What do you think?
Rate this book
Ambrosia #2
My Deceitful Duchess
Wrongfully accused of the murder of her husband, Geneviève Amberley, the Duchess of Venbrough, buried her past before it could bury her. In the twelve years since, she has reinvented herself from runaway duchess into Jenny Laurent, the manager of an exclusive ladies’ club. No one is looking for a criminal in the woman she has become, and the murderous duchess is so far in the past that she might as well truly be dead and buried—or so she believes.
To Sebastian Knight, there is nothing quite so interesting as a mystery to be solved, and the woman who calls herself Jenny Laurent is the most fascinating mystery he has ever encountered. She is his latest obsession—an enigma so tantalizing, so alluring, that he cannot help but to make himself known to her.
An affair with the perceptive Mr. Knight is the last thing Jenny needs, but she finds herself charmed by his candor and his persistence—even if his unique talents make him the most dangerous man in all of England to a woman like her. He could very well burn her carefully constructed façade to ashes…and destroy her in the process.
To Sebastian Knight, there is nothing quite so interesting as a mystery to be solved, and the woman who calls herself Jenny Laurent is the most fascinating mystery he has ever encountered. She is his latest obsession—an enigma so tantalizing, so alluring, that he cannot help but to make himself known to her.
An affair with the perceptive Mr. Knight is the last thing Jenny needs, but she finds herself charmed by his candor and his persistence—even if his unique talents make him the most dangerous man in all of England to a woman like her. He could very well burn her carefully constructed façade to ashes…and destroy her in the process.
367 pages, Kindle Edition
First published January 10, 2023
172 people are currently reading
1240 people want to read
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 116 reviews
January 6, 2025
Grovel in historical romance can really be tricky because of the expectation of society and the views at that time of setting, and this one perfectly falls into the imbalance that rather than a grovel, the FMC has NO CHOICE but to take him back despite the MMC sending her to jail because of a crime she didn’t commit. Granted, at first he did not know that but he did not even asked or talked to her, and mind you the punishment for her “crime” is to be hanged but he still did what he did knowing this. This also happened after they developed deep feelings for each other are already a couple.
Some will say he groveled but for me he did not have to work hard for it because:
- Jenny (FMC) became pregnant.
Another issue I have is the use of a baby for the main characters to get together or get closer again. It’s like the author knew that what the MMC did is unforgivable so he gave him a handicap in the form of unwanted pregnancy so Jenny has NO CHOICE but to continue to talk to him, be with him, see him, tolerate his presence.
- Jenny has to marry him.
Of course it’s historical romance so of course if a woman is pregnant out of wedlock her reputation is ruined. She got to have a man’s name as a cover to save her reputation. DUH!
- Her reputation is already much ruined even before the surprise baby
Since she was in a trial for convicted murder of her previous husband, her reputation is already in ruins therefore SHE REALLY HAS TO MARRY THAT GARBAGE HIDEOUS MAN.
So what choice does she have? Lose her business? Lose her peers? Lose her reputation? Other people shaming her and her baby? Possibly lose the right to see her baby?
So ya see? The grovel is pretty non existent because the plot basically gave it in a silver platter to the MMC’s advantage.
Some will say he groveled but for me he did not have to work hard for it because:
- Jenny (FMC) became pregnant.
Another issue I have is the use of a baby for the main characters to get together or get closer again. It’s like the author knew that what the MMC did is unforgivable so he gave him a handicap in the form of unwanted pregnancy so Jenny has NO CHOICE but to continue to talk to him, be with him, see him, tolerate his presence.
- Jenny has to marry him.
Of course it’s historical romance so of course if a woman is pregnant out of wedlock her reputation is ruined. She got to have a man’s name as a cover to save her reputation. DUH!
- Her reputation is already much ruined even before the surprise baby
Since she was in a trial for convicted murder of her previous husband, her reputation is already in ruins therefore SHE REALLY HAS TO MARRY THAT GARBAGE HIDEOUS MAN.
So what choice does she have? Lose her business? Lose her peers? Lose her reputation? Other people shaming her and her baby? Possibly lose the right to see her baby?
So ya see? The grovel is pretty non existent because the plot basically gave it in a silver platter to the MMC’s advantage.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
January 16, 2023
"My Deceitful Duchess" is the story of Jenny and Sebastian.
“You’re staring,” she said at last, her shoulders rolling—as if the weight of his gaze had settled heavily upon them.
“You’re beautiful.”
A surprised titter escaped her. “I thought you did not set store by such things?”
“I don’t,” he said. “I don’t—but it is true nonetheless.”
I wish I was a better writer so I could express how much I loved this book and what a roller coaster ride it was.
The book starts with our heroine, a young female trapped in an ugly marriage. Her husband is murdered, and she has to flee for her life. Years later, she runs a gaming hell for women and is a successful businesswoman. She finds a young man observing her, and soon finds herself approached and propositioned by him. Enter the hero!
The author admits in her afterword that he is likely on the spectrum- and you can see it in his mannerisms. He likes order, he is observant, he struggles with social interactions. It is so refreshing to see a neurodivergent character in a historical romance. But he is smitten by the heroine, and decides to court her. What begins with sharing of profiteroles, then proceeds to borrowing books and soon their hearts..
“No. I’m not the sort of man that women seem to want to kiss,” he said, and she did not flinch or pull away when he settled his hand at her waist. “However…”
“However?” There was a glowing note of interest in her voice, which he found he liked very much indeed.
“I have done quite a lot of reading.”
I love me an older heroine/ younger hero trope, especially when we find inexperienced heroes (A RARITY IN HISTORICAL ROMANCES)- and we did here! They embark on a passionate affair, that is until the hero's Sherlock like brain connects the dots and he makes a harsh decision that derails the heroine's life.
