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Synneful Spinsters #3
The Duke’s All That
A heartbreaking betrayal. A secret life. A love that deserves a second chance.
Iain MacInnes, Duke of Balgair, has spent the last thirteen years believing his wife is dead—until he receives word that she is very much alive and living under an assumed name on the remote Isle of Synne. He sets off with only one goal in mind: bring his wife back to Scotland where he can divorce her and expose her for the liar she is.
After a devastating deception by the man who was supposed to love her, Seraphina did what was necessary to keep herself and her sisters safe. And though she’s still haunted by the events that tore her world apart all those years ago, she’s made a happy life on Synne, surrounded by loyal friends and building a secret career as a popular author. Now that Iain has found her, however, all that is at risk.
Despite their long separation, the attraction between Iain and Seraphina still burns strong. But with so much hurt and betrayal between them, can they possibly find their way back to each other?
Iain MacInnes, Duke of Balgair, has spent the last thirteen years believing his wife is dead—until he receives word that she is very much alive and living under an assumed name on the remote Isle of Synne. He sets off with only one goal in mind: bring his wife back to Scotland where he can divorce her and expose her for the liar she is.
After a devastating deception by the man who was supposed to love her, Seraphina did what was necessary to keep herself and her sisters safe. And though she’s still haunted by the events that tore her world apart all those years ago, she’s made a happy life on Synne, surrounded by loyal friends and building a secret career as a popular author. Now that Iain has found her, however, all that is at risk.
Despite their long separation, the attraction between Iain and Seraphina still burns strong. But with so much hurt and betrayal between them, can they possibly find their way back to each other?
336 pages, Kindle Edition
First published February 6, 2024
23 people are currently reading
439 people want to read
About the author
Christina Britton
14 books395 followersChristina Britton developed a passion for writing romance novels shortly after buying her first at the tender age of thirteen. Though for several years she turned to art and put brush instead of pen to paper, she has returned to her first love and is now writing full time. She spends her days dreaming of corsets and cravats and noblemen with tortured souls.
She lives with her husband and two children in the San Francisco Bay Area. A member of Romance Writers of America, she also belongs to her local chapter, Silicon Valley RWA, and is a 2017 RWA® Golden Heart® Winner. You can find her on the web at www.christinabritton.com, Twitter as @cbrittonauthor, or facebook.com/ChristinaBrittonAuthor
She lives with her husband and two children in the San Francisco Bay Area. A member of Romance Writers of America, she also belongs to her local chapter, Silicon Valley RWA, and is a 2017 RWA® Golden Heart® Winner. You can find her on the web at www.christinabritton.com, Twitter as @cbrittonauthor, or facebook.com/ChristinaBrittonAuthor
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 187 reviews
February 4, 2024
The Duke’s All That by Christina Britton
Synneful Spinsters series #3. Historical romance. Can be read as a stand-alone. Previous characters show up briefly a couple of times and this would be a spoiler for the previous books in the series.
Iain MacInnes, the new Duke of Balgair, thought his wife of one day took money from her father to leave him and then tragically died. He receives a letter saying she’s alive and he’s determined to find her now and divorce her. Before she finds out he’s a Duke now.
Seraphina was told that Iain just wanted money and when her father paid him off, he left.
They were both lied to although neither knows it. Seeing each other again makes each mad but at the same time the attraction is still there.
Iain and Seraphina have a lot of chemistry when they meet again after many years apart, but there is also ugly history to wade through.
The middle, their travel, is long. Yes, they are reestablishing a relationship and connecting. We find out more about her time away and gradually what happened. We feel their longing.
They are both proud of their accomplishments and rightly so. But stubborn too. A little more openness would have gone a long way with each other as well as family and friends. And less of their travel time would have been fine too. But that’s me gripping.
In the end, we get a well deserved romance for the couple. It is sad they were kept apart but I did enjoy Seraphina’s strength in confronting the past.
When Iain lets go of his anger to re-meet his grandmother and cousin, and to finally establish true family, it brought tears both for the loss in the past and the closeness to be their future.
The pet parrot added a bit of levity during the travel.
I enjoyed the romance and continuity for the series with the secondary characters.
4.25
I received a copy of this from NetGalley.
Synneful Spinsters series #3. Historical romance. Can be read as a stand-alone. Previous characters show up briefly a couple of times and this would be a spoiler for the previous books in the series.
Iain MacInnes, the new Duke of Balgair, thought his wife of one day took money from her father to leave him and then tragically died. He receives a letter saying she’s alive and he’s determined to find her now and divorce her. Before she finds out he’s a Duke now.
Seraphina was told that Iain just wanted money and when her father paid him off, he left.
They were both lied to although neither knows it. Seeing each other again makes each mad but at the same time the attraction is still there.
Iain and Seraphina have a lot of chemistry when they meet again after many years apart, but there is also ugly history to wade through.
The middle, their travel, is long. Yes, they are reestablishing a relationship and connecting. We find out more about her time away and gradually what happened. We feel their longing.
They are both proud of their accomplishments and rightly so. But stubborn too. A little more openness would have gone a long way with each other as well as family and friends. And less of their travel time would have been fine too. But that’s me gripping.
In the end, we get a well deserved romance for the couple. It is sad they were kept apart but I did enjoy Seraphina’s strength in confronting the past.
When Iain lets go of his anger to re-meet his grandmother and cousin, and to finally establish true family, it brought tears both for the loss in the past and the closeness to be their future.
The pet parrot added a bit of levity during the travel.
I enjoyed the romance and continuity for the series with the secondary characters.
4.25
I received a copy of this from NetGalley.
April 3, 2024
Note: Some of my goodreads shelves can be spoilers
Overall: 3.5 rounded to ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Readability: 📖📖📖📖
Feels: 🦋🦋🦋
Emotional Depth: 💔💔💔💔
Sexual Tension: ⚡⚡⚡
Romance: 💞💞💞
Sensuality: 💋💋💋
Sex Scene Length: 🍑🍑🍑 (The scenes are pretty light, the first one is more developed but I settled at 3)
Steam Scale (Number of Sex Scenes): 🔥🔥 - there’s one decently developed scene and then 1 shorter scene (a few paragraphs) and 1 very short and vague scene
Humor: A bit
Perspective: Third person from both hero and heroine
More character focused or plot focused? character
How did the speed of the story feel? medium
When mains are first on page together: Immediately with the prologue, after that it’s chapter 2, or about 10% when they meet current day
Cliffhanger: No, this ends with a happily ever after
Epilogue: Yes
Format: voluntarily read an advanced reader copy from NetGalley but was a bit late after publishing
(Descriptions found at end of my review)
Should I read in order?
I don’t think it’s totally necessary? I picked this one up alone and it seemed fine. There was some brief mention of the other couples from prior books in the series. I’m not sure how much character depth is created for these mains in the first two books.
Basic plot:
Iain believes his wife is dead, but comes to find out 13 years after they were married shes alive and living on the Isle of Synne. He goes to request a divorce...
Give this a try if you want:
- Late Regency - 1821
- Isle of Synne setting
- road trip vibes
- class difference – hero is a stable hand and heroine is the daughter of an earl when they marry
- second chance – it’s been a 13 year separation
- found family
- rags to riches
- heroine owns a circulating library
- Duke hero
- secret author
- marriage in jeopardy
- pets – heroine has a pet parrot
- lower steam – 1 nicely developed scene and two shorter and more vague ones
Ages:
- Heroine is 32 and hero is ‘more than 30’
First line:
I cannae believe you’re my wife.
My thoughts:
I loved the set up of this one! Second chance doesn’t usually work the best for me – but the fact that we got a backstory in the prologue and then the hero thought she was dead for 13 years...I thought I was going to really love this one.
But I struggled with Seraphina being so closed off to Iain. The woman has trauma for sure, but when she didn’t seemed too concerned about getting the full story from Iain after she finds out she’s been lied to rubbed me the wrong way. And then how she didn’t open up until the very end of the book, it kind of left that to be one of the issues for the whole book. And because she wasn’t opening up to him, I think I didn’t quite get the angst I wanted from their reuniting.
