When You Give a Duke a Diamond (Jewels of the Ton, #1) by Shana Galen

Feb 04, 2013 Susanne rated it 5 of 5 stars Recommends it for: Everyone!

Shelves: genre-regency-romance, rlftci-double-decker, best-couples, best-heroes, comfort-reads, everyone-should-read, giggles, perfect-for-me, up-for-reread

"The princess showed Will he didn't have to love in this fortress. He could exist outside its wall. He could laugh. He could have fun. He’d never had fun before because this Will was a duke. And dukes were supposed to be serious and act in a manner that befitted their stations. Dukes do not have fun."

…Her breathing seemed regular, and the thought she must have fallen asleep. He lowered his voice to a murmur.

"And then one day the princess told Will she loved him. That was even more confusing than...more "The princess showed Will he didn't have to love in this fortress. He could exist outside its wall. He could laugh. He could have fun. He’d never had fun before because this Will was a duke. And dukes were supposed to be serious and act in a manner that befitted their stations. Dukes do not have fun."

…Her breathing seemed regular, and the thought she must have fallen asleep. He lowered his voice to a murmur.

"And then one day the princess told Will she loved him. That was even more confusing than trying to have fun. No one had ever loved Will before. He didn’t know why anyone should love him. He didn’t understand why the princess loved him. She was beautiful and witty and popular for her dazzling personality, while he was dull, dreary, and sought after only because of his title."

Perfection! Books like this make me wish there was a sixth gold star. I just have one message for all my GR friends: put this on top of your TBR-pile xD

There are not words to do it justice. It was brilliant. It was romantic, endearing, funny, touching, heartwarming, hot and enticing. I cared so much for Juliette and Will, the Duchess of Dalliance and the Dangerous Duke.

It was now nigh eleven. His daily routine was shot to hell. Considering he now had a dead footman, a scared courtesan, and a cryptic note on his hand, he didn't think his day was going to improve.

They were perfect for each other. Favorite hero, favorite heroine and best couple. Will likes order. And Juliette manage to sneak her way into his life and bringing laughter, fun and spontaneity. And she's one of the "Three Diamonds" – London's most sought after and celebrated courtesans. Needless to say, Will is perplexed. Juliette is divorced and treated very badly by her ex-husband. At heart she is such a sweetie with so much love and she brings out a caring, protective and warm side of Will. My heart melted so many times.

She understood men. She understood Will wanted her but was not prepared to admit he wanted her, because he was A Duke.

Note to all other romance authors: this is how to do it. It was a true romance with a long and wonderful buildup and both Will and Juliette grew together. The ending was one of the sweetest I’ve ever read.

I melted. I smiled. I tingled. I read slowly to savor each word. I loved it. Truly loved it.
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Sep 17, 2012 Danielle (Bookwhoreblog) Perez marked it as to-read

Review Originally Post HERE

Juliette is the talk of the ton on a regular basis. From what Juliette is wearing to who she is sleeping with gossip about her is served up daily in the scandal sheets. You would think a girl would hate having her business spread all over the ton paper but Juliette wouldn't have it any other way.

William is set to be married with a suitable bride when the Duchess of Dalliance strolls into his life. When this diamond meets this Duke the two embark on a romance loaded w...more

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May 21, 2013 Linda rated it 4 of 5 stars

Shelves: challenge, challenge-2013, historical-romance

Juliette Clifton is known as the Duchess of Dalliance one of the 3 diamonds of London, dubbed so by Prinny himself; a famous Courtesan, desired by all and currently the headlines of the gossips columns. The gossip columns though this time do not have the right of it, they have her as being involved with the Duke of Pelham aka the Dangerous Duke. Juliette feels she must give her public what they seek, so she sets out to meet him and believes her best chance will be at Prinny's upcoming ball. Howe...more

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Feb 18, 2013 Kat ~ Forever Book Lover ♥ rated it 5 of 5 stars

Shelves: historical, netgalley

You can find this review and more at Forever Book Lover.

I will tell you the truth, I was hesitant in reading this book, I just didn't think I was going to bond with the heroine, I mean really, how could the lead character be a courtesan ?? So I put this one off a bit, then I found myself with a little free time between author commitments and I thought I would give this book a try. I have read Shana Galen's previous work and loved it, so maybe, just maybe this one would work for me..

Well first th...more

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May 18, 2013 Monica Williams rated it 4 of 5 stars

She is one of the Three Diamonds, one of London's most notorious courtesans, called the Duchess of Dalliance by Prinny himself. She is Juliette Clifton, divorced in a time where divorce was a tremendous scandal. The gossip rags of the time have linked her to a most unlikely suitor, the Duke of Pelham. He is a strikingly handsome man, but lives a rigid and strictly controlled life. He is betrothed to the daughter of a neighbor. One evening he crosses paths with Juliette, cut her completely. While...more

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Apr 27, 2013 Tin Ong rated it 5 of 5 stars

Shelves: 2013

He's the most sought-after peer in the realm. She's the most sought-after courtesan of the demi-monde. Their paths were never supposed to cross, until a gossip column decides to pair them up to boost sales -- never realizing that fiction has a way of turning into reality.