The lamplight glowed golden over his skin. He wore no shirt, no dressing gown—she could see his bare feet stretched out; his pose comfortable, indolent. Perhaps he wore no trousers, even. The thought sent a flood of heat coursing through her veins. He wouldn’t be so bold as to—as to sit before his window entirely unclothed.
The first half of the book had me swooning, the second half had me sobbing. The trauma and hurt the heroine goes through really broke my heart, and it was sad to see the hero struggling to emotionally process what was happening (though he did try). What he did can be classified by some as unforgivable, but then you see things from his POV (black and white) and realize that this was going to get complicated. The heroine goes through a lot and ends up becoming numb and desolate, even giving up on hope.
“Nothing could induce me to wed you.” The words were dredged up from deep within her soul, from the same internal grave in which she had buried that young, stupid girl she had once been. They seethed with the anger, the anguish that had been rotting inside her for more than a decade, with the righteous fury of one too often betrayed. “Not even to save myself. I would rather die.”
Then we see him making efforts to change the course of things, her finding freedom, lots and lots of much needed grovel, a rekindling of romance and detailed HEA with epilogues. He wins her back with words. With books. With brioches. And with their dog Charlie- who is a fantastic book doggo! It is so refreshing to see a male character WORK to win the heroine back- not just declare it. It wasn't the chest thumping "mine", rather a soft declaration of love with actions.
Overall, this was a fantastic read. I have said it time and again, the author knows exactly how to tug at my heartstrings and write absolutely fabulous romances. To those looking for swoonworthy HR with angst- this is for you. Finally a five star read, my first of 2023!
Safe
500/5
“You’re staring,” she said at last, her shoulders rolling—as if the weight of his gaze had settled heavily upon them.
“You’re beautiful.”
A surprised titter escaped her. “I thought you did not set store by such things?”
“I don’t,” he said. “I don’t—but it is true nonetheless.”
I wish I was a better writer so I could express how much I loved this book and what a roller coaster ride it was.
The book starts with our heroine, a young female trapped in an ugly marriage. Her husband is murdered, and she has to flee for her life. Years later, she runs a gaming hell for women and is a successful businesswoman. She finds a young man observing her, and soon finds herself approached and propositioned by him. Enter the hero!
The author admits in her afterword that he is likely on the spectrum- and you can see it in his mannerisms. He likes order, he is observant, he struggles with social interactions. It is so refreshing to see a neurodivergent character in a historical romance. But he is smitten by the heroine, and decides to court her. What begins with sharing of profiteroles, then proceeds to borrowing books and soon their hearts..
“No. I’m not the sort of man that women seem to want to kiss,” he said, and she did not flinch or pull away when he settled his hand at her waist. “However…”
“However?” There was a glowing note of interest in her voice, which he found he liked very much indeed.
“I have done quite a lot of reading.”
I love me an older heroine/ younger hero trope, especially when we find inexperienced heroes (A RARITY IN HISTORICAL ROMANCES)- and we did here! They embark on a passionate affair, that is until the hero's Sherlock like brain connects the dots and he makes a harsh decision that derails the heroine's life.
The lamplight glowed golden over his skin. He wore no shirt, no dressing gown—she could see his bare feet stretched out; his pose comfortable, indolent. Perhaps he wore no trousers, even. The thought sent a flood of heat coursing through her veins. He wouldn’t be so bold as to—as to sit before his window entirely unclothed.
The first half of the book had me swooning, the second half had me sobbing. The trauma and hurt the heroine goes through really broke my heart, and it was sad to see the hero struggling to emotionally process what was happening (though he did try). What he did can be classified by some as unforgivable, but then you see things from his POV (black and white) and realize that this was going to get complicated. The heroine goes through a lot and ends up becoming numb and desolate, even giving up on hope.
“Nothing could induce me to wed you.” The words were dredged up from deep within her soul, from the same internal grave in which she had buried that young, stupid girl she had once been. They seethed with the anger, the anguish that had been rotting inside her for more than a decade, with the righteous fury of one too often betrayed. “Not even to save myself. I would rather die.”
Then we see him making efforts to change the course of things, her finding freedom, lots and lots of much needed grovel, a rekindling of romance and detailed HEA with epilogues. He wins her back with words. With books. With brioches. And with their dog Charlie- who is a fantastic book doggo! It is so refreshing to see a male character WORK to win the heroine back- not just declare it. It wasn't the chest thumping "mine", rather a soft declaration of love with actions.
Overall, this was a fantastic read. I have said it time and again, the author knows exactly how to tug at my heartstrings and write absolutely fabulous romances. To those looking for swoonworthy HR with angst- this is for you. Finally a five star read, my first of 2023!
Safe
500/5
July 7, 2025
"textbooks may feed the mind, but fiction feeds the soul.”
ABSOLUTELY
and boy did this book nourish my Soul!❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️
just read this beautiful line
Because she wasn’t a prize to be won, but a privilege to be earned.
Jenny is on the run for over 12 years, hiding from a crime she's been accused of.
Sebastian is the autistic detective who stumbles upon her secret
what happens between them is a Romance worth reading, a betrayal that would shatter, and a redemption worthwhile
⚜ rating: 5/5 🌟🌟🌟🌟 🌟
⚜Genre: Historical Romance
⚜Theme: Secret Identity
⚜Targeted audience: New Adult
⚜Characters: Jenny, Sebastian
⚜Representation: autism spectrum.
⚜ driven: mostly Character-driven
⚜Pace: medium
⚜TW: domestic abuse, murder, false accusation, mention of infertility, forced marriage
⚜ tropes: betrayal/ Grovel, hidden identity, she is older, Virgin H/Experienced h, surprise pregnancy
⚜ POV: double third person
⚜ spice: 🌶🌶
⚜standalone: yes, but part of a series where each book is a different couple
⚜Ending: HEA
⚜Book read: KU
⚜ Favorite quotes:
People’s names are the least interesting things about them.” He supposed he was meant to apologize again, or something of that nature. “Whose name was I meant to call out in the throes of passion, then? ‘Oh, nameless stranger whom I met upon the street’ lacks a certain something, I feel.”
