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Bluestocking Brides #2
Julia y el Duque (Novias Ilustradas nº 3)
«El hecho de que una de ellas sea ahora vizcondesa no borra el estigma del escándalo que portan esas repelentes hermanas Chadwick. No entiendo por qué nos dignamos en relacionarnos con ellas». Lady Bromsley, condesa de Marlbury.
A Julia no le interesa lo más mínimo que un flamante duque se haya instalado en su aletargado pueblecito, y menos aún cuando se entera de su escandaloso comportamiento en Londres. El guapísimo duque de Weston llega envuelto en rumores de deudas de juego, relaciones ilícitas y reyertas de taberna. Pero además pretende construir un molino en el paraje natural favorito de Julia, lo que dejará sin hogar a sus queridas nutrias.
Diga ella lo que diga, el testarudo lord Weston se niega a renunciar a su proyecto. Sin embargo, esta «sabihonda» no se rendirá fácilmente. Ayudada por sus hermanas, Julia habrá de encontrar la manera de persuadir a lord Weston de que busque otra forma de aumentar sus rentas.
Todo sería más sencillo si el apuesto duque no disfrutara tanto haciéndola rabiar. O si no se empeñara en seducirla y en fingirse interesado en ella. Aun así, toda esa cháchara sobre su gusto por las pelirrojas y las pecas no hará que Julia se olvide del peligro que corren sus queridos animales.
¿O sí?
A Julia no le interesa lo más mínimo que un flamante duque se haya instalado en su aletargado pueblecito, y menos aún cuando se entera de su escandaloso comportamiento en Londres. El guapísimo duque de Weston llega envuelto en rumores de deudas de juego, relaciones ilícitas y reyertas de taberna. Pero además pretende construir un molino en el paraje natural favorito de Julia, lo que dejará sin hogar a sus queridas nutrias.
Diga ella lo que diga, el testarudo lord Weston se niega a renunciar a su proyecto. Sin embargo, esta «sabihonda» no se rendirá fácilmente. Ayudada por sus hermanas, Julia habrá de encontrar la manera de persuadir a lord Weston de que busque otra forma de aumentar sus rentas.
Todo sería más sencillo si el apuesto duque no disfrutara tanto haciéndola rabiar. O si no se empeñara en seducirla y en fingirse interesado en ella. Aun así, toda esa cháchara sobre su gusto por las pelirrojas y las pecas no hará que Julia se olvide del peligro que corren sus queridos animales.
¿O sí?
131 pages, Kindle Edition
First published August 9, 2017
692 people are currently reading
322 people want to read
About the author
Samantha Holt
305 books701 followersSamantha Holt resides in Warwickshire, England, with her twin girls, having followed her soldier husband around the UK for nearly 10 years. Growing up in Hampshire, she was inspired by the authors Jane Austen and Elizabeth Gaskell, both of whom lived and wrote only miles from her home town.
Samantha loves the romance genre and has been devouring romantic literature for as long as she can remember. History is another passion of hers and she loves to combine her love for history and romance into exciting and passionate tales.
Samantha loves the romance genre and has been devouring romantic literature for as long as she can remember. History is another passion of hers and she loves to combine her love for history and romance into exciting and passionate tales.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 93 reviews
June 24, 2018
Lovely little story
October 17, 2018
3.5/5 Stars.
A completely new author for me and I'm liking her so far. Her writing style reminds me of Darcy Burke to a certain extent, it's light, fun and emotional enough to get you invested. Mostly I enjoy that it's a quick, easy read.
I'm currently on a streak of bluestocking hence stumbled my way into this series. Julia Chadwick is one of the infamous and mostly ignored Chadwick sisters; each cursed with bright red hair and a penchant for having unconvential quirks. Julia's happens to be a love for animals and the wild, currently focussed on a family of otters living by the river bank near their house. Go figure.
Guy Weston is the Duke of Weston who's recently moved to country to build a mill on the fields by the river (remember the otters). He badly needs to earn more money as his half-brother Stephen has gambled away too much, and Guy now has to support the young girl his brother knocked up. You'll be told at least 20 time in the first 50% of the book how incredibly handsome and attractive Guy was. However, I did like him - he's older hence a little mature, he finds Julia's quirks intriguing rather than odd. He's respectful and is trying hard to guide his brother to the right path.
From their first interaction you can see that they feel a palpable attraction, which is soon overpowered by a war of wits. Guy wants to build a mill to earn money and Julia doesn't want the Otters land disturbed. Their interactions and how they get to know each other is really well done, and I instantly rooted for them. The plot also flows easily, and the supporting characters fit in well with the story. I will be reading the next in the series - which is basically the other Chadwick girls.
Overall a fun, light but highly enjoyable HR. It's a short book, so when you're in the mood for something quick and cute - give this a shot.
A completely new author for me and I'm liking her so far. Her writing style reminds me of Darcy Burke to a certain extent, it's light, fun and emotional enough to get you invested. Mostly I enjoy that it's a quick, easy read.
