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Once Upon a Rogue #4
My Daring Duchess
When a lady bent on ruining rogues and a duke set on revenge attempt to derail each other’s plans, passion erupts into a love for the ages.After being left brokenhearted by a duplicitous rake, Anne Adair no longer desires a husband—she wants justice. She’s traded in her foolish dream of happily-ever-after for the much more sensible one of thwarting the blackhearted lords who prey on innocent debutantes. But her first mission proves rather complicated when the dashing, devilish Duke of Kilmartin comes to the aid of her target.Simon Sedgewick, the newly titled Duke of Kilmartin, never thought he would return to England, let alone attend a ball full of simpering lords. But when his oldest friend’s reputation is being smeared and Simon discovers that the perpetrator is none other than his enemy’s granddaughter, his long-festering desire for vengeance flares to life.The moment Simon spies Miss Anne Adair across the glittering ballroom, he knows that the ravishing beauty is the perfect instrument for the retribution he thought lost to him. He does not know, however, that Anne has devised a scheme of her own. And soon, these two wary hearts will discover that the best laid plans are no match for love.
190 pages, Paperback
First published January 30, 2018
About the author
Julie Johnstone
80 books772 followersJulie Johnstone is a USA Today and #1 Amazon bestselling author of historical romance and contemporary romance. Best known for her alpha heroes and twisting, tense plots, she writes romance with heart and bite.
She lives in the hot deep South with her blind cat, arthritic dog, and photographer husband, and she enjoys traveling, reading, paddle boarding, hosting dinner parties where she tries new recipes, and going to concerts.
Connect with her on Instagram (authorjuliejohnstone)
Sign up for her newsletter here: https://juliejohnstoneauthor.com/news...
She lives in the hot deep South with her blind cat, arthritic dog, and photographer husband, and she enjoys traveling, reading, paddle boarding, hosting dinner parties where she tries new recipes, and going to concerts.
Connect with her on Instagram (authorjuliejohnstone)
Sign up for her newsletter here: https://juliejohnstoneauthor.com/news...
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 62 reviews
January 25, 2018
Meh. Flimsy plotline and bland characters with no chemistry.
I've read and enjoyed other books by this author, but this was pretty poor.
I've read and enjoyed other books by this author, but this was pretty poor.
January 26, 2018
When a lady bent on ruining rogues and a duke set on revenge attempt to derail each other’s plans, passion erupts into a love for the ages.
After being left broken hearted by a duplicitous rake, Anne Adair no longer desires a husband. She’s traded in her foolish dream of happily-ever-after for the much more sensible one of thwarting the despicable lords who prey on innocent debutantes.
Simon Sedgewick, the newly titled Duke of Kilmartin, never thought he would return to England from Scotland, let alone attend a ball full of simpering lords & ladies. The moment Simon spies Miss Anne Adair across the glittering ballroom, he knows that the ravishing beauty is the perfect instrument for the retribution he thought lost to him.
Simon was banished thirteen years ago by his Grandfather who was aided by his close friend the who happens to be Anne’s grandfather. Simon has always professed his innocence & the more Anne gets to know him the more she’s determined to learn the truth. I read this in under a day as I wanted Simon to be vindicated & just couldn’t put it down, the story was very well written & the characters very well portrayed, which is only to be expected from the author as she writes such good books & this doesn’t disappoint. It was also good to ‘catch up’ with characters from earlier books in the series. Simon is sigh worthy, he’s a self made man after being banished, he’s also so caring & thoughtful as shown by a pair of shoes he made for Anne & I couldn’t believe he was the rogue he was thought to be. Anne is a strong woman who will not be swayed but wants the truth
My honest review is for a special copy I voluntarily read
After being left broken hearted by a duplicitous rake, Anne Adair no longer desires a husband. She’s traded in her foolish dream of happily-ever-after for the much more sensible one of thwarting the despicable lords who prey on innocent debutantes.
Simon Sedgewick, the newly titled Duke of Kilmartin, never thought he would return to England from Scotland, let alone attend a ball full of simpering lords & ladies. The moment Simon spies Miss Anne Adair across the glittering ballroom, he knows that the ravishing beauty is the perfect instrument for the retribution he thought lost to him.
