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The Duke's Architect
The duke, a struggling architect and a lady who loves to dance… but just who is sending seemingly random strangers to the duke?
At eight and twenty, Miss Sophia Merrington is the youngest of four sisters, not one of whom has yet found a husband. When her brother becomes heir to the Duke of Brinshire and moves to the vast country house of Staineybank, Sophia is the only one not happy to be there. What is the point of living in such a grand house when there is no dancing to be had? A chance invitation opens up all sorts of possibilities, but can she seize the opportunity and find herself a husband at long last? Or is she doomed to be an unmarriageable spinster?
The Honourable Simon Payne is estranged from most of his family, with his half-sister, Lady Juliet, his only support. Struggling to make his way as an architect, but finding no success, he’s thrilled to receive an invitation to design an orangery for the Duke of Brinshire’s house. But when he arrives at Staineybank, he’s not expected and there is a rival architect already working on the design. Who has sent him there, and why?
This is a complete story with a happy ever after. A traditional Regency romance, drawing room rather than bedroom. Book 1 of a 6 book series.
At eight and twenty, Miss Sophia Merrington is the youngest of four sisters, not one of whom has yet found a husband. When her brother becomes heir to the Duke of Brinshire and moves to the vast country house of Staineybank, Sophia is the only one not happy to be there. What is the point of living in such a grand house when there is no dancing to be had? A chance invitation opens up all sorts of possibilities, but can she seize the opportunity and find herself a husband at long last? Or is she doomed to be an unmarriageable spinster?
The Honourable Simon Payne is estranged from most of his family, with his half-sister, Lady Juliet, his only support. Struggling to make his way as an architect, but finding no success, he’s thrilled to receive an invitation to design an orangery for the Duke of Brinshire’s house. But when he arrives at Staineybank, he’s not expected and there is a rival architect already working on the design. Who has sent him there, and why?
This is a complete story with a happy ever after. A traditional Regency romance, drawing room rather than bedroom. Book 1 of a 6 book series.
- GenresHistorical
322 pages, Kindle Edition
Published January 16, 2026
139 people are currently reading
30 people want to read
About the author
Mary Kingswood
62 books482 followersI live in the beautiful Highlands of Scotland with my husband. I like chocolate, whisky, my Kindle, massed pipe bands, long leisurely lunches, chocolate, going places in my campervan, eating pizza in Italy, summer nights that never get dark, wood fires in winter, chocolate, the view from the study window looking out over the Moray Firth and the Black Isle to the mountains beyond. And chocolate. I dislike driving on motorways, cooking, shopping, hospitals.
The lovely lady in my avatar is Archduchess Clementina of Austria (1798-1881), Princess of Salerno, painted around 1839.
NOTE: I read Regency romances as well as write them, and I review them all on my website, or you can find them right here on Goodreads on my real-name account at Pauline M. Ross.
The lovely lady in my avatar is Archduchess Clementina of Austria (1798-1881), Princess of Salerno, painted around 1839.
NOTE: I read Regency romances as well as write them, and I review them all on my website, or you can find them right here on Goodreads on my real-name account at Pauline M. Ross.
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Displaying 1 - 28 of 28 reviews
January 19, 2026
Wonderful!
How good to read a new Mary Kingswood story and begin a new series. Wonderful, as always, and I so enjoyed Simon and Sophie. My only complaint is that now I have to wait several months for the next instalment …
How good to read a new Mary Kingswood story and begin a new series. Wonderful, as always, and I so enjoyed Simon and Sophie. My only complaint is that now I have to wait several months for the next instalment …
January 20, 2026
SO SATISFYING!