Still I think this is a very intense and worthwhile read – maybe a bit too heavy for what I was in the mood for at that time, but I did like it more than a lot of second chance I read. I LOVED the parrot, he was hilarious, and genuinely enjoyed her found family on the island. Maybe I should have read in order to get a bit more background from all the women because I found myself wanting to spend a bit more time there.
Endearments
Content warnings: These should be taken as a minimum of what to expect. It’s very possible I have missed some.
Locations of kisses/intimate scenes:
Extra stuff like what my review breakdown means, where to find me, and book clubs
Overall: 3.5 rounded to ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Readability: 📖📖📖📖
Feels: 🦋🦋🦋
Emotional Depth: 💔💔💔💔
Sexual Tension: ⚡⚡⚡
Romance: 💞💞💞
Sensuality: 💋💋💋
Sex Scene Length: 🍑🍑🍑 (The scenes are pretty light, the first one is more developed but I settled at 3)
Steam Scale (Number of Sex Scenes): 🔥🔥 - there’s one decently developed scene and then 1 shorter scene (a few paragraphs) and 1 very short and vague scene
Humor: A bit
Perspective: Third person from both hero and heroine
More character focused or plot focused? character
How did the speed of the story feel? medium
When mains are first on page together: Immediately with the prologue, after that it’s chapter 2, or about 10% when they meet current day
Cliffhanger: No, this ends with a happily ever after
Epilogue: Yes
Format: voluntarily read an advanced reader copy from NetGalley but was a bit late after publishing
(Descriptions found at end of my review)
Should I read in order?
I don’t think it’s totally necessary? I picked this one up alone and it seemed fine. There was some brief mention of the other couples from prior books in the series. I’m not sure how much character depth is created for these mains in the first two books.
Basic plot:
Iain believes his wife is dead, but comes to find out 13 years after they were married shes alive and living on the Isle of Synne. He goes to request a divorce...
Give this a try if you want:
- Late Regency - 1821
- Isle of Synne setting
- road trip vibes
- class difference – hero is a stable hand and heroine is the daughter of an earl when they marry
- second chance – it’s been a 13 year separation
- found family
- rags to riches
- heroine owns a circulating library
- Duke hero
- secret author
- marriage in jeopardy
- pets – heroine has a pet parrot
- lower steam – 1 nicely developed scene and two shorter and more vague ones
Ages:
- Heroine is 32 and hero is ‘more than 30’
First line:
I cannae believe you’re my wife.
My thoughts:
I loved the set up of this one! Second chance doesn’t usually work the best for me – but the fact that we got a backstory in the prologue and then the hero thought she was dead for 13 years...I thought I was going to really love this one.
But I struggled with Seraphina being so closed off to Iain. The woman has trauma for sure, but when she didn’t seemed too concerned about getting the full story from Iain after she finds out she’s been lied to rubbed me the wrong way. And then how she didn’t open up until the very end of the book, it kind of left that to be one of the issues for the whole book. And because she wasn’t opening up to him, I think I didn’t quite get the angst I wanted from their reuniting.
Still I think this is a very intense and worthwhile read – maybe a bit too heavy for what I was in the mood for at that time, but I did like it more than a lot of second chance I read. I LOVED the parrot, he was hilarious, and genuinely enjoyed her found family on the island. Maybe I should have read in order to get a bit more background from all the women because I found myself wanting to spend a bit more time there.
Endearments
Content warnings: These should be taken as a minimum of what to expect. It’s very possible I have missed some.
Locations of kisses/intimate scenes:
Extra stuff like what my review breakdown means, where to find me, and book clubs
April 3, 2024
The past catches unaware!
The third in this delightful series has all that’s required of circumstances leading to a rekindled romance.
When Lady Seraphina Trew is faced with the man who betrayed her and left her thirteen years ago, she’s panicked and frozen
When Iain McInnes discovers against his will that he’s a Duke, and that he needs to marry, there’s one problem. He’s already married to Seraphina. She betrayed him thirteen years ago and left him to travel as she’d always wanted.
Only she hadn’t. Seraphina had rescued her sisters from their wicked father and fled, doing anything and everything to keep them safe, finally building a business and making a home on the Isle of Synne.
Now here’s Seraphina’s past confronting her and demanding she travel to Scotland to seek a divorce.
After all this would be what they both wanted, wouldn’t it?
A delightful second chance romance with something of the gothic thrown in.
A Forever ARC via NetGalley.
Many thanks to the author and publisher.
(Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.)
The third in this delightful series has all that’s required of circumstances leading to a rekindled romance.
When Lady Seraphina Trew is faced with the man who betrayed her and left her thirteen years ago, she’s panicked and frozen
When Iain McInnes discovers against his will that he’s a Duke, and that he needs to marry, there’s one problem. He’s already married to Seraphina. She betrayed him thirteen years ago and left him to travel as she’d always wanted.
Only she hadn’t. Seraphina had rescued her sisters from their wicked father and fled, doing anything and everything to keep them safe, finally building a business and making a home on the Isle of Synne.
Now here’s Seraphina’s past confronting her and demanding she travel to Scotland to seek a divorce.
After all this would be what they both wanted, wouldn’t it?
A delightful second chance romance with something of the gothic thrown in.
A Forever ARC via NetGalley.
Many thanks to the author and publisher.
(Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.)
January 11, 2024
I love a second-chance romance, especially when both parties have been led to believe the other had left them. It's very An Affair to Remember, one of my favorite old movies.
Thirteen years prior to the start of this story, Seraphina fell in love with Iain, a stable hand at her cruel father's summer home. Seraphina and Iain eloped, but were intercepted afterwards by her father, an Earl obsessed with status, exploited their insecurities to tell each that the other had left them behind. He sent Seraphina to an asylum for a year and she fled with her younger sisters soon after she returned home. She used prostitution to make money to keep them safe early on and the sisters eventually took over a book shop on the Isle of Synne, the setting for this series. Of course, Iain, newly raised to the rank of Duke, tracks Seraphina down and the class mismatch flips.
Much of this story is told as Seraphina and Iain are traveling to Scotland to legally divorce. It says something about the character development that days are spent in a carriage or in rented rooms. It's a wonderful trip and you can't help but feel for Seraphina who believes she has fallen too low for Iain in light of what she did when she left her father's home.
I was going to give this four stars because there are a couple wobbles in the historical setting, but the delightful parrot gets his own star, taking this up to five.
Thirteen years prior to the start of this story, Seraphina fell in love with Iain, a stable hand at her cruel father's summer home. Seraphina and Iain eloped, but were intercepted afterwards by her father, an Earl obsessed with status, exploited their insecurities to tell each that the other had left them behind. He sent Seraphina to an asylum for a year and she fled with her younger sisters soon after she returned home. She used prostitution to make money to keep them safe early on and the sisters eventually took over a book shop on the Isle of Synne, the setting for this series. Of course, Iain, newly raised to the rank of Duke, tracks Seraphina down and the class mismatch flips.
Much of this story is told as Seraphina and Iain are traveling to Scotland to legally divorce. It says something about the character development that days are spent in a carriage or in rented rooms. It's a wonderful trip and you can't help but feel for Seraphina who believes she has fallen too low for Iain in light of what she did when she left her father's home.
I was going to give this four stars because there are a couple wobbles in the historical setting, but the delightful parrot gets his own star, taking this up to five.
March 6, 2024
This is a second chance romance, and sometimes I don't enjoy those very much, but this one was done very well. Seraphina and Iain were separated through no fault of their own and had amazing chemistry. There's also some miscommunication here too which I also don't normally enjoy, but because it seemed important to the story that they keep their secrets, this also worked for me.
I love the friend group in this series! The oddments are fantastic, and Lady Tesh is a gem. It must also be mentioned that this book features one of my very favorite highly specific tropes. A foul-mouthed parrot. Phineas, the bird in question, was a humorous and lighthearted part of this book. The inclusion of pets in this series as a whole was a fun little side plot!
This was a wonderful addition to what has been a well loved series for me. I truly hope Christina Britton isn't done with the Isle of Synne just yet!
I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are my own.
