sweet HEA. And now I have a new author whose previous books I can discover. Thank you to NetGalley and Entangled Publishing for an eARC in exchange for an honest review. (3.5 stars)
James decides to find the perfect husband for Jack but of course he stumbles and bumbles on the way. And there is a wicked man with a title that wants Jaqueline for himself because she is different from other ladies. James is willing to coach Jack a little on what is pleasing to gentleman. There is a lot of humor and interesting situations in this childhood friend to lover adventure. Together Jack and James are sweet. And Jack’s family add with their romances as well. For a formula romance I thought the author added some surprising twists and turns. I expected James lessons to go further but Jack is properly chaste on her wedding night. The wedding night is the only steamy scene and I was a little disappointed that while Jack gets her pleasure she doesn’t get a chance to be an active participant. She was never shy or hesitant before this moment.
Overall a fun romance with a sweet HEA. And now I have a new author whose previous books I can discover. Thank you to NetGalley and Entangled Publishing for an eARC in exchange for an honest review. (3.5 stars)
July 26, 2022
(4 stars)
A friends-to-lovers historical romance
Let me start by gushing over James here. His perception of the world was staggeringly phenomenal, considering he didn't belong to this era. He was observant in the best sense, with a flamboyant personality, naturally flirty with a hint of arrogance. He wasn't this perfect character either and had major hubris. And that's the recipe for a devastatingly loveable character.
Jack was a perfect match for him. Brave, open adventurous and just on her way to spinsterhood when tragedy struck her.
The plot was that of a typical historical romance book. Balls, stolen kisses, reputation in society (more like scandals) and a heavy dose of denial. I'm usually not a fan of denial, but I get why it was there. Insert obvious patriarchy here, because it simply can't be helped in a historical romance.
The best part of the book? James's friendship with Alexander. It was perfect. Reading mental health was the last thing I expected from this book and there it was. And I love me a book that mentions mental health and a steady supporting character (Alex our friend in this book) Their friendship was MARVELOUS.
Thank you Netgalley and Entangled Publishing for an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
A friends-to-lovers historical romance
Let me start by gushing over James here. His perception of the world was staggeringly phenomenal, considering he didn't belong to this era. He was observant in the best sense, with a flamboyant personality, naturally flirty with a hint of arrogance. He wasn't this perfect character either and had major hubris. And that's the recipe for a devastatingly loveable character.
Jack was a perfect match for him. Brave, open adventurous and just on her way to spinsterhood when tragedy struck her.
The plot was that of a typical historical romance book. Balls, stolen kisses, reputation in society (more like scandals) and a heavy dose of denial. I'm usually not a fan of denial, but I get why it was there. Insert obvious patriarchy here, because it simply can't be helped in a historical romance.
The best part of the book? James's friendship with Alexander. It was perfect. Reading mental health was the last thing I expected from this book and there it was. And I love me a book that mentions mental health and a steady supporting character (Alex our friend in this book) Their friendship was MARVELOUS.
Thank you Netgalley and Entangled Publishing for an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
October 10, 2022
This is one of those stories that when you are finished you are not sure how much you liked or disliked it. The base story was nice but had a tinge of familiarity of other similar stories. The characters were at times funny, charming, stupid and irritating (hence my confusion). I have to say that by the end I was a but bothered by the pacing, the hero and the speed of resolution. I have to mention as a heavily addicted revenge junkie this was a 1 star on that account but overall when I closed the last page I was happy to have read it so 4 Stars but it came close to sliding into 3 star territory.
July 20, 2022
I had a great time reading Jack and James love story. There was witty Correlate that pushed the book along. The characters were excellent. I loved how their dialogue made the story feel more real. I thought the story moved quickly. The plot to the story was very entertaining and light hearted. The romance was very cute and sweet. There were some wordings that didn’t Correlate with the time period, but that was a minor detail. The story was very fun to read
September 24, 2022
Thoroughly enjoyed this book, it had all the emotions and elements I look for in a historical romance, and just the perfect amount of sizzle!
Eva Devon definitely knows how to keep the reader engaged in the story, perfect every time!
I highly recommend Eva Devon’s books!
Eva Devon definitely knows how to keep the reader engaged in the story, perfect every time!
I highly recommend Eva Devon’s books!