When Juliette witnesses the murder of the Duke of Pelham's fiancee, William isn't certain he can trust the word of a courtesan but he has no choice but to keep her safe and close to him. As Juliette and William search for the di...more He's the most sought-after peer in the realm. She's the most sought-after courtesan of the demi-monde. Their paths were never supposed to cross, until a gossip column decides to pair them up to boost sales -- never realizing that fiction has a way of turning into reality.

When Juliette witnesses the murder of the Duke of Pelham's fiancee, William isn't certain he can trust the word of a courtesan but he has no choice but to keep her safe and close to him. As Juliette and William search for the diamonds that Lucifer wants, both their resolves are tested and temptation proves irresistible. But he's a duke and she's a courtesan, could something really exist between the two of them? And are they brave enough to pursue it?

Duke. Courtesan. These are the labels that define and shape the lives of William, the Duke of Pelham and Juliette, the Duchess of Dalliance. As duke, William has embraced the rigorous order and responsibilities that comes with the title. He's very precise and systematic and very predictable. And he likes it that way.

Juliette's life isn't exactly in disarray -- but it isn't well-ordered either. As the Duchess of Dalliance, Juliette is pressured to keep up appearances and spend for clothes and hats that she really can't afford. Out in society, she must toughen her skin against the contempt of the ladies and the leers of the gentlemen.

When their names were linked in a gossip column, Juliette decides to play up the role and seeks an introduction with the duke at the ball. And their first meeting is disastrous, and devastating for Juliette to be dismissed so easily. It meant nothing to William, but it meant the world to Juliette, whose place in society is tenuous -- always one misstep away from social ruin.

"I've been called far worse."
- Juliette, p. 52

Juliette is an amazing, amazing character. She has accepted the reality of her place in society with admirable, albeit heartbreaking grace and dignity. She's a lovely character and one that I sympathized with. I admired her spirit and her ability to survive. She's got a tough skin and a soft heart -- and a dreamer.

William and Juliette undertake a journey of discovery -- who are they beyond the roles and responsibilities? As with all of the great love stories, "The course of true love never did run smooth." -- and our hero and heroine contend with trust issues -- they had opened themselves up to people before and ended up getting hurt. It is a tentative and gradual unfolding for them: they shed off their armors and become more and more vulnerable -- and it is breathtakingly electrifying. As I was reading the book, I was tingly and goosebump-y -- in a good way.

..."I'm not going to take advantage of you."

"No." She withdrew her hand. "You wouldn't."

"I called you a slut." He knew he was stating the obvious. Moreover, he knew he was bringing up a matter that, were he sober, he would never mention.

She laughed without humor. "I know. I heard."

"It upset you."

She pressed her lips together, the haughty reserve coming down again. "It didn't please me, but it's not the first time, and I suppose it won't be the last."

"You're not made of ice."

She gave him a puzzled look. "What strange things you say when you are foxed." She looked away, appearing to study the books behind his desk. "No, I'm not made of ice," she said quietly. "Neither are you, but we both have hard outer shells." She gazed at him, those blue eyes penetrating like icicles, only far, far warmer. "You know where my shell came from. What about yours?"
- p. 159

I felt the Lucifer/Eliza plot was handled a bit too lightly but it served its purpose in galvanizing the hero and heroine. Galen's main focus was the love story between the duke and a courtesan -- and she succeeded in telling a remarkably poignant and unforgettable story. I super-love this book and can't wait to read this next installment. (Yes, I said "super-love" -- ^_^)(less)

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Apr 21, 2013 Kati rated it 4 of 5 stars

Shelves: 2012-reads, 2012-reviews, 4-stars, arc, books-i-own, books-with-reviews, historicals, own-on-kindle, favorite-books

**original review posted at Romancing Rakes For The Love of Romance**

A courtesan who only wants to fall in love and get married? A Duke so caught up in a routine and only wants to marry for the purpose of carrying on his lineage? A mysterious man named Lucifer who is looking for diamonds? Welcome to Shana Galen's first book in theJewels of the Tonseries.

William Henry Charles Arthur Cavington, Viscount Southerby, Marquess of Rothingham, and sixth Duke of Pelham aka the Dangerous Duke has always l...more

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Feb 18, 2013 Melanie Adkins rated it 5 of 5 stars

All of London is talking about the Dangerous Duke and the Duchess of Dalliance. Their affair is followed by everyone! London is holding its collective breath when word gets out they have both been invited to the Prince's upcoming ball. It will be the first chance for society to see the two of them together. Society didn't count on a Duke who lived a very rigid, scheduled life and a Duchess who couldn't wait for this moment. Their first meeting was less than smooth when they clashed like oil and...more

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Oct 14, 2012 My Book Addiction and More MBA rated it 4 of 5 stars

WHEN YOU GIVE THE DUKE A DIAMOND by Shana Galen is an exciting historical romance set in England. It is the first in a new and exciting series,”The Jewels of the Ton”. What a wonderful start to what will surely be an exciting and fast paced series. Here is a bit on the upcoming series: “The Three Diamonds” so named by the Prince Regent. Three Cyprians,Juliette,”The Dalliance”,Fallon,” The Marchioness of Mystery”,and Lily, “The Countess of Charm” so named for their charms.Bound together by friend...more

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Oct 03, 2012 Elizabeth rated it 4 of 5 stars

Shelves: historical-romance, owned-e-books, regency, romance

Best book by Shana Galen yet (at least of those I’ve read): she seems to be hitting her stride as an author.

