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Daring Ladies #2
How Not to Marry a Duke
**Easier to read! Now with larger print!**
From the moment her pet pig attacks him, Adeline Foster knows she does not care at all for the Duke of Warwick. Certainly the man is handsome, but such an arrogant arse. But when her scoundrel half brother demands she marry a stranger over a failed investment, the duke does something shocking…he announces he’s courting her.
One moment, Daniel Millstone is enjoying tinkering with his inventions in his quiet country home with relative anonymity. The next, he’s courting the willful Miss Adeline. It might have begun as a way to vex her half brother―his childhood nemesis―but her striking beauty and kissable lips prove an irresistible temptation.
Now Adeline and her faux beau must convince the ton and their families that they’re an item. It doesn’t matter if they can barely tolerate each other. It doesn’t matter that scandal is only a touch away. Because if this charade doesn’t work, Adeline will find herself in dangerous hands…
Each book in the Daring Ladies series is
* One Night with an Earl
* How Not to Marry a Duke
From the moment her pet pig attacks him, Adeline Foster knows she does not care at all for the Duke of Warwick. Certainly the man is handsome, but such an arrogant arse. But when her scoundrel half brother demands she marry a stranger over a failed investment, the duke does something shocking…he announces he’s courting her.
One moment, Daniel Millstone is enjoying tinkering with his inventions in his quiet country home with relative anonymity. The next, he’s courting the willful Miss Adeline. It might have begun as a way to vex her half brother―his childhood nemesis―but her striking beauty and kissable lips prove an irresistible temptation.
Now Adeline and her faux beau must convince the ton and their families that they’re an item. It doesn’t matter if they can barely tolerate each other. It doesn’t matter that scandal is only a touch away. Because if this charade doesn’t work, Adeline will find herself in dangerous hands…
Each book in the Daring Ladies series is
* One Night with an Earl
* How Not to Marry a Duke
352 pages, Mass Market Paperback
First published April 25, 2023
63 people are currently reading
250 people want to read
About the author
Tina Gabrielle
34 books418 followersAmazon best-selling author Tina Gabrielle is an attorney and mechanical engineer whose love of reading for pleasure helped her get through years of academia. She often picked up a romance and let her fantasies of knights in shining armor and lords and ladies carry her away.
Tina’s books have been Barnes & Noble top picks, and her first book, "Lady Of Scandal," was nominated as best first historical romance by Romantic Times Book Reviews. Tina loves to hear from readers. Please visit her website to learn about upcoming releases and to join her newsletter and enter to win free monthly contests and giveaways. www.tinagabrielle.com
Tina’s books have been Barnes & Noble top picks, and her first book, "Lady Of Scandal," was nominated as best first historical romance by Romantic Times Book Reviews. Tina loves to hear from readers. Please visit her website to learn about upcoming releases and to join her newsletter and enter to win free monthly contests and giveaways. www.tinagabrielle.com
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 148 reviews
August 20, 2023
A delightful slow burn romance with a fake courtship between a geeky inventor of a duke and a half-Arab healer with a pet pig that attacks him. They think they don't like each other. But when Adeline's half-brother declares he's marrying her to a dangerous money lender in order to get out of debt, the Duke of Warwick steps in to say that he is courting her instead, partly to get his godmother off his back to find a Duchess. Now they must convince their families the ruse is real, but just might lose their hearts along the way...
This was exactly my kind of historical romance. We have an adorably head-in-the-clouds Duke who can't be torn from his work until Adeline begins to turn his head. A smart, kind, and competent woman with a career of her own and a cultural heritage that means a lot to her. And two people who are clearly perfect for each other, even if everyone else can see they're in love long before they realize it themselves. It's definitely a slow-burn as the first kiss is about halfway in, but there are some solid steamy scenes in the latter half of the book and consent is handled beautifully. Great example of what historical romance can do! I received a copy of this book for review from the publisher, all opinions are my own.
This was exactly my kind of historical romance. We have an adorably head-in-the-clouds Duke who can't be torn from his work until Adeline begins to turn his head. A smart, kind, and competent woman with a career of her own and a cultural heritage that means a lot to her. And two people who are clearly perfect for each other, even if everyone else can see they're in love long before they realize it themselves. It's definitely a slow-burn as the first kiss is about halfway in, but there are some solid steamy scenes in the latter half of the book and consent is handled beautifully. Great example of what historical romance can do! I received a copy of this book for review from the publisher, all opinions are my own.
March 8, 2023
One moment, Daniel Millstone, Duke of Warwick, is enjoying tinkering with his inventions in his quiet country home. The next, he’s getting run down by a pet pig and trading verbal barbs with his new neighbor. But when Lady Adeline Foster’s half brother - and Warwick’s former nemesis - demands she marry a crooked loanshark, the duke does something shocking…he announces he’s courting Adeline.