January 8, 2024
Love a childhood bestie who tries to help set you up and keeps picking the old guys. Then doesn't think anyone is good enough. Love when he falls first and has no idea. You have to beat some of them over the head with some harmless flirtation with an eligible bachelor for them to start growling “mine”. This had tons of family drama and some mental health struggles.
Thank you entangledpub
Thank you entangledpub
November 15, 2022
Lady Jacqueline Peabody intended to devote herself to her beloved piano and never marry but that’s no longer an option for her since her family’s dire financial straits require her and her siblings to marry fortunes. Unfortunately, her sister has found the man she wants to marry, and his means are nowhere near sufficient for the family’s needs. Jacqueline blames the Duke of Stone for making the match and demands he make things right for her.
James Haven, the Duke of Stone, has lived his life with the goal of avoiding emotion and attachment, vowing not to marry himself, though he enjoys matching others. Jacqueline needs a wealthy husband, and it should be no problem for him to find her one, yet somehow James struggles to find anyone to match her spirit. It couldn’t possibly be because he’s falling for her himself and can’t bear to think of her with someone else.
This story was a little formulaic and I’ll admit it didn’t always hold my attention. We have a hero who’s determined to never marry for reasons to do with his father and a heroine who he clearly loves but refuses to acknowledge his feelings for. I also found Jack to be very dramatic about her need to marry and her placement of blame on James for ruining her life just made her seem a bit petulant, even if it did get his attention. I think James’ willful blindness to his love for Jack went on a bit too long and Jack forgave him a little easily when he finally did open himself up. Their compromise situation came about very abruptly and their fall into bed together felt just as abrupt to me after all his long-winded diatribes about how he and Jack could never be together. Besides that, it also wasn’t all that satisfying and for me did not convey the longing that I would’ve thought had built up between these two after so much denial. James definitely had understandable reasons for being reluctant to marry, but he kept it up a bit long for me and then threw it all aside so quickly that his character and motivations no longer made sense. Even after his best friend thankfully talked some sense into him, it still took him a while to make things right and I wasn’t the biggest fan of that. The villain here also confused me a bit. He was definitely menacing, but he just popped up randomly and then went away and I never understood his motives and he was never dealt with satisfactorily to me. Overall, this was a cute enough story, but nothing especially memorable for me.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own. Blog link: https://mustreadalltheromance.blogspo...
James Haven, the Duke of Stone, has lived his life with the goal of avoiding emotion and attachment, vowing not to marry himself, though he enjoys matching others. Jacqueline needs a wealthy husband, and it should be no problem for him to find her one, yet somehow James struggles to find anyone to match her spirit. It couldn’t possibly be because he’s falling for her himself and can’t bear to think of her with someone else.
This story was a little formulaic and I’ll admit it didn’t always hold my attention. We have a hero who’s determined to never marry for reasons to do with his father and a heroine who he clearly loves but refuses to acknowledge his feelings for. I also found Jack to be very dramatic about her need to marry and her placement of blame on James for ruining her life just made her seem a bit petulant, even if it did get his attention. I think James’ willful blindness to his love for Jack went on a bit too long and Jack forgave him a little easily when he finally did open himself up. Their compromise situation came about very abruptly and their fall into bed together felt just as abrupt to me after all his long-winded diatribes about how he and Jack could never be together. Besides that, it also wasn’t all that satisfying and for me did not convey the longing that I would’ve thought had built up between these two after so much denial. James definitely had understandable reasons for being reluctant to marry, but he kept it up a bit long for me and then threw it all aside so quickly that his character and motivations no longer made sense. Even after his best friend thankfully talked some sense into him, it still took him a while to make things right and I wasn’t the biggest fan of that. The villain here also confused me a bit. He was definitely menacing, but he just popped up randomly and then went away and I never understood his motives and he was never dealt with satisfactorily to me. Overall, this was a cute enough story, but nothing especially memorable for me.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own. Blog link: https://mustreadalltheromance.blogspo...
July 19, 2022
A duke who is a matchmaker but says he will never marry. He doesn’t think love enters the equation of marriage, just similar likes and ability to get along. He fears love because of the volatile relationship he saw between his parents. They were so in love then it changed. His father became violent to his mother. The young duke was going to deny any love connection as an adult. Love equals pain.