Simon was banished thirteen years ago by his Grandfather who was aided by his close friend the who happens to be Anne’s grandfather. Simon has always professed his innocence & the more Anne gets to know him the more she’s determined to learn the truth. I read this in under a day as I wanted Simon to be vindicated & just couldn’t put it down, the story was very well written & the characters very well portrayed, which is only to be expected from the author as she writes such good books & this doesn’t disappoint. It was also good to ‘catch up’ with characters from earlier books in the series. Simon is sigh worthy, he’s a self made man after being banished, he’s also so caring & thoughtful as shown by a pair of shoes he made for Anne & I couldn’t believe he was the rogue he was thought to be. Anne is a strong woman who will not be swayed but wants the truth
My honest review is for a special copy I voluntarily read
January 27, 2018
My Daring Duchess by Julie Johnstone is book Four in the "Once Upon a Rogue" series. This is the story of Anne Adair and Simon Sedgewick, the Duke of Kilmartin. For me this was a standalone book.
Simon was banished by his grandfather along with his grandfather's good friend. Never thinking to return he is somewhat surprised to be the new Duke of Kilmartin let along back in the ball rooms. When Simon happens to see Anne Adair he thinks too that maybe he can seek the revenge he thought lost to him.
Anne who was left broken-heart by a rake now works to save other young ladies from such downfall. Anne goes forward with trying to take down a Rake but is stalled by Simon. Both looking to get revenge from a hurtful past who have both had family struggles find that they may want something more....each other.
Another great story from Ms. Johnstone! Loved it!
Simon was banished by his grandfather along with his grandfather's good friend. Never thinking to return he is somewhat surprised to be the new Duke of Kilmartin let along back in the ball rooms. When Simon happens to see Anne Adair he thinks too that maybe he can seek the revenge he thought lost to him.
Anne who was left broken-heart by a rake now works to save other young ladies from such downfall. Anne goes forward with trying to take down a Rake but is stalled by Simon. Both looking to get revenge from a hurtful past who have both had family struggles find that they may want something more....each other.
Another great story from Ms. Johnstone! Loved it!
January 22, 2018
This entire series is a pure joy to read. This one has been my favorite of the series so far.
Regular readers of Julie’s will know that she knows her way around a Scott. *sigh* But I am getting ahead of myself.
This story is yet another excellent example of Julie Johnstone’s mastery. The cast of characters is sublime. If you have read the rest of the series, prepare for cameos by all of your old favorites, and redemption of a few of your old enemies.
Simon is a divine hero. He is one of those characters that truly tries to be a hardened baddie, but can’t help being a good person at heart. His motives may start out impure, but if you give him a chance, you will fall as head over heels in love with him as I did.
Anne is an absolutely amazing character. I have loved her from her sister’s story, but she shines so much brighter in her own! Anne is no meek damsel, she is a strong woman who can take care of herself, (And her friends) thank you! I adored her! Though she feels emotion deeply, Anne thinks critically, seeks facts, and forms her own conclusions. I found this a bit rare in the romance genre, and extremely refreshing.
Over all this story was wonderful. I have missed this series, and I am so glad to have read the next chapter.
Regular readers of Julie’s will know that she knows her way around a Scott. *sigh* But I am getting ahead of myself.
This story is yet another excellent example of Julie Johnstone’s mastery. The cast of characters is sublime. If you have read the rest of the series, prepare for cameos by all of your old favorites, and redemption of a few of your old enemies.
Simon is a divine hero. He is one of those characters that truly tries to be a hardened baddie, but can’t help being a good person at heart. His motives may start out impure, but if you give him a chance, you will fall as head over heels in love with him as I did.
Anne is an absolutely amazing character. I have loved her from her sister’s story, but she shines so much brighter in her own! Anne is no meek damsel, she is a strong woman who can take care of herself, (And her friends) thank you! I adored her! Though she feels emotion deeply, Anne thinks critically, seeks facts, and forms her own conclusions. I found this a bit rare in the romance genre, and extremely refreshing.
Over all this story was wonderful. I have missed this series, and I am so glad to have read the next chapter.
January 20, 2018
❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️
💋
I love this book .
Two damaged souls , both out for revenge , both from homes that struggled when their families and relatives deserted them , both needing love and finding it in the most unlikeliest places .
This is a book to make you think, of the harm Revenge can do , no one wins .
This is a book to make you remember, we all need someone to believe in , and who believes in us .
This is another brilliant book by Julie .
A great read , recommended.
“I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own
💋
I love this book .
Two damaged souls , both out for revenge , both from homes that struggled when their families and relatives deserted them , both needing love and finding it in the most unlikeliest places .
This is a book to make you think, of the harm Revenge can do , no one wins .
This is a book to make you remember, we all need someone to believe in , and who believes in us .
This is another brilliant book by Julie .
A great read , recommended.
“I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own
January 20, 2018
Publisher's Description:
When a lady bent on ruining rogues and a duke set on revenge attempt to derail each other's plans, passion erupts into a love for the ages.
