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The Duchess's Investigative Society #7
Loves of an Earl's Daughter
Mortal danger might not ruin their friendship. But falling in love at Christmas most certainly could...
Violet Musgrave is used to heartbreak. The string of men who've let her down over the years made sure of that. So, she has no intention of falling for her handsome best friend, an unrepentant rake she adores. Being alone would be much safer. Or so she thought...
Duke Cameron knows he can never be the kind of man Violet deserves. He's just not built for happily ever after endings. Strictly avoiding romantic entanglements is the only rule he's ever followed. But lately, when he's with Violet, he can't help wondering if it's time to tear that rule asunder once and for all...
When Duke and Violet find themselves embroiled in a mystery that endangers all they hold dear, their feelings for each other will be put to the ultimate test. But when it matters most, will the promise of forever prove worth the potential cost to their friendship—and their hearts?
Loves of a Earl's Daughter is a festive romance with a dash of mystery and a lot of steam between two people who are perfect for one another but can't quite find a way to be together.
Violet Musgrave is used to heartbreak. The string of men who've let her down over the years made sure of that. So, she has no intention of falling for her handsome best friend, an unrepentant rake she adores. Being alone would be much safer. Or so she thought...
Duke Cameron knows he can never be the kind of man Violet deserves. He's just not built for happily ever after endings. Strictly avoiding romantic entanglements is the only rule he's ever followed. But lately, when he's with Violet, he can't help wondering if it's time to tear that rule asunder once and for all...
When Duke and Violet find themselves embroiled in a mystery that endangers all they hold dear, their feelings for each other will be put to the ultimate test. But when it matters most, will the promise of forever prove worth the potential cost to their friendship—and their hearts?
Loves of a Earl's Daughter is a festive romance with a dash of mystery and a lot of steam between two people who are perfect for one another but can't quite find a way to be together.
324 pages, Kindle Edition
Published November 8, 2022
266 people are currently reading
138 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 53 reviews
October 31, 2024
This is the next in the Duchess Investigative Society series, and continues with the Bath side of the family, the Musgraves. This time it is about Violet, the eldest daughter of the scandalous family. She had developed a close relationship with Marmaduke Cameron, the popular lady's man and rake, and talented lawyer. Despite sharing an incredibly memorable kiss, neither of them want to push the boundaries of their friendship, something they both value greatly. Besides, Violet knows that if she were to fall in love with Duke, that her heart would break because he would never be satisfied tying himself to one woman.
This is a story set during Christmas in Bath and Violet is getting ready to celebrate with her family, and Duke preparing to travel to spend the season with his father on their family estate. Unfortunately his plans are placed on hold when he suffers a terrible attack at his offices before he travels. He has made enemies of the notorious Doyle family when he refuses to act as their lawyer to defend the patriarch against a murder charge. The Doyles do not accept his refusal and using a brutish brand of persuasion against him.
When the Musgraves find out, their family insist on moving the Duke into the household for his recovery, and they push for his close friend Violet to provide care for him, ensuring a growing intimacy that only fosters their attraction. But Duke likes and respects Violet as well and they both fight the attraction, not wanting to shatter their friendship. Unfortunately Duke's troubles follow him, endangering his father and his friends as Violet uses her investigative skills to try to help him.
This was a lovely friends to lovers romance, with the added theme of reformed rake, and the extra spice of danger as the Doyles threaten Duke and the ones he loves. It was fast paced with likeable characters, with a sprinkling of Christmas sweetness, and a bit of humour from the quirky Musgrave family, and an element of adventure/danger.
3.75 stars out of 5.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
This is a story set during Christmas in Bath and Violet is getting ready to celebrate with her family, and Duke preparing to travel to spend the season with his father on their family estate. Unfortunately his plans are placed on hold when he suffers a terrible attack at his offices before he travels. He has made enemies of the notorious Doyle family when he refuses to act as their lawyer to defend the patriarch against a murder charge. The Doyles do not accept his refusal and using a brutish brand of persuasion against him.
When the Musgraves find out, their family insist on moving the Duke into the household for his recovery, and they push for his close friend Violet to provide care for him, ensuring a growing intimacy that only fosters their attraction. But Duke likes and respects Violet as well and they both fight the attraction, not wanting to shatter their friendship. Unfortunately Duke's troubles follow him, endangering his father and his friends as Violet uses her investigative skills to try to help him.