So Lady Jacqueline (Jack) and the Duke of Stone, who played together during their youth, try to combine forces to help Jack’s brother find a wife and Jack a husband. All does not go smoothly.
It was hilarious for Stone to think Jack needed an elderly man for a husband! He kept denying his attraction to Jack himself. Jack had an unusual personality. She wore breeches when not trying to hide herself at balls. She was too outspoken and did not attract suitors. She wanted to be more like the duke—easily captivating those around him. She needed lessons from the duke.
I didn’t understand how Stone could say he’d never marry, but later on said he’d marry someone and leave her in the country after she’s given him an heir. I thought he was avoiding having children because he thought his father’s madness would be passed down. I’m glad he changed his way of thinking and opened up. He was selfish though and gave Jack mixed signals all the time.
WARNING…SPOILER
It was so ridiculous of the duke to have a wonderful and meaningful wedding night and then turn around at their wedding party not defending his wife in front of everyone! If he didn’t want a scandal he surely didn’t think that through.
I received an advance copy of this book for my opinion.
So Lady Jacqueline (Jack) and the Duke of Stone, who played together during their youth, try to combine forces to help Jack’s brother find a wife and Jack a husband. All does not go smoothly.
It was hilarious for Stone to think Jack needed an elderly man for a husband! He kept denying his attraction to Jack himself. Jack had an unusual personality. She wore breeches when not trying to hide herself at balls. She was too outspoken and did not attract suitors. She wanted to be more like the duke—easily captivating those around him. She needed lessons from the duke.
I didn’t understand how Stone could say he’d never marry, but later on said he’d marry someone and leave her in the country after she’s given him an heir. I thought he was avoiding having children because he thought his father’s madness would be passed down. I’m glad he changed his way of thinking and opened up. He was selfish though and gave Jack mixed signals all the time.
WARNING…SPOILER
It was so ridiculous of the duke to have a wonderful and meaningful wedding night and then turn around at their wedding party not defending his wife in front of everyone! If he didn’t want a scandal he surely didn’t think that through.
I received an advance copy of this book for my opinion.
July 11, 2022
This was the first time I’ve read a book by Eva Devon and I have to say: it was good. The synopsis is really appealing and I was happy to see that the book is enjoyable.
The story follows Jaqueline, a young woman who is in need of a husband after James, a well-known ‘matchmaker’, matches her sister with a poor man. Desperate, she goes looking for James, and demands him to find her a wealthy man so then she could help her family. The problem is, he is her brother’s best friend, and he is having trouble with finding a man he deems worthy of her. The feelings Jack has had for him since childhood start getting harder to avoid and she knows he cares for her too, but something from James’ past keeps getting in their way.
I thought Jaqueline would be the classic annoying “I’m not like other girls” character, but surprisingly, she wasn’t. She certainly doesn’t fit that time’s society, but she doesn’t constantly make a big deal out of it. While she was being quite enjoyable, James just made me mad. Don’t get me wrong, he is not a horrible character and I get his trauma, but he was SO confused that I couldn’t help getting mad at him all the time.
Jack and James were the sweetest but I must say, Olivia and Alexander got me so hooked that I couldn’t focus on the main couple whenever they were mentioned. I hope they get their own book!
Even though the book has its flaws, like the fast paced ending and some James’ scenes that annoyed me a bit, it’s a good read.
I voluntarily read an ARC provided by the publisher. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
The story follows Jaqueline, a young woman who is in need of a husband after James, a well-known ‘matchmaker’, matches her sister with a poor man. Desperate, she goes looking for James, and demands him to find her a wealthy man so then she could help her family. The problem is, he is her brother’s best friend, and he is having trouble with finding a man he deems worthy of her. The feelings Jack has had for him since childhood start getting harder to avoid and she knows he cares for her too, but something from James’ past keeps getting in their way.
I thought Jaqueline would be the classic annoying “I’m not like other girls” character, but surprisingly, she wasn’t. She certainly doesn’t fit that time’s society, but she doesn’t constantly make a big deal out of it. While she was being quite enjoyable, James just made me mad. Don’t get me wrong, he is not a horrible character and I get his trauma, but he was SO confused that I couldn’t help getting mad at him all the time.
Jack and James were the sweetest but I must say, Olivia and Alexander got me so hooked that I couldn’t focus on the main couple whenever they were mentioned. I hope they get their own book!