After being left brokenhearted by a duplicitous rake, Anne Adair no longer desires a husband—she wants justice. She's traded in her foolish dream of happily-ever-after for the much more sensible one of thwarting the blackhearted lords who prey on innocent debutantes. But her first mission proves rather complicated when the dashing, devilish Duke of Kilmartin comes to the aid of her target.
Simon Sedgewick, the newly titled Duke of Kilmartin, never thought he would return to England, let alone attend a ball full of simpering lords. But when his oldest friend's reputation is being smeared, and Simon discovers that the perpetrator is none other than his enemy's granddaughter, his long-festering desire for vengeance flares to life.
The moment Simon spies Miss Anne Adair across the glittering ballroom, he knows that the ravishing beauty is the perfect instrument for the retribution he thought lost to him. He does not know, however, that Anne has devised a scheme of her own. And soon, these two wary hearts will discover that the best laid plans are no match for love.
My Thoughts:
Revenge is maybe the last thing Simon wants but he thinks it is. He was wrongly accused of ruining a young lady in his past. Now he wants to avenge himself from the lies that sent him away.
Anne wants to keep other ladies from going through what happened to her. She has devised her own scheme as part of a society of young ladies bent on ruining rakes before they can ruin more young ladies.
These two are set against each other but will their mutual attraction or their need for revenge win out.
I gave this lengthy novella 4.5 of 5.0 stars for storyline and character development and a sensual rating of 3 of 5 flames. There is no advert intimacy in this book but it is implied.
I received a complimentary digital copy of this book to read and review. This in no way affected my opinion of this book which I read and reviewed voluntarily.
When a lady bent on ruining rogues and a duke set on revenge attempt to derail each other's plans, passion erupts into a love for the ages.
After being left brokenhearted by a duplicitous rake, Anne Adair no longer desires a husband—she wants justice. She's traded in her foolish dream of happily-ever-after for the much more sensible one of thwarting the blackhearted lords who prey on innocent debutantes. But her first mission proves rather complicated when the dashing, devilish Duke of Kilmartin comes to the aid of her target.
Simon Sedgewick, the newly titled Duke of Kilmartin, never thought he would return to England, let alone attend a ball full of simpering lords. But when his oldest friend's reputation is being smeared, and Simon discovers that the perpetrator is none other than his enemy's granddaughter, his long-festering desire for vengeance flares to life.
The moment Simon spies Miss Anne Adair across the glittering ballroom, he knows that the ravishing beauty is the perfect instrument for the retribution he thought lost to him. He does not know, however, that Anne has devised a scheme of her own. And soon, these two wary hearts will discover that the best laid plans are no match for love.
My Thoughts:
Revenge is maybe the last thing Simon wants but he thinks it is. He was wrongly accused of ruining a young lady in his past. Now he wants to avenge himself from the lies that sent him away.
Anne wants to keep other ladies from going through what happened to her. She has devised her own scheme as part of a society of young ladies bent on ruining rakes before they can ruin more young ladies.
These two are set against each other but will their mutual attraction or their need for revenge win out.
I gave this lengthy novella 4.5 of 5.0 stars for storyline and character development and a sensual rating of 3 of 5 flames. There is no advert intimacy in this book but it is implied.
I received a complimentary digital copy of this book to read and review. This in no way affected my opinion of this book which I read and reviewed voluntarily.
January 24, 2018
I just loved My Daring Duchess. I read it as a stand alone but I intend to go back and read the first three books in the series.
Anne Adair is a beautiful girl who has had her heart broken. She forms a group of ladies who are like minded to try and alert other ladies to which men are rogues. Their intent is for no one else to be hurt as these ladies have been. Anne's first order of business is to try to alert other girls to the roguish ways of Lord Rutledge. He has kissed her friend and refused to marry her.
Simon Sedgewick, Duke of Kilmartin, is Lord Rutledge's friend. He does not believe his friend tried to entrap Anne's friend so he attempts to try and stop Anne from spreading these rumors. But he also sees an opportunity to seduce Anne in an attempt to get revenge against her grandfather who had wronged him in the past. But as he attempts to seduce Anne, he also finds he is charmed by her. He also tries to show her that perhaps the ladies of this group are not being honest about these men. As Anne and Simon spend more time together, they begin to open up with each other as the walls they have built come tumbling down. When Anne learns things about Simon that question his character, she has to decide if she trusts him.
I loved Anne. She was completely not like the ton and showed her vulnerability to Simon. She chose to do what she thought was not right, not necessarily what was socially accepted. Great book, very well written.
Anne Adair is a beautiful girl who has had her heart broken. She forms a group of ladies who are like minded to try and alert other ladies to which men are rogues. Their intent is for no one else to be hurt as these ladies have been. Anne's first order of business is to try to alert other girls to the roguish ways of Lord Rutledge. He has kissed her friend and refused to marry her.