This was a lovely friends to lovers romance, with the added theme of reformed rake, and the extra spice of danger as the Doyles threaten Duke and the ones he loves. It was fast paced with likeable characters, with a sprinkling of Christmas sweetness, and a bit of humour from the quirky Musgrave family, and an element of adventure/danger.
3.75 stars out of 5.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
November 13, 2022
Another enjoyable book from Samantha Holt, this story is about Duke and Violet who are best of friends. Duke is a Rake, and has plenty of women, but only for one night, he does not believe in commitment. Violet has not found love but enjoys her friendship with Duke. Their friendship is tested when they kiss. There are some thrilling aspects of the book, which makes the time fly while reading, but does not take away from the romance of Duke and Violet. I will say at parts I was a little lost on Violets family and why they were considered scandalous, it was told but I just felt like I was missing the back story. But this could be because I like knowing everything. A great read and a great couple.
I received a free ARC of this book from Booksprout and am leaving my honest opinion.
I received a free ARC of this book from Booksprout and am leaving my honest opinion.
November 27, 2022
3 1/2 stars I finally inched up to 4. This is a pretty good addition to this series, although I felt the mystery angle took short shrift until the last quarter of the book. Also, although I liked both of the MC's, they were both too perfect for me in comparison to the characters in the previous books, and I thought that detracted a bit from their chemistry. Violet is the most liked, socially acceptable daughter in the family, and her biggest quirk seems to be that she talks to plants. She's not really into marriage due to some minor experiences she's had in the past with the opposite sex (not sure why the word "Loves" is in the title because she's never been in love). Duke really doesn't have flaws, other than the fact that he can't settle down with one woman since he lost both his sister and mother (I'm not quite sure I followed the logic on his relationship phobia, but OK). Duke is trying to track down the baddies who kidnapped his father, and Violet helps him investigate a bit, although she spends most of the time being chastised by Duke for trying.
On the positive side, I liked the friendship dynamic, there were a few scenes where the sexual tension worked, and the sex scenes are decently spicy.
I waffled between the 3 and 4 stars because of occasional spelling/usage errors and a gaffe in continuity toward the end that ended up distracting me during the otherwise exciting escape/confrontation scene. POSSIBLE SPOILER AHEAD..................................................How did Violet get unbound when the baddies had her pretty well tied up? (It's also very unbelievable that she survived the fall from her horse.) I think this writer has improved overall but at times she could benefit from another pair of eyes looking things over before publication.
Bottom line: a fun diversion with some humor, but not my favorite book by this author.
On the positive side, I liked the friendship dynamic, there were a few scenes where the sexual tension worked, and the sex scenes are decently spicy.
I waffled between the 3 and 4 stars because of occasional spelling/usage errors and a gaffe in continuity toward the end that ended up distracting me during the otherwise exciting escape/confrontation scene. POSSIBLE SPOILER AHEAD..................................................How did Violet get unbound when the baddies had her pretty well tied up? (It's also very unbelievable that she survived the fall from her horse.) I think this writer has improved overall but at times she could benefit from another pair of eyes looking things over before publication.
Bottom line: a fun diversion with some humor, but not my favorite book by this author.
July 26, 2023
Violet Musgrave is approaching thirty & on the shelf. So, she has no intention of falling for her handsome best friend, an unrepentant rake she adores. Marmaduke Cameron knows he can never be the kind of man Violet deserves. He's just not built for happily ever after endings. When Duke who is a talented solicitor is beaten up in order to persuade him to defend a crime lord, both he & Vi start to re-evaluate their friendship.
