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School for Dukes #2
Дуел на сърца
Със своя остър нож и непогрешимия си нюх лейди Индия Рочестър има таланта да разкрива образите на забравени от историята жени. За съжаление тя има една досадна слабост: опасно красивият херцог на Рейвънуд – бивш най-добър приятел, настоящ враг и единственият мъж, осмелил се да разбие сърцето и. Любител на силните усещания, херцогът на Рейвънуд, е умел ловец на антики, който спазва едно просто правило: Никога не се влюбвай. В живота си търси единствено богатство и слава или поне това иска да мислят всички. Пред себе си е дал клетва на всяка цена да скрие тайните си, особено от единствената жена, за която го е грижа и за която би пожертвал живота си. Кражбата на безценна реликва от Британския музей изисква от заклетите врагове да обединят силите си в издирването и, но дали това няма да промени отношенията им завинаги?
„Интригуваща мистерия за многогодишно съперничество, исторически реликви и една страстна любов, която е на път да се превърне в най-голямото съкровище от всички.“
Booklist
„Интригуваща мистерия за многогодишно съперничество, исторически реликви и една страстна любов, която е на път да се превърне в най-голямото съкровище от всички.“
Booklist
288 pages, Paperback
First published September 18, 2018
315 people are currently reading
1831 people want to read
About the author
Lenora Bell
12 books1,396 followersLenora Bell is a USA Today bestselling, award-winning author of historical romances with Avon Books. A teacher with an MFA in Creative Writing, Lenora has lived and worked on five continents. She's currently lives in Colombia with her partner and two tiger-striped rescue kitties. She loves hearing from readers!
Learn more at www.LenoraBell.com
Learn more at www.LenoraBell.com
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 311 reviews
May 10, 2022
Loved this!!! Childhood best friends to enemies to lovers
They are rival treasure hunters trying to find a stolen artifact but little does she know he is also a spy for the crown
They are rival treasure hunters trying to find a stolen artifact but little does she know he is also a spy for the crown
July 5, 2021
4.5 ✨
Man, I love the feeling of discovering and having a new favourite author and going through their backlist.
Love Is a Rogue was my first book by Lenora Bell and I’ve been obsessed since a month ago. 😆 I know I’ll be reading all her books this year.
The characters were great, the plot was entertaining, it’s feminist and romantic and the writing topped it off perfectly.
I love reading about women who have goals and dreams and ambitions and I especially love it in a historical setting. There’s something so satisfying about seeing these women almost overcoming societal standards that men conveniently formed for women to suit their own need, said women fighting patriarchy and who are adamant on leaving their mark regardless of what comes their way.
It’s the ultimate fuck you.
Man, I love the feeling of discovering and having a new favourite author and going through their backlist.
Love Is a Rogue was my first book by Lenora Bell and I’ve been obsessed since a month ago. 😆 I know I’ll be reading all her books this year.
The characters were great, the plot was entertaining, it’s feminist and romantic and the writing topped it off perfectly.
I love reading about women who have goals and dreams and ambitions and I especially love it in a historical setting. There’s something so satisfying about seeing these women almost overcoming societal standards that men conveniently formed for women to suit their own need, said women fighting patriarchy and who are adamant on leaving their mark regardless of what comes their way.
It’s the ultimate fuck you.
November 3, 2020
If you read this like a parody, I’m sure you’ll love it!
I don’t need to tell you the story, there’s the summary at GR, but let me tell you that I found many fun moments that made me laugh because they were so cliché and OTT!
We met India in the previous book and we already know that she’s a very unconventional lady.
But what we discover here is why she’s so unconventional!
Still, as I said, being unconventional, she’s named Lady Danger. And not only because she works as archeologist…
But she’s also very intelligent. And she discovers as soon as she sees it that the artifact is fake!
The hero, Daniel, aka Raven, is astonished, but proud because he knows that he loves her and had loved her his whole life!
But, since he doesn’t want her to know that he’s a spy, he cannot allow her to follow him in his search of the thieves. Because, you know, it’s dangerous! So he act like a Neanderthal
! … I mean an oyster! LOL
But at the same time…
Will our heroine allow him to tell her what to do? You have three guesses… And….
So, bickering, because they so hate each other, they also fall into sex! And guess who’s starting those interludes? Yes, our intrepid Lady Danger! LOL
But when they arrive in Paris, they have to go sleuthing to find out who’ve stole the famous artifact.
They have to face shady ambassadors, evil three-fingered smuggler… you know the usual!
And the lure is a priceless Wish Diamond, that, by the way is the same color as her eyes: lavender!!!
So they go to this party and ... READ AT YOUR PERIL - THE END IS REVEALED!
And so now they can be happy and keep looking for the treasures together.
I loved it because it was so incredibly incredible that I couldn’t not love it!
I don’t need to tell you the story, there’s the summary at GR, but let me tell you that I found many fun moments that made me laugh because they were so cliché and OTT!
We met India in the previous book and we already know that she’s a very unconventional lady.
But what we discover here is why she’s so unconventional!
Still, as I said, being unconventional, she’s named Lady Danger. And not only because she works as archeologist…
But she’s also very intelligent. And she discovers as soon as she sees it that the artifact is fake!
The hero, Daniel, aka Raven, is astonished, but proud because he knows that he loves her and had loved her his whole life!
But, since he doesn’t want her to know that he’s a spy, he cannot allow her to follow him in his search of the thieves. Because, you know, it’s dangerous! So he act like a Neanderthal
! … I mean an oyster! LOL
But at the same time…
Will our heroine allow him to tell her what to do? You have three guesses… And….
So, bickering, because they so hate each other, they also fall into sex! And guess who’s starting those interludes? Yes, our intrepid Lady Danger! LOL
But when they arrive in Paris, they have to go sleuthing to find out who’ve stole the famous artifact.
They have to face shady ambassadors, evil three-fingered smuggler… you know the usual!
And the lure is a priceless Wish Diamond, that, by the way is the same color as her eyes: lavender!!!
So they go to this party and ... READ AT YOUR PERIL - THE END IS REVEALED!
And so now they can be happy and keep looking for the treasures together.
I loved it because it was so incredibly incredible that I couldn’t not love it!
September 15, 2021
Loved this one! The Bond meets Indiana Jones theme, the verbal sparring, the humour, the romance, the secrets and intrigue, everything was absolutely bang on the money for me.
July 6, 2021
3.5 stars! The first half was much better than the second half for me. I’m a total sucker for childhood friends to lovers romances and it’s even better when it’s friends to enemies to lovers. Daniel broke Indy’s heart after his father passed and he became the new Duke, even though they promised to love each other and marry someday. Now, they both work with ancient artifacts (she’s an archeologist and he’s an antiquities hunter) and they have to join forces to recover the stolen Rosetta Stone. I really loved the angst, chemistry, and tension when they reunite. There are so many unresolved feelings and hidden secrets between them. But I felt like once they fall into bed, it was all about the sex and lust. The romance fizzled out around halfway through and I sadly wasn’t as invested anymore. I wanted a big blowup and confrontation between them but they resolve things pretty easily and quickly. The heist part was also underwhelming. It was still an enjoyable read but I did expect more from it, especially after such a great start to the book.
September 12, 2022
I’m loving this series (yes I’m reading from book three to two to one) and I REALLY loved the Indiana Jones vibes her nickname is literally Indy and she’s so bad ass. Betrothed since childhood but current enemies is always a very good time and I have no complaints.