I'm currently on a streak of bluestocking hence stumbled my way into this series. Julia Chadwick is one of the infamous and mostly ignored Chadwick sisters; each cursed with bright red hair and a penchant for having unconvential quirks. Julia's happens to be a love for animals and the wild, currently focussed on a family of otters living by the river bank near their house. Go figure.
Guy Weston is the Duke of Weston who's recently moved to country to build a mill on the fields by the river (remember the otters). He badly needs to earn more money as his half-brother Stephen has gambled away too much, and Guy now has to support the young girl his brother knocked up. You'll be told at least 20 time in the first 50% of the book how incredibly handsome and attractive Guy was. However, I did like him - he's older hence a little mature, he finds Julia's quirks intriguing rather than odd. He's respectful and is trying hard to guide his brother to the right path.
From their first interaction you can see that they feel a palpable attraction, which is soon overpowered by a war of wits. Guy wants to build a mill to earn money and Julia doesn't want the Otters land disturbed. Their interactions and how they get to know each other is really well done, and I instantly rooted for them. The plot also flows easily, and the supporting characters fit in well with the story. I will be reading the next in the series - which is basically the other Chadwick girls.
Overall a fun, light but highly enjoyable HR. It's a short book, so when you're in the mood for something quick and cute - give this a shot.
March 21, 2024
A Regency romance where otters brought together
the H + h.
The leads felt a mutual attraction physically,
intellectually, & socially (witty verbal discourse).
The sisters lent wit and wisdom. If only the story
were 2-3 X longer.
the H + h.
The leads felt a mutual attraction physically,
intellectually, & socially (witty verbal discourse).
The sisters lent wit and wisdom. If only the story
were 2-3 X longer.
August 9, 2017
'Julia and the Duke' by Samantha Holt is Book Two in the "Bluestocking Brides" series. This is the story of Lady Julia Chadwick and Guy, Duke of Weston. I have read the previous book "Amelia and the Viscount" but feel this can be a standalone book. With that said...I must say this is a great series and you might not want to miss in it! This book has about 120 pages...so it a nice easy read!
Julia is the oldest of the Chadwick sister. Julia too is a Bluestocking who loves to study animals and has been watching Otters and their mating habits. Julia was just about to witness their new babies when Guy comes out of the woods and scared them away. Once Julia got her voice from the shock of his good looks....she let him have a piece of her mind. Guy thought she was injured or attacked at first...Guy hasn't ever seen a women willing to get dirty it seems.
They have a very funny bickering meeting that just makes you want to plow through this book and read their happy ever after. I so love this sisters in the book and just can't wait for more stories by Ms. Holt!
Loved it!!!
"My honest review is for a special copy I voluntarily read."
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Julia is the oldest of the Chadwick sister. Julia too is a Bluestocking who loves to study animals and has been watching Otters and their mating habits. Julia was just about to witness their new babies when Guy comes out of the woods and scared them away. Once Julia got her voice from the shock of his good looks....she let him have a piece of her mind. Guy thought she was injured or attacked at first...Guy hasn't ever seen a women willing to get dirty it seems.
They have a very funny bickering meeting that just makes you want to plow through this book and read their happy ever after. I so love this sisters in the book and just can't wait for more stories by Ms. Holt!
Loved it!!!
"My honest review is for a special copy I voluntarily read."
https://www.amazon.com/gp/profile/A2H...
https://www.goodreads.com/user/show/1...
https://twitter.com/soapsrus68
https://www.facebook.com/RomanceBookR...
http://sissymaereads.blogspot.com/
http://booklikes.com/blog
https://romancebookreviewforyou.wordp...
https://www.tumblr.com/blog/romancebo...
https://plus.google.com/+SissyHicks
August 9, 2017
Julia and the Duke (Bluestocking Brides Book 2) by Samantha Holt is a delightful Regency Romance has so much to offer readers. While, book 2 in her simply wonderful "Bluestocking Brides" series, it can be read as a stand alone. This series is about the Chadwick sisters, not a traditional family of young ladies, their antics will have you smiling. See, "Amelia and the Viscount", book 1.
This is the story of Guy, Duke of Weston and Lady Julia Chadwick. What a couple they make! They'll like oil and water. Julia is determined to save the otters in the area. Her and her sisters antics had me in stitches. Guy is determined to make a life for his siblings and make the estate he inherited prosper for all.
A quick read filled with witty banter, wildly funny antics, romance and passion. I enjoyed watching Guy and Julia make their budding relationship blossom into the love of a lifetime.
Another great read by the talented Samantha Holt. I wait patiently for the next Chadwick sister's adventure.
Ms. Holt is a talented author, one who pulls her readers into her character's lives and captures their hearts. Another hit for Samantha Holt. A must read and a definite keeper!
Rating: 5
Heat rating: Mild
Reviewed by: AprilR
This is the story of Guy, Duke of Weston and Lady Julia Chadwick. What a couple they make! They'll like oil and water. Julia is determined to save the otters in the area. Her and her sisters antics had me in stitches. Guy is determined to make a life for his siblings and make the estate he inherited prosper for all.
A quick read filled with witty banter, wildly funny antics, romance and passion. I enjoyed watching Guy and Julia make their budding relationship blossom into the love of a lifetime.