Vi is the second Musgrave sister to find love & it could easily be read on its own. A well written, fast paced book with strong characters. I loved both Duke & Vi, he’s the wealthy successful solicitor who enjoys his bachelor life, Vi is strong, intelligent & quite happy with her freedom, the pair are close friends & everything is fin until they kiss. I loved how their relationship grew & changed & they finally realised what everyone else had known for a while. Added to this lovely romance is the threat from the Doyles. An engrossing read
My honest review is for a special copy I voluntarily read
Vi is the second Musgrave sister to find love & it could easily be read on its own. A well written, fast paced book with strong characters. I loved both Duke & Vi, he’s the wealthy successful solicitor who enjoys his bachelor life, Vi is strong, intelligent & quite happy with her freedom, the pair are close friends & everything is fin until they kiss. I loved how their relationship grew & changed & they finally realised what everyone else had known for a while. Added to this lovely romance is the threat from the Doyles. An engrossing read
My honest review is for a special copy I voluntarily read
November 13, 2022
This is my 38th book by Samantha Holt and I’ve been reading her since 2016.
I am really enjoying this series. Like with any series I read, sometimes I forget things that happened in previous books of the series because by the time the next one comes out, it could be months later and I’ve read a lot of books in that timeframe. In this case, I’ve read 58 books since book 6 came out in August. So needless to say, I was a bit rusty on prior storylines but it is never an issue.
I LOVED Duke and Violet. I loved this story. I loved their story. I loved their chemistry. They seemed like such a fantastic couple. The sex was not super descriptive like I normally like but hotly written. I think their personalities made those scenes even better. My favorite read of the series.
Great read and definitely recommend.
I am really enjoying this series. Like with any series I read, sometimes I forget things that happened in previous books of the series because by the time the next one comes out, it could be months later and I’ve read a lot of books in that timeframe. In this case, I’ve read 58 books since book 6 came out in August. So needless to say, I was a bit rusty on prior storylines but it is never an issue.
I LOVED Duke and Violet. I loved this story. I loved their story. I loved their chemistry. They seemed like such a fantastic couple. The sex was not super descriptive like I normally like but hotly written. I think their personalities made those scenes even better. My favorite read of the series.
Great read and definitely recommend.
November 15, 2022
Intrigue and Forced Proximity… Can It Force Love?
This book had ups and downs for me. I liked the main characters, though they seemed extremes of their type: the spinster determined not to marry (side note: I don’t think this truly was a “thing” back in the day… at least not as often as it shows up in historical romance—because much of women’s possibilities in life hinged on whether they married and HIS potentialities) and the rake who was not ready to reform (or at least didn’t think he was). Even at the start of the book, it’s clear that the H & h have feelings for each other beyond friendship, though neither is ready to risk their friendship…or what they want out of life… until circumstances come up that make them re-evaluate each other and their futures. While the book had plenty of enjoyable witty banter, the heroine didn’t quite have the strength and verve that the reader expects in a book like this. I appreciated that the hero had a growth arc that was completely understandable, given where he started and what he went through in the book. A few little things bothered me. I don’t quite understand why “Loves” is plural in the title. The book clearly shows that she’s never had a good romantic relationship with a man, and there’s no love triangle in the book. So, why “Loves”? I don’t know. Also, I nearly laughed out loud at the idea of the hero being able to feel the soft texture of the heroine’s hair through kid gloves! I have to wear very thin procedural gloves at work, and I would never be able to feel hair softness through them! I imagine it would be much worse through kid gloves. By the way, while this book is a part of a series, you can read it as a standalone without a problem. I haven’t read many in this series, yet book 7 (this one) was completely understandable without having done so.
I received a free copy of this book, but that did not affect my review.
This book had ups and downs for me. I liked the main characters, though they seemed extremes of their type: the spinster determined not to marry (side note: I don’t think this truly was a “thing” back in the day… at least not as often as it shows up in historical romance—because much of women’s possibilities in life hinged on whether they married and HIS potentialities) and the rake who was not ready to reform (or at least didn’t think he was). Even at the start of the book, it’s clear that the H & h have feelings for each other beyond friendship, though neither is ready to risk their friendship…or what they want out of life… until circumstances come up that make them re-evaluate each other and their futures. While the book had plenty of enjoyable witty banter, the heroine didn’t quite have the strength and verve that the reader expects in a book like this. I appreciated that the hero had a growth arc that was completely understandable, given where he started and what he went through in the book. A few little things bothered me. I don’t quite understand why “Loves” is plural in the title. The book clearly shows that she’s never had a good romantic relationship with a man, and there’s no love triangle in the book. So, why “Loves”? I don’t know. Also, I nearly laughed out loud at the idea of the hero being able to feel the soft texture of the heroine’s hair through kid gloves! I have to wear very thin procedural gloves at work, and I would never be able to feel hair softness through them! I imagine it would be much worse through kid gloves. By the way, while this book is a part of a series, you can read it as a standalone without a problem. I haven’t read many in this series, yet book 7 (this one) was completely understandable without having done so.
