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The Cambridge Brotherhood #1
Fortune Favors the Duke
The new Duke has a proper scandal brewing.
Quinton Errington is perfectly happy teaching at Cambridge, with his elder brother carrying the duties of being the Duke of Wesley. But when a trip to celebrate Wesley's last week of bachelorhood ends in tragedy, Quinton, who becomes the Duke of Wesley, would give anything to have his brother back.
Now, under the most heartbreaking circumstances, Wesley's would-be bride, Catherine Greatheart, is left wanting. Her only protection left, her grandmother, has fallen ill, and Catherine has nowhere left to turn but to the family she was so close to being part of. The new Duke is kind, and she could use a friend who understands what she's going through.
Between learning how to be the head of his family's estate, mourning his brother, and trying not to fall in love with his late-brother's fiancée, Quinton will need some help—and it's a good thing he's not alone.
Quinton Errington is perfectly happy teaching at Cambridge, with his elder brother carrying the duties of being the Duke of Wesley. But when a trip to celebrate Wesley's last week of bachelorhood ends in tragedy, Quinton, who becomes the Duke of Wesley, would give anything to have his brother back.
Now, under the most heartbreaking circumstances, Wesley's would-be bride, Catherine Greatheart, is left wanting. Her only protection left, her grandmother, has fallen ill, and Catherine has nowhere left to turn but to the family she was so close to being part of. The new Duke is kind, and she could use a friend who understands what she's going through.
Between learning how to be the head of his family's estate, mourning his brother, and trying not to fall in love with his late-brother's fiancée, Quinton will need some help—and it's a good thing he's not alone.
312 pages, Kindle Edition
First published December 28, 2021
About the author
Kristin Vayden
43 books473 followersKristin's inspiration for the romance she writes comes from her tall, dark and handsome husband with killer blue eyes. With five children to chase, she is never at a loss for someone to kiss, something to cook or some mess to clean but she loves every moment of it! She loves to make soap, sauerkraut, sourdough bread and gluten free muffins. Life is full of blessings and she praises God for the blessed and abundant life He's given her.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 122 reviews
December 16, 2021
Second son Quinton Errington is perfectly happy teaching at Cambridge, until a tragic accident befalls his brother and Quin is thrust into the dukedom. His brother’s fiancée, Lady Catherine Greatheart, is also left to wade through an uncertain future. When the two lean on each other, they find that there’s more than friendship between them.
This is the first book in the new Cambridge Brothers series. The plot was intriguing and the story well written. I liked both Quin and Catherine, who both had plans for futures that never materialized, and were able to move forward together. I think this story had a bit of a balance issue, though. It gets off to a slow start and then quite a bit happens at the end. Also, I personally dislike being surprised by a clean/chaste book. There was no indication from the cover or blurb, and I’ve read this author before so that wasn’t what I was expecting. (3.5 stars)
Tropes: Friends to Lovers
* I received an ARC and this is my honest review. #FortuneFavorsTheDuke #NetGalley
This is the first book in the new Cambridge Brothers series. The plot was intriguing and the story well written. I liked both Quin and Catherine, who both had plans for futures that never materialized, and were able to move forward together. I think this story had a bit of a balance issue, though. It gets off to a slow start and then quite a bit happens at the end. Also, I personally dislike being surprised by a clean/chaste book. There was no indication from the cover or blurb, and I’ve read this author before so that wasn’t what I was expecting. (3.5 stars)
Tropes: Friends to Lovers
* I received an ARC and this is my honest review. #FortuneFavorsTheDuke #NetGalley
December 3, 2021
2.25 stars
Fortune Favors the Duke is a sweet romance that could have done with a lot less telling and quite a bit more showing.
The idea of the book is pretty sound - second son inherits after tragedy only to find myself bonding with his deceased brother's betrothed over their grief. There was so much potential for an angsty and affirming romance, but I never felt like we really delved below the surface level aspects of the concept or characters. The couple comes off as a bit one-note and there is a real missed opportunity to go deeper into their lives considering that the hero is established as a former Cambridge professor and the heroine as an investment genius. The conflicts are drawn out for far too long despite the fact that characters explicitly state that they are going to fix it. For me, this generated a overwhelming lack of stakes and left me feeling pretty disinterested in the story.
There is one really great twist that happens over about 50 pages towards the end that was honestly the best part of the entire book. That part proved to me that this author has the ability to carry an entire romance and that maybe it is just this particular story that wasn't for me.
Thank you to NetGalley and Sourcebooks Casablanca for an ARC of this book in exchange for a fair and honest review!
Fortune Favors the Duke is a sweet romance that could have done with a lot less telling and quite a bit more showing.
The idea of the book is pretty sound - second son inherits after tragedy only to find myself bonding with his deceased brother's betrothed over their grief. There was so much potential for an angsty and affirming romance, but I never felt like we really delved below the surface level aspects of the concept or characters. The couple comes off as a bit one-note and there is a real missed opportunity to go deeper into their lives considering that the hero is established as a former Cambridge professor and the heroine as an investment genius. The conflicts are drawn out for far too long despite the fact that characters explicitly state that they are going to fix it. For me, this generated a overwhelming lack of stakes and left me feeling pretty disinterested in the story.
There is one really great twist that happens over about 50 pages towards the end that was honestly the best part of the entire book. That part proved to me that this author has the ability to carry an entire romance and that maybe it is just this particular story that wasn't for me.
Thank you to NetGalley and Sourcebooks Casablanca for an ARC of this book in exchange for a fair and honest review!
January 20, 2022
Quinton Errington was very satisfied with his work as a professor of economics at Cambridge, only to be devastated by his brother’s death on the night before his wedding. Now Quin is left to grieve his loss and deal with the responsibilities he now has as the new Duke of Wesley.
The former duke’s almost bride, Lady Catherine Greatheart, is left in a difficult position with only her aging grandmother for protection from unscrupulous characters who would seek to take advantage of her in hopes of getting to her fortune. When her grandmother becomes ill, Quin steps in to be the friend and helper Catherine needs and she enjoys having the help of someone who understands how she feels.