I love the friend group in this series! The oddments are fantastic, and Lady Tesh is a gem. It must also be mentioned that this book features one of my very favorite highly specific tropes. A foul-mouthed parrot. Phineas, the bird in question, was a humorous and lighthearted part of this book. The inclusion of pets in this series as a whole was a fun little side plot!
This was a wonderful addition to what has been a well loved series for me. I truly hope Christina Britton isn't done with the Isle of Synne just yet!
I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are my own.
February 18, 2024
I knew two things going into this book: 1. It’s a book written by Christina Britton so it’s going to hurt. 2. It’s a second chance written by Christina Britton so it’s going to be THAT kind of hurt. And I was right 🤠
✨Second chance
✨Angsty
✨Big eldest daughter energy
✨Estranged marriage
✨Road trip
✨Quirky animal
Painful second chances aren’t my favorite thing, but this one was definitely delightful. It was frustrating at the end when Seraphina STILL wouldn’t let him in…but I understood and it made the end even more romantic. I’m also happy with the percentage at which her father’s scheming was revealed. It last long enough to create that “I hate you” tension, but not long enough to never see them be happy/frisky.
I think this is Christina’s hottest book to date? Seraphina was confident in her sexuality and it was HOT. Would I have liked for Iain to have remained celibate like the heroines so often do in situations like these? Yes, but that’s just a wishlist item. (I don’t think it was ever discussed on page? Just implied that he hadn’t waited etc.)
I don’t know about you, but the “I’m her husband” bit announced to a crowd when none of them knew she had a husband will ALWAYS hit. I was hooked from the start and read this one super fast in a night. It was a lovely, bittersweet send-off for the Isle of Synne. And I can’t wait to see what Christina writes next!!
Oh, and how could I forget the foul-mouthed Scottish parrot??? The way Iain’s relationship with him was also incredibly heartwarming, leave it to Christina.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️/5 🌶️🌶️/5
CWs: Forced institutionalization (torture, abuse, solitary confinement, etc) (recounted)
Thanks so much to the publisher for an eARC via NetGalley. All opinions are honest and my own.
✨Second chance
✨Angsty
✨Big eldest daughter energy
✨Estranged marriage
✨Road trip
✨Quirky animal
Painful second chances aren’t my favorite thing, but this one was definitely delightful. It was frustrating at the end when Seraphina STILL wouldn’t let him in…but I understood and it made the end even more romantic. I’m also happy with the percentage at which her father’s scheming was revealed. It last long enough to create that “I hate you” tension, but not long enough to never see them be happy/frisky.
I think this is Christina’s hottest book to date? Seraphina was confident in her sexuality and it was HOT. Would I have liked for Iain to have remained celibate like the heroines so often do in situations like these? Yes, but that’s just a wishlist item. (I don’t think it was ever discussed on page? Just implied that he hadn’t waited etc.)
I don’t know about you, but the “I’m her husband” bit announced to a crowd when none of them knew she had a husband will ALWAYS hit. I was hooked from the start and read this one super fast in a night. It was a lovely, bittersweet send-off for the Isle of Synne. And I can’t wait to see what Christina writes next!!
Oh, and how could I forget the foul-mouthed Scottish parrot??? The way Iain’s relationship with him was also incredibly heartwarming, leave it to Christina.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️/5 🌶️🌶️/5
CWs: Forced institutionalization (torture, abuse, solitary confinement, etc) (recounted)
Thanks so much to the publisher for an eARC via NetGalley. All opinions are honest and my own.
February 1, 2024
Thanks to NetGalley for a copy of this ebook and this is my freely given opinion.
This continues the story of the spinsters of the Isle of Synne, and in the third story, we are given the story of Seraphina and her past, and it is so very sad, angsty, and emotionally entangled.
Thank goodness for the comedy relief of the potty-mouthed with a Scottish brogue parrot, Phineas.
The story starts in Scotland, 1808, when a young Lady Seraphina, the eldest daughter of an English Earl, has defied him and eloped with the young man she was friends with, then fell in love with, Iain MacInnes. Iain is an orphan who was recently working as a groom in the Earl's stables, but because he caught the eye of Seraphina, he was let go. The Earl has more ambitious plans for Seraphina than for her to wed so beneath her status. But in defiance of her father, Seraphina elopes with Iain, and they have so much love and hope for the future together...
But something obviously goes very awry shortly after. In the present day, over a dozen years after the couples marriage, Iain has made huge climbs in the world and is now wealthy the Duke of Balgair. But obviously, something has happened to separate him and Seraphina.
The two lovers were torn apart soon after their marriage by the schemes and manipulations of the devious and controlling Earl. Iain was under the impression that he, believing that he was a poor commoner, was ultimately not good enough for Seraphina and she had returned to her father who gave her the life she wanted, that Iain was unable to give her. Then he believed that she had died in a carriage accident. In the present day, Iain finds out otherwise when a long-belated letter from an old friend from the Earl's household arrives to inform him that his wife is still alive.
But the wounds from his heartbreak are deep and bitter, and Iain and his remaining relatives are aware of his need to marry and continue the dukedom. However, he is unable to do so if his wife is still alive and so he starts a quest to find the wife who betrayed and left him.
Seraphina, as we know, has been living on Synne with her two younger sisters for years. Her past is a great secret, even from her own sisters. She believes that Iain had betrayed her to her father for payment, when her father found and captured her, making her suffer and trying to break her spirit so she would fall in line with his plans to marry her for his social and political gain. He likewise has the same plans for her two younger sisters. However, knowing just how far her father would go, when she can, she steals her sisters away and lives on the run from him for years. The three of them lived like vagabonds, on the run, in fear of capture for years, before finding safety on Synne. Seraphina is deeply scarred by her past, and still suffers nightmares and fears, and refuses to speak to her sisters of her experiences, wanting to protect them from her past, even as they grew to womenhood. But she is strong and smart, and has built them a home and a business, running the Quayside circulating library and shop, and as the secret author of a popular serial, under the pseudonym S.L Keys.
Her past collides with her present when Iain tracks her down because of her stories. Believing that Seraphina had left him because he was unable to give her the life she had left behind, he hides his wealth and title, and threatens to unravel her secrets, and her safe life for herself and her sisters on Synne, by exposing her past, unless she travels with him to Scotland to dissolve their marriage.
Seraphina is left no choice but to agree, and she (and the foul mouthed fowl that is Phineas) are forced to travel alone with Iain for the long journey away from Synne, to Edinburgh. During that long journey, they are forced to confront the past, and their still deep feelings for each other, and learn the truth about their separation and how they were each played against each other by her father. We come to learn just how much Seraphina suffered at his hands and then what she suffered and sacrificed in order to get her sisters away and care for them, while on the run, proving just how resilient and strong she was.
Unfortunately, Seraphina, when she discovers that Iain is still keeping secrets from her, and how much she has changed from the wealthy pampered aristocrat she was, feels that there is no future for her an Iain, now that he is a part of the Society that she has turned her back on, and despite their new closeness and rediscovered feelings for each other, lets him go, so she can return to Synne and the life she made there.
But not before she has a final confrontation with her evil manipulative father, who lied about her and her sisters death, after ruining her life.
I loved the angsty story line and the long held feelings of Iain and Seraphina - the heights of young love, passion, happiness, the depths of betrayal and heartbreak, and long held bitterness and resentment. Then the ups and downs as they rediscover each other, and work to resolve those past hurts - this story is an emotional roller coaster and like a good cathartic cry. I loved how strong and resilient Seraphina was - even though she took far too much on her own shoulders and kept too many secrets deep down, and did not realize that until the end of her journey. I love that she was given the chance to confront her demons in the form of confronting her father, and coming out the winner; after all the emotional turmoil of her journey with Iain, she needed a win to save her and bolster her confidence and self respect, and I was so happy she got that. Iain had carried so much hurt, not just from Seraphina's supposed betrayal, but also from his childhood. Their journey was healing, not just of their past together, but also of just their pasts in general - a figurative journey out of their past emotional burdens about their families as well as their relationship with each other, in a literal journey. It was fitting that they both, in the end, opened up and unburdened themselves to their families to let go of the hurts and open themselves up to new, hopefully healthier and happier chapters in their relationships. Especially as they ultimately ended their relationship together.