I received a free copy of this book, but that did not affect my review.
November 9, 2022
Book 7 of the Duchess's Investigative Society introduces us to Violet and Duke who have become the best of friends throughout life but one little kiss might change all that. Now Duke is a lawyer and after refusing to represent a crime lord, gets beaten up. The Musgrave sisters nurse him back to health and Violet and Duke fall even more in love with each other. But when Duke's father is kidnapped, it is up to the Investigative Society to figure out who did it and where he is.
This book was okay for me, it was pretty predictable and rolled along with no significant twists or turns. The title was a bit confusing as I wasn't sure what 'loves' the author was referring to when Duke is the only one in the book. A lot of the action occurs with Roman, his best mate, and Duke as they fight the baddies and rescue the father. The girls are mostly kept at home and while there is plenty of witty banter, I didn't feel the spark and tenaciousness from Violet that is normally there for the girls of the Society, but she did have some nice scenes with Duke. And I did really enjoy the ending. There is character development from Duke which I thought was very well conveyed.
Overall, I wasn't feeling this book sadly. However, the author does weave a nice storyline, some sweet scenes, a little bit of steam into this book.
3.5 stars rounded to up 4.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
This book was okay for me, it was pretty predictable and rolled along with no significant twists or turns. The title was a bit confusing as I wasn't sure what 'loves' the author was referring to when Duke is the only one in the book. A lot of the action occurs with Roman, his best mate, and Duke as they fight the baddies and rescue the father. The girls are mostly kept at home and while there is plenty of witty banter, I didn't feel the spark and tenaciousness from Violet that is normally there for the girls of the Society, but she did have some nice scenes with Duke. And I did really enjoy the ending. There is character development from Duke which I thought was very well conveyed.
Overall, I wasn't feeling this book sadly. However, the author does weave a nice storyline, some sweet scenes, a little bit of steam into this book.
3.5 stars rounded to up 4.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
February 8, 2023
Violet and Duke
Violet and Duke both have the same outlook on their future - neither will ever marry! Except for Roman, who Duke has known since childhood and Violet's sisters, they are the best of friends. So when Duke becomes injured, not only does Violet insist he come to their home to heal, but it's her mother's recommendation, or rather insistence! Then they send for his father, only when the day comes for his arrival, Duke gets a note stating his father has been kidnapped! It would seem that the Doyle gang, not only beats Duke unrecognizable but kidnaps his father to get Duke to represent the leader of the gang in the hope that since he is the best lawyer in Bath or London he will accept his case and get him from being hanged! Only Violet learns about what is going on and wants to put her newfound skills of investigating to use! Duke tries his best to get her to not be involved. However, she is very headstrong! So what happens next? Will Duke get his father back safely? Will the gang do any damage to Violet or her family? What happens between Duke and Violet? Will they still be friends after all is said and done? Only one way to find out, read this great story by Samantha Holt!
Violet and Duke both have the same outlook on their future - neither will ever marry! Except for Roman, who Duke has known since childhood and Violet's sisters, they are the best of friends. So when Duke becomes injured, not only does Violet insist he come to their home to heal, but it's her mother's recommendation, or rather insistence! Then they send for his father, only when the day comes for his arrival, Duke gets a note stating his father has been kidnapped! It would seem that the Doyle gang, not only beats Duke unrecognizable but kidnaps his father to get Duke to represent the leader of the gang in the hope that since he is the best lawyer in Bath or London he will accept his case and get him from being hanged! Only Violet learns about what is going on and wants to put her newfound skills of investigating to use! Duke tries his best to get her to not be involved. However, she is very headstrong! So what happens next? Will Duke get his father back safely? Will the gang do any damage to Violet or her family? What happens between Duke and Violet? Will they still be friends after all is said and done? Only one way to find out, read this great story by Samantha Holt!