The book introduces us to the three Diamonds, three gorgeous young courtesans who allegedly service the Earl of Sin(Sinclair). Rumor has it, the Prince Regent designated them the three diamonds and “knighted” them, the Duchess of Dalliance, the Marchioness of Mystery, and the Countess of Charm.

Cheesy set-up that begs many questions, such as were women even “knighted” in the 19th century?...more

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Oct 02, 2012 Melanie rated it 5 of 5 stars

And off she goes again! Shana Galen, that is! With this book, Ms. Galen starts her brand new series under the title of Jewels of the Ton and first up is the diamond and the Duchess of Dalliance.

As all worthy diamonds, she was supposed to be flawless, and on the outside she certainly appeared to be. The ton admired as much as envied her, and she knew that her fortunes hung on nothing but an illusion she projects and their whim, and it is that knowledge that keeps her on her toes, making her aware...more

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Sep 25, 2012 Karen rated it 4 of 5 stars

This review has been hidden because it contains spoilers. To view it, click here. I liked Juliette, though I had some issues with her believability as a character (seriously-- a courtesan who's SHOCKED to be cut by polite society??), but William really made this book. Rarely do you get to see a hero grow and change so much in the course of a romance, and watching him open up and come to understand his own mind was a pleasure.

In the beginning William is a bit of a stick, and he comes off as a complete ass. Yes, he IS a duke, and Juliette is socially faaaaar beneath his notice...more I liked Juliette, though I had some issues with her believability as a character (seriously-- a courtesan who's SHOCKED to be cut by polite society??), but William really made this book. Rarely do you get to see a hero grow and change so much in the course of a romance, and watching him open up and come to understand his own mind was a pleasure.

In the beginning William is a bit of a stick, and he comes off as a complete ass. Yes, he IS a duke, and Juliette is socially faaaaar beneath his notice. But I kept being reminded of the quote about true nobility being not about reminding beggars of their place but in treating everyone like a king. In this, Juliette shows far more nobility of character than Will, though he has the better bloodlines. But Juliette-- and their situation-- is so far out of his realm of experience that he's at a loss for how to deal with her. Even when he comes to recognize that he's done wrong, he doesn't know what to do about it. Dukes Do Not Apologize. (Ass.)

Except... it wasn't that simple. William's personality wasn't a result of how he thought (or didn't think) about other people-- William's personality was entirely a result of the mental rulebook his father beat into him as a child-- who to associate with, how to act, how to treat others. Dukes are this. Dukes do NOT do that. (And above all, dukes are SCHEDULED-- I swear, losing his pocketwatch must have been like the Berlin Wall coming down, for William.) Isolated and abused as a child, the only way he knew how to interact with people was according to how well they fit or didn't fit with The Rules.

And then comes Juliette, who insists on treating him not as a duke but as a human being, and William has NO IDEA what to do with her... and that turns out to be the best thing in the world for him. Deep down, William had the makings of a real hero all along. This book really gave him the chance to prove it. (And when he makes up for his bad behavior... he REALLY goes all out.)

My only quibble was that Lucifer (no, not THAT Lucifer) is a bit of an all-powerful villain in this. I mean, obviously he's failed (so far) in locating his diamonds, but he seems to be able to do anything else without hindrance or difficulty. I mean... being able to murder a peer's daughter in the middle of a party and getting away without notice? Srsly? I kind of hope that gets toned down with the next book, because I do so love a good villain and Fitzhugh sounds like he could handle it. I'm definitely looking forward to finding out.(less)

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Sep 23, 2012 Sandy M rated it 4 of 5 stars

Shelves: historical

I really enjoyed the relationship between the hero and heroine in this book. Once they actually meet, she very slowly tears down the walls he has erected around himself by keeping a very stiff and orderly life. Talk about not knowing what him. But even then he sticks to his structured order amid the new and eventually welcome chaos that has invaded his world.

A darling of the ton, Juliette, who is also known as the Duchess of Dalliance, one of The Three Diamonds, enjoys the freedom she has as a c...more I really enjoyed the relationship between the hero and heroine in this book. Once they actually meet, she very slowly tears down the walls he has erected around himself by keeping a very stiff and orderly life. Talk about not knowing what him. But even then he sticks to his structured order amid the new and eventually welcome chaos that has invaded his world.