Another great read by the talented Samantha Holt. I wait patiently for the next Chadwick sister's adventure.
Ms. Holt is a talented author, one who pulls her readers into her character's lives and captures their hearts. Another hit for Samantha Holt. A must read and a definite keeper!
Rating: 5
Heat rating: Mild
Reviewed by: AprilR
November 8, 2017
4.5
Picnic, sabotage and otters :)
Julia likes to study the habits of otters. When the new duke in town plan to build a flour mill down by the river where her beloved mustelids live, it's up to Julia (and her sisters) to convince him, by all means ,to abandon the idea and protect the animal's habitat. When it comes to the Chadwick girls, you can expect funny and ingenious way to delay the project ;p
It's the second novella in the series and I found it so much more entertaining than the first one. In my opinion, if an author put animals in the story, especially wild ones, he/she have a head start. But the characters and their romance charmed me just as much. Julia misinterpreted Guy's amusement as arrogance and he have too much fun riling and baiting her to rectify her misconceptions. It's even more sweeter to see how the heroine can bring out his playful side when we know that Guy have so many responsibilities (and not all of them are his but he take care of it either) and how seriously he take his duties.
I still have two others novella to read but I have a feeling this one will stay my favorite.
Picnic, sabotage and otters :)
Julia likes to study the habits of otters. When the new duke in town plan to build a flour mill down by the river where her beloved mustelids live, it's up to Julia (and her sisters) to convince him, by all means ,to abandon the idea and protect the animal's habitat. When it comes to the Chadwick girls, you can expect funny and ingenious way to delay the project ;p
It's the second novella in the series and I found it so much more entertaining than the first one. In my opinion, if an author put animals in the story, especially wild ones, he/she have a head start. But the characters and their romance charmed me just as much. Julia misinterpreted Guy's amusement as arrogance and he have too much fun riling and baiting her to rectify her misconceptions. It's even more sweeter to see how the heroine can bring out his playful side when we know that Guy have so many responsibilities (and not all of them are his but he take care of it either) and how seriously he take his duties.
I still have two others novella to read but I have a feeling this one will stay my favorite.
August 31, 2017
i liked this one better than the first one.
November 9, 2022
Una historia rápida y divertida con unos protagonistas que tienen química y funcionan bastante bien para el largo del libro.
August 25, 2017
Gw lebih suka buku 2 ini disbanding buku 1 ehehehe.. dari awal jg ude ngincer mo baca ini si sebenernya, tapi ya gitu.. gak afdol kl gak baca dari awal kan ehehehe..
Julia sekarang jadi the Eldest girl of Chadwick (setelah Amelia nikah), masih dengan hobinya research soal mating animals nya dan masih tetep gak mood buat mikirin pernikahan, emaknya sampe kesel2 ngadepin mereka b3, ah.. adeknya yg satu lagi sekarang lg hobi maen kartu (magic trick) setelah hobi nyanyi dgn suara sumbang di buku satu ehehehe.. Julia sekarang lagi mantengin kehidupan Berang-berang (Otters) dan si Otters ini baru punya anak, Julia bisa tengkurep dipinggir kali seharian buat ngamatain gerak gerik si Otters sampai suatu hari
Gw baca ini pas lagi gak bisa tidur dan gak bisa makan huhuhuhuhuhuhu….
Julia sekarang jadi the Eldest girl of Chadwick (setelah Amelia nikah), masih dengan hobinya research soal mating animals nya dan masih tetep gak mood buat mikirin pernikahan, emaknya sampe kesel2 ngadepin mereka b3, ah.. adeknya yg satu lagi sekarang lg hobi maen kartu (magic trick) setelah hobi nyanyi dgn suara sumbang di buku satu ehehehe.. Julia sekarang lagi mantengin kehidupan Berang-berang (Otters) dan si Otters ini baru punya anak, Julia bisa tengkurep dipinggir kali seharian buat ngamatain gerak gerik si Otters sampai suatu hari
Gw baca ini pas lagi gak bisa tidur dan gak bisa makan huhuhuhuhuhuhu….
August 6, 2017
"One of them might now be a viscountess but it does not clear the taint of scandal from those frightful Chadwick girls. Why we must deign to entertain them, I will never know!" Lady Bromsley, Countess of Marlbury.
A new duke moving into their sleepy village doesn’t interest Julia, especially when she hears all about his scandalous behaviour in London where there are rumours of gambling debts, illicit liaisons, and pub brawls surround the far-too-handsome Duke of Weston. He also happens to want to build a mill on her favourite nature spot, meaning Julia’s beloved otters will be homeless.
This is only a short story but it is so very good, Julia & Guy are delightful & their verbal spats so entertaining & funny. Julia is not a simpering debutants but a young woman who sticks to her convictions & who isn’t afraid of being dirty. She also wears spectacles which Guy seems to like to push up her nose. Guy is gorgeous & thoroughly enjoys crossing swords with Julia & his attraction is obvious from their first encounter.
The author is one of my must read authors as I love her books & this more than lives up to my expectations. A lovely novel to curl up with & pass a few delightful hours. I look forward to Catherine & Emma’s stories.