Simon Sedgewick, Duke of Kilmartin, is Lord Rutledge's friend. He does not believe his friend tried to entrap Anne's friend so he attempts to try and stop Anne from spreading these rumors. But he also sees an opportunity to seduce Anne in an attempt to get revenge against her grandfather who had wronged him in the past. But as he attempts to seduce Anne, he also finds he is charmed by her. He also tries to show her that perhaps the ladies of this group are not being honest about these men. As Anne and Simon spend more time together, they begin to open up with each other as the walls they have built come tumbling down. When Anne learns things about Simon that question his character, she has to decide if she trusts him.
I loved Anne. She was completely not like the ton and showed her vulnerability to Simon. She chose to do what she thought was not right, not necessarily what was socially accepted. Great book, very well written.
February 6, 2018
Simon and Anne
Anne finally finds her match! Gossip and revenge fueled this latest tale by Julie Johnstone.
Simon, Duke of Kilmartin has returned to the scene of disgrace. The lovely granddaughter of his arch nemesis is ripe for the plucking. He will publicly ruin her in his quest for revenge.
Anne, of course, is embroiled in her own revenge quest. These two could only fall in love. Ultimately, this is a cute love story about two genuinely kind people. Awwww... the slippers!
Anne finally finds her match! Gossip and revenge fueled this latest tale by Julie Johnstone.
Simon, Duke of Kilmartin has returned to the scene of disgrace. The lovely granddaughter of his arch nemesis is ripe for the plucking. He will publicly ruin her in his quest for revenge.
Anne, of course, is embroiled in her own revenge quest. These two could only fall in love. Ultimately, this is a cute love story about two genuinely kind people. Awwww... the slippers!
January 25, 2018
Nothing is more delicious than watching two unsuspecting hearts bent on revenge have love transcend upon them.
I've read a few of this author's books and this one is one of my favorites. Two hearts brought together with vengeance on their mind have to learn to trust again. But it is not an easy task. Simon was scandalized by rumor and Anne had been taken advantage of because of her wealth.
I loved this story. It's a sweet and clean read, smartly done by this author given the circumstances surrounding these two and others around them. How twisted lives become when gossip rules over the ton. Lovable characters, a well thought-out plot, and a steady pace keeps you invested in this story.
I highly recommend this book and was gifted with an ARC for an honest review.
I've read a few of this author's books and this one is one of my favorites. Two hearts brought together with vengeance on their mind have to learn to trust again. But it is not an easy task. Simon was scandalized by rumor and Anne had been taken advantage of because of her wealth.
I loved this story. It's a sweet and clean read, smartly done by this author given the circumstances surrounding these two and others around them. How twisted lives become when gossip rules over the ton. Lovable characters, a well thought-out plot, and a steady pace keeps you invested in this story.
I highly recommend this book and was gifted with an ARC for an honest review.
January 22, 2018
Another GREAT by Julie Johnstone! My Daring Duchess is book 4 in A Once Upon A Rouge series. This book was so charming and clean, for those who don’t like too steamy of a book. You just fall in love with the characters. I just loved the whole theme of this book, you don’t have to be perfect for someone to fall in love with you, that there is so much more to a person than the physical. This book has deception, scandal, revenge, compassion, trust issues, kindness, misunderstandings, love of family, lies, hate, wealth, bullying, a women club, thoughtfulness, ruination and always love. This is a must read and I highly recommend reading My Daring Duchess by Julie Jonestone! Travel back to the 1800s London with Anne Adair and Simon Sedgwick, The duke of Kilmartin.
***This book was gifted to me and I am voluntarily reviewing.
***This book was gifted to me and I am voluntarily reviewing.
January 26, 2018
I loved this one. Anne was deceived by a rogue and wants to help other young ladies from making the same mistake. Simon was falsely accused of doing the same thing, but sets out to seduce Anne for revenge. As they get to know one another, plans change. I loved both characters, and the story. It wrapped up pretty quickly in the end, but left me satisfied.
January 23, 2018
I LOVED this book! There were things I should have been doing, but I couldn't stop reading. Lady Anne and Simon are wonderful main characters. From the elderly butler, to the "Rogue" Lord, the assorted family, and the "ton", this is a very fun and engrossing read. There were lies told, reputations at stake, and futures that could be ruined, but to find out who told the lies and why, whose reputations were at stake, you need to read this very entertaining book.
January 20, 2018
I have to say I loved this book! My favorite part was that the H/h felt an instant attraction, but you got to watch as they slowly fell in love without them falling into bed. You could watch the love grow as they learned to trust each other instead of having to be told constantly they were in love. Anne had to learn to trust herself after a bad experience and Simon had to learn to let go of his past feelings. A nice clean/sweet romance read! The only thing I am disappointed in was that I didn't see what happens to M. (not spoiling this, after reading story you'll get it) I was gifted an ARC and my opinion was my own.