A darling of the ton, Juliette, who is also known as the Duchess of Dalliance, one of The Three Diamonds, enjoys the freedom she has as a courtesan to the nobility. Lately she’s purported to have been dallying with the Duke of Pelham, but unfortunately she’s never even been introduced to the man. She’s about to remedy that situation at that night’s ball at Carlton House. If she’s supposed to be having fun with the duke, why not make it so?

William, the sixth Duke of Pelham, is about to announce his betrothal. He’s found the perfect woman to make his duchess, a no-nonsense, unemotional girl who will fit his life quite well. Though he is taken with the Duchess of Dalliance – she is no duchess! – a duke cannot take up with a courtesan. Even when he’s introduced to her, Pelham keeps his noble airs front and center. Of course, this makes society gossip all that much more. Then when trying to locate his fiance where he’d left her earlier, who he finds is the harlot, weaving an unlikely story of his betrothed’s murder by a man named Lucifer.

Juliette is frightened. Enough that she finds herself on Pelham’s doorstep, hoping for his protection. The man is as unapproachable and insulting as ever, but now that she feels safe, Juliette begins her stealthy campaign to show him how fun life can be. She dubs him Will, is late to meals, and races horses at breakneck speed, all of which are driving the duke toward his breaking point. But as Will gets to know Juliette, he learns more about the woman she is inside, his attitude toward her changes. They share beautiful intimacies, both in his bed and out. However, he is still quite adamant he will never marry her; and that is all Juliette wants at this point in her life, someone to love her, to raise children with, to grow old with.

In between all of this, they are trying to solve the case of Pelham’s missing fiance. He doesn’t quite believe Juliette’s claim the girl may be dead. This is where the mystery of the story comes in, and it’s done quite well with a stalking maniac, putting fear into Juliette and bringing out Pelham’s protective instincts. There’s a nice blend of fun between Will and Juliette and the mysterious events that eventually lead to a confrontation in which Juliette takes Will’s motto to heart and she stops running from her past. Of course, even after everything is solved, Juliette has a decision to make: to become Will’s mistress or walk away. One is as equally difficult as the other.

That decision hinges on Pelham’s ability to bend and then grovel. Will he be able to leave his life of strictures to live with more freedom for fun and perhaps even love? Has he learned anything about life during his time with Juliette? That’s what she hopes for, but even after everything they’ve been through together, will this duke take a lowly farm girl/courtesan as his wife?

This is a good start to a trilogy that will now follow the Countess of Charm and the Marchioness of Mystery. Ms. Galen has given readers a good balance between the light-hearted and the emotional, and I hope the other books will have more of that, while still giving us an intriguing story to feature each set of characters. I look forward to finding out what’s in store for them.

See my complete review at http://www.goodbadandunread.com (less)

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Sep 17, 2012 Lee Anne - Give me a Good Romance rated it 5 of 5 stars

Shelves: for-review-not-lendable, historical, romance

I love contemporary romances with their fast paced storylines and faster paced romances. However, I cut my romance reading teeth on historical romances and as such, I harbor a special place for them in reading heart.

When you Give a Duke a Diamond is on FANTASTIC good read! I LOVED every minute of this book! This happens to be one of the better historical romances that I have read, and I’ve read quite a few in my many years!

When You Give a Duke a Diamond jumps right into the story. There’s no bu...more

I love contemporary romances with their fast paced storylines and faster paced romances. However, I cut my romance reading teeth on historical romances and as such, I harbor a special place for them in reading heart.

When you Give a Duke a Diamond is on FANTASTIC good read! I LOVED every minute of this book! This happens to be one of the better historical romances that I have read, and I’ve read quite a few in my many years!

When You Give a Duke a Diamond jumps right into the story. There’s no build up, it’s sink or swim! And from there it only gets better!

Juliette is a renowned courtesan who has been linked to the Dangerous Duke. The only problem is, she’s never been introduced to the man! When they are both at the same ball with Prinny, she takes a chance and approaches him as he’s speaking with Prinny. The Duke has the nerve to cut her publicly. She does the only thing she can do and strikes back. Then she sweeps out of the room with her head held high.

Later that same night she witnesses the murder of the Duke’s fiancé and the game is on. She needs the Duke to protect her from the killer, how will she convince him to keep her safe? From there they are thrown together as they try to solve the mystery of the Diamonds.

I really liked Juliette. As a divorced woman she has few choices open to her. She takes what life has thrown at her and does the best she can while holding on to her dignity. She’s been forced to remake herself over multiple times in order to survive. As she and the Dangerous Duke try to unravel they mystery of the diamonds, she offers him something he’s never felt before……love. He doesn’t know what to do with her love and ends up botching it all!

When I first met the Duke I didn’t like him….at all. I kept thinking “What a POMPOUS ASS!” As the story moved along and I got to know him better I started to like him. I began to understand why he is the way he is. We are the product of our parents. Juliette challenged him on so many levels and he realized things don’t have to stay the same!

This was a great book and I’m thrilled I got to read it! I can’t wait to read the rest of the books in this series. One mystery was solved, but one remains open. I’m looking forward to finding out the rest of the story!