But don't worry... there are ultimately HEAs in the end.
4.5 stars out of 5 - I just wish the abusive father, the Earl, had more of a comeuppance and suffered more for his evil doings. And again, thank goodness for the levity that Phineas provided, because the emotional burdens of Iain and Seraphina was very draining at times.
At the very least, it would have been satisfying, for me anyways, if Phineas pooped on his head or something.
This continues the story of the spinsters of the Isle of Synne, and in the third story, we are given the story of Seraphina and her past, and it is so very sad, angsty, and emotionally entangled.
Thank goodness for the comedy relief of the potty-mouthed with a Scottish brogue parrot, Phineas.
The story starts in Scotland, 1808, when a young Lady Seraphina, the eldest daughter of an English Earl, has defied him and eloped with the young man she was friends with, then fell in love with, Iain MacInnes. Iain is an orphan who was recently working as a groom in the Earl's stables, but because he caught the eye of Seraphina, he was let go. The Earl has more ambitious plans for Seraphina than for her to wed so beneath her status. But in defiance of her father, Seraphina elopes with Iain, and they have so much love and hope for the future together...
But something obviously goes very awry shortly after. In the present day, over a dozen years after the couples marriage, Iain has made huge climbs in the world and is now wealthy the Duke of Balgair. But obviously, something has happened to separate him and Seraphina.
The two lovers were torn apart soon after their marriage by the schemes and manipulations of the devious and controlling Earl. Iain was under the impression that he, believing that he was a poor commoner, was ultimately not good enough for Seraphina and she had returned to her father who gave her the life she wanted, that Iain was unable to give her. Then he believed that she had died in a carriage accident. In the present day, Iain finds out otherwise when a long-belated letter from an old friend from the Earl's household arrives to inform him that his wife is still alive.
But the wounds from his heartbreak are deep and bitter, and Iain and his remaining relatives are aware of his need to marry and continue the dukedom. However, he is unable to do so if his wife is still alive and so he starts a quest to find the wife who betrayed and left him.
Seraphina, as we know, has been living on Synne with her two younger sisters for years. Her past is a great secret, even from her own sisters. She believes that Iain had betrayed her to her father for payment, when her father found and captured her, making her suffer and trying to break her spirit so she would fall in line with his plans to marry her for his social and political gain. He likewise has the same plans for her two younger sisters. However, knowing just how far her father would go, when she can, she steals her sisters away and lives on the run from him for years. The three of them lived like vagabonds, on the run, in fear of capture for years, before finding safety on Synne. Seraphina is deeply scarred by her past, and still suffers nightmares and fears, and refuses to speak to her sisters of her experiences, wanting to protect them from her past, even as they grew to womenhood. But she is strong and smart, and has built them a home and a business, running the Quayside circulating library and shop, and as the secret author of a popular serial, under the pseudonym S.L Keys.
Her past collides with her present when Iain tracks her down because of her stories. Believing that Seraphina had left him because he was unable to give her the life she had left behind, he hides his wealth and title, and threatens to unravel her secrets, and her safe life for herself and her sisters on Synne, by exposing her past, unless she travels with him to Scotland to dissolve their marriage.
Seraphina is left no choice but to agree, and she (and the foul mouthed fowl that is Phineas) are forced to travel alone with Iain for the long journey away from Synne, to Edinburgh. During that long journey, they are forced to confront the past, and their still deep feelings for each other, and learn the truth about their separation and how they were each played against each other by her father. We come to learn just how much Seraphina suffered at his hands and then what she suffered and sacrificed in order to get her sisters away and care for them, while on the run, proving just how resilient and strong she was.
Unfortunately, Seraphina, when she discovers that Iain is still keeping secrets from her, and how much she has changed from the wealthy pampered aristocrat she was, feels that there is no future for her an Iain, now that he is a part of the Society that she has turned her back on, and despite their new closeness and rediscovered feelings for each other, lets him go, so she can return to Synne and the life she made there.
But not before she has a final confrontation with her evil manipulative father, who lied about her and her sisters death, after ruining her life.
I loved the angsty story line and the long held feelings of Iain and Seraphina - the heights of young love, passion, happiness, the depths of betrayal and heartbreak, and long held bitterness and resentment. Then the ups and downs as they rediscover each other, and work to resolve those past hurts - this story is an emotional roller coaster and like a good cathartic cry. I loved how strong and resilient Seraphina was - even though she took far too much on her own shoulders and kept too many secrets deep down, and did not realize that until the end of her journey. I love that she was given the chance to confront her demons in the form of confronting her father, and coming out the winner; after all the emotional turmoil of her journey with Iain, she needed a win to save her and bolster her confidence and self respect, and I was so happy she got that. Iain had carried so much hurt, not just from Seraphina's supposed betrayal, but also from his childhood. Their journey was healing, not just of their past together, but also of just their pasts in general - a figurative journey out of their past emotional burdens about their families as well as their relationship with each other, in a literal journey. It was fitting that they both, in the end, opened up and unburdened themselves to their families to let go of the hurts and open themselves up to new, hopefully healthier and happier chapters in their relationships. Especially as they ultimately ended their relationship together.
But don't worry... there are ultimately HEAs in the end.
4.5 stars out of 5 - I just wish the abusive father, the Earl, had more of a comeuppance and suffered more for his evil doings. And again, thank goodness for the levity that Phineas provided, because the emotional burdens of Iain and Seraphina was very draining at times.
At the very least, it would have been satisfying, for me anyways, if Phineas pooped on his head or something.
November 4, 2023
"The duke’s all that" by Christina Britton it's a heart-wrenching yet beautifully written historical romance that kept me captivated from start to finish.
I’m always on the lookout for a second chance romance trope and this story delivered it with all the emotional depth I craved.
I was immediately drawn into this world where Iain and Seraphina have suffered due to a heartbreaking betrayal. Their love, once lost, now simmers with a passion that's impossible to ignore. I admired the strength of these characters, and Seraphina's determination to protect her sisters was truly commendable.
What struck me most about this novel was the respect and selflessness displayed by Iain's willingness to support Seraphina's decision to divorce despite his enduring love for her. It was both touching and refreshing. The resolution of her relationship with her father added an extra layer of closure and satisfaction to the story.
In "The duke’s all that” love is rekindled amidst pain and betrayal over the years and the journey back to each other is beautifully crafted. I highly recommend this book to any historical romance enthusiast. It's a must-read that will leave you rooting for love's second chance.
4.5 stars
NetGalley arc
I’m always on the lookout for a second chance romance trope and this story delivered it with all the emotional depth I craved.
I was immediately drawn into this world where Iain and Seraphina have suffered due to a heartbreaking betrayal. Their love, once lost, now simmers with a passion that's impossible to ignore. I admired the strength of these characters, and Seraphina's determination to protect her sisters was truly commendable.
What struck me most about this novel was the respect and selflessness displayed by Iain's willingness to support Seraphina's decision to divorce despite his enduring love for her. It was both touching and refreshing. The resolution of her relationship with her father added an extra layer of closure and satisfaction to the story.
In "The duke’s all that” love is rekindled amidst pain and betrayal over the years and the journey back to each other is beautifully crafted. I highly recommend this book to any historical romance enthusiast. It's a must-read that will leave you rooting for love's second chance.
4.5 stars
NetGalley arc
February 6, 2024
3.5 stars for this historical romance. To note: this is a second-chance romance that starts on the MCs' wedding night. Then the action flashes forward thirteen full years. There's a lot of miscommunication, as one might imagine, about what broke the two up. There's also a lot of thinking around what happened in the past (e.g., the MMC is now a duke [not a spoiler, read the title of the book] but we don't find out why he was raised as a neglected child in poverty until much later in life; the FMC has nightmares about what happened in her past, but it's not until beyond the 75% mark that we find out what happened). Look, these just aren't my favorite elements to include in a book. You might be into them, in which case this is the book for you. Because other than that, the book is a straightforward road trip romance. It's a quick read.
This objective review is based on a complimentary copy of the novel.
This objective review is based on a complimentary copy of the novel.