January 24, 2018
What an adorable book! I loved that all of the characters were somehow flawed. It made them more endearing. I also loved that the women were all strong and capable, but not afraid to let a man help them. As they wade through the lies to find the whole truth they come closer together.
January 21, 2018
This book got under my skin. I was mad at it and I wanted to just scream. The lies that were in this had my blood boiling so bad. Until that is the two main characters started to see the lies for what they were and began unraveling them. Then I seen this as the best story and the way it was told made the whole thing come together as it should. It was a wonderful story with not one but to HEA’s that were amazing to get to.
January 23, 2018
I really loved this story about deceptions, vengeance, and lies that come back to roost. I received an advanced copy of this book.
April 4, 2018
A lovely new romance by Julie Johnstone. This is book four in The A Once Upon a Rogue Novels. I am going to have to go back and read the first three. I really enjoy Julie's writing.
The book opens with a meeting of The Sisterhood for the Ruination of Rogues. Four Wallflowers that have been ruined by men of the Ton. The leader of this group of young ladies is Anne Adair, an American who is the grand-daughter of the Duke of Rowan. Anne met and foolishly gave her innocence to a rogue who refused to do the right thing and marry her. Now, these young ladies are on a mission to unmask the men before they ruin other young ladies. Anne is much wiser now than when she thought she was in love and wants nothing to do with the man who took her virginity. She is a wealthy heiress and knows that any man would overlook her lost innocence to get their hands on her dowry.
Simon Sedgwick, Duke of Kilmartin is back in London for the first time in years. He was banished by his grandfather when he was 18 for something he did not do and is not comfortable in his new title or in England. He blames his grandfather for the death of his parents and for almost having to watch his sisters starve. In Scotland he works himself almost to death but he makes his fortune and now he is back in England to seek vengeance for his sisters and his dead parents.
The Duke of Rowan had accused Simon of ravishing his ward Lady Mary and demand that he marry her. Simon swore that he had not touched Lady Mary, but the Duke of Rowan and his friend, Simon's grandfather did not believe him. When Simon was threatened with imprisonment he still insisted that he did not seduce Lady Mary. That is when he was sent back to Scotland with no money and had to watch his ill mother die because he had no money for medicine or a doctor and watch his younger sisters almost starve to death.
He can't make his grandfather pay but he sees the perfect way to get his revenge on the Duke of Rowan. Ruin his granddaughter. She is a beautiful woman and he was going to really enjoy his revenge. Unbeknownst to him Anne is handicapped and has so far kept her disability a secret. Once Simon and Anne start spending time together their feelings for each other grow strong very quickly. When Anne admits her handicap, Simon doesn't care and even helps her overcome it.
Lady Mary is dealt with and Anne and Simon get their HAE. I loved both Anne and Simon. Two strong and stubborn individuals who make a great couple. They both try to hide their light under a bush but they are truly wonderful and kind and made for each other. Julie is a talented romance writer and I definitely recommend this book.
The book opens with a meeting of The Sisterhood for the Ruination of Rogues. Four Wallflowers that have been ruined by men of the Ton. The leader of this group of young ladies is Anne Adair, an American who is the grand-daughter of the Duke of Rowan. Anne met and foolishly gave her innocence to a rogue who refused to do the right thing and marry her. Now, these young ladies are on a mission to unmask the men before they ruin other young ladies. Anne is much wiser now than when she thought she was in love and wants nothing to do with the man who took her virginity. She is a wealthy heiress and knows that any man would overlook her lost innocence to get their hands on her dowry.
Simon Sedgwick, Duke of Kilmartin is back in London for the first time in years. He was banished by his grandfather when he was 18 for something he did not do and is not comfortable in his new title or in England. He blames his grandfather for the death of his parents and for almost having to watch his sisters starve. In Scotland he works himself almost to death but he makes his fortune and now he is back in England to seek vengeance for his sisters and his dead parents.
The Duke of Rowan had accused Simon of ravishing his ward Lady Mary and demand that he marry her. Simon swore that he had not touched Lady Mary, but the Duke of Rowan and his friend, Simon's grandfather did not believe him. When Simon was threatened with imprisonment he still insisted that he did not seduce Lady Mary. That is when he was sent back to Scotland with no money and had to watch his ill mother die because he had no money for medicine or a doctor and watch his younger sisters almost starve to death.