Perhaps a younger crowd might find the pliant adherence to the propriety (and almost unquestioned compliance with the orders of authority figures!), as well as the gentle machinations of ladies’ putting themselves in the way of an “accidental” encounter with any available eligible man, but historical accounts makes it seem that to some of the “upper ten thousand” it must have been a necessary program. Marriage was, after all, the only truly respectable occupation for Women of that echelon of society, and this novel illustrates-if some only in passing, some of the many pitfalls awaiting such a cavalier attitude towards marriage (men) and a desperately sought estate (women) when paired with the rigid mores and limited association the principals of the time were allowed. Still, to watch a fairly heedless fellow subsumed by a non-profitable but loved occupation start, for almost the first time, to notice someone outside his own tight focus, and indeed, to care about that persons feelings makes one smile. And to see a well-loved girl reach out past her family’s tightly knit circle and invite, then welcome whole heartedly our hero to see what true familial feelings emboldened one to do (he set out to confront the bugbear that had almost crippled his dealings with society permanently) gives one the warm glow always sought when reading these sorts of books. Of course, pair that with amazing detail regarding “remaking” and “retrimming” older gowns to reuse the silk, and one couldn’t wish for a more satisfying story…and a happy ending! Yay
Perhaps a younger crowd might find the pliant adherence to the propriety (and almost unquestioned compliance with the orders of authority figures!), as well as the gentle machinations of ladies’ putting themselves in the way of an “accidental” encounter with any available eligible man, but historical accounts makes it seem that to some of the “upper ten thousand” it must have been a necessary program. Marriage was, after all, the only truly respectable occupation for Women of that echelon of society, and this novel illustrates-if some only in passing, some of the many pitfalls awaiting such a cavalier attitude towards marriage (men) and a desperately sought estate (women) when paired with the rigid mores and limited association the principals of the time were allowed. Still, to watch a fairly heedless fellow subsumed by a non-profitable but loved occupation start, for almost the first time, to notice someone outside his own tight focus, and indeed, to care about that persons feelings makes one smile. And to see a well-loved girl reach out past her family’s tightly knit circle and invite, then welcome whole heartedly our hero to see what true familial feelings emboldened one to do (he set out to confront the bugbear that had almost crippled his dealings with society permanently) gives one the warm glow always sought when reading these sorts of books. Of course, pair that with amazing detail regarding “remaking” and “retrimming” older gowns to reuse the silk, and one couldn’t wish for a more satisfying story…and a happy ending! Yay
January 19, 2026
I started giving this book three stars only and then thought I had perhaps been a bit harsh. Yet, there is no getting rid of the sense of disappointment I felt. Mary Kingswood is one of my favourite authors and every new book is eagerly awaited. However, despite the intriguing premise of the prequel (a free novella to anyone who signs in for Mary's newsletter), this book lacked excitement, most characters being rather bland.
I suppose the only exception might be the Duke. His larger than life bluff, ebullient character I found quite endearing. Simon Payne, the architect is very worthy, perhaps too much so but when the depth of his father's malevolence is revealed, it all felt too contrived; the same goes for Juliet when she discovers what happened to her mother.
I certainly thought that the reason given for the Merringtons sisters lack of suitors, that it is because the men could not differentiate between them was rather lame, particularly as they were not twins nor did the men suffer from the often used device of "face blindness" - not being able to recognise faces
There is a tentative explanation for the subtitle of Black Sheep and it will be interesting to see how it develops in future books. I do hope though that the new characters will have more exciting adventures and await with interest the next instalment.
I suppose the only exception might be the Duke. His larger than life bluff, ebullient character I found quite endearing. Simon Payne, the architect is very worthy, perhaps too much so but when the depth of his father's malevolence is revealed, it all felt too contrived; the same goes for Juliet when she discovers what happened to her mother.
I certainly thought that the reason given for the Merringtons sisters lack of suitors, that it is because the men could not differentiate between them was rather lame, particularly as they were not twins nor did the men suffer from the often used device of "face blindness" - not being able to recognise faces
There is a tentative explanation for the subtitle of Black Sheep and it will be interesting to see how it develops in future books. I do hope though that the new characters will have more exciting adventures and await with interest the next instalment.
February 3, 2026
This new Kingwood series revolves around a mysterious lawyer who writes letters inviting people to the estate of a duke under false pretenses. In the first story, a prequel of sorts, a would-be governess winds up marrying the heir to the dukedom. Her story is alluded to in this first volume of the new series. although by the time we meet her she is seven months pregnant with her first child and the duke is eager to build her an orangery to celebrate the beginning of the next generation. Enter a young architect, lured by a letter from the mysterious lawyer no one seems to know. Although the duke didn't send for him and the heir would like to design the orangery himself, the architect is soon asked to prepare drawings. He is himself the third son of an earl but he has been on his own since he was fifteen because he refused to join the army as his father commanded and was thrown out of his home. Small wonder that her and the heir's youngest sister are drawn to each other. Both are poor and deendent on others for bed and board. This is a neatly drawn Regency tale with stately homes as the central setting and an interesting mystery to absorb the family and their guests.
January 17, 2026
*edited: ok, didn’t take me long to have grasped wno wss wno. And I’ve not been able to sleep because it’s so entranced me. Any story that can make someone who counts down the minutes until ned, unable to sleep - gets 5 stars from me.