January 29, 2024
The Duke’s All That by Christina Britton is book three in her Synneful Spinsters series, but could easily be read as a standalone novel..
Christina Britton is one of my favourite historical romance authors, so I jumped at the opportunity to review another of her books when it popped up on NetGalley, and The Duke’s All That did not disappoint.
Seraphina Athwart has been in hiding with her sisters for the past thirteen years, and is believed to be dead. When her husband Iain MacInnes, Duke of Balgair, finds out that she is alive he is furious, believing she deserted him, and is determined to divorce her.
This second chance love story was heartbreaking at times, but also filled with the warmth of friendship and loyalty. I loved seeing Seraphina and Iain find their happy ending.
I also loved Seraphina’s pet parrot, Phineas. Hereally stole the show, as many animal characters tend to do.
I missed book one in this series so I need to go back and read it, and I’ll be watching for any new books by Ms. Britton.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Christina Britton is one of my favourite historical romance authors, so I jumped at the opportunity to review another of her books when it popped up on NetGalley, and The Duke’s All That did not disappoint.
Seraphina Athwart has been in hiding with her sisters for the past thirteen years, and is believed to be dead. When her husband Iain MacInnes, Duke of Balgair, finds out that she is alive he is furious, believing she deserted him, and is determined to divorce her.
This second chance love story was heartbreaking at times, but also filled with the warmth of friendship and loyalty. I loved seeing Seraphina and Iain find their happy ending.
I also loved Seraphina’s pet parrot, Phineas. Hereally stole the show, as many animal characters tend to do.
I missed book one in this series so I need to go back and read it, and I’ll be watching for any new books by Ms. Britton.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
December 4, 2023
Well I've apparently turned into a watering pot over this book. Seraphina and Iain are star crossed lovers if ever I've seen one. In love, married, and then cruelly betrayed. Years later, Iain finds out that his wife is alive! So much anger and pain in his heart as he sets out to secure a divorce from the woman who taught him not to trust all those years ago. Seraphina's life has been so good these past few years, with a successful business, her sisters safe and happy, and an amazing group of friends. So what that she keeps her pain and anguish hidden? She is a protector and will do whatever it takes. Even traveling with her duplicitous husband back to Scotland to divorce him.
Honestly, this was such an amazing story. So layered, with hidden pain inside every heart. Watching these two find each other and themselves....chefs kiss. Also, I need a parrot now!!
Honestly, this was such an amazing story. So layered, with hidden pain inside every heart. Watching these two find each other and themselves....chefs kiss. Also, I need a parrot now!!
February 3, 2024
4.5 Stars
Thirteen years ago Iain MacInnes a lowly stable lad & Lady Seraphina Trew fell in love & secretly married. They planned to travel to Montreal to start a new life but she never returned from saying goodbye to her two sisters. Both believe the other betrayed them. Seraphina spirited her sisters away from their abusive father & they’ve made a life for themselves on the Isle of Synne. Iain’s life has also changed now the Duke of Balgair he believes his wife is dead—until he receives word that she is very much alive and living under an assumed name. He sets off with only one goal in mind: bring his wife back to Scotland where he can divorce her and expose her for the liar she is.
Whilst this book could be read on its own I’d recommend reading the earlier books where we’ve sort of got to know Seraphina & her sisters. There was always a mystery about the three sisters & their backstory especially Seraphina’s didn’t disappoint. Boy had she been put through the mill! But she hadn’t caved instead had become a very strong resilient woman, I really admired & loved her. Iain had helped other Scots before becoming a Duke when all the other male heirs had died. I loved their journey to Scotland it gave them time to reconnect & both realised their feelings but Seraphina was too stubborn for her own good & it took the other Oddments to make her wake up & grasp what she wanted. I loved Phineas who always made me smile. I also loved that part of the book was set in my home city of Durham. My only quibble was that the Earl of Farrow didn’t get the comeuppance, which he richly deserved. A very well written book, which I loved & found hard to put down
My review is for a special copy I voluntarily read
Thirteen years ago Iain MacInnes a lowly stable lad & Lady Seraphina Trew fell in love & secretly married. They planned to travel to Montreal to start a new life but she never returned from saying goodbye to her two sisters. Both believe the other betrayed them. Seraphina spirited her sisters away from their abusive father & they’ve made a life for themselves on the Isle of Synne. Iain’s life has also changed now the Duke of Balgair he believes his wife is dead—until he receives word that she is very much alive and living under an assumed name. He sets off with only one goal in mind: bring his wife back to Scotland where he can divorce her and expose her for the liar she is.
Whilst this book could be read on its own I’d recommend reading the earlier books where we’ve sort of got to know Seraphina & her sisters. There was always a mystery about the three sisters & their backstory especially Seraphina’s didn’t disappoint. Boy had she been put through the mill! But she hadn’t caved instead had become a very strong resilient woman, I really admired & loved her. Iain had helped other Scots before becoming a Duke when all the other male heirs had died. I loved their journey to Scotland it gave them time to reconnect & both realised their feelings but Seraphina was too stubborn for her own good & it took the other Oddments to make her wake up & grasp what she wanted. I loved Phineas who always made me smile. I also loved that part of the book was set in my home city of Durham. My only quibble was that the Earl of Farrow didn’t get the comeuppance, which he richly deserved. A very well written book, which I loved & found hard to put down
My review is for a special copy I voluntarily read
January 14, 2024
The book opened in Scotland, 1808, where Seraphina and Iain just got married, and they planned to leave from Seraphina's awful father. But things happened badly and they got separated. Then, thirteen years later, Iain MacInnes, Duke of Balgair, found out that his deceased wife apparently wasn't died as he thought, but had lived on remote Isle of Synne under assumed name. Iain planned to get divorce from his wife, once and for all...
In the The Duke's All That, the third book of Synneful Spinsters, it's time for Seraphina to take the spotlight. I have to say, out of the three women, Seraphina (compared to Katrina's "scandal" or Bronwyn bad luck with men) took the price of having THE MOST HORRIBLE FATHER, OMG I CANNOT BELIEVE HE DID THAT TO HIS OWN DAUGHTER!!! 😡 The betrayal that her father did to both Seraphina and Iain was unspeakable and disgusting! Honestly, I wish that her father die a horrible death
I was in awe with Seraphina's strength. Not all women in her position could survive. I could understand her being weary when Iain showed up to drag her to Scotland for the divorce. At first, I couldn't understand why Seraphina kept her past secret from her sisters and her friends -- she should be proud of being a survivor... but then I remembered that this was a different time. Women was shunned for less. Seraphina had to be tough to protect herself.
Iain was good as main male character, I guess. With the history between the two, I could also believe that they fell in love with each other again within that quick reunion.
But it was Seraphina that took all my admiration. What Iain experienced in that thirteen years didn't even come close to what she had to endure. He better treat his wife right and give everything that she wants and make her happy!!
By the way, this has a quick-you-miss-it lesbian partner in Seraphina's group of friends! I approve, author!
The ARC is provided by the publisher via Netgalley for an exchange of fair and honest review. No high rating is required for any ARC received.
In the The Duke's All That, the third book of Synneful Spinsters, it's time for Seraphina to take the spotlight. I have to say, out of the three women, Seraphina (compared to Katrina's "scandal" or Bronwyn bad luck with men) took the price of having THE MOST HORRIBLE FATHER, OMG I CANNOT BELIEVE HE DID THAT TO HIS OWN DAUGHTER!!! 😡 The betrayal that her father did to both Seraphina and Iain was unspeakable and disgusting! Honestly, I wish that her father die a horrible death
I was in awe with Seraphina's strength. Not all women in her position could survive. I could understand her being weary when Iain showed up to drag her to Scotland for the divorce. At first, I couldn't understand why Seraphina kept her past secret from her sisters and her friends -- she should be proud of being a survivor... but then I remembered that this was a different time. Women was shunned for less. Seraphina had to be tough to protect herself.
Iain was good as main male character, I guess. With the history between the two, I could also believe that they fell in love with each other again within that quick reunion.