Quin is struggling with his brother’s death and his new duties, and also trying to resist his feelings for his late brother’s betrothed, but thankfully he’s got some help to see him through.
Given the recent loss of my own brother-in-law, this book was incredibly hard for me to read, and I likely wouldn’t have agreed to review it if I had known what would happen in my personal life. That said, the examination of grief and healing from grief together with a loving partner was rather lovely. It definitely took me a while to get through this book, both for reasons stated above and because the heroine frustrated me. She seemed rather too perfect at times, but I was utterly charmed by her banter with her grandmother. Then, of course, the grandmother suffered an illness, and I was back to being annoyed by the heroine. Things definitely moved slowly between Quin and Catherine as well, which eventually dulled the charm of their flirting and made it seem just like gameplaying. The villainous aspect here was well done and thankfully resolved quickly and without too terribly much angst, which I appreciated especially given that there was plenty of angst about for other reasons. Given the depth and emotionality of this story, I was rather disappointed that it turned out to be closed door; after such a long, slow build up to finally see Catherine and Quin together, it was a little jarring to not have any sort of on page culmination of that relationship and having read this author before, it wasn’t what I had been expecting. There was definitely more focus on storytelling than on romance here, but I did enjoy the emphasis on healing from grief with love.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own. Blog link: https://mustreadalltheromance.blogspo...
The former duke’s almost bride, Lady Catherine Greatheart, is left in a difficult position with only her aging grandmother for protection from unscrupulous characters who would seek to take advantage of her in hopes of getting to her fortune. When her grandmother becomes ill, Quin steps in to be the friend and helper Catherine needs and she enjoys having the help of someone who understands how she feels.
Quin is struggling with his brother’s death and his new duties, and also trying to resist his feelings for his late brother’s betrothed, but thankfully he’s got some help to see him through.
Given the recent loss of my own brother-in-law, this book was incredibly hard for me to read, and I likely wouldn’t have agreed to review it if I had known what would happen in my personal life. That said, the examination of grief and healing from grief together with a loving partner was rather lovely. It definitely took me a while to get through this book, both for reasons stated above and because the heroine frustrated me. She seemed rather too perfect at times, but I was utterly charmed by her banter with her grandmother. Then, of course, the grandmother suffered an illness, and I was back to being annoyed by the heroine. Things definitely moved slowly between Quin and Catherine as well, which eventually dulled the charm of their flirting and made it seem just like gameplaying. The villainous aspect here was well done and thankfully resolved quickly and without too terribly much angst, which I appreciated especially given that there was plenty of angst about for other reasons. Given the depth and emotionality of this story, I was rather disappointed that it turned out to be closed door; after such a long, slow build up to finally see Catherine and Quin together, it was a little jarring to not have any sort of on page culmination of that relationship and having read this author before, it wasn’t what I had been expecting. There was definitely more focus on storytelling than on romance here, but I did enjoy the emphasis on healing from grief with love.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own. Blog link: https://mustreadalltheromance.blogspo...
December 26, 2021
3.5 Stars
Quinton Errington is perfectly happy teaching history & politics at Cambridge, with his elder brother Avery carrying the duties of being the Duke of Wesley. But when a trip to celebrate Wesley's last week of bachelorhood ends in tragedy, Quinton, who becomes the Duke, would give anything to have his brother back. Wesley's would-be bride, Catherine Greatheart, is left heartbroken and alone. Her grandmother has fallen ill, and Catherine has nowhere left to turn but to the family she was so close to being part of. The new Duke is kind, and she could use a friend. Between learning how to be the head of his family, mourning his brother, and trying not to fall in love with his late-brother's fiancée, Quinton will need some help.
This is the start of a new series & I found it to be a well written romance, which I enjoyed. I liked both Quin & Catherine but I was left a bit uncomfortable about their relationship. She’d been in love with Avery & stated it often so I couldn’t believe that she could fall in love with Quin just six months after Avery’s death, it felt wrong. The book started slowly & the paced picked up after the first third. The author handled the feelings of grief really sensitively & well. Not a light hearted read, I do look forward to the next in the series
My honest review is for a special copy I voluntarily read
Quinton Errington is perfectly happy teaching history & politics at Cambridge, with his elder brother Avery carrying the duties of being the Duke of Wesley. But when a trip to celebrate Wesley's last week of bachelorhood ends in tragedy, Quinton, who becomes the Duke, would give anything to have his brother back. Wesley's would-be bride, Catherine Greatheart, is left heartbroken and alone. Her grandmother has fallen ill, and Catherine has nowhere left to turn but to the family she was so close to being part of. The new Duke is kind, and she could use a friend. Between learning how to be the head of his family, mourning his brother, and trying not to fall in love with his late-brother's fiancée, Quinton will need some help.
This is the start of a new series & I found it to be a well written romance, which I enjoyed. I liked both Quin & Catherine but I was left a bit uncomfortable about their relationship. She’d been in love with Avery & stated it often so I couldn’t believe that she could fall in love with Quin just six months after Avery’s death, it felt wrong. The book started slowly & the paced picked up after the first third. The author handled the feelings of grief really sensitively & well. Not a light hearted read, I do look forward to the next in the series
My honest review is for a special copy I voluntarily read
November 28, 2022
What would you do if your brother dies and you start developing feelings for his fiancé?
This was a super cute, sweet historical romance. I really liked both the main characters, Quinn and Catherine. I originally thought this was going to be open-door; however, before I started it, I read a review that it was a closed-door romance. Knowing that going in, I felt like I enjoyed the book more. I don't have anything against closed-door romance books and I really do enjoy them, but I just thought this would be open-door based on the cover.
As I said, this was a very cute book. There wasn't much to the plot/storyline, meaning there was nothing too crazy going on. But there were a few surprises along the way, which I liked. And this book had me smiling multiple times throughout reading it.
If you are looking for a closed-door historical romance with steamy kisses, then this one might be perfect for you!