I received a copy of this book from the publisher through NetGalley for an honest review.(less)

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Sep 15, 2012 SOS Aloha rated it 4 of 5 stars

We shall find peace. We shall hear angels, we shall see the sky sparkling with diamonds. – Anton Chekhov

WHEN YOU GIVE A DUKE A DIAMOND kicks off Galen’s new series, JEWELS OF THE TON. Three courtesans band together in friendship and survival, flaunting their assets and flirting through society. The Prince Regent has given each courtesan a nickname to match their personalities …

Juliette, the Duchess of Dalliance, and William, The Duke of Pellman, may be polar opposites in social standing. Yet the...more

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Sep 14, 2012 Julie rated it 5 of 5 stars

This is only my second book by Shana Galen, but after this one there will be more! I loved it, and I can't wait for the other 2 books. It seems that they will all be closely linked, due to the intrigue beginning in this book. I don't even know where to start about this book, the heroine is beautiful, funny and knows how to enjoy herself. Then we have a Duke who has never really enjoyed himself. Put them together and you've got one frazzled Duke. I so enjoyed her ruffling his feathers and bringin...more

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Sep 03, 2012 Judy & Marianne from Long and Short Reviews rated it 4 of 5 stars

Shelves: historical, non-erotic

Originally posted at: http://www.longandshortreviews.blogsp...

Dignity, punctuality, routine, and responsibility mean little to Juliette, the Duchess of Dalliance, but they rule William, the Sixth Duke of Pelham. His “mind-numbing” routine, drilled into him by an unloving father, never lets him forget—he is a DUKE.

When he publicly cuts Juliette and calls her a strumpet, nothing more than a well-paid whore, she calls him an insufferable ass. Even though she's divorced and known as a courtesan, she...more Originally posted at: http://www.longandshortreviews.blogsp...

Dignity, punctuality, routine, and responsibility mean little to Juliette, the Duchess of Dalliance, but they rule William, the Sixth Duke of Pelham. His “mind-numbing” routine, drilled into him by an unloving father, never lets him forget—he is a DUKE.

When he publicly cuts Juliette and calls her a strumpet, nothing more than a well-paid whore, she calls him an insufferable ass. Even though she's divorced and known as a courtesan, she's not made of stone. His cruel words hurt but she cannot let it show if she wants to keep her exalted place in society.

When these two become co-conspirators to find a murderer, the friction between them wears away the calloused, rough edges until their true personalities shine. It's a slow sometimes painful process, but it polishes them to a breathtaking awareness that nurtures love like neither of them has ever known.

Elizabeth, the duke’s fiancée; Lucifer, the gambling hell owner; and Oliver Clifton, Juliette’s ex-husband, are little more than shadowy characters, yet they have remarkable influence on the action. They fuel the mystery, fear, and suspense, while Lily, the Countess of Charm; Fallon, the Marchioness of Mystery; and the Earl and lady Sinclair fuel mystery of another kind and a tale that surrounds the Three Diamonds and their relationship to the Earl.

The other secondary characters help weave together the intriguing elements of the plot that prove to have political entanglements as well as the ton’s insatiable curiosity and societal pitfalls. Of course, "where are the stolen diamonds?" is a prominent thread ever present in the plot.

Shana Galen gives some insight into the personalities of the primary characters and sets up a situation before immersing the reader into murder, mischief, mystery, and meanness. As she shepherds the hero and heroine along through happenings that threaten societal suicide for them, she keeps the tension high. With subtle humor and poignant back stories, she makes the characters seem real. The awakening of the Duke of Pelham to a life not ruled by routine and always having to be “a DUKE” captivates. The part Juliette plays in his awakening brings her out of the category of divorcee and courtesan to become the person she’d dreamed of being.

When You Give a Duke a Diamond is a Regency romance that reveals the mores of the time and has just enough twists and turns in it to keep one turning pages; but most of all it entertains with wonderful characters having to deal with just enough conflict to show their strengths and weakness that make them seem so human and so deserving of their happy-ever-after. A joy to read!
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Sep 01, 2012 Nicole Flockton rated it 5 of 5 stars

William, Duke of Pelham, also known as the “Dangerous Duke” was about to become betrothed to a lovely, stable Lady – totally suitable as his Duchess. He lived his life in an orderly routine manner, any other way of living it is frivolous. That is until the day the papers run the story that William has had secret liaisons with Juliette – the Duchess of Dalliance, one of London’s notorious courtesans and a member of the infamous Three Diamonds. William finds that his orderly, structured routine li...more William, Duke of Pelham, also known as the “Dangerous Duke” was about to become betrothed to a lovely, stable Lady – totally suitable as his Duchess. He lived his life in an orderly routine manner, any other way of living it is frivolous. That is until the day the papers run the story that William has had secret liaisons with Juliette – the Duchess of Dalliance, one of London’s notorious courtesans and a member of the infamous Three Diamonds. William finds that his orderly, structured routine life is about to change.

Juliette, loved the notoriety being the Duchess of Dalliance, at first, but now she is growing tired of basically living a false life. When she sees the headlines of her ‘dalliance’ with William – the Dangerous Duke it amuses her. If only the Ton knew the real truth about her life.