My honest review is for a special copy I voluntarily read
A new duke moving into their sleepy village doesn’t interest Julia, especially when she hears all about his scandalous behaviour in London where there are rumours of gambling debts, illicit liaisons, and pub brawls surround the far-too-handsome Duke of Weston. He also happens to want to build a mill on her favourite nature spot, meaning Julia’s beloved otters will be homeless.
This is only a short story but it is so very good, Julia & Guy are delightful & their verbal spats so entertaining & funny. Julia is not a simpering debutants but a young woman who sticks to her convictions & who isn’t afraid of being dirty. She also wears spectacles which Guy seems to like to push up her nose. Guy is gorgeous & thoroughly enjoys crossing swords with Julia & his attraction is obvious from their first encounter.
The author is one of my must read authors as I love her books & this more than lives up to my expectations. A lovely novel to curl up with & pass a few delightful hours. I look forward to Catherine & Emma’s stories.
My honest review is for a special copy I voluntarily read
August 10, 2017
I liked the first one more then this one. I really did not believe that they actually loved each other. The brother seemed to do nothing for the story. It was a cute read but I kinda of had to pick it up once in a while to read it as it did not keep my interest like the first one.
November 29, 2017
Otter mate for life...eine Sache, die ich gelernt habe. Die Bücher kommen zwar nicht an Spindle Cove heran, aber die Frauen sind dennoch super...
November 25, 2018
Enjoyable. 3☆
December 7, 2017
Nicely written, entertaining romance!
August 11, 2017
I Loved this comical and sexy novella
Publisher's Description:
One of them might now be a viscountess but it does not clear the taint of scandal from those frightful Chadwick girls. Why we must deign to entertain them, I will never know!" Lady Bromsley, Countess of Marlbury.
A new duke moving into their sleepy village doesn’t interest Julia, especially when she hears all about his scandalous behavior in London. Rumors of gambling debts, illicit liaisons, and pub brawls surround the far-too-handsome Duke of Weston.
The far-too-handsome duke who happens to want to build a mill on her favorite nature spot, meaning Julia’s beloved otters will be homeless.
No matter what she says, the stubborn man will not back down, but this bluestocking will not give up easily. With the help of her sisters, she must find a way to persuade him to make money another way.
If only the far-too-handsome duke did not seem to enjoy riling her so much. If only he would not insist on getting under her skin and pretending to be interested in her. All this talk of liking redheads and freckles will not make her forget those animals in need.
Will it?
My Thoughts:
Julia and the Duke is a comical and sensual Regency novella that I couldn't put down.
Julia is most certainly the most serious sister of the Chadwick girls, but that seriousness leads to some very comical moments that will have the reader laughing out loud.
I found this second book of the new series completely absorbing with a well developed storyline with memorable characters that make you yearn for more.
I gave this book 4.75 of 5.0 stars for storyline and characterization and a sensual rating of 4 of 5 flames. Although this book is not truly sexual in nature it has an underlying sensuality that is felt from the first chapter.
The addition of a sausage loving and stealing big mutt of a dog and the otters that Julia is spending time observing is sheer genius making this an unforgettable story.
Publisher's Description:
One of them might now be a viscountess but it does not clear the taint of scandal from those frightful Chadwick girls. Why we must deign to entertain them, I will never know!" Lady Bromsley, Countess of Marlbury.
A new duke moving into their sleepy village doesn’t interest Julia, especially when she hears all about his scandalous behavior in London. Rumors of gambling debts, illicit liaisons, and pub brawls surround the far-too-handsome Duke of Weston.
The far-too-handsome duke who happens to want to build a mill on her favorite nature spot, meaning Julia’s beloved otters will be homeless.
No matter what she says, the stubborn man will not back down, but this bluestocking will not give up easily. With the help of her sisters, she must find a way to persuade him to make money another way.
If only the far-too-handsome duke did not seem to enjoy riling her so much. If only he would not insist on getting under her skin and pretending to be interested in her. All this talk of liking redheads and freckles will not make her forget those animals in need.
Will it?
My Thoughts:
Julia and the Duke is a comical and sensual Regency novella that I couldn't put down.
Julia is most certainly the most serious sister of the Chadwick girls, but that seriousness leads to some very comical moments that will have the reader laughing out loud.
I found this second book of the new series completely absorbing with a well developed storyline with memorable characters that make you yearn for more.
I gave this book 4.75 of 5.0 stars for storyline and characterization and a sensual rating of 4 of 5 flames. Although this book is not truly sexual in nature it has an underlying sensuality that is felt from the first chapter.
The addition of a sausage loving and stealing big mutt of a dog and the otters that Julia is spending time observing is sheer genius making this an unforgettable story.
August 9, 2017
This is book #2 of the Bluestocking Brides Books. It is the story of Julia and Guy.
Lady Bromsley, Countess of Marlbury thinks the Chadwick girls are tainted with scandal.
She has no desire to entertain them, even though one of them is a viscountess.
Amelia has married a Viscount (book #1), but her mom worries about her daughters who still live at home.