The 69 was a lovely surprise god bless 😌
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️.25/5 🌶🌶🌶.25/5
The 69 was a lovely surprise god bless 😌
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️.25/5 🌶🌶🌶.25/5
May 15, 2022
Am I the only one who didn’t like this at all?! I swear it was just a big pile of “nopes” for me. The writing and the dialogue were pretty modern in my opinion (which shouldn’t be the case considering this is a historical) and the plot was choppy. The whole “mystery” element was awful and the heroine was sooo incredibly annoying. Also, having a hero say that he’s “a brick wall” and literally mentioning it to people is the cringiest thing ever oml. Finally, the characters were not consistent at alllll. The heroine would go from hating him and saying that she’s never going to go near him again to literally throwing herself at him *for no reason*.
Anyway, I didn’t like this at all but I will be giving this author another try! I think she might be very talented but this one was just a very big miss for me😅
Anyway, I didn’t like this at all but I will be giving this author another try! I think she might be very talented but this one was just a very big miss for me😅
August 31, 2021
loved it
definitely one of my favorite hr romance I read this year
definitely one of my favorite hr romance I read this year
August 23, 2018
4.5/5
Lenora Bell will not stop impressing me with her releases. With every new book of hers, I seem to be falling harder and harder in love with her books. For the Duke's Eyes Only is my favorite book from her so far. Fans of historical romance will gobble this up!
Lenora Bell always writes fierce and independent young women who have aspirations beyond finding a wealthy husband. I know it was quite uncommon given the time period her books are set in, but it's always fun to read these stories about unconventional ladies. India, known as Lady Danger in society, was a character I immediately fell in love with. With her intelligence and enthusiasm for archaeology, she was a breath of fresh air. Her interest in the subject was contagious. I loved that she had no qualms for defying every etiquette and was absolutely confident about her abilities. Her childhood friend and current rival, Raven, was another fabulous romantic lead from the author. He was a stubborn mule who I constantly wanted to shake by the shoulders, but his reasons and his constant secrecy are revealed throughout For the Duke's Eyes Only. Even with his hard-headedness, I found it effortless to crush on his character. You see, despite the uncaring persona he showed India, he had a soft spot for her and was constantly supportive of her achievements.
As children, India and Raven were betrothed, but Raven broke her heart years later and India has nothing but spite for him. Whenever they are in the same room together, they bicker and argue. Of course, this is a romance novel, so underneath all those quarrels were just an outlet for that sexy tension between them. They obviously never stopped loving each other, but they were both quite bullheaded, so they never really talked it out. When a stolen antiquity forces the two of them to be partners, a stronger understanding of each other began to grow. The chemistry between Raven and India was just flawless. It was steamy and passionate and I could not get enough of them together. I truly think that Lenora Bell has written one of the most heartwarming and memorable romances that I have read this year because I shipped these two so hard. What I also love about Lenora's books is the focus on the plot. Here we have an adventurous journey as India and Raven navigate Paris to find the stolen artifact. It was entertaining, humorous and also an opportunity for Bell to teach readers a thing or two about history. I loved it all!
For the Duke's Eyes Only was an outstanding read. Honestly, everything that Lenora Bell has written has been brilliant, so if you have yet to pick up her books, I urge you to do so! You won't regret it, especially if you're a fan of historical romance.
Lenora Bell will not stop impressing me with her releases. With every new book of hers, I seem to be falling harder and harder in love with her books. For the Duke's Eyes Only is my favorite book from her so far. Fans of historical romance will gobble this up!
Lenora Bell always writes fierce and independent young women who have aspirations beyond finding a wealthy husband. I know it was quite uncommon given the time period her books are set in, but it's always fun to read these stories about unconventional ladies. India, known as Lady Danger in society, was a character I immediately fell in love with. With her intelligence and enthusiasm for archaeology, she was a breath of fresh air. Her interest in the subject was contagious. I loved that she had no qualms for defying every etiquette and was absolutely confident about her abilities. Her childhood friend and current rival, Raven, was another fabulous romantic lead from the author. He was a stubborn mule who I constantly wanted to shake by the shoulders, but his reasons and his constant secrecy are revealed throughout For the Duke's Eyes Only. Even with his hard-headedness, I found it effortless to crush on his character. You see, despite the uncaring persona he showed India, he had a soft spot for her and was constantly supportive of her achievements.
As children, India and Raven were betrothed, but Raven broke her heart years later and India has nothing but spite for him. Whenever they are in the same room together, they bicker and argue. Of course, this is a romance novel, so underneath all those quarrels were just an outlet for that sexy tension between them. They obviously never stopped loving each other, but they were both quite bullheaded, so they never really talked it out. When a stolen antiquity forces the two of them to be partners, a stronger understanding of each other began to grow. The chemistry between Raven and India was just flawless. It was steamy and passionate and I could not get enough of them together. I truly think that Lenora Bell has written one of the most heartwarming and memorable romances that I have read this year because I shipped these two so hard. What I also love about Lenora's books is the focus on the plot. Here we have an adventurous journey as India and Raven navigate Paris to find the stolen artifact. It was entertaining, humorous and also an opportunity for Bell to teach readers a thing or two about history. I loved it all!
For the Duke's Eyes Only was an outstanding read. Honestly, everything that Lenora Bell has written has been brilliant, so if you have yet to pick up her books, I urge you to do so! You won't regret it, especially if you're a fan of historical romance.
September 1, 2018
I had read and enjoyed the previous book in this series and loved India so much that I requested this as soon as I saw it.
Love love loved India. She’s smart and stands up for herself and sasses with the best of them. Raven is a charming rogue with a lot more to him than it appears. Together they push each other’s buttons and banter like crazy. I was loving every minute of it.
Plot wise, it felt very Indiana Jones. There were secret missions and kissing and knife fights. It did wrap up rather abruptly and after so much build up, it left me wanting.
Overall, it was a delightful read about two former BFFs to more slash hate to love. I’m eager to see if there’s another book in the series.
**Huge thanks to Avon Books for providing the arc free of charge**
Love love loved India. She’s smart and stands up for herself and sasses with the best of them. Raven is a charming rogue with a lot more to him than it appears. Together they push each other’s buttons and banter like crazy. I was loving every minute of it.
Plot wise, it felt very Indiana Jones. There were secret missions and kissing and knife fights. It did wrap up rather abruptly and after so much build up, it left me wanting.
Overall, it was a delightful read about two former BFFs to more slash hate to love. I’m eager to see if there’s another book in the series.
**Huge thanks to Avon Books for providing the arc free of charge**
September 10, 2018
DRC graciously provided by Edelweiss + Publisher in exchange for an honest review.
I was a little bit apprehensive starting this book; I was worried it couldn’t possibly live up to my exceptations. Ever since reading What a Difference a Duke Makes I’ve been extremely excited for this book. Lady India was honestly one of my favorite secondary characters of all time (I mean come ‘on… who doesn’t love a female Indiana Jones who rails against the restrictive gender stereotypes of regency England?), and the chemistry between her and the Duke of Ravenwood was sizzling. Thus, I was very worried that Bell couldn’t possibly do this character justice.
Thankfully Bell delivered: This book was AMAZING!
The book follows the Duke of Ravenwood and Lady India on their mission to retrieve the Rosetta Stone after it was stolen from the British Museum. The two have a tumultuous history: childhood best friends turned sworn enemies. Both have a deep internet in antiquities, but whereas archaeologist Lady India travels the world scavenging for them, Ravenwood just buys them off the black market while living the life of a rogue. Clashing at every encounter since their late teens, their infamous rivalry is reported in newspapers across England.
Golly gee, I loved this plot. While this book is most certainly a romance first, the mystery of solving who stole the stone was genuinely engaging. Every scene in the book felt purposeful and fit in with the adventurous tone of the book (one of my biggest pet peeves of regency novels is often to spice up a boring plot/character an author will just randomly throw in a kidnapping or duel…like why?). Even if this book had no romance—if it was just two random detectives looking for the stone—I would still strongly consider reading it.