I have not finished this book, so I will come back and edit my review when I have…. So, I love Mary Kingswood. She is one of the few authors I read (I tend to recycle authors and re-read about 10 or so authors and revisit tneir books every coupke of years)…. Anyway, I’m enjoying the book for hte most part so far, but idk when I’ve been more confused and had a hard time keeping the characters straight with this one and I think it’s due to the Duke and his heir both living in the home and having the same name…. Also, because of the heir’s wife and the duke’s wife - anyway, it’s just so confusing to try and keep it all straight in my mind and not constantly having to trh and figure out who is who.
I have not finished this book, so I will come back and edit my review when I have…. So, I love Mary Kingswood. She is one of the few authors I read (I tend to recycle authors and re-read about 10 or so authors and revisit tneir books every coupke of years)…. Anyway, I’m enjoying the book for hte most part so far, but idk when I’ve been more confused and had a hard time keeping the characters straight with this one and I think it’s due to the Duke and his heir both living in the home and having the same name…. Also, because of the heir’s wife and the duke’s wife - anyway, it’s just so confusing to try and keep it all straight in my mind and not constantly having to trh and figure out who is who.
January 24, 2026
I love all of Mary's books, she can't write a bad one. If I'm not enjoying a book of hers, it's not her it's me. I enjoyed this sweet romp, but I did not read the prequel. I rarely do, which never really affects my enjoyment, but this time, it did. I felt like I missed a huge piece of the puzzle. With that being said, I wish the prequel was released as a normal title. Mary has a way with characters, and this novel is no different. I quickly became attached to Simon. I was hoping for more intrigue in this one. The little mystery Easter eggs were not filling enough. So now I must wait impatiently for the next book to be released. This was a fun light read. I'm rooting for the Duke to be Juliet's father, I hope that's what she's leading up to.
Review of advance copy received from Author
I have been looking forward to this new series as Mary Kingswood is one of my favorite authors, and this first book did not disappoint. I loved Simon and Sophia from their first meeting where it became obvious they were meant for each other, as Mr. Goodenough seemed to realize before they even knew of each other. I stayed up way too late to see how their obstacles would be overcome so they could make a match. I fell in love with the Duke’s home as it was described and wish I could see it and the new orangery and gallery/ballroom Simon designed; I can only imagine its grandeur and artistry. Thanks to the author, I received a pre-release copy, and am leaving a review voluntarily.
January 25, 2026
Kisses only
I love Kingswood’s writing. I’m not as connected to this series yet as I have been to ones in the past. I assume all of the four sisters will be a heroine of each of the stories. I assume there will be someone who has worked to kill off all the Duke’s heirs (else how else would all of his children die before reaching adulthood?) but that is just conjecture. The mystery of Mr. Goodenough acted as bookends in this read but honestly, I forgot all about it during the read so it’s not that much of a concern for me.
At the root right now we have a very rich Duke who is housing dozens of people and keeps adding to the list as thy are sent to him by an unknown man.
I love Kingswood’s writing. I’m not as connected to this series yet as I have been to ones in the past. I assume all of the four sisters will be a heroine of each of the stories. I assume there will be someone who has worked to kill off all the Duke’s heirs (else how else would all of his children die before reaching adulthood?) but that is just conjecture. The mystery of Mr. Goodenough acted as bookends in this read but honestly, I forgot all about it during the read so it’s not that much of a concern for me.
At the root right now we have a very rich Duke who is housing dozens of people and keeps adding to the list as thy are sent to him by an unknown man.
January 19, 2026
Simon, the son of an Earl, living for many years with his sister, Juliet, receives an invitation from a mysterious attorney Mr. Goodenough, to draw plans for an orangery at the estate of the Duke of Brinshire, but he's not expected and the Duke's heir has already been preparing architectural plans. Simon has fallen in love with Sophia, sister of the Duke's heir, but there's competition from a son of a Marquess. The story was very well written with a surprise ending. Loved it and highly recommend.
January 31, 2026
another great story by this very talented author. I told myself I would wait until all of the books is in this series were out because it’s so difficult to wait for the next one! But I caved and read the prequel and of course had to read this one too! This author doesn’t do cliffhangers but she subtly leaves the reader wanting more. This series is no exception and I can’t wait for the next and even the conclusion to the series to have all of my questions answered. This is such a sweet Cinderella type story that leaves the reader warm and glowing.
January 11, 2026
This is a wonderful start to a new series by this author.