One daughter studies the stars, one is a nature lover, and the other can't figure out what interest she most likes.
Julia is one of the Chadwick girls, a bluestocking who loves animals.
Guy is Lord Weston, a newly titled Duke who purchased the estate bordering the Chadwick's.
Julia is not impressed with newest member to town. The new duke is followed by rumors from London of gambling debts, illicit liaisons, and pub brawls. She is not awestruck hearing any of his scandalous behaviors or by him being far too handsome. When she finds that he wants to build a mill at her favorite nature spot, she is distraught. She is afraid her beloved otters will have no place to live. She tries talking to Guy, but he will not back down. Even with him being stubborn, Julia will not give up her plight easily. She asks her sisters to help. She has to find a way to get him to make money some other way.
Guy enjoys annoying Julia. He loves getting under her skin. He talks of liking red-heads and freckles. She feels he is pretending to be interested in her so that he will make her forget about the otters.
I enjoyed Guy & Julia's story. It is a quick read. I love their wit & funny playfulness. Their fondness makes their bond develop into a love affair.
Can't wait til the next story in the series.
Lady Bromsley, Countess of Marlbury thinks the Chadwick girls are tainted with scandal.
She has no desire to entertain them, even though one of them is a viscountess.
Amelia has married a Viscount (book #1), but her mom worries about her daughters who still live at home.
One daughter studies the stars, one is a nature lover, and the other can't figure out what interest she most likes.
Julia is one of the Chadwick girls, a bluestocking who loves animals.
Guy is Lord Weston, a newly titled Duke who purchased the estate bordering the Chadwick's.
Julia is not impressed with newest member to town. The new duke is followed by rumors from London of gambling debts, illicit liaisons, and pub brawls. She is not awestruck hearing any of his scandalous behaviors or by him being far too handsome. When she finds that he wants to build a mill at her favorite nature spot, she is distraught. She is afraid her beloved otters will have no place to live. She tries talking to Guy, but he will not back down. Even with him being stubborn, Julia will not give up her plight easily. She asks her sisters to help. She has to find a way to get him to make money some other way.
Guy enjoys annoying Julia. He loves getting under her skin. He talks of liking red-heads and freckles. She feels he is pretending to be interested in her so that he will make her forget about the otters.
I enjoyed Guy & Julia's story. It is a quick read. I love their wit & funny playfulness. Their fondness makes their bond develop into a love affair.
Can't wait til the next story in the series.
December 9, 2017
Julia is the eldest unmarried Chadwick sister, and this is her story. She's a naturalist in a time when few knew what one was and fewer still knew that a woman could have the intellect necessary to appreciate the natural world. Guy is a duke with a wastrel younger brother in dire need of a new, quieter setting as well as a new source of revenue. He purchases land near the Chadwick home and pursues the idea of setting up a mill near the river. Unfortunately, that's the same river currently occupied by the otters that are the focus of Julia's recent study. Julia is determined to stop his mill plans regardless of her attraction to him, an attraction which becomes easier to ignore as the rumors of his possible misconduct start to flow. An unruly flock of pigeons, a risky late-night ride, a shocking misunderstanding - all these events work together to bring both Guy and Julia to the truth of their feelings and force them to confront their future.
This is a delightful battle of wills as Julia opens up Guy's mind to the beauty of nature and Guy shows Julia that not every rumor is to be believed. Their chemistry is often the only voice of reason between these two, and the writing perfectly depicts each step of their budding frenemy status. It's a fun book to read with compelling secondary characters and attitudes that are authentic for the period. There's one steamy love scene near the end of the book, but propriety is adhered to at all times.
I loved every bit of this book and look forward to reading more in this series. I voluntarily reviewed an ARC of this book provided through Booksprout.
This is a delightful battle of wills as Julia opens up Guy's mind to the beauty of nature and Guy shows Julia that not every rumor is to be believed. Their chemistry is often the only voice of reason between these two, and the writing perfectly depicts each step of their budding frenemy status. It's a fun book to read with compelling secondary characters and attitudes that are authentic for the period. There's one steamy love scene near the end of the book, but propriety is adhered to at all times.
I loved every bit of this book and look forward to reading more in this series. I voluntarily reviewed an ARC of this book provided through Booksprout.
August 9, 2017
I’m a fan of Samantha Holt’s historical romances, so I immediately grabbed the opportunity to dive into her latest release.
The book opened in a way I’ve never read before and was a pleasant surprise. What an ‘otterly’ unique way to immediately give a taste of the heroine’s and hero’s character by throwing them together like this. I was instantly intrigued and enamored (with both of them). Julia is full of spunk and smartness, sass and determination, which is fitting for a freckled redhead. But she does have a vulnerable, quieter side too, and it was fabulous to see those two sides war for attention and both fall helplessly – and rather reluctantly – in love with the Duke of Weston. Guy is totally swoonworthy and I enjoyed his introduction and development just as much as rooting for or against Julia. I loved his softer side and exasperation with his brother.
Another highlight of the novel were Julia’s sisters, all fascinating characters in their own right. Amelia is mentioned, and as soon as I found out that she’s the heroine of Book 1 in this Bluestocking Brides series, I downloaded her book too.