March 13, 2025
I read this in the Under a Mistletoe with a Duke anthology. The “Duke” in this case was Duke, short for Marmaduke.
What I liked - their banter, their chemistry and his growth as a character
Things I didn’t like - repetitive words and phrase. SO MANY times his voice was “gritty.” Bad editing or non existent - at one point the author used Roman’s name when she meant Duke. With this and the ridiculous plot it felt rushed.
What I HATED - this book was annoyingly ridiculous and predictable. Annoying because he tells her not to go off alone but does the same thing even though he’s barely recovered from being beaten - and of course gets beaten again. He hired investigators who can’t seem to do anything but Violet can because her cousins run a detective agency? (Cousins we never see or meet in this book. But the absolute ludicrous plot point is for some reason at one point in the story EVERYONE seems to think the danger is passed - why? Absolutely no reason - and Violet goes off with just a carriage rider and of course gets into trouble
I like other stories by this author but the plot just made me so frustrated and felt it went on too long. But I gave it 3 stars because the interactions between the two of them was for the most part well done.
What I liked - their banter, their chemistry and his growth as a character
Things I didn’t like - repetitive words and phrase. SO MANY times his voice was “gritty.” Bad editing or non existent - at one point the author used Roman’s name when she meant Duke. With this and the ridiculous plot it felt rushed.
What I HATED - this book was annoyingly ridiculous and predictable. Annoying because he tells her not to go off alone but does the same thing even though he’s barely recovered from being beaten - and of course gets beaten again. He hired investigators who can’t seem to do anything but Violet can because her cousins run a detective agency? (Cousins we never see or meet in this book. But the absolute ludicrous plot point is for some reason at one point in the story EVERYONE seems to think the danger is passed - why? Absolutely no reason - and Violet goes off with just a carriage rider and of course gets into trouble
I like other stories by this author but the plot just made me so frustrated and felt it went on too long. But I gave it 3 stars because the interactions between the two of them was for the most part well done.
November 8, 2022
This was a wonderful Friends to Lovers trope, which is my favorite. Violet and Duke formed a very close, best friends' relationship when his best friend married her sister. He missed his constant best friend, and she missed her confidant/sister and so they just drifted together and became bosom buddies. Violet is the daughter of an earl and Duke is the most popular rake and best lawyer around. However, when Duke refuses to represent a known criminal and murderer, things start getting worrisome - beatings, threats, kidnappings and more that was putting not only Duke in danger but Violet and her family. Their romance blossoms during all of the danger going on and it was a fun, romantic turn around - Duke finally admitted to himself he was in love and couldn't live without Vi; Vi found herself wanting a man in a romantic way but would not admit it until it was finally hammered home by Duke. If you like friends-to-lovers, reformed rake, feisty heroine, some dangerous situations and Christmas romance; you've found the perfect book! I voluntarily read & reviewed an Advanced Reader's Copy of this book; all thoughts & opinions are my own.
November 10, 2022
Duke Cameron is a very good lawyer; many say the best. When he refuses to take the case of a known criminal, it doesn’t go well. Someone has him beaten as a warning to reconsider his refusal. Violet Musgrave is the daughter of an earl. They became friends when Duke’s best friend married Violet’s sister. When Violet learns of Duke’s abuse and the reason for it, she offers to investigate. She has confidence she can do it because she has learned the skills she needs from her cousins, the Daventry sisters of the Duchess Investigative Society. Aunt Sarah is here and can help with advice. She and Simon the cat are good for a bit of humor. Duke doesn’t like this idea, and insists he be with her at all times. He may not help with the investigation, but along the way, he and Vi find they may have feelings stronger than friendship. This is a lovely friend-to-lovers story with a protective duke in trouble and a feisty heroine determined to help. There are threats, beatings, kidnappings, action, danger, and romance. Will Vi and Duke find the criminals and thwart their scheme? Interesting and entertaining story with great characters and a happy ending.
I received an ARC of this book via BookSprout and am voluntarily reviewing it.
I received an ARC of this book via BookSprout and am voluntarily reviewing it.