“Why is it that men expect every transgression, no matter how terrible, to be solved with nothing more than an apology? As if there were some string of words, which, when strung together, could magically erase every wrong committed! And yours, Mr. Knight, have been especially egregious.”
“It is a unique privilege of men, Mr. Knight, to be able to turn their faces from the devastation caused by those of their gender.
“Do you know,” she continued, her voice light, nonchalant, “For men, marriage changes nothing much. A man gains a servant; an employee he need not pay for her efforts. A woman who must warm his bed and cannot even demand coin for it. A housekeeper who may not seek other employment should her position become untenable. A cook, to feed him his breakfast and his lunch and his dinner. A laundress, a secretary, and a valet as well, should his clothing require more care than he chooses to give. A womb for the breeding of his heirs.” He heard the shuddering breath that squeezed itself from her lungs. “For women, marriage is more often a prison. Of servitude; of neglect. I have been imprisoned, Mr. Knight, and I have been in the prison of marriage. Would you care to know which I preferred?”
“It means that I will place you above all other things—beyond justice; beyond principles. It means that I will trust in you first and foremost, and that I will always defend you. It means that from this moment on, I will always be on your side—whichever side that happens to be. Because there is nowhere I would rather be than at your side.”
Spoilers
.
.
.
.
.
Jenny, at the age of 18, was forced to marry a much older Duke who demanded an heir. For over a year she endured his abuse. His two cousins poison him to get his fortune and plan on murdering Jenny too. She escapes and live in hiding for over 12 years by being a seamstress first then opening a Lady's Club.
Sebastian was the detective assigned for the case of her shop arsen. He is very drawn to her.
Sebastian, as you read and as mentioned by the author, is on the autism spectrum. He is blunt to the point of irritation and never tells a lie. He values honesty and seeks justice always.
He prepositions Jenny on their first encounter
Jenny finds him fascinating
They start meeting, and talking and eventually form a connection over the reading spicy books and further when Jenny helps him with a murder investigation. Jenny is surprised to know that Seb is a virgin!
They fall naturally into their affair and Seb falls hard for Jenny
Somehow, he finds out that she is the runaway murderous duchess. Not giving her any chance to explain, and feeling a sense of deceit by her, he reports her to the authorities who arrest her.
In prison, Jenny finds out she is pregnant.
Sebastian, still finding Jenny guilty but doesn't want her to be hanged, arranges for her to be under house arrest.
I loved how Jenny shut him out and gave him the cold shoulder
I loved the jabs she delivered making him feel even more guilty
I loved how her friends supported her in every way
As for Sebastian, I thought his "act of groveling" was very satisfying
His condition, which is absolutely normal nowadays but was frowned upon back then, made him act this way.
However, he was willing to be exiled with Jenny.
He actively sought out her innocence.
He continued her charitable work during her imprisonment
He stood up to his family to defend her
He accepted being punched several times as punishment
He was relentless in pursuing her and being there for her over and over
ABSOLUTELY
and boy did this book nourish my Soul!❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️
just read this beautiful line
Because she wasn’t a prize to be won, but a privilege to be earned.
Jenny is on the run for over 12 years, hiding from a crime she's been accused of.
Sebastian is the autistic detective who stumbles upon her secret
what happens between them is a Romance worth reading, a betrayal that would shatter, and a redemption worthwhile
⚜ rating: 5/5 🌟🌟🌟🌟 🌟
⚜Genre: Historical Romance
⚜Theme: Secret Identity
⚜Targeted audience: New Adult
⚜Characters: Jenny, Sebastian
⚜Representation: autism spectrum.
⚜ driven: mostly Character-driven
⚜Pace: medium
⚜TW: domestic abuse, murder, false accusation, mention of infertility, forced marriage
⚜ tropes: betrayal/ Grovel, hidden identity, she is older, Virgin H/Experienced h, surprise pregnancy
⚜ POV: double third person
⚜ spice: 🌶🌶
⚜standalone: yes, but part of a series where each book is a different couple
⚜Ending: HEA
⚜Book read: KU
⚜ Favorite quotes:
People’s names are the least interesting things about them.” He supposed he was meant to apologize again, or something of that nature. “Whose name was I meant to call out in the throes of passion, then? ‘Oh, nameless stranger whom I met upon the street’ lacks a certain something, I feel.”
“Why is it that men expect every transgression, no matter how terrible, to be solved with nothing more than an apology? As if there were some string of words, which, when strung together, could magically erase every wrong committed! And yours, Mr. Knight, have been especially egregious.”
“It is a unique privilege of men, Mr. Knight, to be able to turn their faces from the devastation caused by those of their gender.
“Do you know,” she continued, her voice light, nonchalant, “For men, marriage changes nothing much. A man gains a servant; an employee he need not pay for her efforts. A woman who must warm his bed and cannot even demand coin for it. A housekeeper who may not seek other employment should her position become untenable. A cook, to feed him his breakfast and his lunch and his dinner. A laundress, a secretary, and a valet as well, should his clothing require more care than he chooses to give. A womb for the breeding of his heirs.” He heard the shuddering breath that squeezed itself from her lungs. “For women, marriage is more often a prison. Of servitude; of neglect. I have been imprisoned, Mr. Knight, and I have been in the prison of marriage. Would you care to know which I preferred?”
“It means that I will place you above all other things—beyond justice; beyond principles. It means that I will trust in you first and foremost, and that I will always defend you. It means that from this moment on, I will always be on your side—whichever side that happens to be. Because there is nowhere I would rather be than at your side.”