This was a super cute, sweet historical romance. I really liked both the main characters, Quinn and Catherine. I originally thought this was going to be open-door; however, before I started it, I read a review that it was a closed-door romance. Knowing that going in, I felt like I enjoyed the book more. I don't have anything against closed-door romance books and I really do enjoy them, but I just thought this would be open-door based on the cover.
As I said, this was a very cute book. There wasn't much to the plot/storyline, meaning there was nothing too crazy going on. But there were a few surprises along the way, which I liked. And this book had me smiling multiple times throughout reading it.
If you are looking for a closed-door historical romance with steamy kisses, then this one might be perfect for you!
Read
November 9, 2022I was surprised by this being a completely chaste romance. I still held out hope for at least an epilogue tryst because there was not enough swooning or tension to make up for the lack of intimacy on page. I loved the setup of this though and thought the plot was interesting and handled the topics well. I really enjoyed all of the time spent with both of the MCs and the third act drama was really entertaining! Also? The FMC’s grandma was my favorite character along with the relationship between those two. This was nice for a low angst pick.
Audio: 👌🏼 (okay, tolerable)
Narrated by Lillian Rachel
Audio: 👌🏼 (okay, tolerable)
Narrated by Lillian Rachel
December 28, 2021
This is a sweetly charming and softly romantic love story. This is the first Kristin Vayden book I have read, and I found this novel and start to a series to be pleasantly engaging. Vayden's writing is accessible and lightly paced which compliments this low angst romance. Vayden tells the story of two people falling in love after a mutual tragedy in a careful and gentle way, by showing the different ways grief can effect someone and how finding someone who speaks to your soul can help you to open yourself up again.
This is Quin and Catherine's romance after the tragic loss of Quin's brother and Catherine's fiancee. Great care is taken to tell their slow growth into love. The reader is eased into the story of two hearts learning to love again gently in the same way that Quin and Catherine's romance and trust grows for each other. Watching them both slowly see and understand the strength in the other is really beautiful. I found their chemistry to be soft and mature in the way two hearts who have experienced loss learn to open themselves up to another. I love that they are both careful with each others hearts As well as, aware of needing to be open and consensual as their relationship evolves into something new. Quin sees that Catherine is strong and independent and he offers his help and support but is never angry or jealous when she decides to handle certain things on her own. I also love that Catherine does not feel weak when she does decide to take Quin's support in certain moments. This novel is very low of the steam, there is no explicit sex on the page, which I would have liked in order to show the growth in their relationship and how they learned to trust each other and care for each other. I do think that the lack of steam does work with the overall tone of the novel but I think it would have added a really lovely depth to their relationship and given a more lasting strength to the over all story.
I would definitely recommend this novel if you are in the mood or love a low angst romance about a second chance at love. It is perfect if you love a character driven story the explores emotions in a very soft and gentle way. I look forward to exploring more of Kristin Vayden's work and would encourage you to give her a chance if you have not had the opportunity to yet.
OUT December 28, 2021
***Thank you to Sourcebook Casablanca and NetGalley for an eARC, all thoughts and opinions are my own and I am voluntarily leaving this review.***
This is Quin and Catherine's romance after the tragic loss of Quin's brother and Catherine's fiancee. Great care is taken to tell their slow growth into love. The reader is eased into the story of two hearts learning to love again gently in the same way that Quin and Catherine's romance and trust grows for each other. Watching them both slowly see and understand the strength in the other is really beautiful. I found their chemistry to be soft and mature in the way two hearts who have experienced loss learn to open themselves up to another. I love that they are both careful with each others hearts As well as, aware of needing to be open and consensual as their relationship evolves into something new. Quin sees that Catherine is strong and independent and he offers his help and support but is never angry or jealous when she decides to handle certain things on her own. I also love that Catherine does not feel weak when she does decide to take Quin's support in certain moments. This novel is very low of the steam, there is no explicit sex on the page, which I would have liked in order to show the growth in their relationship and how they learned to trust each other and care for each other. I do think that the lack of steam does work with the overall tone of the novel but I think it would have added a really lovely depth to their relationship and given a more lasting strength to the over all story.
I would definitely recommend this novel if you are in the mood or love a low angst romance about a second chance at love. It is perfect if you love a character driven story the explores emotions in a very soft and gentle way. I look forward to exploring more of Kristin Vayden's work and would encourage you to give her a chance if you have not had the opportunity to yet.
OUT December 28, 2021
***Thank you to Sourcebook Casablanca and NetGalley for an eARC, all thoughts and opinions are my own and I am voluntarily leaving this review.***
December 26, 2021
Quinton and Cathrine are connected through their shared grief for the late Duke of Wesley, his brother and her fiancé. This death is not just a jumping off point for the story, but explored in the grief of both of our main characters (as well as several side characters). The nuanced way we followed them through the pain of loosing a loved one, moving on and forward was nuanced in a way I found a lot of comfort in.
I enjoyed the main couple immensely and - while understandably slow - their building relationship was believable in a way that I cannot see either of them with anyone better matched. Obviously the fact that Cathrine was engaged to his brother is a hurdle between them. All their inner conflict about this payed off in a scene I particularly loved.
We also got to know a small cast of side characters, of whom I loved Cathrines grandma, Lady Greatheart, the most.
While I’m glad the third-act conflict was not between our couple, the mystery plot came out of left field and made the ending feel detached and rushed. Maybe I would’ve liked that plot point more, if it had been hinted at (more heavily?) earlier in the story.
That all being said, I read the first act of the book at the station, waiting for my delayed train and nearly froze my fingers off because I couldn’t stop reading. 10/10 would freeze my fingers off again for that part of the book, the third act though … that could wait till I’m back in the warmth indoor.
CW: Death (of a close family member), panic attack
I was provided an e-ARC by the publisher via NetGalley. All opinions are my own.
I enjoyed the main couple immensely and - while understandably slow - their building relationship was believable in a way that I cannot see either of them with anyone better matched. Obviously the fact that Cathrine was engaged to his brother is a hurdle between them. All their inner conflict about this payed off in a scene I particularly loved.
We also got to know a small cast of side characters, of whom I loved Cathrines grandma, Lady Greatheart, the most.