November 8, 2022
Oh Duke……The consummate wealthy bachelor and rake, Marmaduke (Duke) Cameron never wanted to love a woman. After the death of his mother and sister, he feared he could never survive if he married and his wife died. Thus, he had a ‘one night only’ no attacthment bedding policy. Violet, the sister of his best friend’s new bride and he hit it off and became friends. At some point, he realized that wasn’t enough. Meanwhile, an imprisoned crime lord wanted Duke, who was also a reknown lawyer, to represent him and keep him from hanging. When Duke refused, beatings and kidnappings occured. This story has action, a threatening undercurrent, emotional moments, humor and steam. Violet is beautiful, fiesty, brave, fiercely loyal and intelligent..a perfect heroine. Duke is just adorable as he realizes he is in love with Violet. His brazen charm and brilliant mind don’t quite hide his emotional vulnerability, but make him irresistable. I love happy endings, but there is something very sweet and special about these two people finding each other. I adored this story!
November 8, 2022
Like their cousins the Daventry’s, the Musgrave ladies do not disappoint in their unconventional ways. This family breeds only the most unique, individual and tenacious of the female species. These women are not the type to shy away from danger or challenging man. Thus when Violet finds things changing between her and her best friend, Duke, she cannot help but to meet the challenge head-on. The quickly evolving situation between these two adds a beautiful blend at angsty emotions and charmingly sweet moments blended with witty banter and teasing. You can see that these two are simply made for each other and are bound to tame the other. Add to that some delightfully tense moments of danger and intrigue with a mystery they must work together to solve, and you have the recipe for a beautiful romance. For a bonus you have all the tender moments of familial love & support. I was thrilled with the inclusion of Aunt Darah and all her quirky antics, tying this generation to our familiar Daventry ladies of The Duchess’s Investigative Society. A truly beautiful story.
November 8, 2022
Romance and Mystery:
We meet Violet a lady of 29 that has lived her life with many disappointments and isn't looking for romance.
Her best friend Duke understood her feelings and enjoyed their intelligent conversations even though his desirous feeling creep into his thoughts once in a while.
He is afraid if he admits that the torch, he carries for her is getting more desirous everyday will ruin their friendship.
Well of course she is having these same feelings without telling him.
The romance between the two is only part of this intense story that had me glued to the edge of my seat for that last half of the book.
The mystery unfolds and is very intense along with the level of passion that unfolds before the conclusion.
An enjoyable story filled with lots of emotions, kidnapping, thugs, humor, the silly Aunt Sarah who was a hoot, and so much more.
This book is part of a series, but it is a standalone story.
Adult Advisory:
We meet Violet a lady of 29 that has lived her life with many disappointments and isn't looking for romance.
Her best friend Duke understood her feelings and enjoyed their intelligent conversations even though his desirous feeling creep into his thoughts once in a while.
He is afraid if he admits that the torch, he carries for her is getting more desirous everyday will ruin their friendship.
Well of course she is having these same feelings without telling him.
The romance between the two is only part of this intense story that had me glued to the edge of my seat for that last half of the book.
The mystery unfolds and is very intense along with the level of passion that unfolds before the conclusion.
An enjoyable story filled with lots of emotions, kidnapping, thugs, humor, the silly Aunt Sarah who was a hoot, and so much more.
This book is part of a series, but it is a standalone story.
Adult Advisory:
November 11, 2022
4 1/2*STARS*
The Musgrave family is familiar with scandal. Even Prinny has forbidden the family to have a dog after another scandal. Violet Musgrave is a spinster at nine and twenty. She just hasn't found what she's been looking for, until she and her best friend, Marmaduke Cameron, share a kiss. Duke is a lawyer, one of the best and soon finds his life on the line to represent one of the lowest of the low crime leaders. Beaten and threatened, Duke refuses to take the case. Violet is determined to aid Duke and solve the mystery of his kidnapped father. Duke loves Violet, but can he convince her that they can be more than friends? A regency, mystery romance. Heat level 3.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book.
The Musgrave family is familiar with scandal. Even Prinny has forbidden the family to have a dog after another scandal. Violet Musgrave is a spinster at nine and twenty. She just hasn't found what she's been looking for, until she and her best friend, Marmaduke Cameron, share a kiss. Duke is a lawyer, one of the best and soon finds his life on the line to represent one of the lowest of the low crime leaders. Beaten and threatened, Duke refuses to take the case. Violet is determined to aid Duke and solve the mystery of his kidnapped father. Duke loves Violet, but can he convince her that they can be more than friends? A regency, mystery romance. Heat level 3.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book.