Even though the book has its flaws, like the fast paced ending and some James’ scenes that annoyed me a bit, it’s a good read.
I voluntarily read an ARC provided by the publisher. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
July 31, 2022
Some characters make even the simplest of stories most enjoyable. This book has such characters and I thoroughly enjoyed it. Lady Jacqueline is one of the most delightful heroines I have come across. She doesn't follow the rules and wants to live her life freely. Unfortunately, things aren't going her way. Tragedy struck their family and now she must marry a rich man to save her siblings from ruin. But before that, she will give a piece of her mind to the Duke of Stone who is responsible for this mess...
And that is how another mess is created...
She is bold, fierce, and passionate. And he is reserved, closed off, and unreachable. But the two of them together are perfect. They have been friends for many years before losing touch. Now, they have reconnected and it might work out for the best because James has promised to find the right husband for Jacquiline. She trusts him and knows that if he made a match, marital bliss will follow.
Neither is prepared for what happens next, though.
It's a scandal to keep the ton entertained but also a love that will never die. I love this book and recommend it to all romance lovers. It will make you smile and warm your heart. The chemistry between the main characters is amazing and of course, what we all love; a happily ever after in their future.
P.S. I received a complimentary copy via NetGalley. The review is my personal opinion of the book and has nothing to do with the author or the publisher.
And that is how another mess is created...
She is bold, fierce, and passionate. And he is reserved, closed off, and unreachable. But the two of them together are perfect. They have been friends for many years before losing touch. Now, they have reconnected and it might work out for the best because James has promised to find the right husband for Jacquiline. She trusts him and knows that if he made a match, marital bliss will follow.
Neither is prepared for what happens next, though.
It's a scandal to keep the ton entertained but also a love that will never die. I love this book and recommend it to all romance lovers. It will make you smile and warm your heart. The chemistry between the main characters is amazing and of course, what we all love; a happily ever after in their future.
P.S. I received a complimentary copy via NetGalley. The review is my personal opinion of the book and has nothing to do with the author or the publisher.
August 3, 2022
This is a good book. Jacqueline and James are meant for each other even though he is trying to find her a husband.
Lady Jaqueline Peabody is extremely vexed. Her nemesis, the Duke of Stone, has just ruined her life by matching her sister with a perfect gentleman. Except the gentleman in question has little in the way of income. With the family fortune in tatters, it means Jacqueline is tasked with marrying well—and must bid adieu to her dreams of a lovely spinsterhood with her pianoforte.
James Haven has a respectable title and a rogue’s reputation. After all, love and passion can lead only to disaster. While he’s eschewed marriage for himself, he enjoys great success with matching London’s most eligible ladies and gentlemen. So if Jacqueline needs a wealthy husband, he’ll find her one. Love need not apply!
Only, James is having the devil of time finding the perfect husband for the spirited female. And certainly not because he’s falling for Lady Jacqueline, who heats his desire and dares to stand slipper-to-boot with him. Ridiculous. But, when scandal erupts, Jacqueline’s hopes for the perfect husband might be replaced by the perfect rake.
I received a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher and NetGalley. This in no way affects my opinion of this book which I read and reviewed voluntarily.
Lady Jaqueline Peabody is extremely vexed. Her nemesis, the Duke of Stone, has just ruined her life by matching her sister with a perfect gentleman. Except the gentleman in question has little in the way of income. With the family fortune in tatters, it means Jacqueline is tasked with marrying well—and must bid adieu to her dreams of a lovely spinsterhood with her pianoforte.
James Haven has a respectable title and a rogue’s reputation. After all, love and passion can lead only to disaster. While he’s eschewed marriage for himself, he enjoys great success with matching London’s most eligible ladies and gentlemen. So if Jacqueline needs a wealthy husband, he’ll find her one. Love need not apply!
Only, James is having the devil of time finding the perfect husband for the spirited female. And certainly not because he’s falling for Lady Jacqueline, who heats his desire and dares to stand slipper-to-boot with him. Ridiculous. But, when scandal erupts, Jacqueline’s hopes for the perfect husband might be replaced by the perfect rake.
I received a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher and NetGalley. This in no way affects my opinion of this book which I read and reviewed voluntarily.
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