Simon, an architect, who can't seem to get any commissions lives with his stepsister, Juliet. When they receive a letter from Mr. Goodenough, an attorney representing a Duke looking for an architect to design an orangery, they accept the offer.
When they arrive, he meets Sophia, one of the duke's heir's spinster sisters.
The chemistry between Sophia and Simon is wonderful, there are interesting secondary characters, a great plot, and the mystery as to why he is there, since the duke's heir was already working on plans for the orangery.
Definitely a 5-star read.
I received this book as an ARC, and these are my opinions.
Simon, an architect, who can't seem to get any commissions lives with his stepsister, Juliet. When they receive a letter from Mr. Goodenough, an attorney representing a Duke looking for an architect to design an orangery, they accept the offer.
When they arrive, he meets Sophia, one of the duke's heir's spinster sisters.
The chemistry between Sophia and Simon is wonderful, there are interesting secondary characters, a great plot, and the mystery as to why he is there, since the duke's heir was already working on plans for the orangery.
Definitely a 5-star read.
I received this book as an ARC, and these are my opinions.
February 7, 2026
My favourite author, Mary Kingswood, sent me a pre-release copy of The Duke’s Architect, the first book in The Black Sheep Series of six, and I am posting this review voluntarily.
The mystery that began in the prequel novella, The Duke's Heir, continues in the first book of the Series, The Duke’s Architect. Additional characters join the inhabitants at the mansion of the Duke at Stainybank in Brinshire, around whom the mysteries revolve.
A shadowy Advocate at law propels Simon Payne, the impoverished architect, and his sister, Lady Juliet Payne, into the Duke’s orbit serendipitously. Simon is a talented architect, but devoid of name, fame, recognition, and a livelihood. Both hailing from an Earl’s family are destitute. Who is responsible for their misfortune? Why were they cast out of the earl's family?
In this romance-cum-mystery, Simon’s meeting Sophia, the sister of the prospective Duke, is fortuitous. Their interaction develops from casual friendship into a tentative romance. Then a twist – that earns the wrath of the duke - that almost leads to Simon’s expulsion.
Why did Simon jeopardize his free stay and board and a prospective employment at the Duke’s? Do Sophia and Simon love each other seriously? Does their fortune improve? What is the mystery surrounding Simon’s family? Do Simon and Lady Juliet unite with their family? Does Simon's career as an architect take flight?
So many questions, and a lot of mysteries within mysteries! To unravel them, please grab a copy.
The mystery that began in the prequel novella, The Duke's Heir, continues in the first book of the Series, The Duke’s Architect. Additional characters join the inhabitants at the mansion of the Duke at Stainybank in Brinshire, around whom the mysteries revolve.
A shadowy Advocate at law propels Simon Payne, the impoverished architect, and his sister, Lady Juliet Payne, into the Duke’s orbit serendipitously. Simon is a talented architect, but devoid of name, fame, recognition, and a livelihood. Both hailing from an Earl’s family are destitute. Who is responsible for their misfortune? Why were they cast out of the earl's family?
In this romance-cum-mystery, Simon’s meeting Sophia, the sister of the prospective Duke, is fortuitous. Their interaction develops from casual friendship into a tentative romance. Then a twist – that earns the wrath of the duke - that almost leads to Simon’s expulsion.
Why did Simon jeopardize his free stay and board and a prospective employment at the Duke’s? Do Sophia and Simon love each other seriously? Does their fortune improve? What is the mystery surrounding Simon’s family? Do Simon and Lady Juliet unite with their family? Does Simon's career as an architect take flight?
So many questions, and a lot of mysteries within mysteries! To unravel them, please grab a copy.
January 27, 2026
Happy endings are still a must
So many twists and turns in this romance. At one point I was not sure there would be a happy ending. Mary Kingswood is such an awesome writer, I have trouble putting her books down. This one was absolutely a page turner! The star cross lovers are delightful and the era well presented. Whenever I see one of her books available I jump on it. Thank you!
So many twists and turns in this romance. At one point I was not sure there would be a happy ending. Mary Kingswood is such an awesome writer, I have trouble putting her books down. This one was absolutely a page turner! The star cross lovers are delightful and the era well presented. Whenever I see one of her books available I jump on it. Thank you!
February 2, 2026
A charming and diverting read
Reading Mary Kingswood’s books is like eating a delicious dessert and struggling between wanting to gobble and wanting it to last as long as possible. The bits of mystery add a soupçon of spice, and the descriptions of settings provide texture. However, the characters really carry the story. We know the ending will be happy, but seeing how it happens is good fun.