But oh my…the romance was definitely the highlight. If I thought the chemistry between Ravenwood and India was sizzling in What a Difference a Duke Makes, in this book it is explosive! I don’t think I’ve ever seen (or read? I’m not sure about this grammar) two characters with this much sexual tension before. Even though there were only two or three sexy time scenes in this book, every interaction between the two of them was just…
*Fans myself vigorously*
Yet what was remarkable about this book was that it didn’t conflate lust with love. By the end of the book, the love between Lady India and Ravenwood was obvious: the mutual respect of each other’s work, shared interests, and willingness to make sacrifices for the sake of their relationship. Both characters were amazing. Lady India was unbelievably confident and ambitious—the sort of woman young girls should have as a role model.
To Lenora Bell: If you ever get sick of writing romance, you should write a mystery/adventure series starring Lady India.
While initially, I was concerned that Ravenwood would just be one of those broody, misogynistic, obnoxious heroes (and thus never deserve to end up with Lady India) he wasn’t at all! He was a great hero and I thought the reasoning behind his actions (breaking Lady India’s heart when they were younger, becoming a careless rogue, etc.) made a lot of sense.
My only issue with this book was I don’t think Lenora Bell’s writing is that strong—she uses a lot of repetitive sentence structures and inserts a lot of unnecessary questions in a poor attempt to create suspense. But regardless this book is a definite must read!
Rating: 5/5
I was a little bit apprehensive starting this book; I was worried it couldn’t possibly live up to my exceptations. Ever since reading What a Difference a Duke Makes I’ve been extremely excited for this book. Lady India was honestly one of my favorite secondary characters of all time (I mean come ‘on… who doesn’t love a female Indiana Jones who rails against the restrictive gender stereotypes of regency England?), and the chemistry between her and the Duke of Ravenwood was sizzling. Thus, I was very worried that Bell couldn’t possibly do this character justice.
Thankfully Bell delivered: This book was AMAZING!
The book follows the Duke of Ravenwood and Lady India on their mission to retrieve the Rosetta Stone after it was stolen from the British Museum. The two have a tumultuous history: childhood best friends turned sworn enemies. Both have a deep internet in antiquities, but whereas archaeologist Lady India travels the world scavenging for them, Ravenwood just buys them off the black market while living the life of a rogue. Clashing at every encounter since their late teens, their infamous rivalry is reported in newspapers across England.
Golly gee, I loved this plot. While this book is most certainly a romance first, the mystery of solving who stole the stone was genuinely engaging. Every scene in the book felt purposeful and fit in with the adventurous tone of the book (one of my biggest pet peeves of regency novels is often to spice up a boring plot/character an author will just randomly throw in a kidnapping or duel…like why?). Even if this book had no romance—if it was just two random detectives looking for the stone—I would still strongly consider reading it.
But oh my…the romance was definitely the highlight. If I thought the chemistry between Ravenwood and India was sizzling in What a Difference a Duke Makes, in this book it is explosive! I don’t think I’ve ever seen (or read? I’m not sure about this grammar) two characters with this much sexual tension before. Even though there were only two or three sexy time scenes in this book, every interaction between the two of them was just…
*Fans myself vigorously*
Yet what was remarkable about this book was that it didn’t conflate lust with love. By the end of the book, the love between Lady India and Ravenwood was obvious: the mutual respect of each other’s work, shared interests, and willingness to make sacrifices for the sake of their relationship. Both characters were amazing. Lady India was unbelievably confident and ambitious—the sort of woman young girls should have as a role model.
To Lenora Bell: If you ever get sick of writing romance, you should write a mystery/adventure series starring Lady India.
While initially, I was concerned that Ravenwood would just be one of those broody, misogynistic, obnoxious heroes (and thus never deserve to end up with Lady India) he wasn’t at all! He was a great hero and I thought the reasoning behind his actions (breaking Lady India’s heart when they were younger, becoming a careless rogue, etc.) made a lot of sense.
My only issue with this book was I don’t think Lenora Bell’s writing is that strong—she uses a lot of repetitive sentence structures and inserts a lot of unnecessary questions in a poor attempt to create suspense. But regardless this book is a definite must read!
Rating: 5/5
September 12, 2018
When Lady India Rochester and Daniel Bonds were children, they knew that they would become archaeologists, that they would marry, and travel the world together. But a dreadful incident derailed their plans, and the once best friends became bitter rivals over the years. India is a serious scholar; Daniel, now the Duke of Ravenhood – known as Raven – is a rogue and an antiquities hunter with questionable tactics, and they often step on each other’s professional toes. But when the Rosetta Stone is stolen from the British Museum and replaced with a forgery, they must unite their efforts to find the missing artefact.
Although FOR THE DUKE’S EYES ONLY stands entirely on its own, those of us who have read the previous instalment in this brilliant series knew that India and Raven’s story would be explosive, and I’m not even sure if it’s the right word to describe their highly combustible chemistry, which is an inferno waiting to happen. It was a brilliant idea to begin the book by showing us how India and Raven were as children: we witnessed their affection, their common love of archaeology, and that they were destined to be together. India is highly intelligent, and I loved how Ms. Bell showed us how clever she was without even a whisper of telling, but with glorious demonstrations of India’s superior mind. Raven readily admits that she is more clever than he is, he admires her, respects her, even though she is always in his way. I also very much appreciated that the characters remained true to themselves, from the previous book, from how they were as children, and throughout FOR THE DUKE’S EYES ONLY.
The quest for the Rosetta Stone is positively riveting, and it was the perfect setting for India and Raven’s romance. The story is meticulously crafted, with several splendid plot twists; the sparkling dialogues are sharp and witty, the writing vibrant and loveliness itself, the descriptions are lush and vivid, and the epilogue is sheer bliss. I adored the numerous winks to James Bond, and I hope that Mina, a minor but pivotal character, figures somewhere in Lenora Bell’s further literary endeavours. Both India and Raven are superb characters, grow immeasurably – and in my book, they form an ideal couple. The love, between them is so overwhelmingly strong that you know that nothing or no one could ever keep them apart. I felt enveloped in their all-consuming passion, and I don’t think I have ever felt true love emanating from a character as I have from Raven. The joyous, sensuous, humorous, gorgeous, and wildly entertaining FOR THE DUKE’S EYES ONLY is utterly sublime, and Lenora Bell’s best book to date.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
Although FOR THE DUKE’S EYES ONLY stands entirely on its own, those of us who have read the previous instalment in this brilliant series knew that India and Raven’s story would be explosive, and I’m not even sure if it’s the right word to describe their highly combustible chemistry, which is an inferno waiting to happen. It was a brilliant idea to begin the book by showing us how India and Raven were as children: we witnessed their affection, their common love of archaeology, and that they were destined to be together. India is highly intelligent, and I loved how Ms. Bell showed us how clever she was without even a whisper of telling, but with glorious demonstrations of India’s superior mind. Raven readily admits that she is more clever than he is, he admires her, respects her, even though she is always in his way. I also very much appreciated that the characters remained true to themselves, from the previous book, from how they were as children, and throughout FOR THE DUKE’S EYES ONLY.