While I’m glad the third-act conflict was not between our couple, the mystery plot came out of left field and made the ending feel detached and rushed. Maybe I would’ve liked that plot point more, if it had been hinted at (more heavily?) earlier in the story.
That all being said, I read the first act of the book at the station, waiting for my delayed train and nearly froze my fingers off because I couldn’t stop reading. 10/10 would freeze my fingers off again for that part of the book, the third act though … that could wait till I’m back in the warmth indoor.
CW: Death (of a close family member), panic attack
I was provided an e-ARC by the publisher via NetGalley. All opinions are my own.
July 29, 2022
Reading this story I was rather intrigued with Quinton and Catherine. I thought that the writer did a good job with focusing the story on the two. There was humor among the characters. Mostly when the grandmother and Quintons mother were being addressed. I continue to read the story looking for some excitement or entertainment. For me the story reads meh.
December 11, 2021
3.5 Stars rounded up.
Lady Catherine Greatheart and Quinton Errington, the Duke of Wesley have much in common, but sadly most of it is painful. Catherine was engaged to Quinton’s older brother Avery, the previous Duke who tragically died days before their wedding. Now after six months of mourning Catherine’s elderly grandmother gently reminds her that she must reenter the marriage mart, something Catherine has been dreading.
Quinton “Quin” enjoyed his life as his brother’s “spare”, he taught politics and history at Cambridge, along with his friends, who also happen to be second sons. When his brother is killed at his own bachelor party, along with his friends (the elder brothers of Quin’s friends), he has no choice but to end his career and take up the title and the responsibilities that go with it. For months he tried to split his time between Cambridge and London, but now knows he can’t serve two masters and has resigned himself to London. Something he dreads, but as luck would have it on his first day back, he runs into Catherine. He is a little surprised by his reaction to her and tries to ignore it. But when his mother takes her under her wing and they spend more time together, the harder it becomes. It isn’t until Catherine’s grandmother suffers a traumatic medical emergency and Catherine’s future may be in jeopardy that he contemplates letting himself have a future with her, but is that even something she would consider, or does her heart still belong to his brother.
This was a good read, not perfect, but enjoyable with very likable characters. Based on my personal preferences, I wish the author had clearly stated when in time the story was set, I was able to piece it together by some hints that were dropped – Regency in case you are interested. In addition to that, there are title errors/inconsistencies and honestly, I wasn’t a fan of Catherine’s repeated declarations of love for Avery, the book is set just 6 months after his death, so for her to fall in love with his BROTHER that soon after his death was a bit off-putting – if her relationship with Avery hadn’t been touted as a love match, I probably wouldn’t have given it another thought, but she repeatedly mentions/thinks how much she loved him and lost him. In the end, while I didn’t love the story, but I did like it and I would definitely read the next book.
*I am voluntarily leaving a review for an eARC that I requested and was provided to me by the publisher. All opinions in this review are my own.*
Lady Catherine Greatheart and Quinton Errington, the Duke of Wesley have much in common, but sadly most of it is painful. Catherine was engaged to Quinton’s older brother Avery, the previous Duke who tragically died days before their wedding. Now after six months of mourning Catherine’s elderly grandmother gently reminds her that she must reenter the marriage mart, something Catherine has been dreading.
Quinton “Quin” enjoyed his life as his brother’s “spare”, he taught politics and history at Cambridge, along with his friends, who also happen to be second sons. When his brother is killed at his own bachelor party, along with his friends (the elder brothers of Quin’s friends), he has no choice but to end his career and take up the title and the responsibilities that go with it. For months he tried to split his time between Cambridge and London, but now knows he can’t serve two masters and has resigned himself to London. Something he dreads, but as luck would have it on his first day back, he runs into Catherine. He is a little surprised by his reaction to her and tries to ignore it. But when his mother takes her under her wing and they spend more time together, the harder it becomes. It isn’t until Catherine’s grandmother suffers a traumatic medical emergency and Catherine’s future may be in jeopardy that he contemplates letting himself have a future with her, but is that even something she would consider, or does her heart still belong to his brother.
This was a good read, not perfect, but enjoyable with very likable characters. Based on my personal preferences, I wish the author had clearly stated when in time the story was set, I was able to piece it together by some hints that were dropped – Regency in case you are interested. In addition to that, there are title errors/inconsistencies and honestly, I wasn’t a fan of Catherine’s repeated declarations of love for Avery, the book is set just 6 months after his death, so for her to fall in love with his BROTHER that soon after his death was a bit off-putting – if her relationship with Avery hadn’t been touted as a love match, I probably wouldn’t have given it another thought, but she repeatedly mentions/thinks how much she loved him and lost him. In the end, while I didn’t love the story, but I did like it and I would definitely read the next book.
*I am voluntarily leaving a review for an eARC that I requested and was provided to me by the publisher. All opinions in this review are my own.*
December 14, 2021
⭐️⭐️⭐️1/2
The Cambridge Brotherhood series focuses on friends whose older brothers tragically die in a fire. The friends, who were second sons, or “spares” now find themselves heirs to their family’s titles. Fortune Favors The Duke focuses on Quinton, the new Duke of Wesley, and Katherine, Quinton’s late brother’s fiancé.
This book is not a light-hearted romance. The romance is there, but much of the focus is centered on grieving and healing. The emotional depth of this novel is phenomenal. The topic of grief is handled in an informed, respectful way. The book lagged for the first half; there needed to be more substance. However, the second half took off rapidly, and there were copious amounts of content. I drifted for the first thirty percent, but after that point, I became avidly invested.
This is a sweet/clean romance. I did not feel this detracted from the story, yet I know some would want a warning. I was pretty impressed that a few kisses and longing looks could translate into the passionate connection Quinton and Katherine shared. I could feel the turmoil and indecision roll off both characters. The journey to love that Quinton and Katherine’s transverse is realistic. Starting as friends with a common loss, they find strength, camaraderie, and eventually healing love.