He can't make his grandfather pay but he sees the perfect way to get his revenge on the Duke of Rowan. Ruin his granddaughter. She is a beautiful woman and he was going to really enjoy his revenge. Unbeknownst to him Anne is handicapped and has so far kept her disability a secret. Once Simon and Anne start spending time together their feelings for each other grow strong very quickly. When Anne admits her handicap, Simon doesn't care and even helps her overcome it.
Lady Mary is dealt with and Anne and Simon get their HAE. I loved both Anne and Simon. Two strong and stubborn individuals who make a great couple. They both try to hide their light under a bush but they are truly wonderful and kind and made for each other. Julie is a talented romance writer and I definitely recommend this book.
January 27, 2018
Simon Sedgewick, the newly titled Duke of Kilmartin, never thought he would return to England after his grandfather sent him away all those years ago in disgrace. Now he’s inherited the title and has returned to England with his sisters attend a ball full of simpering lords. He learns oldest friend's reputation is being smeared, and Simon discovers that the perpetrator is none other than his enemy's granddaughter. He sees a way to help his friend and seek revenge against those who wronged him all those years ago.
Granddaughter of the Duke of Rowan, Anne Adair no longer desires a husband, she wants to protect and warn other young debutantes away from the rakes and rogues of London society. She’s the president of the “Sisterhood for the Ruination of Rogues” club whose goal is to ruin the rakes who ruined them.
Simon see Lady Anne and decides she’s the perfect revenge against the Duke of Rowan and decides to peruse her and ruin her reputation. Anne is on to his game and sets out to uncover the mystery surrounding Simon and what happened all those years ago.
Simon and Anne have more in common than they first believed, both came from struggling families after their grandfathers deserted them, both are looking for love, family, trust and loyalty, someone to believe in them. This is a story filled with deception, mystery, intrigue and romance which make for an exceptional story I know you’ll truly enjoy.
This is my honest opinions after I voluntarily read a copy of this book that was provided to me with no requirements for a review.
Granddaughter of the Duke of Rowan, Anne Adair no longer desires a husband, she wants to protect and warn other young debutantes away from the rakes and rogues of London society. She’s the president of the “Sisterhood for the Ruination of Rogues” club whose goal is to ruin the rakes who ruined them.
Simon see Lady Anne and decides she’s the perfect revenge against the Duke of Rowan and decides to peruse her and ruin her reputation. Anne is on to his game and sets out to uncover the mystery surrounding Simon and what happened all those years ago.
Simon and Anne have more in common than they first believed, both came from struggling families after their grandfathers deserted them, both are looking for love, family, trust and loyalty, someone to believe in them. This is a story filled with deception, mystery, intrigue and romance which make for an exceptional story I know you’ll truly enjoy.
This is my honest opinions after I voluntarily read a copy of this book that was provided to me with no requirements for a review.
January 30, 2018
Revenge is best served cold. At least until white hot passion melts that desire away.
Simon Sedgewick, Duke of Kilmartin, is set on revenge against those who saw him exiled. Unfortunately, his grandfather is no longer alive but his long time friend is. What better way to exact his revenge than to do what he was falsely accused of those many years ago – seduce and ruin the granddaughter of his nemesis.
Anne Adair knows how close she came to ruin at the hands of a rogue. Now she has a strong desire to ruin all rogues of the ton and what better way than starting with the rogue accused ruining her friend. She never expected the rogue’s friend to set his sights on her.
Can they hold onto their beliefs of what they each know as the truth or will the white hot passion melt more than their plans for revenge?
Beautifully written by Julie Johnstone. Each encounter, each barter showcases Anne’s strength while giving glimpses of the vulnerability she continues to have with the concept of love. Simon’s strong need for desire is tempered by glimpses of the caring man he is, making his one loveable hero.
Totally a 5+ star read!
Simon Sedgewick, Duke of Kilmartin, is set on revenge against those who saw him exiled. Unfortunately, his grandfather is no longer alive but his long time friend is. What better way to exact his revenge than to do what he was falsely accused of those many years ago – seduce and ruin the granddaughter of his nemesis.
Anne Adair knows how close she came to ruin at the hands of a rogue. Now she has a strong desire to ruin all rogues of the ton and what better way than starting with the rogue accused ruining her friend. She never expected the rogue’s friend to set his sights on her.
Can they hold onto their beliefs of what they each know as the truth or will the white hot passion melt more than their plans for revenge?
Beautifully written by Julie Johnstone. Each encounter, each barter showcases Anne’s strength while giving glimpses of the vulnerability she continues to have with the concept of love. Simon’s strong need for desire is tempered by glimpses of the caring man he is, making his one loveable hero.
Totally a 5+ star read!