This is the second book in the Daring Ladies series. It can stand alone, although the heroes from both books are friends and book one’s couple does play a small role.
This was my first read from this author and there were a lot of things I liked about it. The main couple has a “meet cute” as the exasperated Duke confronts his neighbor about all the noise. The blurb seemed to bill the story as enemies to lovers, but it was really more of a friends to lovers story. The main characters are quickly drawn into a fake relationship and spend quite a bit of time getting to know each other in order to pull off their ruse. While the build up here was too slow moving for me, I did appreciate seeing the characters interests in mechanical invention and medicine. I felt like the story picked up in the last 40% as Warwick and Adeline became more invested in each other and struggled with their feelings. 3.5 stars rounded to 4.
Tropes: Meet Cute, Working Heroine, Fake Relationship, Nemesis’s Sister
Steam: 2 (three scenes, but two were in the shorter side)
* I received an ARC and this is my honest review. #HowNottoMarryaDuke #NetGalley
This is the second book in the Daring Ladies series. It can stand alone, although the heroes from both books are friends and book one’s couple does play a small role.
This was my first read from this author and there were a lot of things I liked about it. The main couple has a “meet cute” as the exasperated Duke confronts his neighbor about all the noise. The blurb seemed to bill the story as enemies to lovers, but it was really more of a friends to lovers story. The main characters are quickly drawn into a fake relationship and spend quite a bit of time getting to know each other in order to pull off their ruse. While the build up here was too slow moving for me, I did appreciate seeing the characters interests in mechanical invention and medicine. I felt like the story picked up in the last 40% as Warwick and Adeline became more invested in each other and struggled with their feelings. 3.5 stars rounded to 4.
Tropes: Meet Cute, Working Heroine, Fake Relationship, Nemesis’s Sister
Steam: 2 (three scenes, but two were in the shorter side)
* I received an ARC and this is my honest review. #HowNottoMarryaDuke #NetGalley
June 14, 2023
Well, this one didn’t work for me at all. Sorry to say that I found this one dull and passionless. I felt like I was being told over and over again how unique and passionate both the leads were about their respective careers and I just never bought it.
May 5, 2023
How Not to Marry a Duke had so much potential as a fresh take on the genre yet it failed to meet my expectations. I love a good marriage of convenience story but the relationship between Adeline Foster, the daughter of an earl, and Daniel Millstone, the Duke of Warwick, felt completely unnatural and I didn't feel invested in their characters. They shared a desire for the freedom to marry as they wished but nothing between them seemed to be convincing as a match.
I found the initial crash meeting between Adeline and the duke to be a solid start and I thought Henry, Adeline's pet pig, was a great addition. Adeline spoke her mind and I liked the way she challenged the duke. I also liked that she was proud of her heritage despite the prejudice she faced from her half brother, Edwin, an insufferable bully, and from others in high society. I applaud the author for including diversity and representation in this book but it was sometimes too much of a focus and felt somewhat forced into the story.
Although intelligent and possessing ingenuity as he worked on his inventions, the duke didn't come across as strong or confident even with his arrogance. Society viewed him as reclusive but there was no sense of mystery to him either. I actually enjoy math and science but the descriptions of his work felt exhausting. Meanwhile, Adeline was a healer, experienced with the use of herbs to treat illnesses, and I thought there was too much detail about that as well even though I find herbal medicine fascinating.
Parts of the story, especially conversations between Adeline and the duke were very simplistic and stilted, more so than typically seen in this genre. Their attraction never felt right from the beginning and there wasn't enough buildup or tension. I wasn't even sure I wanted them to be together. By the time I reached 28%, boredom and disinterest in their slow moving story finally won out and I decided I had reached my end.
The one significant point I took from this book was an Arabic proverb I think is worth sharing.
"The greatest future is for those who are courageous enough to seize it."
** Special thanks to Entangled Publishing / Amara and NetGalley for the opportunity to read and review this ARC. All thoughts and opinions expressed are my own. Available April 25, 2023. **
I found the initial crash meeting between Adeline and the duke to be a solid start and I thought Henry, Adeline's pet pig, was a great addition. Adeline spoke her mind and I liked the way she challenged the duke. I also liked that she was proud of her heritage despite the prejudice she faced from her half brother, Edwin, an insufferable bully, and from others in high society. I applaud the author for including diversity and representation in this book but it was sometimes too much of a focus and felt somewhat forced into the story.