The quest for the Rosetta Stone is positively riveting, and it was the perfect setting for India and Raven’s romance. The story is meticulously crafted, with several splendid plot twists; the sparkling dialogues are sharp and witty, the writing vibrant and loveliness itself, the descriptions are lush and vivid, and the epilogue is sheer bliss. I adored the numerous winks to James Bond, and I hope that Mina, a minor but pivotal character, figures somewhere in Lenora Bell’s further literary endeavours. Both India and Raven are superb characters, grow immeasurably – and in my book, they form an ideal couple. The love, between them is so overwhelmingly strong that you know that nothing or no one could ever keep them apart. I felt enveloped in their all-consuming passion, and I don’t think I have ever felt true love emanating from a character as I have from Raven. The joyous, sensuous, humorous, gorgeous, and wildly entertaining FOR THE DUKE’S EYES ONLY is utterly sublime, and Lenora Bell’s best book to date.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
October 15, 2018
What a disappointment. 90% of the scenes in this book get like they were addressing the physical attraction between the characters. They never had a satisfactory confrontation, though there was also never even a simmer of tension that would have made such a confrontation worth it. (I have to admit that I’m a little over the idea of eleven year old kids being so in love that when they part and don’t see each other or barely speak to each other for fifteen years that those feelings have been the defining event in their emotional lives). Raven, for all his Emotion Was Bled Out of Me claptrap was a total sap. India, though I loved the idea of how progressive she was, seemed fairly judgmental of other women who hadn’t been given the opportunity for freedom that she was. And the plot was just downright silly (and borrowed from a climactic episode of Miss Fisher’s Murder Mysteries, though I’m sure it is borrowed from other places as well). I’m just supremely bummed out right now. The last book in this series was very one note and this was somehow even worse because there SHOULD have been a tension that was just totally lacking.
February 17, 2021
Real rating: 4.5 stars!!!
This was another fun read from Lenora! I didn't expect it be so hot but it was. It's a childhood friends to lover romance turned enemies to lovers after she sees him makeout with another girl at a ball instead of dancing with her. She's heartbroken and doesn't care for his playboy ways because she really likes her profession which is looking for artifacts. Our hero has a dark past but he also has a big secret and now he and her are on a mission to find a missing artifact.
This was another fun read from Lenora! I didn't expect it be so hot but it was. It's a childhood friends to lover romance turned enemies to lovers after she sees him makeout with another girl at a ball instead of dancing with her. She's heartbroken and doesn't care for his playboy ways because she really likes her profession which is looking for artifacts. Our hero has a dark past but he also has a big secret and now he and her are on a mission to find a missing artifact.
September 17, 2022
1.5 stars
June 29, 2021
✨✨3.75Stars✨✨
It was good but there was a lot of time the story didn't engage me.
It was good but there was a lot of time the story didn't engage me.
September 3, 2024
Betrothed since birth by their parents, India and Daniel were the best of friends and spent a lot of time excavating the woodland fields around his family estate, dreaming of traveling, finding treasures and following adventures.
"This is only the beginning, Indy," Daniel said dreamily. He rolled onto his side to face her. "After I return from my schooling we'll be married and then we will travel the world and become famous archaeologists."
Until the day a scandal occurred in his family, when Daniel was twelve. Life changed for both of them, making them not quite enemies, but fifteen years later, they're more like rivals in the archaeology field and can often be heard exchanging verbal sparring.
Even as a young girl, India was already a spirited one. She became a fearless woman who's not afraid to voice her opinions and does what she wants. The ton even nicknamed her Lady Danger. Her former friend Daniel, the Duke of Ravenwood, became a fortune hunter and an arrogant rogue. But she can't help still reacting to him, whether it's anger or lust. And maybe there's more than meets the eyes about the man. Teaming up with him to find a stolen relic from the British Museum will certainly give her the opportunity to uncover the truth.
"She was alone most of the time by choice; because she was mistrustful of opening herself to anyone, and wary of being hurt."
I know that India was maybe too bold for the time but I couldn't care less because with the prologue, I immediately connected with her and her eleven-year-old broken heart. She was different and she didn't see anything wrong with it and I like that she didn't let her friend's desertion make her think that something was wrong with her. She didn't understand why he stopped answering her correspondence but she knew it didn't have to do with something she said or did. She could have been too proud that she didn't give Daniel a second chance or act bitter toward him, but even despite her apprehensions, she always had an open heart. It was easy to understand why the hero kept his distance and he was so captivated with Indy that I could only fall for him too.
I'll admit I expected more from the resolution of the mystery but I'm not disappointed by my first time reading this author. A wonderful romance and a great adventure made me want to read Lenora Bell's other books.
December 12, 2018
Coffee Dates with For the Duke's Eyes Only
First Date: Since meeting Raven and India in the first School of Dukes novel, What A Difference A Duke Makes, I've been dying to know what all the snark, chemistry and banter between these two was about. I loved their back story even if I wanted to both hug and throttle Raven. India is absolutely delightful from sneaking into men's only clubs to the tongue lashings she relishes giving Raven I both admired her and feared her..lol When the Rosetta Stone is discovered missing India decides to pursue the matter. She needs that stone to find her next archaeologist discovery. Raven is more than the fortune hunter and rogue he appears to be. In fact it's all a disguise for his real role. He is determined to find the stone first and keep India safe. Attempts to persuade lead to some hilarious developments involving swans and pink shirts...but I will leave you to discover that for yourselves.
Second Date: They travel to Paris and try to act civilized. India discovered her friend can longer house her and that she will be staying under the same roof as Raven. The two must put their differences and attraction aside to find the stone. Theft, robbery, and stolen moments had me reading into the wee hours. I love that Bell allowed the outside world to slip away as I laughed, worried for their safety and watched these two give into their passion.
Third Date: While the road to romance was paved with their own stubbornness, it certainly was an entertaining one. India is headstrong and brings poor Raven to his knees. As they search for suspects and the missing stone, it was delightful seeing each admire and fall for the other. Drama was kept to a minimum due to the suspense angle. The mystery was well-developed with a clever twist. Fans of enemies to lovers and second chance romances will love this unique couple. The tale wrapped up with a wonderful epilogue that left me grinning from ear to ear.
This review was originally posted at Caffeinated Reviewer
First Date: Since meeting Raven and India in the first School of Dukes novel, What A Difference A Duke Makes, I've been dying to know what all the snark, chemistry and banter between these two was about. I loved their back story even if I wanted to both hug and throttle Raven. India is absolutely delightful from sneaking into men's only clubs to the tongue lashings she relishes giving Raven I both admired her and feared her..lol When the Rosetta Stone is discovered missing India decides to pursue the matter. She needs that stone to find her next archaeologist discovery. Raven is more than the fortune hunter and rogue he appears to be. In fact it's all a disguise for his real role. He is determined to find the stone first and keep India safe. Attempts to persuade lead to some hilarious developments involving swans and pink shirts...but I will leave you to discover that for yourselves.
Second Date: They travel to Paris and try to act civilized. India discovered her friend can longer house her and that she will be staying under the same roof as Raven. The two must put their differences and attraction aside to find the stone. Theft, robbery, and stolen moments had me reading into the wee hours. I love that Bell allowed the outside world to slip away as I laughed, worried for their safety and watched these two give into their passion.
Third Date: While the road to romance was paved with their own stubbornness, it certainly was an entertaining one. India is headstrong and brings poor Raven to his knees. As they search for suspects and the missing stone, it was delightful seeing each admire and fall for the other. Drama was kept to a minimum due to the suspense angle. The mystery was well-developed with a clever twist. Fans of enemies to lovers and second chance romances will love this unique couple. The tale wrapped up with a wonderful epilogue that left me grinning from ear to ear.
This review was originally posted at Caffeinated Reviewer
September 17, 2018
Series: School For Dukes #2
Publication Date: 9/18/18
STOP! THIEF! Somebody has stolen the Rosetta Stone in this wonderfully written book that is a takeoff on James Bond (thus the title) and Indiana Jones (thus the heroine’s name and the antiquities adventure). The book is well plotted and excellently written – with a real surprise of a plot twist at the end. I loved the characters and would really like to meet Lady Indy.