This story had both strengths and weaknesses. The plot needed more urgency in the first half. All the action occurs in the last forty percent. This needed to be spread throughout the entirety of the book. There was a secondary plot line that involved a secret I found disturbing. I liked that this was a raw, gritty look into the aftermath of a tragedy. The characters were vibrantly stunning, even the secondary characters touched my heart. My heart ached for Quinton and Katherine’s loss. The couple’s journey through the grief process was organic and honest. The second half of the book was excellent. I enjoyed the premise of the series and look forward to Quinton’s friend’s stories. Fortune Favors The Duke is the first book in The Cambridge Brotherhood series. Read this in knowledge that it deals with heavy subject matter and is a sweet/clean romance. I feel that this was a strong beginning to a series that could be hauntingly beautiful.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advance copy of this book through Netgalley and the publisher. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
The Cambridge Brotherhood series focuses on friends whose older brothers tragically die in a fire. The friends, who were second sons, or “spares” now find themselves heirs to their family’s titles. Fortune Favors The Duke focuses on Quinton, the new Duke of Wesley, and Katherine, Quinton’s late brother’s fiancé.
This book is not a light-hearted romance. The romance is there, but much of the focus is centered on grieving and healing. The emotional depth of this novel is phenomenal. The topic of grief is handled in an informed, respectful way. The book lagged for the first half; there needed to be more substance. However, the second half took off rapidly, and there were copious amounts of content. I drifted for the first thirty percent, but after that point, I became avidly invested.
This is a sweet/clean romance. I did not feel this detracted from the story, yet I know some would want a warning. I was pretty impressed that a few kisses and longing looks could translate into the passionate connection Quinton and Katherine shared. I could feel the turmoil and indecision roll off both characters. The journey to love that Quinton and Katherine’s transverse is realistic. Starting as friends with a common loss, they find strength, camaraderie, and eventually healing love.
This story had both strengths and weaknesses. The plot needed more urgency in the first half. All the action occurs in the last forty percent. This needed to be spread throughout the entirety of the book. There was a secondary plot line that involved a secret I found disturbing. I liked that this was a raw, gritty look into the aftermath of a tragedy. The characters were vibrantly stunning, even the secondary characters touched my heart. My heart ached for Quinton and Katherine’s loss. The couple’s journey through the grief process was organic and honest. The second half of the book was excellent. I enjoyed the premise of the series and look forward to Quinton’s friend’s stories. Fortune Favors The Duke is the first book in The Cambridge Brotherhood series. Read this in knowledge that it deals with heavy subject matter and is a sweet/clean romance. I feel that this was a strong beginning to a series that could be hauntingly beautiful.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advance copy of this book through Netgalley and the publisher. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
January 25, 2022
3.5 stars
I enjoyed this one and will continue on with the series.
I enjoyed this one and will continue on with the series.
December 22, 2021
Thanks to #NetGalley #SourcebooksCasablanca and Author #KristinVayden for the advanced copy of #FortuneFavorsTheDuke
A slow burn, blush free romance (no steam).
This story follows Catherine and Quin on their path of grief and recovery, finding friendship and support in each other leading to love.
Quin has had to assume the role of Duke following the death of his brother (and his brothers friends) in a fire. This means he has had to give up his teaching profession at Cambridge and focus on family matters.
Catherine was engaged to marry Quin’s brother and after the mourning period her grandmother encourages her to get back out in society and find herself a husband.
Quin and Catherine strike up a friendship, with both of them starting to look to the other for advice and support and their feelings change although neither admits it at first due to how it would be perceived by others.
When Catherine’s grandmother, who is one of my favourite characters in the story, becomes ill her guardian appears with a new chaperone for Catherine. The Chaperone is not the most pleasant individual and has a plan to ruin Catherine and force her to marry her guardian.
This story does have a happy every after and was an enjoyable read!
Publish date: 28 Dec 2021
A slow burn, blush free romance (no steam).
This story follows Catherine and Quin on their path of grief and recovery, finding friendship and support in each other leading to love.
Quin has had to assume the role of Duke following the death of his brother (and his brothers friends) in a fire. This means he has had to give up his teaching profession at Cambridge and focus on family matters.
Catherine was engaged to marry Quin’s brother and after the mourning period her grandmother encourages her to get back out in society and find herself a husband.
Quin and Catherine strike up a friendship, with both of them starting to look to the other for advice and support and their feelings change although neither admits it at first due to how it would be perceived by others.
When Catherine’s grandmother, who is one of my favourite characters in the story, becomes ill her guardian appears with a new chaperone for Catherine. The Chaperone is not the most pleasant individual and has a plan to ruin Catherine and force her to marry her guardian.
This story does have a happy every after and was an enjoyable read!
Publish date: 28 Dec 2021
October 11, 2021
Fortune Favors the Duke is book one in author Kristin Vayden’s series — The Cambridge Brothers. This story is full of classic tropes including Friends to lovers, forbidden or scandalous romance, and reluctant duke. The setting alternates between London and Cambridge and we don’t really know what year the story takes place but I believe it’s likely early 1800’s.
The MC’s are Quinton Errington “Quin” who becomes The Duke of Wesley at the beginning of the story after tragedy strikes and Catherine Greatheart who was betrothed to Quin’s brother Avery Errington, the Duke of Wesley, who dies in the books prologue. This leaves Quin a reluctant duke who has to give up his entire life to take up the responsibilities that come with the title and Catherine who is left alone and heartbroken a week before she was to become a Duchess. I didn’t think the author would Nevertheless it worked out well.
I loved Quin he is the perfect beta-hero who wants nothing more than to love and support his wife. I also loved Catherine’s grandma—she is a spitfire. The other supporting characters were also fun and I can’t wait to read about them in future books. As for the heroine of the story, Catherine, she was a character I am on the fence about, not sure why either lol.
This story has a few areas that could have been trimmed out including the entire saga with a companion—it didn’t add to the story. Maybe it will in future books, who knows. I would have loved to have some more HEAT 🔥🔥in this story, it’s probably one of the most demure and proper historical romances I have read, the MCs kiss and some VERY light petting. The chemistry between the MCs was present — every action just occurred off page.