When William and Juliette meet at the next social function, William is snooty, rude and demeans Juliette in front of the Ton. Maintaining a brave face and with the support of the other two Diamonds, Juliette rebukes his comments. Inside, however, the insecure girl is cringing, Juliette seeks the solace of the empty balcony – or so she thinks. The next moment she witnesses the murder of a member of the Ton. Not only does the death have repercussions for William but Juliette finds her life in danger.

Juliette turns to the one person she thinks can help her – William. Together they embark on a journey to keep Juliette safe and at the same time William discovers that taking risks can actually turn out to be quite fun. Juliette learns that someone does see the real her.

Ms Galan has created another humorous, engaging story. Her use of the word “Diamond” in different meanings throughout the book is cleverly and subtlety constructed. This is the first book in her new trilogy “The Jewels of the Ton”. The romance is wonderfully woven through the story and you have many laugh out loud and *sigh* moments throughout. Especially when William sees there’s more to life than having the same meal every night. I highly recommend this book and cannot wait for the next two in the series.

I was fortunate enough to receive this book from the author.
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Aug 30, 2012 Alexia Chantel rated it 4 of 5 stars

Three stunning courtesans have the ton hanging on their every move. Each one has their own beauty and grace, but when you put them all together they take your breath away. Galen’s new series Jewels of the Ton starts out with the Diamond and is everything you want in a historical romance.

Juliette has earned the nickname the Duchess of Dalliance, and she certainly lives like a Duchess. She has her own home, eats wonderful things, and attends the best parties wearing the most beautiful gowns. Exac...more

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Aug 30, 2012 Marcia rated it 3 of 5 stars

Bookswagger Marcia: Three Crowns, swagger jacked, decent read. This was a creative take on regency romance, not many stories are from the courtesan point of view. A prim virginal Miss Juliette was not. Juliette is a woman who escaped from an abusive marriage in a time it was unheard of and later found the man of her dreams in William. I enjoyed this unique take on the regency romance and I am curious about the other Fallen Ladies stories. For those who enjoy their heroines a little less experien...more

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Aug 30, 2012 Melody May rated it 5 of 5 stars

Shelves: romance, netgalley, historical

Appears at http://sillymelody.blogspot.com

This week I was able to preview When You Give A Duke A Diamond by Shana Galen. Let me tell you I'm excited that this book comes out on Saturday.

Let me share what's it about:

We meet the three Diamonds who are: Juliette the Duchess of Dalliance, Fallon the Marchioness of Mystery, and Lily the Countess of Charm. All three are sought after courtesans for there indiscretion, yet they are very discreet.

Everyone believes the rumors of Juliette, the Duchess of...more Appears at http://sillymelody.blogspot.com

This week I was able to preview When You Give A Duke A Diamond by Shana Galen. Let me tell you I'm excited that this book comes out on Saturday.

Let me share what's it about:

We meet the three Diamonds who are: Juliette the Duchess of Dalliance, Fallon the Marchioness of Mystery, and Lily the Countess of Charm. All three are sought after courtesans for there indiscretion, yet they are very discreet.

Everyone believes the rumors of Juliette, the Duchess of Dalliance, yet they would be surprise by the actual truth of the matter. Juliette would prefer to shy away from the lime-light, but has no other way to survive. Loved by men and hated by women. However, appearances can be deceiving.

Rumor is Juliette is connected to a very high profile man, William Cavington, the sixth Duke of Pelham, in very scandalous affair. Of course, this is not the case. Why would a stick in the mud go after a courtesan? Especially, when he is engage to Lady Elizabeth, by the way I don't like her.

No matter, something horrible happens to Lady Elizabeth and Pelham has a hard time believing, especially when he hears it from Juliette. Now both there lives in danger from an evil man name Lucifer.

Each of them carries a secret they do not want the other to know. Both of them have been shaped by there secret they carry. Will they become each others confidant? Can Pelham let loose enough to realize he might actually learn to love another person or will he let it slip through his grasp? Will they catch Lucifer before another succumbs to his evil plot?

My thoughts:

Utterly amazing! I mean When You Give A Duke A Diamond was a page turner I couldn't put. I truly believe Shana Galen has outdone herself with her new book. With out a doubt, I look forward to the next book in the series. Seriously, I need this book in my collection and plan to add to it. I most definitely would re-read this again. I LOVED IT! I strongly encourage y'all to go check this book out.

That's all for now and happy reading!

eARC provide by NetGalley(less)

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Aug 29, 2012 Kat Latham rated it 5 of 5 stars

Shelves: historical-romance

As a courtesan, Juliette's life depends on being seen as notorious and fascinating.

As a duke, William's self-respect depends on being reserved and haughty.

When Juliette witnesses William's intended being brutally attacked at a ball, she tells him what she saw and asks for his help protecting herself. It's no wonder William is slow to believe her at all.