I can recommend this book to all lovers of sensual, witty and intelligently emotional historical romance with believable, lovable protagonists. (I was offered an ARC in exchange for an honest review.)
The book opened in a way I’ve never read before and was a pleasant surprise. What an ‘otterly’ unique way to immediately give a taste of the heroine’s and hero’s character by throwing them together like this. I was instantly intrigued and enamored (with both of them). Julia is full of spunk and smartness, sass and determination, which is fitting for a freckled redhead. But she does have a vulnerable, quieter side too, and it was fabulous to see those two sides war for attention and both fall helplessly – and rather reluctantly – in love with the Duke of Weston. Guy is totally swoonworthy and I enjoyed his introduction and development just as much as rooting for or against Julia. I loved his softer side and exasperation with his brother.
Another highlight of the novel were Julia’s sisters, all fascinating characters in their own right. Amelia is mentioned, and as soon as I found out that she’s the heroine of Book 1 in this Bluestocking Brides series, I downloaded her book too.
I can recommend this book to all lovers of sensual, witty and intelligently emotional historical romance with believable, lovable protagonists. (I was offered an ARC in exchange for an honest review.)
December 19, 2022
Devo dire che ho trovato questo secondo volume della serie migliore rispetto al primo, principalmente perchè non c'è la magica folgorazione del duca che apre gli occhi e si accorge che quello che vuole realmente lo ha sempre avuto davanti ai piedi.
Qui abbiamo Guy, duca di Weston, che ha appena comprato la tenuta confinante con quella delle sorelle Chadwick. Guy si è trasferito insieme al fratello Stephen, un diciassettenne senza cervello che si diverte a bere, far rissa, giocare a carte e sedurre fanciulle. Dopo che Stephen ne ha messa incinta una, Guy decide che è ora di cambiare aria e lo porta in campagna. Solo che adesso deve trovare un modo per rimpinguare le casse di famiglia e pensa che la costruzione di un mulino lungo il fiume porterà benefici a lui e alla gente del paese. Ma non ha fatto i conti con Julia Chadwick!
Julia è una grande appassionata di animali e di natura e ora la sua attenzione è focalizzata sulle lontre che vivono al fiume. Il mulino voluto da Guy distruggerebbe il loro habitat e quindi Julia è decisa a far cambiare idea al duca.
Guy rimane incantato da questa ragazza così diversa dalle altre, così appassionata e determinata.
E forse i due riusciranno a trovare un compromesso.
Lettura davvero piacevole e molto veloce. Anche in questo volume siamo intorno alle 100 pagine quindi è un libro adatto a passare un'oretta di relax senza pensieri.
Julia è assolutamente una protagonista fuori dagli schemi, sempre in mezzo ai prati, con i vestiti infangati, senza nessun pensiero per le consuetudini e l'etichetta.
Ho apprezzato Guy e il suo voler salvare il fratello e mi è piaciuto molto il suo rapportarsi con Julia.
Viene introdotto anche il prossimo protagonista, Morgan che mi ha molto incuriosita.
Qui abbiamo Guy, duca di Weston, che ha appena comprato la tenuta confinante con quella delle sorelle Chadwick. Guy si è trasferito insieme al fratello Stephen, un diciassettenne senza cervello che si diverte a bere, far rissa, giocare a carte e sedurre fanciulle. Dopo che Stephen ne ha messa incinta una, Guy decide che è ora di cambiare aria e lo porta in campagna. Solo che adesso deve trovare un modo per rimpinguare le casse di famiglia e pensa che la costruzione di un mulino lungo il fiume porterà benefici a lui e alla gente del paese. Ma non ha fatto i conti con Julia Chadwick!
Julia è una grande appassionata di animali e di natura e ora la sua attenzione è focalizzata sulle lontre che vivono al fiume. Il mulino voluto da Guy distruggerebbe il loro habitat e quindi Julia è decisa a far cambiare idea al duca.
Guy rimane incantato da questa ragazza così diversa dalle altre, così appassionata e determinata.
E forse i due riusciranno a trovare un compromesso.
Lettura davvero piacevole e molto veloce. Anche in questo volume siamo intorno alle 100 pagine quindi è un libro adatto a passare un'oretta di relax senza pensieri.
Julia è assolutamente una protagonista fuori dagli schemi, sempre in mezzo ai prati, con i vestiti infangati, senza nessun pensiero per le consuetudini e l'etichetta.
Ho apprezzato Guy e il suo voler salvare il fratello e mi è piaciuto molto il suo rapportarsi con Julia.
Viene introdotto anche il prossimo protagonista, Morgan che mi ha molto incuriosita.
August 11, 2017
Red hair, freckles, bluestocking, otters, mills, a dog, a Duke and very sticky mud…what wonderful possibilities!