December 25, 2022
Another hit for Samantha Holt’s The Duchess's Investigative Society series! In this gorgeous friends-to-lovers novel the characters are best friends who don’t want to ruin their friendship, and so they try to deny their mutual attraction. But of course it’s not as easy as it seems… There’s less investigation this time, but a couple of fast-pacing scenes that made me hold my breath quite a few times. As always, Holt is able to create intriguing characters and infuse them with life, so much so that it’s hard to put the book down until the end and the inevitable happily ever after. A truly perfect book!
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
November 10, 2022
This is book 7 of The Duchess's Investigative Society series but is a standalone. This book is about Violet Musgrave, the oldest daughter of "those Musgraves" and Marmaduke (Duke) Cameron. Violet and Duke are best friends, who can't seem to keep romantic feelings out of their friendship. When the Duke is beat up Violet wants to investigate. Both Violet and Duke have reasons NOT to want to get romantically involved but the more time they spend together investigating the more they are pulled to each other. I love Violet, such a great heroine. Another great book in the series.
I received a free copy of this book for my honest review
I received a free copy of this book for my honest review
November 12, 2022
Reviewed in the United Kingdom on 12 November 2022
This friends to lovers story was a very enjoyable to read, It is nice to come across a story that is not about a young debutante. She has virtually accepted that she will not marry now, and he is a confirmed rake, who had no plans to settle for anyone yet. A chance kiss changes how both see each other, even if they dont want to ruin a friendship. When Duke, is assaulted Violet doesn't hesitate to assist, with further kidnappings, and treats following, can they realise just what they mean to each other. I love this series, cant wait for the next one.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review
This friends to lovers story was a very enjoyable to read, It is nice to come across a story that is not about a young debutante. She has virtually accepted that she will not marry now, and he is a confirmed rake, who had no plans to settle for anyone yet. A chance kiss changes how both see each other, even if they dont want to ruin a friendship. When Duke, is assaulted Violet doesn't hesitate to assist, with further kidnappings, and treats following, can they realise just what they mean to each other. I love this series, cant wait for the next one.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review
January 5, 2023
WOW! This is my favorite book of this series. I am not normally a friends to lovers trope person but this might have changed my mind. The dialog is super funny, sarcastic and loads of it. I love how Violet and her sisters interact. Such a fun loving family. The action is ever present (as in all of the Investigative Society books). The tension is off the charts fan yourself. Duke and Violet’s story is so interesting and keeps you glued to the pages of the story. This story reminded me of one of my favorite friends to lovers book by Lisa Kleypas (don’t miss that one either, Scandal in Spring).
I received a complimentary copy from Booksprout.
I received a complimentary copy from Booksprout.
September 19, 2023
This is a fun and amusing farce of a romance. Here we have an unassailable rake hanging out with the daughter of a scandalous Earl. They are only friends, until Duke is beaten severely. The investigation society hits the road to find Duke's father after he is kidnapped. Duke realizes he loves Violet and decides to tell her. Violet loves him, but decides to keep it to herself. Of course this is when the climax lets loose with action-packed excitement and an intense fight scene. Love comes in the form of friendship and a little passion. I love Violet and Duke together along with the rest of the crazy Musgraves.
October 29, 2024
This Christmas romance laced with suspense and danger as Duke Cameron refuses to defend a vicious criminal for his crimes, is well-written and kept my interest. When seriously injured, the Musgrave family and Violet in particular, take him into their home and nurse him back to health. The line between friendship and desire is crossed as Duke and Violet spend time together, but when Duke and Violet's family are caught in the crosshairs of the killer, it takes the ladies of the Investigative Society to put their heads together. Despite the danger, the novel is a standalone and comes to a happy conclusion. I received a copy of this novel as a gift and this is my honest and voluntary review.