Overall 3 Stars ⭐️ | 1 Flame 🔥 — A clean historical romance.
The MC’s are Quinton Errington “Quin” who becomes The Duke of Wesley at the beginning of the story after tragedy strikes and Catherine Greatheart who was betrothed to Quin’s brother Avery Errington, the Duke of Wesley, who dies in the books prologue. This leaves Quin a reluctant duke who has to give up his entire life to take up the responsibilities that come with the title and Catherine who is left alone and heartbroken a week before she was to become a Duchess. I didn’t think the author would Nevertheless it worked out well.
I loved Quin he is the perfect beta-hero who wants nothing more than to love and support his wife. I also loved Catherine’s grandma—she is a spitfire. The other supporting characters were also fun and I can’t wait to read about them in future books. As for the heroine of the story, Catherine, she was a character I am on the fence about, not sure why either lol.
This story has a few areas that could have been trimmed out including the entire saga with a companion—it didn’t add to the story. Maybe it will in future books, who knows. I would have loved to have some more HEAT 🔥🔥in this story, it’s probably one of the most demure and proper historical romances I have read, the MCs kiss and some VERY light petting. The chemistry between the MCs was present — every action just occurred off page.
Overall 3 Stars ⭐️ | 1 Flame 🔥 — A clean historical romance.
October 30, 2022
I received an Advance Reader Copy from the publisher via Edelweiss. This in no way impacted on my view.
For Quinton Errington, he was more than happy to leave the responsibilities of the dukedom to his elder brother, and instead spend his time as a professor at Cambridge. But when his brother dies just days before his wedding, and Quinton is proclaimed the new Duke of Wesley, he needs to leave his days at Cambridge behind, and look after his family - including his would-be sister in law, Catherine. So close to having a family and stability, other than her ill grandmother, Catherine is now floundering with what to do. Having no one left to turn to other than Quinton, she needs his support, and both mourn together. The time they spend in each other's company, getting to know one another, and rely on each other, they realise that though this was a situation no one would ever wish for, it may have been the best thing to ever happen to them.
I really enjoyed this book, particularly the way in which Quinton and Catherine relied on each other. Quinton's late brother was much mourned, which was lovely to read, and I think that he would have been happy to see his brother and Catherine fall in love. The couple mourn together, and the way they can be themselves with each other, and share the good and the bad moments was great for their relationship. Catherine's grandmother, Lady Greatheart was a gem, as were the other secondary characters, who I hope we'll see more of in the future books. A really enjoyable start to a new series!
For Quinton Errington, he was more than happy to leave the responsibilities of the dukedom to his elder brother, and instead spend his time as a professor at Cambridge. But when his brother dies just days before his wedding, and Quinton is proclaimed the new Duke of Wesley, he needs to leave his days at Cambridge behind, and look after his family - including his would-be sister in law, Catherine. So close to having a family and stability, other than her ill grandmother, Catherine is now floundering with what to do. Having no one left to turn to other than Quinton, she needs his support, and both mourn together. The time they spend in each other's company, getting to know one another, and rely on each other, they realise that though this was a situation no one would ever wish for, it may have been the best thing to ever happen to them.
I really enjoyed this book, particularly the way in which Quinton and Catherine relied on each other. Quinton's late brother was much mourned, which was lovely to read, and I think that he would have been happy to see his brother and Catherine fall in love. The couple mourn together, and the way they can be themselves with each other, and share the good and the bad moments was great for their relationship. Catherine's grandmother, Lady Greatheart was a gem, as were the other secondary characters, who I hope we'll see more of in the future books. A really enjoyable start to a new series!
October 17, 2021
With an interesting premise, this book started out great, catching my attention from the first chapter, but quickly slowed down. It picked back up again around 70%, and I was very easily hooked until the last chapter.
I really liked that Catherine was very involved in her own future, investigating causes and investments. Her grandmother was one of my favorite characters in the book.
The relationship between Catherine and Quin felt a little like warm to begin with, and felt very sudden when they started professing their feelings. This is a closed door romance, and very much had a slow burn feel to it.
I really liked that Catherine was very involved in her own future, investigating causes and investments. Her grandmother was one of my favorite characters in the book.
The relationship between Catherine and Quin felt a little like warm to begin with, and felt very sudden when they started professing their feelings. This is a closed door romance, and very much had a slow burn feel to it.
December 14, 2021
I really liked the synopsis to this one and I'm always looking for a new-to-me author, especially in historical romance.
I loved Catherine and Quin. They're both really good people finding their way through a tragedy. I loved how they listened to and supported each other, how they slowly got to know each other, and how the relationship organically progressed. Catherine's grandmother was one of the best parts of the story and Quin's mother was fantastic as well.
Plot wise, it is a bit of a lag. Nothing much happens in the first half of the book and then it's all twisty backstabbing and urgency. I would have liked a bit more balance, but it's understandable why it didn't play out that way. Sort of off topic, this is the chastest historical I've ever read. Trust me, I was here for the longing filled glances, but was surprised to see a lot of things fade to black.
Overall, it was a quick read with characters I couldn't get enough of. I am curious to see who will be in the next book (Morgan or Joan, I'm looking at you) and will likely read it.
**Huge thanks to the publisher for providing the arc free of charge**
I loved Catherine and Quin. They're both really good people finding their way through a tragedy. I loved how they listened to and supported each other, how they slowly got to know each other, and how the relationship organically progressed. Catherine's grandmother was one of the best parts of the story and Quin's mother was fantastic as well.
Plot wise, it is a bit of a lag. Nothing much happens in the first half of the book and then it's all twisty backstabbing and urgency. I would have liked a bit more balance, but it's understandable why it didn't play out that way. Sort of off topic, this is the chastest historical I've ever read. Trust me, I was here for the longing filled glances, but was surprised to see a lot of things fade to black.
Overall, it was a quick read with characters I couldn't get enough of. I am curious to see who will be in the next book (Morgan or Joan, I'm looking at you) and will likely read it.