But when the evidence mounts up and William realizes she's truly in danger, he whisks her away to Yorkshire where she'll be safe and he can inve...more

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Apr 03, 2013 Vikisha rated it 3 of 5 stars · review of another edition

Shelves: audiobooks, historical-romance, historical-romance-regency

The plot and storyline of the book was very good. I like to read books from a courtesan's POV. However, Juliet is a not "true" courtesan.

The Duke is known for his pedigree and acting in a diginified way. He is aloof and prides himself on propriety.

There is gossip about Juliet and the Duke of Pelman having an affair, even though is completely false. The Duke is engaged to another and the gossip is the type of thing that can cause much embarrasment and possibly ending the engagement.

Juliet know...more

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Oct 15, 2012 Dahlia (yadkny) rated it 4 of 5 stars Recommends it for: Historical Romance Lovers

What an absolutely fabulous start to a new historical romance series! It has all the necessary elements: murder, mystery, intrigue, romance, suspense, scandal, and best of all a tough as nails hero and heroine. I really enjoyed and appreciated how the pacing of the suspense and mystery kept in time with the development of the two main characters and their romance. From the start, I knew Pelham and Juliette would be disastrous together and yet I was looking forward to their public and private têt...more What an absolutely fabulous start to a new historical romance series! It has all the necessary elements: murder, mystery, intrigue, romance, suspense, scandal, and best of all a tough as nails hero and heroine. I really enjoyed and appreciated how the pacing of the suspense and mystery kept in time with the development of the two main characters and their romance. From the start, I knew Pelham and Juliette would be disastrous together and yet I was looking forward to their public and private tête-à-tête’s with every turn of the page. Pelham’s behavior towards her is atrocious and only served to make me dislike him more and more, but the reasoning behind it all did give me pause to reconsider his hero status and totally redeemed him. Juliette, on the other hand, is magnificent from the start in the way she handles her own. She is upfront and honest with her feelings and yet stayed strong in the face of so much verbal nastiness. Her resolve to help Pelham overcome his idiosyncrasies is admirable. I knew that for these two to get an HEA it would take more than just an apology and I very much enjoyed the journey that these two took to get there.

The detailing of each scene is done very well without being overdone. The same can be said for the intensely, passionate intimate scenes as well. The reader is kept engaged with the many emotional highs and lows, which only served to heighten the final “will they” or “won't they” encounter. The overall conflict of the story is fairly dramatic, but not resolved by the story's end and for that I thought it was very fitting and believable. With such opinionated and head strong leading ladies such as the Three Diamonds, I am genuinely excited to read their stories as the series continues. I wholeheartedly recommend this story to any fan of Regency romance!

“Only a diamond can cut another diamond.”

All the women hate or envy her and all the men want to bed her, but for Juliette all she wants is to finally get her forever. This would mean finding a husband and settling down out of the spotlight, which is much easier said than done for Juliette, is one of the Three Diamonds. It is said that the Three Diamonds are wealthy and fashionable courtesans who have quite rightly earned their nicknames with beauty and reputation. However, not all is as it seems for this Diamond. No one but her most trusted confidants and fellow Diamonds know that her past might just be more scandalous than her present. Behind the ruse and the glamorous gowns and lifestyle is a woman openly hiding from the devil himself. With her purse strings rather tight, Juliette must find a new protector, but the swirl of gossip in the ton has put her in a precarious position with the last man anyone would have expected.

“A duke was never uncertain, never faltered, never showed emotion. And a duke was never late.”

Coming from a long line of distinguished, respectable men, the ducal tenets of duty have been instilled in the Duke of Pelham since birth. His daily rituals are meticulous and are not to be disturbed in the slightest whilst observing them. But It is Pelham’s self-assertiveness and arrogant attitude in his public and political life, which has earned him the name the Dangerous Duke. In short, he is a man not to be trifled with and yet the scandal rags have targeted him as the new paramour of the Duchess of Dalliance. Any untoward behavior or gossip is not to be tolerated, so this latest piece of misinformation must be dealt with swiftly and efficiently. What better way than to attend a ball, which he detests doing, and present his fiancé. Unfortunately, his publicly, cutting manner with the infamous courtesan backfires miserably upon first sight of her. Soon after, he finds himself entangled in a murder mystery and an unexpected passion with life altering consequences. Too bad the cardinal rule for the Dukes of Pelham is to never fall in love.

Review soon-to-be posted @ Night Owl Reviews(less)

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Sep 13, 2012 Cocktails and Books rated it 5 of 5 stars

Shelves: 2012-reading-challenges, historical-romance, publisher-provided, blog-tour

4.5 Stars

Will, the Duke of Pelham, learned at a very young age the importance of having a structured, rigid schedule and to maintain that schedule...no matter what. His world is turned upside when he meets Juliette, the Duchess of Dalliance. He thinks she's beneath him, but she has an uncanny ability to stir emotions in Will that he's thought were long buried by his father.