Although intelligent and possessing ingenuity as he worked on his inventions, the duke didn't come across as strong or confident even with his arrogance. Society viewed him as reclusive but there was no sense of mystery to him either. I actually enjoy math and science but the descriptions of his work felt exhausting. Meanwhile, Adeline was a healer, experienced with the use of herbs to treat illnesses, and I thought there was too much detail about that as well even though I find herbal medicine fascinating.
Parts of the story, especially conversations between Adeline and the duke were very simplistic and stilted, more so than typically seen in this genre. Their attraction never felt right from the beginning and there wasn't enough buildup or tension. I wasn't even sure I wanted them to be together. By the time I reached 28%, boredom and disinterest in their slow moving story finally won out and I decided I had reached my end.
The one significant point I took from this book was an Arabic proverb I think is worth sharing.
"The greatest future is for those who are courageous enough to seize it."
** Special thanks to Entangled Publishing / Amara and NetGalley for the opportunity to read and review this ARC. All thoughts and opinions expressed are my own. Available April 25, 2023. **
February 20, 2023
I received this book as an Advance Reader Copy in return for a fair review. It is much like it’s brethren in he regency romance genre, though probably a little above par. What concerns me is this recent move to force diversity into the genre. This feels too much like tokenism. While there was some rare moments of diversity within the regency peerage, we must not fool ourselves. This was a very white and very exclusive club. The recent move to try to make the world more exotic and more welcoming among romance writers feels forced. I am all for diversity but it needs to be authentic not forced to fill some sort of quota.
June 2, 2024
I really liked this one! I thought this was actually a very well written historical romance. I liked the tension between the two characters. I LOVED the fake engagement with these two. It's one of my favorite tropes, and this one didn't disappoint. I listened to the audiobook and liked the narrator. They did a great job with the voices and I found it easy to listen to. So far, I've only read this series by this author; however, I'm definitely going to check out their other books after reading it.
April 22, 2023
"I'm happy when we are together, and my heart aches when we are apart. I need you more than any invention, more than every book in my library. Reason has nothing to do with my feelings."
4.25 stars!
This novel was exactly what I needed to get me out of my book slump! I've always loved the historical romance genre for its ability to transport me to another time and get me out of my head, and Tina masterfully accomplished that with Warwick and Adeline's story. I loved how both Warwick and Adeline were both unconventional in their roles amidst the ton; Warwick preferred machinery and his workshop over social events while Adeline felt most at ease surrounded by her herbs and helping others. Their courtship began as a way to gain some freedom for societal expectations but soon transformed into something real as they both spent more time together.
I enjoyed the many different elements Tina blended into this story as we don't often see them in the HR genre. My biggest complaint is the slow burn nature of Warwick and Adeline's courtship, but overall this was a fantastic read🖤
Tropes: fake relationship, frenemies-to-lovers, POC heroine, scholarly hero, class difference, will they/won't they, SLOW BURN, steamy🔥
*ARC provided by the publisher, and I voluntarily reviewed it*
May 1, 2023
Barking dogs, an overly friendly pig and a beautiful young lady, throw a duke off track from his inventions. Adeline is a healer, the daughter of a duke and an Arabic mother. Theirs was a love match and Adeline will not settle for less. The Duke of Warwick is her neighbor in the country, a brilliant inventor who has a bad habit of losing track of time. The half-sister of one of his worst enemies, he comes to Adeline's rescue when her half-brother is forcing her to marry his money lender. Warwick states his claim, he's courting Adeline. They both agree it is all pretend, or is it? A duke with an analytical mind doesn't always comprehend his own emotions.
With a touch of humor and heated kisses that lead to more, a very entertaining book.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book.
With a touch of humor and heated kisses that lead to more, a very entertaining book.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book.
March 6, 2023
1.5/5
“From the moment her pet pig attacks him, Adeline Foster she does not care at all for the Duke of Warwick”
Well guess what, Adeline, I DONT care at all for you or your story.
If I had to describe this in a word, I’d choose ‘Boring’.
Positives:
-The writing wasn’t BAD.
-it was definitely better than the last historical romance I read ‘The Duke’s secret Cinderella’
-enjoyable. At times.
Negatives:
-I didn’t like Adeline.
-I hated her LI and thought he was basic.
-pacing was ALL OVER THE PLACE
Thank you Netgalley for an ARC. I am leaving this review voluntarily.
March 29, 2023
The story was an easy read. The romance was sweet and charming. I do have questions of during the ti e period, would the Ton be as open arm of acceptance of an Indian lady marrying a Duke of English nobility? The story moves pretty fast. There are entertaining moments, I received a copy of this book from the author in exchange for an honest review.