But it was Seraphina that took all my admiration. What Iain experienced in that thirteen years didn't even come close to what she had to endure. He better treat his wife right and give everything that she wants and make her happy!!
By the way, this has a quick-you-miss-it lesbian partner in Seraphina's group of friends! I approve, author!
The ARC is provided by the publisher via Netgalley for an exchange of fair and honest review. No high rating is required for any ARC received.
February 6, 2024
I have loved all of Christina Britton’s Isle of Synne and the Synneful Spinsters books and the latest book to the collection, The Duke’s All That just adds another 5 star read to the pile!
How can you go wrong with the magic of the Isle of Synne combined with a second chance for romance between a secretly married pair as they roadtrip to Scotland for a divorce!?!?
So much room for snark and smexy antics as this estranged pair learn about their past from the others point of view and grow together as they race towards tearing themselves apart again!
This was one of those books that grabs your attention from the first few pages and keeps you hooked until the final fulfilling HEA. The characters and you go through a lot to get there, making it all the sweeter!
Unlike many of the other Synne books, most of the story takes place of the isle, but I found I still had plenty of island shenanigans and a good reunion with our favourite friends from the series as the show up in force for one of their very own Oddmints!
If you have been reading along with this series or not, you should grab yourself a copy of The Duke’s All That - you don’t want to miss this roadtrip!
Thanks to Forever Publishing and Netgalley for my eBook review copy. Opinions are my own.
How can you go wrong with the magic of the Isle of Synne combined with a second chance for romance between a secretly married pair as they roadtrip to Scotland for a divorce!?!?
So much room for snark and smexy antics as this estranged pair learn about their past from the others point of view and grow together as they race towards tearing themselves apart again!
This was one of those books that grabs your attention from the first few pages and keeps you hooked until the final fulfilling HEA. The characters and you go through a lot to get there, making it all the sweeter!
Unlike many of the other Synne books, most of the story takes place of the isle, but I found I still had plenty of island shenanigans and a good reunion with our favourite friends from the series as the show up in force for one of their very own Oddmints!
If you have been reading along with this series or not, you should grab yourself a copy of The Duke’s All That - you don’t want to miss this roadtrip!
Thanks to Forever Publishing and Netgalley for my eBook review copy. Opinions are my own.
February 16, 2024
Much awaited serafina's romance.
This series is really heartwarming to me. I have been waiting for this book with the heroine as a secret writer. She appears in earlier books. The scot hero is SUCH a bonus.
Seraphina has a tragic backstory. Thanks to a villainous father.
Who tears the hero and heroine who have married secretly apart. Not only that, but he fairly just tortures his own daughter (no spoilers than this). Strong that she is , she finds a way to escape the father and protect her two little sisters from a horrendous future, making a comfortable life on the Isle of Synne.
13 years gone and enter Ian. The big, gruff Scott who is now a Duke and angry and determined to get his divorce from a wife everyone believes to be dead but isn’t.
Their banter and chemistry are felt immediately. The underlying anger makes for a nice slow burn. There is misunderstanding yes about the past, but it gets fairly cleared as soon as they are on the road trip!! Yes, yes, road trip roadside inns and only one bed (also you have two rooms but heroine can't control herself which was hot too)
The parrot is such a joy to have. There are good laughing moments, nice friendship support shown, including the elderly lady Tesh and found family on Ian's side.
Very satisfying and swooning romance. Thanks forever, and Netgalley for the ARC. All opinions are my honest feedback.
This series is really heartwarming to me. I have been waiting for this book with the heroine as a secret writer. She appears in earlier books. The scot hero is SUCH a bonus.
Seraphina has a tragic backstory. Thanks to a villainous father.
Who tears the hero and heroine who have married secretly apart. Not only that, but he fairly just tortures his own daughter (no spoilers than this). Strong that she is , she finds a way to escape the father and protect her two little sisters from a horrendous future, making a comfortable life on the Isle of Synne.
13 years gone and enter Ian. The big, gruff Scott who is now a Duke and angry and determined to get his divorce from a wife everyone believes to be dead but isn’t.
Their banter and chemistry are felt immediately. The underlying anger makes for a nice slow burn. There is misunderstanding yes about the past, but it gets fairly cleared as soon as they are on the road trip!! Yes, yes, road trip roadside inns and only one bed (also you have two rooms but heroine can't control herself which was hot too)
The parrot is such a joy to have. There are good laughing moments, nice friendship support shown, including the elderly lady Tesh and found family on Ian's side.
Very satisfying and swooning romance. Thanks forever, and Netgalley for the ARC. All opinions are my honest feedback.
February 13, 2024
Thank you NetGalley for the ARC review copy. All thoughts are my own though.
Seraphina has been living in hiding in Synne with her sisters for 13 years. When her husband, who thought she was dead, arrives in Synne and finds her very much alive he demands he travel with her back to scotland to get a divorce.
This book is mainly told in conversations and introspection. Seraphina has a lot of trauma she refuses to deal with and her adventure with Iaine forces her to take a look back into her past. This truly shows how hard and painful dealing with a traumatic past can be, even if you are willing to look at it. I loved Seraphina and Iaine together but left this book wishing I got more time with them building their relationship back up. And the confrontation with her father was so good.
This was a beautiful book, and Christina's quippy writing in past books is slight in this one while focusing more on emotional depth and trauma recovery. I loved this book.
Seraphina has been living in hiding in Synne with her sisters for 13 years. When her husband, who thought she was dead, arrives in Synne and finds her very much alive he demands he travel with her back to scotland to get a divorce.
This book is mainly told in conversations and introspection. Seraphina has a lot of trauma she refuses to deal with and her adventure with Iaine forces her to take a look back into her past. This truly shows how hard and painful dealing with a traumatic past can be, even if you are willing to look at it. I loved Seraphina and Iaine together but left this book wishing I got more time with them building their relationship back up. And the confrontation with her father was so good.
This was a beautiful book, and Christina's quippy writing in past books is slight in this one while focusing more on emotional depth and trauma recovery. I loved this book.
November 20, 2023
4.75 🌟's
ugh, such an excellent second chance rom - pulled at all the heartstrings in the best way with the perfect blend of angst, a no-nonsense heroine (with a no-nonsense parrot), a hero whose never stopped loving his wife (even tho he obvs tries to deny it but bffr girlie pop), and a swoony reminder that it may never be too late for love <3
sobs, this was so good - the mastery of book 1 is definitely reminiscent in this one (compared to book 2 yoikes)
loved it !
*I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own. Thank you to the publisher Forever for the e-ARC via Netgalley. Releases February 6, 2024!*
ugh, such an excellent second chance rom - pulled at all the heartstrings in the best way with the perfect blend of angst, a no-nonsense heroine (with a no-nonsense parrot), a hero whose never stopped loving his wife (even tho he obvs tries to deny it but bffr girlie pop), and a swoony reminder that it may never be too late for love <3
sobs, this was so good - the mastery of book 1 is definitely reminiscent in this one (compared to book 2 yoikes)
loved it !
*I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own. Thank you to the publisher Forever for the e-ARC via Netgalley. Releases February 6, 2024!*
March 5, 2024
The first third of the book was interesting, the emotion between the H and h strong as the H discovers in a long lost letter that the wife that he married 13 years ago is alive. He tracks her down intending to get a divorce. The H and h share their experiences and find that the h's father lied to them breaking their hearts. An Earl's daughter cannot marry a stable hand who of course turns out to be a duke. Then the momentum of the story stalls and it was a struggle to finish the book as both characters keep the events of the intervening years from each other.
April 20, 2024
I am forever and always a second chance, high angst, lots of trauma, girly. So truthfully, going into this I expected to love it, and I did!