Spoilers
.
.
.
.
.
Jenny, at the age of 18, was forced to marry a much older Duke who demanded an heir. For over a year she endured his abuse. His two cousins poison him to get his fortune and plan on murdering Jenny too. She escapes and live in hiding for over 12 years by being a seamstress first then opening a Lady's Club.
Sebastian was the detective assigned for the case of her shop arsen. He is very drawn to her.
Sebastian, as you read and as mentioned by the author, is on the autism spectrum. He is blunt to the point of irritation and never tells a lie. He values honesty and seeks justice always.
He prepositions Jenny on their first encounter
Jenny finds him fascinating
They start meeting, and talking and eventually form a connection over the reading spicy books and further when Jenny helps him with a murder investigation. Jenny is surprised to know that Seb is a virgin!
They fall naturally into their affair and Seb falls hard for Jenny
Somehow, he finds out that she is the runaway murderous duchess. Not giving her any chance to explain, and feeling a sense of deceit by her, he reports her to the authorities who arrest her.
In prison, Jenny finds out she is pregnant.
Sebastian, still finding Jenny guilty but doesn't want her to be hanged, arranges for her to be under house arrest.
I loved how Jenny shut him out and gave him the cold shoulder
I loved the jabs she delivered making him feel even more guilty
I loved how her friends supported her in every way
As for Sebastian, I thought his "act of groveling" was very satisfying
His condition, which is absolutely normal nowadays but was frowned upon back then, made him act this way.
However, he was willing to be exiled with Jenny.
He actively sought out her innocence.
He continued her charitable work during her imprisonment
He stood up to his family to defend her
He accepted being punched several times as punishment
He was relentless in pursuing her and being there for her over and over
June 11, 2024
Genres: Adult Fiction, Historical, Regency, Romance
Tropes: Virgin Hero, Neurodivergent Hero, , Reverse Age Gap
This was probably my least favorite Richards book I’ve read so far. To her credit, she shows a really thoughtful understanding of her characters and takes that into account when the hero has to make amends, and this book is no exception. I think the problem for me lay in the fact that the hero’s actions honestly felt borderline unforgivable. Plus it has the trope which is often not my favorite trope anyway. So maybe this book just wasn’t for me. I’m going to continue working through Richards’ backlog, so even though this one wasn’t a total winner for me, I definitely can see how it may work for other readers.
Safety Stats:
Ages:
Cheating:
Other OM/OW:
Separation:
Triggers:
HEA/HFN?:
Tropes: Virgin Hero, Neurodivergent Hero, , Reverse Age Gap
This was probably my least favorite Richards book I’ve read so far. To her credit, she shows a really thoughtful understanding of her characters and takes that into account when the hero has to make amends, and this book is no exception. I think the problem for me lay in the fact that the hero’s actions honestly felt borderline unforgivable. Plus it has the trope which is often not my favorite trope anyway. So maybe this book just wasn’t for me. I’m going to continue working through Richards’ backlog, so even though this one wasn’t a total winner for me, I definitely can see how it may work for other readers.
Safety Stats:
Ages:
Cheating:
Other OM/OW:
Separation:
Triggers:
HEA/HFN?:
September 24, 2024
3.5/5. Not the best book by Richards. I like the beginning, introducing us to the heroine's background and also the protagonists' first not so accidental meeting. Sebastian is meant to be a neuro-divergent character but although he lacks a firm grasp on the nuances of polite conversations and and social niceties, what he has in abundance is a sharp acumen, keen observational skills and a curious mind bent on solving mysteries. Notwithstanding all the criminal cases he helps solve on a regular basis, the beautiful but highly enigmatic Madame Laurent is the biggest mystery of them all.
I found the portrayal of Sebastian was inconsistent at times, his thought processes were at times incongruent with the rest of his character. The first half was also very slow moving. The second half switched to a more angsty plot which piqued my interest more. I was bothered by Jenny's unprofessional breach of confidentiality of her clients. Overall, an okay read.
I found the portrayal of Sebastian was inconsistent at times, his thought processes were at times incongruent with the rest of his character. The first half was also very slow moving. The second half switched to a more angsty plot which piqued my interest more. I was bothered by Jenny's unprofessional breach of confidentiality of her clients. Overall, an okay read.
May 8, 2023
I loved everything about this book! The H, Sebastian, reminded me a lot of Lord Ian McKenzie. I loved his character so much. I loved Jenny and her compassionate and pragmatic nature.
There was definite sizzle and then the angst, oh the angst! It was delicious…and then the grovel! Chef’s kiss!
This one is going on my reread and favorites lists!
There was definite sizzle and then the angst, oh the angst! It was delicious…and then the grovel! Chef’s kiss!
This one is going on my reread and favorites lists!
January 17, 2023
just what I needed
Aydra Richards does the groveling hero so well!
I loved the way the heroine and hero fell in love
My heart broke when the hero messed up
And my heart was pieced back up again by Sebastian and Charlie.
Jenny deserves the world so I’m so happy she not only found the love of her life but also friends who are family!
Aydra Richards does the groveling hero so well!
I loved the way the heroine and hero fell in love
My heart broke when the hero messed up
And my heart was pieced back up again by Sebastian and Charlie.
Jenny deserves the world so I’m so happy she not only found the love of her life but also friends who are family!
March 5, 2024
I’ve come to a realization that I can’t stand historical grovel romance. I love me a good grovel but when the setting is historical the women are always in a way have no choice due to the power dynamic back then 😐
They just have to forgive and accept the waste of a man cause they will be in ruins if they don’t
They just have to forgive and accept the waste of a man cause they will be in ruins if they don’t
September 18, 2024
I’ve discovered a new author! (New to me, anyway). And luckily, her books on KU!