This is a charming story of two people that appear to be at odds. More accurately, she is at odds and he is intrigued. Julia Chadwick is “one of those frightful Chadwick girls” that have been linked to scandal due to a scandal involving her cousin Bess. Guy, Lord Weston and a Duke is just trying to keep his half-brother out of trouble and thinks the country is a good place to start. Their interactions made me smile and chuckle. Guy is a teaser and enjoys catching Julia off guard. The sisters are fun and not your typical gently bred misses. They are quirky and occasionally irreverent and that leads to more smiles. Guy’s friend Morgan, an earl, lends his own charm and humor to the story and Guy’s dog is priceless. With the Chadwick family Ms. Holt has invited is to visit with a fun, witty, loving and sometimes boisterous group of young ladies just trying to find their HEA.
This is the second in the series and can be read as a standalone book, but I have already purchased Amelia’s story so I am caught up and ready for the next adventure with this family.
I voluntarily reviewed an Advance Reader Copy of this book.
This is a charming story of two people that appear to be at odds. More accurately, she is at odds and he is intrigued. Julia Chadwick is “one of those frightful Chadwick girls” that have been linked to scandal due to a scandal involving her cousin Bess. Guy, Lord Weston and a Duke is just trying to keep his half-brother out of trouble and thinks the country is a good place to start. Their interactions made me smile and chuckle. Guy is a teaser and enjoys catching Julia off guard. The sisters are fun and not your typical gently bred misses. They are quirky and occasionally irreverent and that leads to more smiles. Guy’s friend Morgan, an earl, lends his own charm and humor to the story and Guy’s dog is priceless. With the Chadwick family Ms. Holt has invited is to visit with a fun, witty, loving and sometimes boisterous group of young ladies just trying to find their HEA.
This is the second in the series and can be read as a standalone book, but I have already purchased Amelia’s story so I am caught up and ready for the next adventure with this family.
I voluntarily reviewed an Advance Reader Copy of this book.
August 9, 2017
Even though Amelia has married a Viscount, Mama still worries that her remaining Bluestocking daughters will never marry. One is a nature lover, one studies the stars, and one can’t make up her mind what interests her.
Julia Chadwick is the nature lover. She studies animals around the estate, records her observations, and has even had some of her work published. Guy, Lord Weston, is a newly titled duke who has purchased the estate bordering the Chadwick’s, hoping a move to the country will help to tame his wild younger brother. When they meet by the river where she is watching otters and he wants to build a mill, sparks fly. There seems to be no common ground, but there is an attraction. Is there any way to close the gap between Julia and the Duke?
Julia and the Duke, the second story in the Bluestocking Brides series, is fast-paced and full of humor. The characters are great. The hero and heroine were wonderful together. Dialogue between these two was snarky and delightful. The sisters and Mama were quite entertaining in their own right. I recommend this one. It won’t just make you smile; it will make you laugh. I look forward to the next book.
I received a complimentary copy of this book. I voluntarily reviewed it and the comments are my own.
Julia Chadwick is the nature lover. She studies animals around the estate, records her observations, and has even had some of her work published. Guy, Lord Weston, is a newly titled duke who has purchased the estate bordering the Chadwick’s, hoping a move to the country will help to tame his wild younger brother. When they meet by the river where she is watching otters and he wants to build a mill, sparks fly. There seems to be no common ground, but there is an attraction. Is there any way to close the gap between Julia and the Duke?
Julia and the Duke, the second story in the Bluestocking Brides series, is fast-paced and full of humor. The characters are great. The hero and heroine were wonderful together. Dialogue between these two was snarky and delightful. The sisters and Mama were quite entertaining in their own right. I recommend this one. It won’t just make you smile; it will make you laugh. I look forward to the next book.
I received a complimentary copy of this book. I voluntarily reviewed it and the comments are my own.
August 30, 2018
I love Samantha Holt's writing & I knew this would be a great series & Book 1 & 2 have not disappointed! Our heroine, Lady Julia Chadwick, is the most serious & oldest of the Chadwick sisters & is a Bluestocking who loves animals & studying them - she has been observing a family of otters for quite sometime. Our hero, Guy, Duke of Weston. comes upon Julia in the woods while she is just about to witness the new babies in the family of otters & he scares them away. Julia is startled & speechless (mostly because of Guy being so handsome) & when she does get her voice back she really lets him know how she feels in not uncertain terms. Their bickering & bantering back & forth on their first meeting is hilarious & you just can't wait to turn the next page to read their happily ever after moment. I love the sisters interaction in the book & can't wait to start Book 3. I highly recommend this book to all historical romance readers & it can be read as a stand alone but you may want to read the whole series as the sisters do appear in books that follow.
August 9, 2017
Can an Otter bring two people together? I am smiling as I type this review. Julia Chadwick was a bluestocking who loved animals and felt she had to be their protector. Guy was just trying to get his younger brother out of London and bring him to the country to get him in line. Two people on different paths in life who cross at an unexpected place. A riverbank where Julia was watching her beloved otter family in the river. Guy was there to built a mill that might disrupt that plan. Holt brings her characters to life and quickly engages the reader in the story. Julia the oldest of her 3 siblings left at home, had never considered herself attractive, but Guy was enchanted at first sight. This is the second book in the Bluestocking Bride series and it does not disappoint. The attraction is strong and the humor comes through and will keep you engaged. Ready for the story of the next sister and hopefully will not have long to wait!!