I adored how slow burning their romance was, the tension was built really well and by the time they actually did *it*, I was salivating. I loved how Seraphina’s traumas were handled. Christina really aimed to not further traumatize the reader by rehashing everything that was done to her in great detail, which I appreciated. And the romance?? Major swoon. I adored it so, so much. I really tried to savor this book because of how much I was loving it. 😭
I adored how slow burning their romance was, the tension was built really well and by the time they actually did *it*, I was salivating. I loved how Seraphina’s traumas were handled. Christina really aimed to not further traumatize the reader by rehashing everything that was done to her in great detail, which I appreciated. And the romance?? Major swoon. I adored it so, so much. I really tried to savor this book because of how much I was loving it. 😭
February 6, 2024
The Duke's All That is the third book in Christina Britton's Synneful Spinsters series. I have read all of the other books in the series but you would be fine reading this as a standalone. Iain is the newly minted Duke of Balgair. He believed his wife to be dead for the last thirteen years. It's time for him to begin searching for a new wife, when he gets word that his wife is alive and living with a new identity on the Isle of Synne. His plan is to drag her back to Scotland in order to obtain a divorce and expose her for being a liar.
I loved the uniqueness of the story and how it begins from Iain's perspective. This book is a second chance romance that begins with the hero and heroine already being married. There is a lot of miscommunication that takes place since there was a time jump of 13 years. I really enjoyed this one as much as the first book in the series (the second, not so much.) A road trip romance is always a good thing in my book; plus there's an entertaining pet parrot.
Thank you to NetGalley, Christina Britton, and Forever Grand Central Publishing for this eARC. All opinions expressed are my own.
#netgalley #christinabritton #TheDukesAllThat #ForeverGrandCentralPublishing #SynnefulSpinsters
I loved the uniqueness of the story and how it begins from Iain's perspective. This book is a second chance romance that begins with the hero and heroine already being married. There is a lot of miscommunication that takes place since there was a time jump of 13 years. I really enjoyed this one as much as the first book in the series (the second, not so much.) A road trip romance is always a good thing in my book; plus there's an entertaining pet parrot.
Thank you to NetGalley, Christina Britton, and Forever Grand Central Publishing for this eARC. All opinions expressed are my own.
#netgalley #christinabritton #TheDukesAllThat #ForeverGrandCentralPublishing #SynnefulSpinsters
November 10, 2024
4.5 stars rounded up
oldest daughter core. second chance slowburn expertly done. christina britton is truly talented at crafting internal conflict that pulls at your heart strings!
oldest daughter core. second chance slowburn expertly done. christina britton is truly talented at crafting internal conflict that pulls at your heart strings!
March 10, 2024
The H needs to divorce the H, and she's wants to help him. It's a sad story, evil father and h who was very, very brave. Loved the parrot.
January 22, 2024
Returning to the Isle of Synne is always a treat. This is the third in the Synneful Spinsters series and the second series the author has taken place on the isle. This one especially can be read on it’s own as much of the story takes place on a road trip to Scotland and there is plenty of recapping. I’ve read and enjoyed the books from both series.
Seraphina owns the Quayside Circulating Library at a seaside resort town on the Isle of Synne. She has kept quiet about her past from her good friends. And even her younger sisters who she supports do not know all of the things that she has done to provide for them. She is happy with her life and is stunned when her past catches up to her. Iain MacInnes has tracked down Seraphina after learning she wasn’t dead as he believed. Thirteen years ago he worked in her fathers stables and they fell in love and eloped. Her father tricked both of them into believing the other gave up on them. He has come to get a divorce from her. And he doesn’t share that he is now the Duke of Balgair.
This is a sweet, second chance romance. I’ve enjoyed Seraphina as a side character in the previous books and was happy to see her get her romance. Her pet parrot came off more annoying than funny but it did add some filler while the pair make their way to Scotland to take care of the legalities. I enjoy Britton’s easy writing style and this hits midrange for steaminess. I can’t wait to see what the author writes next. Thank you to NetGalley and Forever (Grand Central Publishing) for the ARC and I am leaving a voluntary review.
Seraphina owns the Quayside Circulating Library at a seaside resort town on the Isle of Synne. She has kept quiet about her past from her good friends. And even her younger sisters who she supports do not know all of the things that she has done to provide for them. She is happy with her life and is stunned when her past catches up to her. Iain MacInnes has tracked down Seraphina after learning she wasn’t dead as he believed. Thirteen years ago he worked in her fathers stables and they fell in love and eloped. Her father tricked both of them into believing the other gave up on them. He has come to get a divorce from her. And he doesn’t share that he is now the Duke of Balgair.
This is a sweet, second chance romance. I’ve enjoyed Seraphina as a side character in the previous books and was happy to see her get her romance. Her pet parrot came off more annoying than funny but it did add some filler while the pair make their way to Scotland to take care of the legalities. I enjoy Britton’s easy writing style and this hits midrange for steaminess. I can’t wait to see what the author writes next. Thank you to NetGalley and Forever (Grand Central Publishing) for the ARC and I am leaving a voluntary review.
June 1, 2024
I wanted to love because of the wacky parrot. But 13 yrs was too long apart and I got tired of waiting for reveal of
all the bad stuff that happened to the h. H came off as too much a wooden idiot. Story was boring except for parrot parts.
all the bad stuff that happened to the h. H came off as too much a wooden idiot. Story was boring except for parrot parts.
January 9, 2024
Second chance romance is a hard trope for me to enjoy because either the reason for the separation is lackluster or the characters themselves are frustrating. Surprisingly, I found the set up for the separation believable and perfectly angsty (young lovers torn apart after they elope by her cruel, classist father). The idea of two knuckleheads going to Scotland to divorce was my cup of tea and I was invested in the first half. Because I think Seraphine and Iain are both characters you can sympathize with, o really, really wanted them to find their HEA together. But….Seraphina is one of those FMCs that is SO self sacrificing it begins to grate pretty early on. Mostly because she seems to think she knows what’s best for everyone without consulting them. Which leads to miscommunication and a lot of hurt feelings that could have been resolved much earlier on and still had good conflict.
I enjoyed seeing how to characters that were in love enough to elope at a young age would come back together and explore lingering emotions while jammed on a journey together. (Loved the reverse imagery of a race to Scotland to marry vs. a race to Scotland to divorce). But I found myself completely confused on WHY the climax had to happen the way it did except for…more angst I suppose. But there was enough already here with Seraphina’s time locked in an asylum + her history of resorting to sex work to support her sisters without adding in a *SPOILER* divorce after they’ve already fallen back in love with each other.
So some parts I really loved. And others just really missed the mark for me. But as always, Britton’s prose is beautiful and the story she tells is engaging, albeit frustrating.
I enjoyed seeing how to characters that were in love enough to elope at a young age would come back together and explore lingering emotions while jammed on a journey together. (Loved the reverse imagery of a race to Scotland to marry vs. a race to Scotland to divorce). But I found myself completely confused on WHY the climax had to happen the way it did except for…more angst I suppose. But there was enough already here with Seraphina’s time locked in an asylum + her history of resorting to sex work to support her sisters without adding in a *SPOILER* divorce after they’ve already fallen back in love with each other.
So some parts I really loved. And others just really missed the mark for me. But as always, Britton’s prose is beautiful and the story she tells is engaging, albeit frustrating.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
January 3, 2024
The Duke's All That by Christina Britton is the third book in the Synneful Spinsters series but it's the first book I've read by her. Although this is book three and I hadn't read the first two beforehand, I don't think it created any issues with me enjoying this one - there are characters mentioned who are the main characters but they don't play a huge role within the core of the story.
Diving in, we immediately get some backstory - Iain MacInnes grew up an orphan and eventually found himself working on the estate that belonged to Seraphina's father. As their friendship turns more, Iain and Seraphina secretly marry, and when she goes back to the estate to tell her sisters goodbye, she never returns to Iain and when her father shows up and gives Iain her ring and plaid back, and tells him that she is gone to tour the world, he falls for it. A few years later, he is led to believe she died in an accident but here is where the rest of the story picks up.
Now, thirteen years later, Iain is the Duke of Balgair, and when he receives word that Seraphina is alive and living under an assumed name on the remote Isle of Synne. He sets off with only one goal in mind: bring his wife back to Scotland where he can divorce her.
After a devastating deception by the man who was supposed to love her, Seraphina did what was necessary to keep herself and her sisters safe. And though she’s still haunted by the events that tore her world apart all those years ago, she’s made a happy life on Synne, surrounded by loyal friends and building a secret career as a popular author. Now that Iain has found her, however, all that is at risk and she knows she will have to do whatever it takes to keep her sisters safe.