October 21, 2019
Trust is a very fragile thing and knowing who to trust and who not to, is very difficult as Simon and Anne find out in this story. Both are out for revenge for different reasons but it doesn't take long before they start questioning who is telling the truth and who is lying.
I thought the story well written and really liked all the characters....not so much Mary, though! lol I also loved that the heroine was not physically perfect and that it didn't bother the hero at all.
I was given an ARC of this book and am voluntarily leaving an honest review.
I thought the story well written and really liked all the characters....not so much Mary, though! lol I also loved that the heroine was not physically perfect and that it didn't bother the hero at all.
I was given an ARC of this book and am voluntarily leaving an honest review.
January 29, 2018
I was provided an advance reader copy in exchange for an honest review.
I'll let others talk about some of the darker issues of the revenge plot. I want to address Anne and Simon's relationship. It started out rocky but in the end they loved each other unconditionally. I was rooting for them and I'm glad they rose above the darkness (revenge) in the end. I don't want to give any spoilers, but some of the things Simon did for her were precious.
I'll let others talk about some of the darker issues of the revenge plot. I want to address Anne and Simon's relationship. It started out rocky but in the end they loved each other unconditionally. I was rooting for them and I'm glad they rose above the darkness (revenge) in the end. I don't want to give any spoilers, but some of the things Simon did for her were precious.
January 30, 2018
I truly enjoyed this book. I was gifted a copy of it. Lady Anne Adair has been duped by a rogue in her recent past. She is skeptical when the dashing Duke of Kilmartin, Simon Sedgewick begins to try to woo her. Because of a lame leg, Anne has always been a wallflower. Will Simon’s persistence win the day? Will Lady Anne let go of her bitterness and be free to see the truth about Kilmartin? This story is quite an emotional ride.
“He was perfection. It wasn’t simply that his face looked as if it had been chiseled from marble. There was an inherent strength there, as well as the set of his chin that suggested he had a stubborn streak. He wore his thick, wavy russet hair a little longer than proper, suggesting he didn’t give a fig about rules. His bronzed skin hinted that he enjoyed the outdoors, and as she swept her gaze quickly over his massive shoulders, down his torso, to his thighs, which appeared powerful even clad as they were in black trousers, she was certain he was very fit. Moving her gaze back up to his face, she startled to find him gazing intently at her, lips curled in an amused smile. Goodness!”
Johnstone uses her pen to expose the destruction that gossip and bitterness can bring to many. Anne’s transformation is a pleasant one and fun to watch. I highly recommend My Daring Duchess.
“He was perfection. It wasn’t simply that his face looked as if it had been chiseled from marble. There was an inherent strength there, as well as the set of his chin that suggested he had a stubborn streak. He wore his thick, wavy russet hair a little longer than proper, suggesting he didn’t give a fig about rules. His bronzed skin hinted that he enjoyed the outdoors, and as she swept her gaze quickly over his massive shoulders, down his torso, to his thighs, which appeared powerful even clad as they were in black trousers, she was certain he was very fit. Moving her gaze back up to his face, she startled to find him gazing intently at her, lips curled in an amused smile. Goodness!”
Johnstone uses her pen to expose the destruction that gossip and bitterness can bring to many. Anne’s transformation is a pleasant one and fun to watch. I highly recommend My Daring Duchess.
January 30, 2018
When the best intentions .....and so on. No matter what you do, always make sure that you have your facts right. And no matter what else - don't fall for the rake. Or maybe just a little bit. More.
A very sympathetic, not perfect but perfectly flawed heroine and a rakish duke whose revenge might just be thwarted by the charme and innocence of a certain young lady, are at the core of this story.
Having had her own heartbreak to deal with in the past, Anne Adair wants to help other debutantes to avoid the traps of the scrupellous rakes who prey on those innocents only to destroy their reputation. Simon Sedgewick, Duke of Kilmartin tries to protect his friend who is falsely accused of having ruined a young lady, an accusation and a situation he is far too familiar with due to his own past experiences.
While those two try to find out what is right and what is wrong, they also have to figure out what they really feel for each other - and whether they will let the past and the lies told in the past destroy waht they have.
Once again another charming story by Julie Johnstone that I really really enjoyed and have already read more than once since it found its way on my reader.
A very sympathetic, not perfect but perfectly flawed heroine and a rakish duke whose revenge might just be thwarted by the charme and innocence of a certain young lady, are at the core of this story.
Having had her own heartbreak to deal with in the past, Anne Adair wants to help other debutantes to avoid the traps of the scrupellous rakes who prey on those innocents only to destroy their reputation. Simon Sedgewick, Duke of Kilmartin tries to protect his friend who is falsely accused of having ruined a young lady, an accusation and a situation he is far too familiar with due to his own past experiences.