I felt like I’ve read just about every HR worth reading, and my tried and true authors have mostly dwindled in their production. Yay that I have found a good new one! I hope this isn’t her best work, because I unfortunately have a trend of getting an author’s best work only to keep reading and have the ratings go down with every book.
THIS book is delightful. It has one of fave tropes which is a MC on the spectrum. The H, Sebastian, is frustrating, infuriating, but so very lovable. I didn’t have an issue with what he did in the middle, I fully expected it. It’s in keeping with his character. And he spent the rest of the book earning his way back into the h’s good graces.
Jenny is a great h. Very likable. Strong. Has pride. Made the H work for it. I would have fallen in love with her too.
Wish there was more heat. But, well, you can’t win them all!
I felt like I’ve read just about every HR worth reading, and my tried and true authors have mostly dwindled in their production. Yay that I have found a good new one! I hope this isn’t her best work, because I unfortunately have a trend of getting an author’s best work only to keep reading and have the ratings go down with every book.
THIS book is delightful. It has one of fave tropes which is a MC on the spectrum. The H, Sebastian, is frustrating, infuriating, but so very lovable. I didn’t have an issue with what he did in the middle, I fully expected it. It’s in keeping with his character. And he spent the rest of the book earning his way back into the h’s good graces.
Jenny is a great h. Very likable. Strong. Has pride. Made the H work for it. I would have fallen in love with her too.
Wish there was more heat. But, well, you can’t win them all!
July 10, 2025
I enjoyed this. The characters were layered and fun to follow, and their interactions kept things engaging. The grovel hit the mark without feeling dragged or tedious, and the epilogue wrapped things up in a cute way.
July 31, 2023
- 3% in and I’m not captivated by the murder… hopefully that doesn’t reflect on the rest of the novel
- 10% phew finally we’re getting somewhere. Okay so looks like he’s neurodivergent. What a cute walk he’s insisting on doing with her every morning.
- 19% uh that was one hell of a first kiss, phew. Very intimate.
- 27% I love the book exchange.. and lol his favorite part of the book made me laugh out loud (it was the MMC going down on the FMC)
- 36% I have to admit I really like when a man wants to get her pregnant to keep her/make her his
- 39% it’s weird she ran away to avoid getting murdered by the duke and his sister, but then ended up living and establishing Ambrosia very close to where they live. Also weird that the sister doesn’t recognize her at all
- 45% I mean I knew this was coming so I’m not shocked, but wtf he just sent the police after her without speaking to her first? She’s been arrested and in a jail cell for days… how the fuck does she forgive him for this? Oh my god she has to see him every day for interrogation? This is cruel.
- 62% a mother’s sacrifice, her first sacrifice for her child was to swallow her pride and speak to Sebastian in case if her name could be cleared and her child could have a better life. He explained his reasoning why he reported her instead of speaking to her first… he knew he would’ve asked her to run away with him and compromised his morals. Still a shitty thing he did, though. This book is making me tear up so much.
- 70% the thefts and murders were wrapped up quite easily, I guess because he still needs to grovel. I doubt that he will be able to do enough to convince me that they should get back together though
- 77% oh yessss she is really letting him have it. Sshe is still nowhere close to forgiving him.
- okay well she forgave him very shortly after. It was very interesting to see her conflict between forgiving him and being grateful to him for actually freeing her. In the end, he did a lot of small thoughtful things to show he loved her (did all the walks for her while she was in prison, defended her to his family, all the baked goods, excellent apologies, his speech about the meaning of the ring to him, thoughtful engagement ring, the toast, asked to spend a month in jail) and it was she who ended up wanting to forgive him.
- epilogue was nice but kind of stretched out, I didn’t feel like I needed to see so many time periods in the future
- overall, I cried a lot reading this book. A lot! The author did a great job of having Sebastian really express his regret and love for her. Definitely high up there as one of the best grovels I’ve read.
✅ so many feels
- 10% phew finally we’re getting somewhere. Okay so looks like he’s neurodivergent. What a cute walk he’s insisting on doing with her every morning.
- 19% uh that was one hell of a first kiss, phew. Very intimate.
- 27% I love the book exchange.. and lol his favorite part of the book made me laugh out loud (it was the MMC going down on the FMC)
- 36% I have to admit I really like when a man wants to get her pregnant to keep her/make her his
- 39% it’s weird she ran away to avoid getting murdered by the duke and his sister, but then ended up living and establishing Ambrosia very close to where they live. Also weird that the sister doesn’t recognize her at all
- 45% I mean I knew this was coming so I’m not shocked, but wtf he just sent the police after her without speaking to her first? She’s been arrested and in a jail cell for days… how the fuck does she forgive him for this? Oh my god she has to see him every day for interrogation? This is cruel.
- 62% a mother’s sacrifice, her first sacrifice for her child was to swallow her pride and speak to Sebastian in case if her name could be cleared and her child could have a better life. He explained his reasoning why he reported her instead of speaking to her first… he knew he would’ve asked her to run away with him and compromised his morals. Still a shitty thing he did, though. This book is making me tear up so much.
- 70% the thefts and murders were wrapped up quite easily, I guess because he still needs to grovel. I doubt that he will be able to do enough to convince me that they should get back together though
- 77% oh yessss she is really letting him have it. Sshe is still nowhere close to forgiving him.
- okay well she forgave him very shortly after. It was very interesting to see her conflict between forgiving him and being grateful to him for actually freeing her. In the end, he did a lot of small thoughtful things to show he loved her (did all the walks for her while she was in prison, defended her to his family, all the baked goods, excellent apologies, his speech about the meaning of the ring to him, thoughtful engagement ring, the toast, asked to spend a month in jail) and it was she who ended up wanting to forgive him.