**Huge thanks to the publisher for providing the arc free of charge**
January 4, 2022
Quinton Errington was happy as a teacher at Cambridge. As the second son, he never thought his older brother would die in an accident and he would be the Duke of Wesley. Catherine Greatheart was to marry Avery Errington before his tragic death. It's only been six months, but Catherine's grandmother encourages her to start looking for someone else in the coming season. When her grandmother gets sick, Catherine is alone, or is she? There are two people who were almost her family, Quin, the new Duke of Wesley and his mother. Enlisting their help, Catherine and Quinn discover they have more than friendship. A nice romance with several strong characters.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book.
December 31, 2021
An entertaining story of a tragedy and then unexpected love.
His beloved brother dies on the night of his bachelor party before his soon to be wedding. He was a teacher and happy with his life, but soon found, he could not run the newly inherited duties of the estate and also his main job.
She was finally out of mourning from her fiance's' death and knew she needed to reenter the marriage mart. Her previous future mother in law took her under her wing but then her grandmother fell ill.
When these two come upon each other, he cannot believe the feelings he has. Will these two come together and find love?
A great start to a new series!
His beloved brother dies on the night of his bachelor party before his soon to be wedding. He was a teacher and happy with his life, but soon found, he could not run the newly inherited duties of the estate and also his main job.
She was finally out of mourning from her fiance's' death and knew she needed to reenter the marriage mart. Her previous future mother in law took her under her wing but then her grandmother fell ill.
When these two come upon each other, he cannot believe the feelings he has. Will these two come together and find love?
A great start to a new series!
January 11, 2022
I have to say that I was surprised that it took me so long to finish, but its because I like Kristine Vayden's books, but this one not so much. I was expecting more, more of everything. The book focuses on the grief that both mc's were going thru< and how they were healing< i was bored a lot of times, that I started to read, and stop and start, I really hope that this is not the way the author will continue her new books, because if it is I am definitely getting off the train.
rcvd an ARC at no cost to author...(Netgalley. voluntarily reviewed with my own thoughts and opinions.
rcvd an ARC at no cost to author...(Netgalley. voluntarily reviewed with my own thoughts and opinions.
May 24, 2022
This is my first book by Kristin Vayden and overall it was a good book. It was a bit on the slower side, which it needed to be because of the grief the main characters were dealing with. It is a change of pace from most Historical Romance books, there was time for the characters to really get to know each other. I would read another book by this author.
I received this book free from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
I received this book free from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
November 27, 2021
2.5 stars
September 10, 2022
The romance felt super real and the writing was good, but how are you gonna write a whole romance novel and never have them do more than make out
August 13, 2022
This is a very sweet historical romance. It is the beginning of a series about a group of friends who all lost their brothers and they end up going from being the spare to being the heir. This is not terribly original and has zero steam, but was a pleasant read. 3⭐️
November 17, 2022
It was clean and eventually got around to having a happy ending.
The pace is really slow and the dialogue is repetitive.
The characters were all blandly nice. The plot was vaguely convoluted and wound up arriving at a twin who was too misunderstood and underwhelming to be evil.
The story was full of historical inaccuracies that just bugged me.
A little violence. No sex. Mild language.
The pace is really slow and the dialogue is repetitive.
The characters were all blandly nice. The plot was vaguely convoluted and wound up arriving at a twin who was too misunderstood and underwhelming to be evil.
The story was full of historical inaccuracies that just bugged me.
A little violence. No sex. Mild language.
November 26, 2021
I was provided with a free copy of this book from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
I was interested by the premise of this book, and I got really into the first couple chapters, but if I’m honest, the middle 60% was sloooooow and full of repetitive writing. I swear there must have been 3-4 chapters in a row (across both characters’ perspectives) that ended with the whole “oh I am falling for them but I CAN’T this is wrong” internal conflict bit. I get that it was the major conflict of the story, but it felt like the author repeatedly shoved in the reader’s face, and in nearly identical language. It wasn’t necessary.
Anyway, the first chapters were good, and the last 20% of the book picked right back up. I was pleased with both the plot twist and the way everything resolved.
In case you’re wondering, this book was pretty light on the spicy factor, and anything super intimate happened off-screen (though it was strongly alluded to).
Overall a decent read if you can hang in there through the middle. I’m definitely willing to give the future books in this series a try, and I hope to see Lady Greatheart again. I think every regency romance is improved by a Lady Danbury-esque woman who is too old to give a fig about society’s rules and refuses to take crap from anyone. But that’s just me. 🤷♀️😁
I was interested by the premise of this book, and I got really into the first couple chapters, but if I’m honest, the middle 60% was sloooooow and full of repetitive writing. I swear there must have been 3-4 chapters in a row (across both characters’ perspectives) that ended with the whole “oh I am falling for them but I CAN’T this is wrong” internal conflict bit. I get that it was the major conflict of the story, but it felt like the author repeatedly shoved in the reader’s face, and in nearly identical language. It wasn’t necessary.
Anyway, the first chapters were good, and the last 20% of the book picked right back up. I was pleased with both the plot twist and the way everything resolved.
In case you’re wondering, this book was pretty light on the spicy factor, and anything super intimate happened off-screen (though it was strongly alluded to).
Overall a decent read if you can hang in there through the middle. I’m definitely willing to give the future books in this series a try, and I hope to see Lady Greatheart again. I think every regency romance is improved by a Lady Danbury-esque woman who is too old to give a fig about society’s rules and refuses to take crap from anyone. But that’s just me. 🤷♀️😁
December 28, 2021
3.75 Stars
What I Loved: The premise: It sounded just like the kind of historical romances I grew up reading and in a sense it kind of was. The chemistry: Even if this is a sweet/clean romance, the kisses Quin and Catherine shared were definitely scorching. Grandma: I absolutely adored Catherine's grandma, she was delightful! Quin was the stuff dreams are made of, a prince of a man.
What I Liked: I liked Catherine, she was a bit headstrong about some things, especially considering the time period this is set in, but she was also nice and resourceful. I liked Quin's mother's machinations, I actually would've loved seeing more of this and less of the Lord Bircham thing.