Reading Mary Kingswood’s books is like eating a delicious dessert and struggling between wanting to gobble and wanting it to last as long as possible. The bits of mystery add a soupçon of spice, and the descriptions of settings provide texture. However, the characters really carry the story. We know the ending will be happy, but seeing how it happens is good fun.
January 17, 2026
Another winning series
Ms. Kingswood's books are an automatic purchase for me. This new series starts off with a mysterious letter sending an impoverished architect and his sister to a Duke's estate and the actions that follow. It's beautifully written with interesting characters
Ms. Kingswood's books are an automatic purchase for me. This new series starts off with a mysterious letter sending an impoverished architect and his sister to a Duke's estate and the actions that follow. It's beautifully written with interesting characters
January 20, 2026
Another delightful read from Ms. Kingswood! The book was beautifully written, with an interesting storyline and wonderful characters. An architect and his stepsister receive a mysterious letter to go to a Duke's home and build an orangery. I love Ms. Kingswood's stories and will be looking forward to the next book in the series!!!
January 21, 2026
Delightful and Promising start to this new series.
It really is a delightful story, with a good mix of new characters and families to meet. Some mystery, some intrigue, and tales to be told. Humour threaded through and lots of period detail.
I have no hesitation in saying I enjoyed this instalment and look forward to the next book.
It really is a delightful story, with a good mix of new characters and families to meet. Some mystery, some intrigue, and tales to be told. Humour threaded through and lots of period detail.
I have no hesitation in saying I enjoyed this instalment and look forward to the next book.
January 22, 2026
sweetly contrived
I am a fan of Ms. Kingswood and read everything she writes. Even the series I don’t care for. This one is better than the Chaplain’s Legacy, but I miss The sleuths from earlier times. I am of course intrigued by Goodenough, although that of course is the point. A solid start to the Black Sheep series.
I am a fan of Ms. Kingswood and read everything she writes. Even the series I don’t care for. This one is better than the Chaplain’s Legacy, but I miss The sleuths from earlier times. I am of course intrigued by Goodenough, although that of course is the point. A solid start to the Black Sheep series.
January 24, 2026
always a pleasure….
Mary Kingswood doesn’t disappoint. The first book in a new series is an introduction to new characters but with lots of familiar touches too. Let’s get stuck in together with this new bunch!
Mary Kingswood doesn’t disappoint. The first book in a new series is an introduction to new characters but with lots of familiar touches too. Let’s get stuck in together with this new bunch!
January 25, 2026
A thoroughly delightful read
Oh how I loved this romance. The characters were so alive and lively. I wish the book was linger so I could keep reading. Wonderful. Maybe her best so far.
Oh how I loved this romance. The characters were so alive and lively. I wish the book was linger so I could keep reading. Wonderful. Maybe her best so far.
February 6, 2026
One of my favourite authors delivers again. A quirky mystery will be revealed over the months ahead waiting for each release! Who is A Goodemough?
Love the plot & the characters. Once again I couldn’t put it down. Thank you Mary
Love the plot & the characters. Once again I couldn’t put it down. Thank you Mary
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
January 19, 2026
Another Fascinating Story
I always read any books she releases. They are enjoyable and fun to read. You will never be disappointed with the interesting story.
I always read any books she releases. They are enjoyable and fun to read. You will never be disappointed with the interesting story.
January 25, 2026
Very involved story. An overriding mystery as who is Mr. Goodenough. The characters are so interesting and makes the reader want to know more about them!
January 26, 2026
One of the best!
Interesting characters and fabulous plots. Very well written. I thoroughly enjoyed this book and look forward to reading the rest of the series. Highly recommended!
Interesting characters and fabulous plots. Very well written. I thoroughly enjoyed this book and look forward to reading the rest of the series. Highly recommended!
January 27, 2026
A very satisfying read for lovers of regency romance and a HEA.
January 30, 2026
Great Read!
Such a pleasure to read Mary Kingswoods books and this was excellent! Read it in one sitting.
Looking forward to the next one.
Such a pleasure to read Mary Kingswoods books and this was excellent! Read it in one sitting.
Looking forward to the next one.
February 3, 2026
Super charming
The MCs were charming and engaging, but I found my attention lagging sometimes. The way the book resolves was wonderful. I look forward to more books in the series.
The MCs were charming and engaging, but I found my attention lagging sometimes. The way the book resolves was wonderful. I look forward to more books in the series.
January 30, 2026
As always - so good
Reading again
Reading again
Displaying 1 - 28 of 28 reviews