- epilogue was nice but kind of stretched out, I didn’t feel like I needed to see so many time periods in the future
- overall, I cried a lot reading this book. A lot! The author did a great job of having Sebastian really express his regret and love for her. Definitely high up there as one of the best grovels I’ve read.
✅ so many feels
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 9, 2023
She ate this up. Perfect five out of five stars.
I've been working my way through r/RomanceBook's Grovel Megathread and this one is exactly my standard. I really enjoyed that our heroine, Jenny, is a champion for women in a way that feels down-to-earth and not at all girlboss-y. She's created a female space that serves as a safe haven for women who are looking for social and intellectual escape but also a shelter from very real violence and misogyny. With this (and her past) in mind, she's very cautious about entering a relationship. After the hero commits his Great Sin and goes into grovel-mode, Jenny is motivated by very real fear and caution in her decision not to forgive him. (But to be clear, she could've been just holding a personal grudge and I still would have been rooting for her.) Jenny is really logical and she has a strong backbone which I adore in a historical protag.
On the topic of the hero, I really liked how he was written. He's coded as being neurodivergent (the author confirms this in her ending note). That said, the the book points out that while he might be considered a social outcast, he's able to live his life. His "quirks" make him a poor fit for society but he's a wealthy man who still has the power to ruin women's lives, even unintentionally. I really like the message of an autistic character (who doesn't have the language to describe himself as such) taking accountability for their actions. Other people around him have less advantages and he has to come to realize that.
I also really enjoyed the structure. The beginning of book contains the majority of the love scenes but the rest of the book is dedicated to how character's actions affect the mystery at play. It felt less like a book about falling in love and more like one about a new connection being tested against obstacles, some set by their own mistakes and decisions. A lot of elitist romance critics deride new romance for its length, this is a good example of how some authors need higher page counts to draw out a detailed story.
So yes! This review is a little more ramble-y and contains more run-ons than I typically like but I'm sleepy. I 10000% recommend this book and I'm going to try to read a couple more from the Reddit thread on this shift.
I've been working my way through r/RomanceBook's Grovel Megathread and this one is exactly my standard. I really enjoyed that our heroine, Jenny, is a champion for women in a way that feels down-to-earth and not at all girlboss-y. She's created a female space that serves as a safe haven for women who are looking for social and intellectual escape but also a shelter from very real violence and misogyny. With this (and her past) in mind, she's very cautious about entering a relationship. After the hero commits his Great Sin and goes into grovel-mode, Jenny is motivated by very real fear and caution in her decision not to forgive him. (But to be clear, she could've been just holding a personal grudge and I still would have been rooting for her.) Jenny is really logical and she has a strong backbone which I adore in a historical protag.
On the topic of the hero, I really liked how he was written. He's coded as being neurodivergent (the author confirms this in her ending note). That said, the the book points out that while he might be considered a social outcast, he's able to live his life. His "quirks" make him a poor fit for society but he's a wealthy man who still has the power to ruin women's lives, even unintentionally. I really like the message of an autistic character (who doesn't have the language to describe himself as such) taking accountability for their actions. Other people around him have less advantages and he has to come to realize that.
I also really enjoyed the structure. The beginning of book contains the majority of the love scenes but the rest of the book is dedicated to how character's actions affect the mystery at play. It felt less like a book about falling in love and more like one about a new connection being tested against obstacles, some set by their own mistakes and decisions. A lot of elitist romance critics deride new romance for its length, this is a good example of how some authors need higher page counts to draw out a detailed story.
So yes! This review is a little more ramble-y and contains more run-ons than I typically like but I'm sleepy. I 10000% recommend this book and I'm going to try to read a couple more from the Reddit thread on this shift.
July 14, 2023
The H is likely autistic but self aware and lives independently. But when he falls in love, they build a sweet relationship. But his way of thinking results in him ruining her. I really liked this unlikely couple's unlikely story and the tricksy way they find their HEA.
November 17, 2023
This is a fantastic book with raw and real characters and fresh writing that grips you from start to finish 🔥🔥
August 3, 2023
Unusual but Good
I really enjoyed this. A really unusual story with interesting lead characters. The hero makes a big mistake that I didn’t see coming and then the story focuses on the rebuilding of trust. A nice plot and banter between the leads. I read so many of this genre of books that when something takes me by surprise it stands out. Definitely worth a read.
I really enjoyed this. A really unusual story with interesting lead characters. The hero makes a big mistake that I didn’t see coming and then the story focuses on the rebuilding of trust. A nice plot and banter between the leads. I read so many of this genre of books that when something takes me by surprise it stands out. Definitely worth a read.
May 15, 2025
i don't normally rate in here anymore but i have to rant
this book made me remember why i hate men and that should tell you how i hate this book
his mistake almost costs her life as well as her reputation, and it's a stupid one at that
yea he gets her out but that's THE BARE MINIMUM you should've done to your lover AND mother of your child. you could talk to her, try to listen to her, but he wouldn’t even talk after he found out and only avoiding her story for a month?????
what i hate the most as well is that she suffers physically while he what? laments over his bruised ego as he watch she waste away? disgusting behavior
the fact that she doesn't run away from him after she is free pisses me off the most. should've let homeboy suffer for months or years but nooooo, he gets to marry her instead. how easy life is for him isn't it?
tldr: i wouldn't forgive the hero at all, maybe after he suffers as much as she does, but sadly we don't get that at all so 1 star
this book made me remember why i hate men and that should tell you how i hate this book
his mistake almost costs her life as well as her reputation, and it's a stupid one at that
yea he gets her out but that's THE BARE MINIMUM you should've done to your lover AND mother of your child. you could talk to her, try to listen to her, but he wouldn’t even talk after he found out and only avoiding her story for a month?????
what i hate the most as well is that she suffers physically while he what? laments over his bruised ego as he watch she waste away? disgusting behavior
the fact that she doesn't run away from him after she is free pisses me off the most. should've let homeboy suffer for months or years but nooooo, he gets to marry her instead. how easy life is for him isn't it?
tldr: i wouldn't forgive the hero at all, maybe after he suffers as much as she does, but sadly we don't get that at all so 1 star
February 3, 2024
4 stars. Loved that the mmc was on the spectrum but it wasn’t made to be a big deal. Also enjoyed that she was his first everything. I shouldn’t have been surprised that half of the novel was the grovel, as that’s this author’s mo.