India and Daniel were betrothed as children and they grew up knowing that they would marry. That was perfectly okay with them because they loved each other. They roamed their neighboring estates together every day unearthing treasures and they dreamed of the day when they would be grown, married and exploring for antiquities in other parts of the world.
Then, one day while they were out exploring, their world came to an end. India’s mother came for them and wouldn’t explain why – she only rushed them home. As they arrived, they noticed a strange coach sitting in the drive. Daniel was rushed into the coach and it sped away. His father had been murdered in France and was being accused of treason. At just twelve years old, Daniel was the new duke, the family was in scandal, and they were moved to a new home.
My heart broke for some of the choices that Daniel was forced to make in his life. He loved his Indy and he had to break her heart and make her hate him – all to keep her safe. He had to become a spy and track down the real traitor so he could clear his family name. He took on a persona that was not him at all, but it served him well in his spy role.
To me, the real villain in the story was Sir Baldwin, he wasn’t meant to be, but that is how I read him. He took a young boy and put him through cruel training to rip all of his emotions out of him so he could be a spy. Supposedly the decisions were all Daniels, but Daniel was much, much, much too young to be making those kinds of life-altering decisions. What he really needed was love and guidance – a father figure.
India has learned never to trust her heart to anyone because the one and only person she loved took hers and ground it under his heel and he’s become everything she despises in a person. She’s also super intelligent and has become strong, resourceful and independent. She’s made more antiquarian discoveries that all of the men at the all-male Society of Antiquaries put together and yet they won’t let her join. She chafes at that and determines to attend a meeting dressed as a man. Well, what she really wants is to see the Rosetta Stone because she needs to decipher a map in order to find Cleopatra’s tomb.
Daniel discovers India at the meeting – and she realizes that the Rosetta Stone is a fake. They both end up on a quest to recover the real stone – and maybe their lost love for each other. It is such a fun and adventurous read that I couldn’t put it down from start to finish!
Please check out my reviews at:
Blog: https://flippinpages.blog/
Facebook Page: https://www.facebook.com/flippinpages...
Twitter: https://twitter.com/FlippinPagesRev
Twitter: https://twitter.com/BarbBookReview
"I requested and received this e-book at no cost to me and volunteered to read it; my review is my honest opinion and given without any influence by the author or publisher."
Publication Date: 9/18/18
STOP! THIEF! Somebody has stolen the Rosetta Stone in this wonderfully written book that is a takeoff on James Bond (thus the title) and Indiana Jones (thus the heroine’s name and the antiquities adventure). The book is well plotted and excellently written – with a real surprise of a plot twist at the end. I loved the characters and would really like to meet Lady Indy.
India and Daniel were betrothed as children and they grew up knowing that they would marry. That was perfectly okay with them because they loved each other. They roamed their neighboring estates together every day unearthing treasures and they dreamed of the day when they would be grown, married and exploring for antiquities in other parts of the world.
Then, one day while they were out exploring, their world came to an end. India’s mother came for them and wouldn’t explain why – she only rushed them home. As they arrived, they noticed a strange coach sitting in the drive. Daniel was rushed into the coach and it sped away. His father had been murdered in France and was being accused of treason. At just twelve years old, Daniel was the new duke, the family was in scandal, and they were moved to a new home.
My heart broke for some of the choices that Daniel was forced to make in his life. He loved his Indy and he had to break her heart and make her hate him – all to keep her safe. He had to become a spy and track down the real traitor so he could clear his family name. He took on a persona that was not him at all, but it served him well in his spy role.
To me, the real villain in the story was Sir Baldwin, he wasn’t meant to be, but that is how I read him. He took a young boy and put him through cruel training to rip all of his emotions out of him so he could be a spy. Supposedly the decisions were all Daniels, but Daniel was much, much, much too young to be making those kinds of life-altering decisions. What he really needed was love and guidance – a father figure.
India has learned never to trust her heart to anyone because the one and only person she loved took hers and ground it under his heel and he’s become everything she despises in a person. She’s also super intelligent and has become strong, resourceful and independent. She’s made more antiquarian discoveries that all of the men at the all-male Society of Antiquaries put together and yet they won’t let her join. She chafes at that and determines to attend a meeting dressed as a man. Well, what she really wants is to see the Rosetta Stone because she needs to decipher a map in order to find Cleopatra’s tomb.
Daniel discovers India at the meeting – and she realizes that the Rosetta Stone is a fake. They both end up on a quest to recover the real stone – and maybe their lost love for each other. It is such a fun and adventurous read that I couldn’t put it down from start to finish!
Please check out my reviews at:
Blog: https://flippinpages.blog/
Facebook Page: https://www.facebook.com/flippinpages...
Twitter: https://twitter.com/FlippinPagesRev
Twitter: https://twitter.com/BarbBookReview
"I requested and received this e-book at no cost to me and volunteered to read it; my review is my honest opinion and given without any influence by the author or publisher."
July 24, 2019
Mostly 1829 England. Had 50/50 mystery & romance.
This trope seemed too much a formula.
Childhood friends Daniel (future Duke) & India (dtr of
a Duke) supposedly fell in love at ages 12 & 11, respect-
ively, and had a falling out at ages 18 & 17.
The H + h both became archaeologists and she studied
hieroglyphics. Daniel created a persona: he had a pre-
occupation for drinking/ wenching to divert attn from
his spy work for the Crown. India displayed bravado
claiming she feared nothing. I'm all for a confident h
but she came across as obnoxious at times. Why make
the H +h compete for superior antiquities knowledge &
kick-ass physical defense skills? The author informed
readers multiple times of the h's beauty & the H's near-
death in Athens. Why add filler?
Credible elements?
1) Can 2 pre-teens fall in love?
2) Daniel's spy training started @age 13. Really? He was
discouraged from marrying.
3) Daniel cut off contact w/ his birth family.
4) Daniel a Duke supposedly had underworld connections.
5) Daniel as spy needed to seduce female informants or
suspects. Natch.
6) India invited antagonists to search her cleavage for a
certain item. Huh?
This trope seemed too much a formula.
Childhood friends Daniel (future Duke) & India (dtr of
a Duke) supposedly fell in love at ages 12 & 11, respect-
ively, and had a falling out at ages 18 & 17.
The H + h both became archaeologists and she studied
hieroglyphics. Daniel created a persona: he had a pre-
occupation for drinking/ wenching to divert attn from
his spy work for the Crown. India displayed bravado
claiming she feared nothing. I'm all for a confident h
but she came across as obnoxious at times. Why make
the H +h compete for superior antiquities knowledge &
kick-ass physical defense skills? The author informed
readers multiple times of the h's beauty & the H's near-
death in Athens. Why add filler?
Credible elements?
1) Can 2 pre-teens fall in love?
2) Daniel's spy training started @age 13. Really? He was
discouraged from marrying.
3) Daniel cut off contact w/ his birth family.
4) Daniel a Duke supposedly had underworld connections.
5) Daniel as spy needed to seduce female informants or
suspects. Natch.
6) India invited antagonists to search her cleavage for a
certain item. Huh?
September 11, 2018
4.5 stars
Lady India "Indy" Rochester and Daniel "Raven", the Duke of Ravenwood were once the best of friends and betrothed. But a tragedy torn them apart and a betrayal years later solidified their break.