As they begin their journey to Scotland, both are determined to keep their distance and just get it over with but they both realize that their feelings haven't changed and as the truth comes out, the question really truly becomes, should they still be together. They are very different people now and no matter how much they love each other, they have to decide if that's still the right path for them.
I truly enjoyed this one and will definitely be picking up the other books in the series as well as others written by Britton. If you're looking for a historical with a second-chance romance, consider picking this one up when you can.
Thank you to the publisher and Netgalley for the copy in exchange for an honest review.
Diving in, we immediately get some backstory - Iain MacInnes grew up an orphan and eventually found himself working on the estate that belonged to Seraphina's father. As their friendship turns more, Iain and Seraphina secretly marry, and when she goes back to the estate to tell her sisters goodbye, she never returns to Iain and when her father shows up and gives Iain her ring and plaid back, and tells him that she is gone to tour the world, he falls for it. A few years later, he is led to believe she died in an accident but here is where the rest of the story picks up.
Now, thirteen years later, Iain is the Duke of Balgair, and when he receives word that Seraphina is alive and living under an assumed name on the remote Isle of Synne. He sets off with only one goal in mind: bring his wife back to Scotland where he can divorce her.
After a devastating deception by the man who was supposed to love her, Seraphina did what was necessary to keep herself and her sisters safe. And though she’s still haunted by the events that tore her world apart all those years ago, she’s made a happy life on Synne, surrounded by loyal friends and building a secret career as a popular author. Now that Iain has found her, however, all that is at risk and she knows she will have to do whatever it takes to keep her sisters safe.
As they begin their journey to Scotland, both are determined to keep their distance and just get it over with but they both realize that their feelings haven't changed and as the truth comes out, the question really truly becomes, should they still be together. They are very different people now and no matter how much they love each other, they have to decide if that's still the right path for them.
I truly enjoyed this one and will definitely be picking up the other books in the series as well as others written by Britton. If you're looking for a historical with a second-chance romance, consider picking this one up when you can.
Thank you to the publisher and Netgalley for the copy in exchange for an honest review.
January 17, 2024
When Ian finds out the wife he thought died is alive and well, he decides to track her down and get a divorce. Seraphina has been running and hiding along with her two sisters for years, and when confronted by her betraying husband she reluctantly agrees to travel back to London and grant him the divorce. They must spend days and days stuck together in a cramped carriage, then gasp! One of the inns only has one room! What are they do to but share.. Even if Ian is sleeping on the floor.. at least to start.. I think that while they had been steadily chatting, growing closer, and slowly revealing some of the things that had gone on in their lives while they had been apart, this scene really helps Ian understand that he didn't know what happened with Seraphina all those years ago and that he may have been wrong about her. Or rather right in how he felt when he married her. Seraphina does take a lot of time to let Ian in and tell him about all she experienced while they were apart. But you could always feel the chemistry and romantic tension between them, and I loved seeing it build until they realized they were it for each other.
This book had me on a rollercoaster of emotions for these two, and I am so happy they get to have their happily ever after! I can't wait to see what Christina Britton is going to write next!
This book had me on a rollercoaster of emotions for these two, and I am so happy they get to have their happily ever after! I can't wait to see what Christina Britton is going to write next!
March 14, 2024
Christina Britton's 'The Duke's All That' is a delightful Regency romance that will sweep you off your feet! The book is filled with engaging characters, intricate plot twists, and a swoon-worthy romance that will leave you yearning for more. Britton's writing is elegant and evocative, transporting readers to the glittering ballrooms and lush countryside estates of 19th-century England. While the storyline is engaging and the romance is heartwarming, I found some parts of the plot to be slightly predictable. However, overall, 'The Duke's All That' is a charming read that fans of historical romance are sure to enjoy!
Overall 4 Stars ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ | 4 Flames 🔥🔥🔥🔥
📚Disclosure: I received a review copy of this #book from Forever - Grand Central Publishing - via #Netgalley. All thoughts, opinions, comments, and interpretations of the story are my own and bias free. I did not receive any money in exchange for this review. Thank you to the publisher/author for allowing me the opportunity to review. 🦄 @ReadForeverPub @GrandCentralPub @HachetteUS
⭐️When possible reviews are cross-posted on the following:
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#Bookreview #MustRead #ReviewbyJaime #RomanceBooks #TBR
🦄
Overall 4 Stars ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ | 4 Flames 🔥🔥🔥🔥
📚Disclosure: I received a review copy of this #book from Forever - Grand Central Publishing - via #Netgalley. All thoughts, opinions, comments, and interpretations of the story are my own and bias free. I did not receive any money in exchange for this review. Thank you to the publisher/author for allowing me the opportunity to review. 🦄 @ReadForeverPub @GrandCentralPub @HachetteUS
⭐️When possible reviews are cross-posted on the following:
✔️Goodreads https://www.goodreads.com/jaime-loves...
✔️Bookbub https://www.bookbub.com/profile/25772...
✔️IG https://www.instagram.com/alphabookclub/
✔️Twitter @alpha_book_club
#Bookreview #MustRead #ReviewbyJaime #RomanceBooks #TBR
🦄
November 10, 2023
The Duke’s All That by Christina Britton is an entertaining historical romance that is the third book in the Synneful Spinsters series.
I have enjoyed Ms. Britton’s previous series (Isle of Synne) amd have read the first book in this series, so of course I needed to catch up (and will be reading the second book out of order now but better late than never).
I liked this second chance, working out the past confusions, historical romance. It was spicy, romantic, sassy, and heartwarming. The author balanced the spicy and sweet themes along with the witty and heavier moments quite nicely. Iain and Seraphina are great main characters and kept me turning page after page to see how it all would end.
4/5 stars
Thank you NG and Forever (Grand Central Publishing), Forever for this wonderful arc and in return I am submitting my unbiased and voluntary review and opinion.
I am posting this review to my GR and Bookbub accounts immediately and will post it to my Amazon, Instagram, and B&N accounts upon publication on 2/6/24.
I have enjoyed Ms. Britton’s previous series (Isle of Synne) amd have read the first book in this series, so of course I needed to catch up (and will be reading the second book out of order now but better late than never).
I liked this second chance, working out the past confusions, historical romance. It was spicy, romantic, sassy, and heartwarming. The author balanced the spicy and sweet themes along with the witty and heavier moments quite nicely. Iain and Seraphina are great main characters and kept me turning page after page to see how it all would end.
4/5 stars
Thank you NG and Forever (Grand Central Publishing), Forever for this wonderful arc and in return I am submitting my unbiased and voluntary review and opinion.
I am posting this review to my GR and Bookbub accounts immediately and will post it to my Amazon, Instagram, and B&N accounts upon publication on 2/6/24.
January 24, 2024
One thing about historical romances is that I'm gonna roll through them so fast. I think I read this one within 24 hours-it's not too long, has a fun storyline (the third in a series too, so I was already well acquainted with the world), and takes place over a short amount of time, so it felt fast no matter what!
Long story short, The Duke's All That is a second chance historical romance with a stubborn red-headed bookshop owner and a stubborn Scottish man, both of whom thinks the other betrayed them right after they got married 13 years ago. There's a road trip, there's only one room at the inn, there's a foul-mouthed parrot, and there's miscommunication (which I usually detest, but this one was different, especially since the miscommunication was from the get-go.) Could I have used the two lovers to actually speak their feelings a little faster? Sure. But see above, they are stub.born.
All in all, quite liked it!
Thanks to Netgalley and Forever Publishing for the e-ARC!
Long story short, The Duke's All That is a second chance historical romance with a stubborn red-headed bookshop owner and a stubborn Scottish man, both of whom thinks the other betrayed them right after they got married 13 years ago. There's a road trip, there's only one room at the inn, there's a foul-mouthed parrot, and there's miscommunication (which I usually detest, but this one was different, especially since the miscommunication was from the get-go.) Could I have used the two lovers to actually speak their feelings a little faster? Sure. But see above, they are stub.born.
All in all, quite liked it!
Thanks to Netgalley and Forever Publishing for the e-ARC!
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