January 3, 2025
3.5⭐️, rounded down because I had some issues with it despite really loving the beginning. I loved the couple in this one, but it didn't live up to the previous book for me. I started out really enjoying the dynamic between them at the start. As someone with quite a few neurodivergent people in my circle, I always appreciate seeing autistic representation in HR. I loved how Sebastian would count the minutes that Jenny spoke to him - that was a really cute detail.
Then as the whole murder mystery plot got introduced it sort of fell apart. It was extremely obvious who killed Lady Pendleton from the moment it was mentioned, so the parts where they're trying to "figure it out" were a bit tedious. I think it was an issue with pacing, because her innocence was proven with over 25% of the book left. It felt a bit fast. I'm also not sure how accurate it was that they released her to await trial during this period... While it was a WTF moment for me when he just turned her in without question, I felt like he realized his mistake fairly quickly. Then despite Sebastian fixing it all by proving her innocence, groveling, and wanting to marry her she still holds it against him. This made the book drag for what felt like forever from around 75% to the 90% mark. I understand her reluctance to marry after the abuse she endured in her first marriage, but I felt like the focus was less on that and more about the fact that he turned her in, which seemed a bit silly considering how quickly it was resolved. Yes, she almost hanged for it, but this part went by so fast it was hard for me to really feel angry at him. Because of her station as a duchess, she was treated pretty well considering the charges.
I'm all for a good grovel, but I was getting irritated with Jenny here. I felt that Lottie's anger toward Simon in the previous book was a lot more understandable. Lottie's entire life was turned upside down by Simon's mistake, and he ran away from the consequences for 10 years. Sebastian realized his mistake almost immediately and set out to find the truth even when he wasn't sure yet whether she was innocent. The dinner scene with his family was really entertaining, but I wish some of the earlier conflict between Jenny and Sebastian had been tightened up so we could see it sooner and maybe have their issues play out a bit more rather than the long, drawn out groveling from Sebastian.
Finally, I was a bit disappointed that despite Sebastian being a virgin, he still took the more dominant role during their first time. I would have preferred to see Jenny teaching him. The vast majority of HR puts female characters in a submissive role whether or not she has sexual experience, so it would have been nice to see a reversal of that for once.
I really liked this author's other book, so I'm going to keep reading her work and I still consider her a new favorite. I really love these characters, the story just wasn't working for me for most of it. The proposal scene did make up for it a bit, though. I loved how Sebastian was so eager to learn about pregnancy and prepare to be a father.
Then as the whole murder mystery plot got introduced it sort of fell apart. It was extremely obvious who killed Lady Pendleton from the moment it was mentioned, so the parts where they're trying to "figure it out" were a bit tedious. I think it was an issue with pacing, because her innocence was proven with over 25% of the book left. It felt a bit fast. I'm also not sure how accurate it was that they released her to await trial during this period... While it was a WTF moment for me when he just turned her in without question, I felt like he realized his mistake fairly quickly. Then despite Sebastian fixing it all by proving her innocence, groveling, and wanting to marry her she still holds it against him. This made the book drag for what felt like forever from around 75% to the 90% mark. I understand her reluctance to marry after the abuse she endured in her first marriage, but I felt like the focus was less on that and more about the fact that he turned her in, which seemed a bit silly considering how quickly it was resolved. Yes, she almost hanged for it, but this part went by so fast it was hard for me to really feel angry at him. Because of her station as a duchess, she was treated pretty well considering the charges.
I'm all for a good grovel, but I was getting irritated with Jenny here. I felt that Lottie's anger toward Simon in the previous book was a lot more understandable. Lottie's entire life was turned upside down by Simon's mistake, and he ran away from the consequences for 10 years. Sebastian realized his mistake almost immediately and set out to find the truth even when he wasn't sure yet whether she was innocent. The dinner scene with his family was really entertaining, but I wish some of the earlier conflict between Jenny and Sebastian had been tightened up so we could see it sooner and maybe have their issues play out a bit more rather than the long, drawn out groveling from Sebastian.
Finally, I was a bit disappointed that despite Sebastian being a virgin, he still took the more dominant role during their first time. I would have preferred to see Jenny teaching him. The vast majority of HR puts female characters in a submissive role whether or not she has sexual experience, so it would have been nice to see a reversal of that for once.
I really liked this author's other book, so I'm going to keep reading her work and I still consider her a new favorite. I really love these characters, the story just wasn't working for me for most of it. The proposal scene did make up for it a bit, though. I loved how Sebastian was so eager to learn about pregnancy and prepare to be a father.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
May 21, 2025
Once again, Aydra Richards continues to hit it out of the park, especially with grovel novels. Jenny, who I met in book 1 of the series is hiding a big secret while fighting a growing attraction to the strange man who lives across the mews from the ladies club she manages and also lives in. Their first meeting includes Sebastian asking her to have an affair. He’s brilliant and unflinchingly honest and always does the right thing. Except for when the right thing costs him the woman he loves. Sebastian is also autistic though that terminology didn’t exist in the time period of this book. Watching Sebastian make amends for his actions and how they hurt Jenny is painful and then tender and soft and just beautiful.