Now years later, the hurt and betrayal still linger, but Indy has moved on, she is an adventuress, she has made her mark in archeology and lives unrepentant and unconventionally. Raven is a rogue and a treasure seeker, but that is a front to hide his true purpose. He is a spy and on a quest to clear his father's name. Indy is his biggest sacrifice and regret, but his life has no room for attachments.
When Indy infiltrates an archeologist society meeting dressed as a man, she makes a startling discovery - the Rosetta Stone has been stolen. Raven catches her and is shocked that he didn't recognize her right away - because he might act like a jerk, but she is never far from his thoughts and dreams. When Sir Malcolm finds them, he admits the stone was taken. Raven says he will find it and Indy insists on being included. Much to Raven's dismay, Sir Malcolm agrees.
He tries to dissuade her, but they are caught "hate-kissing" by a reporter and Indy declares that they have finally set a wedding date - they give the reporter outrageous details of their upcoming wedding and she says they are going to France to shop - neatly backing Raven in a corner.
They set out and will have to work together and it is clear that her trust is not easily restored, his deception doesn't lie easy and their love never truly died. Can they find more than just the missing stone? Can they find their way back to each other?
This was an amazing story and I loved it. Indy and Daniel are so perfect for each other. I appreciated that India was true to herself and pursued her dreams, even though she never imagined doing it alone. My heart broke for Raven and the choices that he had to make. The story was quick paced, steamy, witty, adventurous and entertaining. My only complaint would be that I didn't feel like their story was finished, it ended a bit abruptly without certain things being cleared up - but maybe those things will be addressed in the next book (fingers crossed). This is the second book in the series, but it can definitely be read as a stand alone title.
*I am voluntarily leaving a review for an eARC that was provided to me by Edelweiss and the publisher.*
Lady India "Indy" Rochester and Daniel "Raven", the Duke of Ravenwood were once the best of friends and betrothed. But a tragedy torn them apart and a betrayal years later solidified their break.
Now years later, the hurt and betrayal still linger, but Indy has moved on, she is an adventuress, she has made her mark in archeology and lives unrepentant and unconventionally. Raven is a rogue and a treasure seeker, but that is a front to hide his true purpose. He is a spy and on a quest to clear his father's name. Indy is his biggest sacrifice and regret, but his life has no room for attachments.
When Indy infiltrates an archeologist society meeting dressed as a man, she makes a startling discovery - the Rosetta Stone has been stolen. Raven catches her and is shocked that he didn't recognize her right away - because he might act like a jerk, but she is never far from his thoughts and dreams. When Sir Malcolm finds them, he admits the stone was taken. Raven says he will find it and Indy insists on being included. Much to Raven's dismay, Sir Malcolm agrees.
He tries to dissuade her, but they are caught "hate-kissing" by a reporter and Indy declares that they have finally set a wedding date - they give the reporter outrageous details of their upcoming wedding and she says they are going to France to shop - neatly backing Raven in a corner.
They set out and will have to work together and it is clear that her trust is not easily restored, his deception doesn't lie easy and their love never truly died. Can they find more than just the missing stone? Can they find their way back to each other?
This was an amazing story and I loved it. Indy and Daniel are so perfect for each other. I appreciated that India was true to herself and pursued her dreams, even though she never imagined doing it alone. My heart broke for Raven and the choices that he had to make. The story was quick paced, steamy, witty, adventurous and entertaining. My only complaint would be that I didn't feel like their story was finished, it ended a bit abruptly without certain things being cleared up - but maybe those things will be addressed in the next book (fingers crossed). This is the second book in the series, but it can definitely be read as a stand alone title.
*I am voluntarily leaving a review for an eARC that was provided to me by Edelweiss and the publisher.*
September 26, 2018
This review was originally posted on Addicted To RomanceI received this book for free from Avon in exchange for an honest review. This does not affect my opinion of the book or the content of my review.
*May Contain Spolers*
For The Duke's Eyes Only is the second book in the latest series by Lenora Bell. Here we have a story that features a second chance romance, some adventure, secrets and danger and some laughs. I will admit that I was a bit nervous in reading this book here. I really wanted to like this a ton, and I will admit I did get a kick out of this story in many ways. But unfortunately it wasn't a five star read like I was hoping for....but does that mean it was a bad book? HELL NO...it was REALLY good, just a couple things that brought the rating down a notch.
Our story begins with our heroine, India Rochester, digging in the ground with her friend Daniel, who is also her betrothed. They are the best of friends, looking for treasures, plans on having adventures around the world together and finding lost treasure and artifacts of all kinds. But then Daniel receives word that his father has been killed and a traitor to the country and must go to a special school in Scotland. At first Daniel and India write to each other for a while but then Daniel betrays India in the worst of ways, closing off her heart to him completely and now its been fifteen years since they were children playing and running free.
Lady India, is a Archaeologist and very passionate about her career. She has traveled all over on her digs and adventures and is planning a big one set for Egypt. And she is more than ready. But while in London, she poses as a man and infiltrates a male secret society for ancient artificats since women are forbidden to be part of it. And while out exploring, she stumbles across what is supposed to be the Rosetta Stone...only she knows that its a fake and Daniel of all people find her and now his boss wants her to accompany him on a mission to France to find the real one which has been stolen.
Daniel has been working as a spy for many years, ever since his father's death and being claimed a traitor, he knew his father was set up and wanted to clear his name. So he went through a brutal training when he was young, which forced him to give up everything and everyone he ever cared about including Indy. He has never stopped loving her, but he has to keep an emotional distance, because working as a spy....emotion can be the death of you. But he can't tell what he does for a living, but he has to keep Indy out of danger and tries to but he also understands her more than anyone else does. He understands her passion and zest. Will they find the theif of the stone....and will they find their happy ever after despite the past mistakes made?
I simply adored this book quite a bit, it was a delight in many ways. The first beginning scene, you truly feel the connection that Indy and Daniel have with each other even as children. They both have the same passion for knowledge and ancient artifacts and have their own dreams of their version of their future. But the life gets in the ways and they become enemies over the years. And now they will have to work together to solve a great mystery and bring a criminal to justice and hopefully prevent a war between England and France.
The bantering between the couple was simply fantastic, and I had a blast with these two. They were so entertaining and I loved how quick-witted they both are and they really understand each other in certain ways that even they don't even fully realize. Daniel wants to protect Indy because he knows the dangers of this type of work....he almost died a year before from this work and is just trying to prove himself to his boss so he can be out in the field again. But Indy is determined to get this mission done, even though she doesn't know everything that is really going on. She is kept in the dark at times so I understood why she could be a bit ....DRAMATIC....alright they are both dramatic in different ways. I expected this since we do see some dramatics in the first book "What A Difference A Duke Makes" --book one of the School For Dukes series. I did feel that Indy could be a bit naive at times and just wanted to go head first into this mission without thinking things through. But she has such a interesting personality that fascinates the reader that surprisingly this element didn't bother me so BRAVO to Lenora Bell to creating a heroine that I normally don't care for and found myself wanting to be friends with this independent lady who is unconventional and true to herself.
I had no problems with the hero, I could see things from his point of view and why he acts the way he does. We don't see what he goes through in his brutal training that he received, but I can just imagine how bad it must have been. And we also see what a close bond he has with his CO...who lost his family because of the job so we see that he doesn't want to lose Indy because of his choice to clear his father's name and do something bigger than himself...to make a difference and make the world a bit safer. He sacrfices quite a bit and I know that he may seem overbearing at times, but you also see that he does it out of concern for Indy. He has seen quite a bit evil in the world so I can see why the fear does get to him at times.