November 8, 2022
This was an entertaining read. Violet and Duke were the best of friends but lately they had been having different thoughts about each other. Violet was the oldest sister and had always taken care of her sisters. Duke was a highly intelligent lawyer, he didn’t need to work but it was something he needed to do. Duke also had quite a reputation as a rake. There are several dangerous situations and this helps clarify how Duke and Violet feel about each other. An enjoyable read. I received a copy via Booksprout and have voluntarily reviewed it. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
November 14, 2022
Loving your best friend
I absolutely loved Violet and Dukes Characters. Duke a prominent lawyer is Violets best friend. His life is threatened, he’s left for dead and then his father kidnapped. He will do what is necessary to get his father back. Violet and her sisters try to help by finding out exactly where he was kidnapped.
As Duke heals at the Musgrove home the feelings he and Vi feel for each other grows deeper. But when his life and then Violets life is threatened he knows he wants to make her his wife.
A beautifully written story with a wonderful ending.
I absolutely loved Violet and Dukes Characters. Duke a prominent lawyer is Violets best friend. His life is threatened, he’s left for dead and then his father kidnapped. He will do what is necessary to get his father back. Violet and her sisters try to help by finding out exactly where he was kidnapped.
As Duke heals at the Musgrove home the feelings he and Vi feel for each other grows deeper. But when his life and then Violets life is threatened he knows he wants to make her his wife.
A beautifully written story with a wonderful ending.
November 18, 2022
Violet and Duke are friends but they also have feelings for each other. They get along great and are never bored with their relationship until there's a kiss and things take an awkward turn. When they finally admit their feelings for each other will it be too late or will they finally get their happily ever after? This is a friends-to-lovers romance with likable characters, danger, suspense, unexpected twists, humor, steam, and a great storyline. Loves of an Earl's Daughter is book seven in The Duchess's Investigative Society series. I voluntarily reviewed a copy of this book.
November 16, 2022
Marvelous!
Having read all of the books in this series I must this is my favorite! Violet and Duke have had an unusual relationship…friends. Nearly unheard of in their world. Duke is a renowned attorney. Violet is a firm on the shelf spinster, the beloved sister. When Duke is threatened, his father threatened and Violet threatened love blooms. Who can resist a Christmastide romance and weeding. Wonderful love story!
Having read all of the books in this series I must this is my favorite! Violet and Duke have had an unusual relationship…friends. Nearly unheard of in their world. Duke is a renowned attorney. Violet is a firm on the shelf spinster, the beloved sister. When Duke is threatened, his father threatened and Violet threatened love blooms. Who can resist a Christmastide romance and weeding. Wonderful love story!
October 18, 2023
Violet and Duke have been best friends for ages but after one kiss something is starting to change in their minds. After Duke has been beaten badly, Violet and her family take him to their house to take care of him. Because of that, Violet and Duke spend more time together trying to understand what is going on between them.
A beautiful story with some fun but also some mystery and suspense. I liked the relationship between Violet and Duke.
A beautiful story with some fun but also some mystery and suspense. I liked the relationship between Violet and Duke.
November 8, 2022
Book seven in the Duchess's Investigative Society series. Can be read and enjoyed as stand-alone. Full length told in dual POV with HEA. I liked this friend to lover's story! Violet and Duke tried so hard to be just friends, but there was too much chemistry between them. Listed as steamy but I would call it closer to sweet with little steam. Wonderful romance with a little danger and mystery!
November 9, 2022
Violet and Duke are attracted to each other but are afraid to ruin their friendship. Plus he’s a rakish confirmed bachelor and she’s a spinster who doesn’t want to marry. But Duke is also a man with a criminal after him who will stop at nothing to get him to work for him including attacks and kidnappings. They were both a bit reckless in their quest to save his father.
November 11, 2022
Loves of an Earl's Daughter continues The Duchess's Investigative Society series with Violet's and Duke's story. I'ts funny and sweet with elements of suspense and drama as well as some steamy scenes. Greatly entertaining and a joy to read.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
November 12, 2022
Reaction
I loved this story! Violet and Duke's relationship is that of friends. She knows he's a rake and he knows how intelligent and strong minded she is. They're forced to examine their attraction when he's staying at her family home. Can men and women be just friends or does it lead to something more?
I loved this story! Violet and Duke's relationship is that of friends. She knows he's a rake and he knows how intelligent and strong minded she is. They're forced to examine their attraction when he's staying at her family home. Can men and women be just friends or does it lead to something more?
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