While those two try to find out what is right and what is wrong, they also have to figure out what they really feel for each other - and whether they will let the past and the lies told in the past destroy waht they have.
Once again another charming story by Julie Johnstone that I really really enjoyed and have already read more than once since it found its way on my reader.
February 1, 2018
What a fun romance this was with all the dirty linen in several families being aired in public! Anne, a Duke’s granddaughter living with her grandfather’s unpleasant ward, Mary, heads up the Sisterhood for the Ruination of Rogues. The rake they are going to try and ruin is a Lord Rutledge who supposedly ruined one of the members of the Sisterhood with a kiss. At the very next social engagement at which the Lord would be attending Anne was going to make the attempt to ruin him with gossip and such. But at that same social engagement another duke, Lord Simon Kilmartin, a friend to Lord Rutledge, was attending and he became very interested in Anne despite her intention to discredit Lord Rutledge. Ms. Johnstone‘s excellent writing described Anne’s family history and that of Simon in such a way that the confusing twists and turns in the story were made clear to the reader. I laughed out loud at some of the characters’ antics and there wasn’t just one happy ending…there were two!
January 30, 2018
Julie Johnstone certainly knows how to weave a great story, vengeance is the order of the day, however attraction and maybe even love will win out.
Anne Adair is left broken hearted by a rake and so decides she no longer needs a male in her future and instead needs to protect all those other young ladies from such rogues by thwarting their plans.
Simon Sedgwick, the new Duke of Kilmartin is back in England to help his best friend regain his reputation which is being ruined by said lady and when he finds out she is the granddaughter of his enemy, he sets his own sight on vengeance.
Grab a copy of this and find out what happens, I was hooked from the start, I couldn't put it down
I received a copy and voluntarily leave my own thoughts
Anne Adair is left broken hearted by a rake and so decides she no longer needs a male in her future and instead needs to protect all those other young ladies from such rogues by thwarting their plans.
Simon Sedgwick, the new Duke of Kilmartin is back in England to help his best friend regain his reputation which is being ruined by said lady and when he finds out she is the granddaughter of his enemy, he sets his own sight on vengeance.
Grab a copy of this and find out what happens, I was hooked from the start, I couldn't put it down
I received a copy and voluntarily leave my own thoughts
January 31, 2018
Julie Johnstone has done it again. I was given a copy of My Daring Duchess. It was amazing. Lady Anne Adair lives with her grandfather the Duke of Rowan. Together with other wronged women she forms the Sisterhood of the Ruination of Rogues. The group sets its sights on the newly titled Duke of Kilmartin, Simon Sedgwick, and things become complicated. As Anne tries to assist the Sisterhood in its revenge plot, she starts to fall for the Duke. I don’t want to spoil the twists and turns of the rollercoaster ride so I will stop there. Suffice it to say, the problem is who is actually a rogue and who is just falsely accused of being one.
January 31, 2018
Revenge Is Best Served Hot!
Anne Adair, granddaughter of a Duke, and Simon Kilmartin, a Duke, are both set out for Revenge, he hates her grandfather, and she despises his best friend. They both have childhood issues, of being unloved, feeling unwanted. They meet at a ball, he thinks she is beautiful, her self esteem, after being used, doesn't believe him, especially, when she finds out, his best friend tried to ruin a wall flower! They both have one thing in common, revenge! Where will it take them?
I highly recommend! Thanks! Enjoy!
carolintallahassee 👒
Anne Adair, granddaughter of a Duke, and Simon Kilmartin, a Duke, are both set out for Revenge, he hates her grandfather, and she despises his best friend. They both have childhood issues, of being unloved, feeling unwanted. They meet at a ball, he thinks she is beautiful, her self esteem, after being used, doesn't believe him, especially, when she finds out, his best friend tried to ruin a wall flower! They both have one thing in common, revenge! Where will it take them?
I highly recommend! Thanks! Enjoy!
carolintallahassee 👒
January 30, 2018
I loved this masterfully written book! I loved the idea of a few ladies banding together to warn others away from gentlemen they consider rogues. The characters were well developed and you can't help but fall in love with them. I enjoyed the book so much that I will go back and read the previously published books in the series. Thank you, Ms. Johnstone, for this beautiful story!
February 1, 2018
Love this series and MY DARING DUCHESS was fantastic! Definitely daring, romantic and intriguing. Another must read by Julie Johnstone. I enjoy this authors writing style, her descriptions are vivid, her characters are positively awesome and her plots are intriguing. Highly recommended!
January 30, 2018
I enjoyed the book. I liked Anne and Simone, they had good chemistry. I wish the story was longer so you got enjoy their journey to love. I like the little drama between Anne and Mary.
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