The flow of the story was a bit slow at times especially in the middle, but I can guarantee that the beginning and ending are very fast paced but at times the pace slows and so I had to keep with it at times. I am not sure if it was due to a bit of frustration with some of antics by Indy or if the plot just slows a bit. I also found that there are some unresolved issues in this book like for example
Overall I found For The Duke's Eyes Only to be a laugh out loud, curl your toes and excite your senses love tale....it has adventure, wit, intrigue and some smexy times to sigh over....PURE DELIGHT!!
*May Contain Spolers*
For The Duke's Eyes Only is the second book in the latest series by Lenora Bell. Here we have a story that features a second chance romance, some adventure, secrets and danger and some laughs. I will admit that I was a bit nervous in reading this book here. I really wanted to like this a ton, and I will admit I did get a kick out of this story in many ways. But unfortunately it wasn't a five star read like I was hoping for....but does that mean it was a bad book? HELL NO...it was REALLY good, just a couple things that brought the rating down a notch.
Our story begins with our heroine, India Rochester, digging in the ground with her friend Daniel, who is also her betrothed. They are the best of friends, looking for treasures, plans on having adventures around the world together and finding lost treasure and artifacts of all kinds. But then Daniel receives word that his father has been killed and a traitor to the country and must go to a special school in Scotland. At first Daniel and India write to each other for a while but then Daniel betrays India in the worst of ways, closing off her heart to him completely and now its been fifteen years since they were children playing and running free.
Lady India, is a Archaeologist and very passionate about her career. She has traveled all over on her digs and adventures and is planning a big one set for Egypt. And she is more than ready. But while in London, she poses as a man and infiltrates a male secret society for ancient artificats since women are forbidden to be part of it. And while out exploring, she stumbles across what is supposed to be the Rosetta Stone...only she knows that its a fake and Daniel of all people find her and now his boss wants her to accompany him on a mission to France to find the real one which has been stolen.
Daniel has been working as a spy for many years, ever since his father's death and being claimed a traitor, he knew his father was set up and wanted to clear his name. So he went through a brutal training when he was young, which forced him to give up everything and everyone he ever cared about including Indy. He has never stopped loving her, but he has to keep an emotional distance, because working as a spy....emotion can be the death of you. But he can't tell what he does for a living, but he has to keep Indy out of danger and tries to but he also understands her more than anyone else does. He understands her passion and zest. Will they find the theif of the stone....and will they find their happy ever after despite the past mistakes made?
He knew how to make her laugh. He knew how to wound her. He was her one and only weakness. He always had been.
I simply adored this book quite a bit, it was a delight in many ways. The first beginning scene, you truly feel the connection that Indy and Daniel have with each other even as children. They both have the same passion for knowledge and ancient artifacts and have their own dreams of their version of their future. But the life gets in the ways and they become enemies over the years. And now they will have to work together to solve a great mystery and bring a criminal to justice and hopefully prevent a war between England and France.
I love you because...I always have. And I always will.
The bantering between the couple was simply fantastic, and I had a blast with these two. They were so entertaining and I loved how quick-witted they both are and they really understand each other in certain ways that even they don't even fully realize. Daniel wants to protect Indy because he knows the dangers of this type of work....he almost died a year before from this work and is just trying to prove himself to his boss so he can be out in the field again. But Indy is determined to get this mission done, even though she doesn't know everything that is really going on. She is kept in the dark at times so I understood why she could be a bit ....DRAMATIC....alright they are both dramatic in different ways. I expected this since we do see some dramatics in the first book "What A Difference A Duke Makes" --book one of the School For Dukes series. I did feel that Indy could be a bit naive at times and just wanted to go head first into this mission without thinking things through. But she has such a interesting personality that fascinates the reader that surprisingly this element didn't bother me so BRAVO to Lenora Bell to creating a heroine that I normally don't care for and found myself wanting to be friends with this independent lady who is unconventional and true to herself.
I had no problems with the hero, I could see things from his point of view and why he acts the way he does. We don't see what he goes through in his brutal training that he received, but I can just imagine how bad it must have been. And we also see what a close bond he has with his CO...who lost his family because of the job so we see that he doesn't want to lose Indy because of his choice to clear his father's name and do something bigger than himself...to make a difference and make the world a bit safer. He sacrfices quite a bit and I know that he may seem overbearing at times, but you also see that he does it out of concern for Indy. He has seen quite a bit evil in the world so I can see why the fear does get to him at times.
The flow of the story was a bit slow at times especially in the middle, but I can guarantee that the beginning and ending are very fast paced but at times the pace slows and so I had to keep with it at times. I am not sure if it was due to a bit of frustration with some of antics by Indy or if the plot just slows a bit. I also found that there are some unresolved issues in this book like for example
Overall I found For The Duke's Eyes Only to be a laugh out loud, curl your toes and excite your senses love tale....it has adventure, wit, intrigue and some smexy times to sigh over....PURE DELIGHT!!
July 20, 2018
I loved Raven and India from the glimpses we got of them in What a Difference a Duke Makes and their love story did not disappoint. From the opening sequence of India cross-dressing to infiltrate a men's society with the sole purpose of getting a closer look at the Rosetta Stone--the woman is an archaeologist and she won't stop until she has unearthed the artifacts of history's greatest women--I knew I was in for a treat.
India, our headstrong heroine whom the papers label "Lady Danger," is brave and brash, unwilling to conform to society's standards of womanhood and smarting from the rejection of her childhood best friend, Lord Ravenwood. India and Raven have a long history--once playmates as children, and even betrothed, the two are now cast as enemies, often found arguing in public. But For the Duke's Eyes Only peels back the layers of these two leads, enabling the reader to see both sides of the coin and how, after such a happy childhood together, everything went so wrong.
While the plot, a thrilling journey to retrieve a stolen artifact, is certainly entertaining, I've come to love Lenora Bell's novels for her characters, more than anything else. India is too easy to love, simply from the opening pages, but Ravenwood takes a little more time. From India's perspective, he's absolutely incorrigible but the man beneath the fake exterior is the same boy India once knew. The back-and-forth between Raven and India was the perfect foreplay and I was waiting with bated breath as every interaction brought these two closer and closer to love. Yet another thoroughly satisfying romance from Bell--if she isn't one of your favorite historical romance authors, you've been missing out!
India, our headstrong heroine whom the papers label "Lady Danger," is brave and brash, unwilling to conform to society's standards of womanhood and smarting from the rejection of her childhood best friend, Lord Ravenwood. India and Raven have a long history--once playmates as children, and even betrothed, the two are now cast as enemies, often found arguing in public. But For the Duke's Eyes Only peels back the layers of these two leads, enabling the reader to see both sides of the coin and how, after such a happy childhood together, everything went so wrong.
While the plot, a thrilling journey to retrieve a stolen artifact, is certainly entertaining, I've come to love Lenora Bell's novels for her characters, more than anything else. India is too easy to love, simply from the opening pages, but Ravenwood takes a little more time. From India's perspective, he's absolutely incorrigible but the man beneath the fake exterior is the same boy India once knew. The back-and-forth between Raven and India was the perfect foreplay and I was waiting with bated breath as every interaction brought these two closer and closer to love. Yet another thoroughly satisfying romance from Bell--if she isn't one of your favorite historical romance authors, you've been missing out!
April 14, 2021
Seriously, I can't get over Bell's books! They are absolutely delightful! My phone wanted me to say they are delicious and they are that too! This was a great spy story with a beautiful and steamy love story too. Give me any book written by Lenora Bell! She writes sexy and loving heroes and amazingly intelligent and capable strong heroines. She infuses enough humor into each story as well. I truly can't get enough Bell!
September 19, 2018
I received this book for free from Publisher in exchange for an honest review. This does not affect my opinion of the book or the content of my review.