May 18, 2025
i enjoyed the first 25-30% and the rest was an absolute torturous slog for me. why did i finish this besides spite and hubris?
i think the thing that happens early on that sets up the rest of the drama is out of sync with sebastian’s characterization in the beginning of the book, so it annoyed the shit out of me for the rest of the book that it happened at all. then it annoyed me that she forgives him and then i was so annoyed that everything else the book had to offer that wasn’t annoying became boring to me
i think the thing that happens early on that sets up the rest of the drama is out of sync with sebastian’s characterization in the beginning of the book, so it annoyed the shit out of me for the rest of the book that it happened at all. then it annoyed me that she forgives him and then i was so annoyed that everything else the book had to offer that wasn’t annoying became boring to me
July 11, 2025
I spent so much of this book just loving how these women show strength and back each other. Yes, the romance was great, but damn, I love a good girl’s girl book.
To be honest, Sebastian and Jenny started off a little boring for me. It was great getting a virgin MMC and an experienced FMC, and I loved their banter…but there was zero chemistry. It felt like siblings talking, honestly. I’m glad Aydra decided to flip the switch on them after their midnight walk because I needed to be invested for that betrayal to pack a punch and warrant the grovel we got.
And, the grovel DELIVERED.
I think I’m broken inside because I never feel like a grovel is long enough, but this one came close. I loved seeing Sebastian have to earn his time with Jenny again. And I adored how her friends had her back with him (Seriously, when Lottie punched him, I think I shouted out loud - I was so happy to see it). But the way Sebastian took accountability and owned his mistakes then put in the work to fix them? *Chef’s kiss*
Also, I love me a good neurodivergent rep in a romance!
To be honest, Sebastian and Jenny started off a little boring for me. It was great getting a virgin MMC and an experienced FMC, and I loved their banter…but there was zero chemistry. It felt like siblings talking, honestly. I’m glad Aydra decided to flip the switch on them after their midnight walk because I needed to be invested for that betrayal to pack a punch and warrant the grovel we got.
And, the grovel DELIVERED.
I think I’m broken inside because I never feel like a grovel is long enough, but this one came close. I loved seeing Sebastian have to earn his time with Jenny again. And I adored how her friends had her back with him (Seriously, when Lottie punched him, I think I shouted out loud - I was so happy to see it). But the way Sebastian took accountability and owned his mistakes then put in the work to fix them? *Chef’s kiss*
Also, I love me a good neurodivergent rep in a romance!
February 20, 2025
Because this was written in third person, I struggled to connect with the characters. I didn’t feel as strongly for them as I had hoped to, but overall, this was a great graveling trope book. The historical setting and ladies club made it so much fun.
March 17, 2024
Cute romance. Tres dramatique with lots of angst - I enjoyed. Very cute and funny
dnf
April 22, 2024Not feeling this at all. Might pick it back up later. I liked the premise but I just can't get into it. Both of them feel so superficial and one dimensional. My kingdom for a well developed HR 😭
September 16, 2024
3.5, was cute and angsty. loved the grovel lol
Read
August 9, 2025what do you mean mmc has her sent to prison for a crime she didn’t do and the punishment is to be hung?
how are we rooting for an mmc who sent the fmc to her death?
how are we rooting for an mmc who sent the fmc to her death?
April 1, 2024
HOW SCANDALOUS INDEED!! marvelous!
May 11, 2025
Dnf - she just… FORGAVE him like that?!?? Hell nah
January 23, 2024
EDIT: After reading, I still think it was unforgivable, but given that, the H did his damn best to show, not just say, his regrets and fully recognize why it was such a betrayal, and vow that she would always be put first no matter what, even if she was wrong (that might be swinging the pendulum too far the other way, but I mean, it's a nice gesture). AND the author at least had the h and friends talk out how complete a betrayal it was, and if she should forgive him, and would it be betraying herself to do so. So I have to admit, the author was self-aware, and at least chose this level of betrayal deliberately and carefully. My opinion has changed. And everything else except the Big Conflict was incredibly well done imo. The hero being a virgin and somewhat neurodivergent was interesting and well done I think, and their relationship developed reasonably as well, until The Big Thing happened nearly 1/2 way through. It was a bit convenient how easily/quickly it went from her being imprisoned for murder and eviscerated in the newspapers, to being hailed as an injured, innocent lady, but I'll take it, as it was well written, and the endings for the villains fairly satisfying.
************************************************************
Still reading this book and am going to finish it, and am not rating it yet, but what the H did was absolutely unforgivable. There's no amount of grovel that could ever redeem him.
Like, I appreciate a good grovel, but the betrayal/hurt that prompts it needs to be bad enough to need a good grovel, but not so bad that it would be insanity for the hurt party to ever forgive.
This would be a betrayal of such a degree that the h would have to betray her own sense of self to ever go back to him. Forgive him? Sure, from a safe distance. Get back with him and live happily ever after? Not even kinda.
************************************************************
Still reading this book and am going to finish it, and am not rating it yet, but what the H did was absolutely unforgivable. There's no amount of grovel that could ever redeem him.
Like, I appreciate a good grovel, but the betrayal/hurt that prompts it needs to be bad enough to need a good grovel, but not so bad that it would be insanity for the hurt party to ever forgive.
This would be a betrayal of such a degree that the h would have to betray her own sense of self to ever go back to him. Forgive him? Sure, from a safe distance. Get back with him and live happily ever after? Not even kinda.
February 20, 2024
This was well written and well done. I went into it knowing there was going to be a massive betrayal quite early on but it still managed to piss me off lmao. However, I do understand why it happened (I don’t have to accept it though) and I really enjoyed what followed. It was very angsty which is right up my alley! I enjoyed how emotionally and socially aware the characters were, the author did a great job! I probably would have enjoyed this more if the mmc agonised more but I understand it wasn’t in his character. The autism rep was imo very well done.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 116 reviews