Juliette is not at all what she appears to the ton and she longs for a husband and family who loves her. While she loved ha...more 4.5 Stars

Will, the Duke of Pelham, learned at a very young age the importance of having a structured, rigid schedule and to maintain that schedule...no matter what. His world is turned upside when he meets Juliette, the Duchess of Dalliance. He thinks she's beneath him, but she has an uncanny ability to stir emotions in Will that he's thought were long buried by his father.

Juliette is not at all what she appears to the ton and she longs for a husband and family who loves her. While she loved having herself tied to the Duke of Pelham in the scandal sheets, she finds herself quite drawn to the man when they meet in person and hurt by his opinion of her. Despite that, she's the first person she runs to when she needs help because he's the only one that makes her feel safe.

Juliette and Will are a perfect display of why I love historical romances. We have the stiff, holier than thou Duke who's brought to his knees by a woman he previous thought wasn't good enough to grace the bottom of his shoe. They have the equivalent of emotional fireworks each time they are together, but manage to get to a place where they understand each other to their very souls.

Will has had it ingrained into him that he's a Duke and better than everyone else. Regardless of his personal feelings, he must always keep the Dukedom and his affect on it's legacy at the forefront of all decisions. Those lessons have made Will closed off, unapproachable, cold and an insufferable ass (so well put, Countess of Sinclair). But Juliette sees something in Will that no one else sees. She sees the man who has never known love or how to have fun. Despite their rocky start, Will starts to realize that with Juliette he's actually living rather than just going through the motions. It's wonderful to see him break out of his shell (no matter how uncomfortable) and be the man Juliette knew he could be.

Juliette, despite having a larger than life personality, was really a woman who was searching for a place to call home. She longed for a family and a husband who loved her. She may be known to the ton as a courtesan, but she did what she needed to do to escape the hell she lived in and an ex-husband who was not as he seemed. With Will, she find her safe haven. Even when he was putting her down, she felt a connection to him and couldn't leave him. Will gave her the room to be who she was and made her a true partner in their adventure together. He made her feel worthy and cherished, even if his words sometime said something different.

This is my first Shana Galen book, but I will say it will not be my last. She crafted characters that were wonderfully flawed in a way that made you love them instantly (insufferable ass or not). The storyline was well paced and the mystery behind the missing "diamonds" kept you guessing right up to the epilogue (which sets up book 2 quite nicely). I can't wait for the next in the series and in the meantime will definitely be picking up some backlist Shana Galen.(less)

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Sep 20, 2012 Blodeuedd Finland rated it 3 of 5 stars

Shelves: historical-romance

Sometimes I think too much when reading historical romance (while still really enjoying the book of course). And yes of course I thought about things here. A duke and a courtesan? Oh no! The ton would be horrified, their future children would suffer from it. And sure there was that point when I was all and she is a courtesan cos? But this is historical romance, this is meant to make you smile and feel happy and that is does do just that.

William is, oh how to describe him, he has a stick up his a...more

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Aug 22, 2012 Jeanne Murray rated it 4 of 5 stars

In the prologue to Shana Galen’s newest, When You Give a Duke a Diamond, she says, “The only thing more fascinating than indiscretion is discretion,” and that sentiment is at the heart of this very entertaining romance. Building a life on her reputation as the courtesan known as the “Duchess of Dalliance,” along with two other friends dubbed “Diamonds,” divorcee Juliette hides from her violent ex-husband and other men. All goes smoothly until the Duke of Pelham, straight-laced, judgmental and ab...more

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Jan 06, 2013 Lara rated it 3 of 5 stars

Shelves: 2013-tower-team, 2013-alphabet, 2013, 2013-covers

My first Shana Galen is a story of the courtesan who is not what she seems and the Duke who needs to loosen things up a bit. One think I appreciated was the way Juliette was so aware of her role, and the need to actively maintain it. She was also terrified at certain parts, and acted believably as a woman of that time--she froze or ran, she didn't fight.

I was disappointed in the instant attraction/chemistry despite never having met. Also, the Duke changed a bit too completely too quickly. Finall...more

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Feb 19, 2013 Raina {The LUV'NV} rated it 4 of 5 stars · review of another edition

Shelves: historical-romance

I've read Shana Galen's previous works and loved them. I highly recommend her books to Historical Romance fans who are looking for plot and romance. Galen didn't disappoint with When You Give a Duke a Diamond . It was well paced, with the perfect amount of mystery, love scenes, steam, and humor throughout. The dialog was wonderfully smart, the characters were lovable and had depth, and their banter was both natural and so much fun to read. Oh, and their character growth still makes me smile an...more

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Aug 17, 2012 D.C. rated it 4 of 5 stars

ABOUT THE BOOK:
William, the sixth Duke of Pelham, enjoys his punctual, securely structured life. Orderly and predictable—that's the way he likes it. But he's in the public eye, and the scandal sheets will make up anything to sell papers. When the gossip papers link him to Juliette, one of the most beautiful and celebrated courtesans in London, chaos doesn't begin to describe what happens next...

Until she came along...

Juliette is nicknamed the Duchess of Dalliance and has the cream of the nobilit...more

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When You Give a Duke a Diamond (Jewels of the Ton #1)

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