This was my first read by Lenora Bell and I couldn't have been happier. There was something unique about the premise of this book that made me jump ahead and skip book 1, which I'm behind on reading, and dive into this one. The main characters are childhood best friends and basically had marriage contracts drawn up since then. The good thing is that they also really cared for each other and wanted to be married so it was a successful arranged marriage. That is until Raven is a teenager and his father dies leaving behind tales of treason. They're separated then and when he comes back their marriage arrangement ends in the worst of terms.
Now they have to work together to find a stolen artifact from a museum. A matter of national security. She doesn't know he's actually a spy and he has to bring her along on the mission because of her expertise in finding the real Rosetta Stone versus a fake.
I really liked both main characters in this one. Individually as well as together. Once they get to spend some time together, all those old feelings and old familiarity comes right back. Their relationship and the progression felt really natural. I also loved all the spy and mystery elements.
The pacing of the story could've been a little better. I think there were some ups and downs and at times it felt like it dragged a little. Also the end resolution felt quite fast and accidental. I was hoping for something a little more fleshed out in the end.
All that being said, it was definitely an enjoyable read and I am looking forward to reading more from this author.
*ARC provided by publisher
Reviewed by Francesca❤ ♡ Don't want to miss any of our posts? Subscribe to our blog by email! ♡ ❤
November 1, 2018
After reading about Indy and Raven in What a Difference a Duke Makes, I was so excited for this title, which is one reason it was such a letdown. Indy and Raven went from being friends that had turned into enemies to enemies in lust so fast I nearly got whiplash. And all of their thoughts were pretty much the same thing only thought in a slightly different way. I expected more of Lenora Bell, but I will still read the next title.
*An eARC was provided by Edelweiss and the publisher in exchange for an honest review.
*An eARC was provided by Edelweiss and the publisher in exchange for an honest review.
December 31, 2018
So I did enjoy this, but not as much as I expected. I wanted more hate! Also,
Read
October 23, 2018Enemies-to-lovers, and mutual pining, and secret identities, oh my! Lenora Bell put all of my favorite tropes and more into this delightful romance. The book follows India Rochester and Daniel Bonds, who stole my heart from their brief appearance in the first book in this series, What a Difference a Duke Makes. For the Duke’s Eyes Only is their love story, and it reveals the painful history behind their constant sniping: India’s heart was broken by Daniel, and Daniel broke her heart to protect her after he became a spy for the crown. After years apart, the two unexpectedly join forces when an artifact that India, an archaeologist, is looking for disappears. The romance is sizzling and the adventure is thrilling, but one of my absolute favorite aspects of this book was the mutual respect and admiration these two had for each other. They’re couples goals, for sure, and I’m happily moving this title to my favorites shelf. —Kelly (excerpted from Bookish's Staff Reads)
September 18, 2018
For the Duke's Eyes Only is my favorite Lenora Bell book so far. India is definitely her strongest heroine to date. Indy's combination of intelligence, daring, backbone, beauty, and will makes her immensely memorable. Lenora is able to infuse all these admirable characters in her heroine without emasculating the hero Raven. They're equally matched in wit, physical attributes, and capabilities. She saves him, he saves her.
I thoroughly enjoyed this James Bond-meets-Female Indiana Jones, childhood friends-turned-enemies-turned-lovers romantic comedy/adventure romp of a book. It's action-packed with loads of humor, heart, steam, and Shakespeare. Oh, and I love that it's partly set in Paris.
"I want to give Paris a hug." Me, too, Indy. Me, too.
Some of my favorite lines:
"Time waits for no woman … Grab destiny as though you want it."
"There is no tomorrow … Only this night. One life to live."
Big thanks to Avon for providing me with an advance copy to review through Edelweiss.
I thoroughly enjoyed this James Bond-meets-Female Indiana Jones, childhood friends-turned-enemies-turned-lovers romantic comedy/adventure romp of a book. It's action-packed with loads of humor, heart, steam, and Shakespeare. Oh, and I love that it's partly set in Paris.
"I want to give Paris a hug." Me, too, Indy. Me, too.
Some of my favorite lines:
"Time waits for no woman … Grab destiny as though you want it."
"There is no tomorrow … Only this night. One life to live."
Big thanks to Avon for providing me with an advance copy to review through Edelweiss.
December 18, 2023
For the Duke's Eyes Only was a fantastic read featuring a romance between a lady adventurer and her former best friend.
Lady India Rochester has dedicated her life to uncovering history's forgotten women so when she finally gets a lead on the location of Cleopatra's tomb, she's willing to take any risk to find it including infiltrating the all-male Society of Antiquaries. Unfortunately for Indy, Daniel Bonds, the Duke of Ravenwood, is in attendance at the meeting she goes to and he instantly recognizes her. Raven doesn't care about the historical importance of the artifacts he finds, just how much fame and money he can get from them. At least that's what he wants the world to think. After a priceless relic is stolen from the British Museum, Indy and Raven must team up to find the stolen antiquity and avert an international disaster.
After meeting Indy's character in What a Difference a Duke Makes I was intrigued by her character and excited to see her get her own romance. She's an incredibly intelligent woman and I loved the way she defied convention. It was clear even in the first book that there was a connection between Indy and Raven so I was looking forward to exploring that more in this book. The chemistry between the two was phenomenal and I loved watching their relationship progress throughout the book. It does take a while for the pair to hash out the issues that drove them apart years ago but I was happy how their relationship developed after that.
The premise of this one, a priceless relic is stolen and an archeologist and antiquities hunter work together to find it, was a really fun one and I was interested to see how Indy and Raven would work together to get it back. Due to the nature of Raven's work, he initially has information about the theft that Indy doesn't have. He also doesn't share that information right away as he is worried about her safety. Indy though is rather clever so it doesn't take her long to figure out he's holding back or for her to put together what likely happened to the stolen relic. Ultimately I was surprised by who ended up being behind the theft as the author does a great job making you think someone else was responsible.
Overall For the Duke's Eyes Only was an excellent read and I would highly recommend this series if you're looking for a great historical romance series.
Lady India Rochester has dedicated her life to uncovering history's forgotten women so when she finally gets a lead on the location of Cleopatra's tomb, she's willing to take any risk to find it including infiltrating the all-male Society of Antiquaries. Unfortunately for Indy, Daniel Bonds, the Duke of Ravenwood, is in attendance at the meeting she goes to and he instantly recognizes her. Raven doesn't care about the historical importance of the artifacts he finds, just how much fame and money he can get from them. At least that's what he wants the world to think. After a priceless relic is stolen from the British Museum, Indy and Raven must team up to find the stolen antiquity and avert an international disaster.
After meeting Indy's character in What a Difference a Duke Makes I was intrigued by her character and excited to see her get her own romance. She's an incredibly intelligent woman and I loved the way she defied convention. It was clear even in the first book that there was a connection between Indy and Raven so I was looking forward to exploring that more in this book. The chemistry between the two was phenomenal and I loved watching their relationship progress throughout the book. It does take a while for the pair to hash out the issues that drove them apart years ago but I was happy how their relationship developed after that.
The premise of this one, a priceless relic is stolen and an archeologist and antiquities hunter work together to find it, was a really fun one and I was interested to see how Indy and Raven would work together to get it back. Due to the nature of Raven's work, he initially has information about the theft that Indy doesn't have. He also doesn't share that information right away as he is worried about her safety. Indy though is rather clever so it doesn't take her long to figure out he's holding back or for her to put together what likely happened to the stolen relic. Ultimately I was surprised by who ended up being behind the theft as the author does a great job making you think someone else was responsible.
Overall For the Duke's Eyes Only was an excellent read and I would highly recommend this series if you're looking for a great historical romance series.
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