June 7, 2022
In a bid to drag his errant brother out of the mess he has made of his life, the Duke of Weston removes himself to the country, where hopefully he can make a fresh start and bring his brother into line. Coming upon a bedraggled young woman amongst the reeds beside the river, Guy thinks the worst has happened to her and rushes to her rescue, but to his shock and surprise he discovers Miss Julia Chadwick admonishing him for disturbing the otter family she has been observing. When Julia discovers that Guy intends to build a mill, which will destroy the otters' habitat, the gloves come off, with the added threat by her younger sister to defend her. Guy cannot help but be amused by the feisty redhead with her spectacles sliding down her nose, but when he extends the olive branch and asks her to show him why she is so invested in the otters, new opportunities arise. This novella comes to a happy conclusion where even the otters are happy.
August 25, 2017
WOW what a great fun read. JULIA AND THE DUKE is book 2 in Ms. Holt's Bluestocking Brides series, however you do NOT have to read the previous book in order to enjoy this one. I will say that I think reading a series in order, even if the story-lines do NOT require that, it still adds something to the story. I think you get to watch the characters, even secondary ones, grow and somehow become more. Now for JULIA AND THE DUKE I found myself laughing out loud at several moments within the story. Watching Julia fall in love is quite entertaining. Fans of Ms. Holt already know she writes delightfully fun and engaging stories with characters we love and JULIA AND THE DUKE is no different. This is a great story. I recommend this one to all fans of easy, quick historical romances. There is no great drama or drawn out story-line, just a great story of two people who fall in love.
December 2, 2017
This is the story of oldest Chadwick sisters Lady Julia Chadwick and Guy, Duke of Weston. Julia is quite the bluestocking who loves to study animals. She has been watching Otters and their mating habits when he comes and scares them away, what Julia doesn’t expect is a wickedly handsome Duke. Guy wants to build a mill at her favorite water spot and she must find a way to dissuade him. Guy is determined to make a life for his siblings and make the estate he inherited prosper and for that to happen he needs to build the mill. I loved the witty banter between the two, the instant attraction between them as Rose tries to find a way to persuade him to make money another way.
This is my honest opinions after I voluntarily read a copy of this book of anthologies that was provided to me with no requirements for a review.
This is my honest opinions after I voluntarily read a copy of this book of anthologies that was provided to me with no requirements for a review.
June 3, 2022
I received this book as an ARC and having read this author previously, I was excited to have been given the opportunity to read and review. I was pleasantly surprised to realized that it is a series and all four books were included. This is the story of four sisters, although there are actually five, but one has already found the love of her life and married. Although it is a series, I like that the author wrote the books so each can be read as a stand alone. She introduced the sisters in the first book but cleverly gave hints in each book to the men who will appear in the next book. I truly enjoyed the series and would highly recommend for your reading pleasure. If you enjoy following sibling sisters and the men who capture their hearts, I strongly suggest you pick this one up.
September 28, 2017
Good and short story
Gave it 4 stars only because such fast read, really could not too deep into it, but it was novella, and short to be expected. It was very interesting group of characters. Some good humor in it. For short, but got to know H/h and like them. Being short not too much adventure, or villains. By the time they got to know each other, and both know they cared for each other it ended. Had HEA. At very end a little steam. I have read several books by this author, and really enjoyed. If you are looking for a good, but short read, I am sure you will like it, and I recommend it. I am waiting for next book, because I will sure read it.
Gave it 4 stars only because such fast read, really could not too deep into it, but it was novella, and short to be expected. It was very interesting group of characters. Some good humor in it. For short, but got to know H/h and like them. Being short not too much adventure, or villains. By the time they got to know each other, and both know they cared for each other it ended. Had HEA. At very end a little steam. I have read several books by this author, and really enjoyed. If you are looking for a good, but short read, I am sure you will like it, and I recommend it. I am waiting for next book, because I will sure read it.
August 7, 2017
"Good Lord, nature really was a work of art sometimes."
Such a humorous and fun historical romance! This is the second of the Chadwick sisters to find love when they least expect it. Although a short read, it is a full story and will have you laughing at the verbal sparring between Julia and Guy.
So close to 5 stars for me! The only thing holding it back is the other sisters. As a reader and knowing they will soon have their own stories to share they seem to be too much in the background and not shown in the best light.
Such a humorous and fun historical romance! This is the second of the Chadwick sisters to find love when they least expect it. Although a short read, it is a full story and will have you laughing at the verbal sparring between Julia and Guy.
So close to 5 stars for me! The only thing holding it back is the other sisters. As a reader and knowing they will soon have their own stories to share they seem to be too much in the background and not shown in the best light.
August 27, 2017
Julia and the Duke is the second book in this series by Samantha Holt. I loved this book and had a hard time putting it down. I adore Julia and her love of all things nature and animals. Julia meets the most handsome man she's ever laid eyes on, in the woods. Their banter and conversations had me laughing out loud and hoping these two would find love in the end. This book was so well written, the story flowed so well and the characters were well developed. I cannot wait to read the next book in this series and find out which scandalous Chadwick sister is the next to find love.
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