What I Didn't Like: I felt a bit let down that with as long as the book is, we don't really see the progression of Catherine falling in love with Quin in a more natural way. It was like Catherine saying she was in love with Avery (Quin's brother and her fiancé) one second, and then suddenly she was falling for his brother. It was too rushed for me. Plus the conflict with Lord Bircham and the chaperone he brought for Catherine felt like it came out of nowhere and while intriguing, it wasn't related to Catherine and Quin, so I wasn't sure why it was included. Additionally, I had a problem with the editing, I know this is an ARC and I really hope at least the majority of the spelling/grammatical errors, missed or misused words were fixed, because it was a bit grating.
All in all, this was a good, enjoyable read. Quin was swoon-worthy and Catherine was lovely and I was rooting for them to get their HEA. Recommendable!
*** Copy provided to Bayou Book Junkie for my reading pleasure, a review wasn't a requirement. ***
What I Loved: The premise: It sounded just like the kind of historical romances I grew up reading and in a sense it kind of was. The chemistry: Even if this is a sweet/clean romance, the kisses Quin and Catherine shared were definitely scorching. Grandma: I absolutely adored Catherine's grandma, she was delightful! Quin was the stuff dreams are made of, a prince of a man.
What I Liked: I liked Catherine, she was a bit headstrong about some things, especially considering the time period this is set in, but she was also nice and resourceful. I liked Quin's mother's machinations, I actually would've loved seeing more of this and less of the Lord Bircham thing.
What I Didn't Like: I felt a bit let down that with as long as the book is, we don't really see the progression of Catherine falling in love with Quin in a more natural way. It was like Catherine saying she was in love with Avery (Quin's brother and her fiancé) one second, and then suddenly she was falling for his brother. It was too rushed for me. Plus the conflict with Lord Bircham and the chaperone he brought for Catherine felt like it came out of nowhere and while intriguing, it wasn't related to Catherine and Quin, so I wasn't sure why it was included. Additionally, I had a problem with the editing, I know this is an ARC and I really hope at least the majority of the spelling/grammatical errors, missed or misused words were fixed, because it was a bit grating.
All in all, this was a good, enjoyable read. Quin was swoon-worthy and Catherine was lovely and I was rooting for them to get their HEA. Recommendable!
*** Copy provided to Bayou Book Junkie for my reading pleasure, a review wasn't a requirement. ***
January 26, 2022
This is a new author to me. I enjoyed Catherine and Quinton's story. Well written characters and a good story line. Looking forward to her next book in the series.
November 14, 2021
Quinton Errington is perfectly happy teaching at Cambridge, with his elder brother carrying the duties of being the Duke of Wesley. But when a trip to celebrate Wesley's last week of bachelorhood ends in tragedy, Quinton, who becomes the Duke, would give anything to have his brother back.
Wesley's would-be bride, Catherine Greatheart, is left heartbroken and alone. Her grandmother has fallen ill, and Catherine has nowhere left to turn but to the family she was so close to being part of. The new Duke is kind, and she could use a friend.
Between learning how to be the head of his family, mourning his brother, and trying not to fall in love with his late-brother's fiancée, Quinton will need some help—and it's a good thing he's not alone.
Catherine and Wesley are an astounding couple. Engaged to the previous Duke Catherine has no where to turn when he dies before their marriage.
Kristen Vayden has written a book that says it all.
I received a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher and NetGalley. This in no way affects my opinion of this book which I read and reviewed voluntarily.
Wesley's would-be bride, Catherine Greatheart, is left heartbroken and alone. Her grandmother has fallen ill, and Catherine has nowhere left to turn but to the family she was so close to being part of. The new Duke is kind, and she could use a friend.
Between learning how to be the head of his family, mourning his brother, and trying not to fall in love with his late-brother's fiancée, Quinton will need some help—and it's a good thing he's not alone.
Catherine and Wesley are an astounding couple. Engaged to the previous Duke Catherine has no where to turn when he dies before their marriage.
Kristen Vayden has written a book that says it all.
I received a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher and NetGalley. This in no way affects my opinion of this book which I read and reviewed voluntarily.
January 28, 2022
If you’re looking for a sweet and earnest historical romance, Fortune Favors the Duke is a must read.
First off, Quinton and Catherine are an adorable couple. Quinton and Catherine are not supposed to be together: Catherine should be married to Quinton’s brother, Wesley, and Quinton should be a professor at Cambridge. But the book begins with a twist, and not only does Wesley die tragically during his bachelor weekend but so do all of his friends. The story picks up six months later when Catherine is coming out of mourning and ready to begin her life again. Both Catherine and Quin have lost something major: their life plans. Both are adapting and trying to figure out where they belong in their worlds. Their individual struggles are beautifully played out in the book. Kristin really develops Catherine as a strong independent character who does have a sad backstory and very few people in her life that she can depend on. We discover that Catherine is smart and good with numbers, which her fiancé encouraged while many men brushed off. Quin, our charming academic, not only finds her attractive but is entranced by her intelligence as well. Watching Catherine learn to be fierce and independent on her own during the story were some of my favourite character arcs.
Click on the link to read our full review on our blog: https://romancebythebook.com/2021/12/...
First off, Quinton and Catherine are an adorable couple. Quinton and Catherine are not supposed to be together: Catherine should be married to Quinton’s brother, Wesley, and Quinton should be a professor at Cambridge. But the book begins with a twist, and not only does Wesley die tragically during his bachelor weekend but so do all of his friends. The story picks up six months later when Catherine is coming out of mourning and ready to begin her life again. Both Catherine and Quin have lost something major: their life plans. Both are adapting and trying to figure out where they belong in their worlds. Their individual struggles are beautifully played out in the book. Kristin really develops Catherine as a strong independent character who does have a sad backstory and very few people in her life that she can depend on. We discover that Catherine is smart and good with numbers, which her fiancé encouraged while many men brushed off. Quin, our charming academic, not only finds her attractive but is entranced by her intelligence as well. Watching Catherine learn to be fierce and independent on her own during the story were some of my favourite character arcs.
Click on the link to read our full review on our blog: https://romancebythebook.com/2021/12/...
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