April 26, 2023
Daniel Millstone, the Duke of Warwick has retired to his country getaway cottage to work on his current invention and escape his godmother’s matchmaking, but thanks to a painful burn and his neighbor’s dogs non-stop barking, his getaway is turning into a nightmare. Annoyed and in pain, he decides to confront his neighbor and is attacked by her pet pig, reinjuring his arm while trying to protect her. Needless to say, their first meeting was not love at first sight, even if he can’t help but be attracted to her beauty and intelligence. It isn’t until the next day when her pig Henry, makes his way to Warwick’s home and Warwick returns him to her house that he learns who she really is and learns of her family troubles. And just like that a plan for a fake courtship is born!
Lady Adeline Cameron is the youngest child of the late Earl of Foster, her mother was his second wife, a commoner of Middle Eastern descent, whom he married just weeks after the death of his first wife. Her parents were very much in love, but not everyone was happy with their union, especially his son Edwin. When her father died and despite the support of her half-sister Mary, Adeline didn’t wait for Edwin to kick her out, she left and moved into the cottage left to her by her father. She plans to live full-time in the village of Chillham and practice the healing arts she learned from her mother. But no sooner has she moved in than she meets her arrogant neighbor who she is happy to treat and never see again, that is until Edwin shows up demanding she marry a moneylender to whom he is indebted, she refuses and tries to get him to leave, but when Edwin gets physical, she is saved by Warwick, who claims that Adeline cannot marry anyone, as she is being courted by him! Now they have to convince everyone that they are a couple without actually becoming a couple. Because no matter how well they are suited, or how attracted they are, or how sweet the kisses – this is courtship is not real – right?
This well-written, nicely paced second installment of The Daring Ladies series introduces readers to Lady Adeline and the Duke of Warwick, as well as catching readers up with the Earl of Drake and Anahit “Ana”, now Lady Drake from the first book. As with the first book, the author treats readers to a story that is not your typical historical romance, by creating strong, intelligent women who despite the prejudices they have faced for their foreign bloodlines, are successful in the ton and love and gives them heroes worthy of the title “hero” (even if it takes Warwick a bit longer than it should to realize he loves Adeline). The book is filled with delightful banter, interesting inventions, fascinating healing techniques, wonderful secondary characters, prejudices, skanky moneylenders, a pig named Henry, steamyish love scenes, secrets, meddling family/friends, and finally a HEA complete with an epilogue. This is the second book in the series, but each book could be read as a standalone title. I greatly enjoyed this story and would happily recommend it.
*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 Adeline Cameron is the youngest child of the late Earl of Foster, her mother was his second wife, a commoner of Middle Eastern descent, whom he married just weeks after the death of his first wife. Her parents were very much in love, but not everyone was happy with their union, especially his son Edwin. When her father died and despite the support of her half-sister Mary, Adeline didn’t wait for Edwin to kick her out, she left and moved into the cottage left to her by her father. She plans to live full-time in the village of Chillham and practice the healing arts she learned from her mother. But no sooner has she moved in than she meets her arrogant neighbor who she is happy to treat and never see again, that is until Edwin shows up demanding she marry a moneylender to whom he is indebted, she refuses and tries to get him to leave, but when Edwin gets physical, she is saved by Warwick, who claims that Adeline cannot marry anyone, as she is being courted by him! Now they have to convince everyone that they are a couple without actually becoming a couple. Because no matter how well they are suited, or how attracted they are, or how sweet the kisses – this is courtship is not real – right?
This well-written, nicely paced second installment of The Daring Ladies series introduces readers to Lady Adeline and the Duke of Warwick, as well as catching readers up with the Earl of Drake and Anahit “Ana”, now Lady Drake from the first book. As with the first book, the author treats readers to a story that is not your typical historical romance, by creating strong, intelligent women who despite the prejudices they have faced for their foreign bloodlines, are successful in the ton and love and gives them heroes worthy of the title “hero” (even if it takes Warwick a bit longer than it should to realize he loves Adeline). The book is filled with delightful banter, interesting inventions, fascinating healing techniques, wonderful secondary characters, prejudices, skanky moneylenders, a pig named Henry, steamyish love scenes, secrets, meddling family/friends, and finally a HEA complete with an epilogue. This is the second book in the series, but each book could be read as a standalone title. I greatly enjoyed this story and would happily recommend it.
*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.*
April 7, 2023
"From the moment her pet pig attacks him, Adeline Foster knows she does not care at all for the Duke of Warwick. Certainly the man is handsome, but such an arrogant arse. But when her scoundrel half brother demands she marry a stranger over a failed investment, the duke does something shocking…he announces he’s courting her."
This is an awesome book. Adeline is determined to get married for love only. The Duke is determined that there is no such thing as love.
I received this book from the publisher and NetGalley. This in no way affects my opinion of this book which I read and reviewed voluntarily.
This is an awesome book. Adeline is determined to get married for love only. The Duke is determined that there is no such thing as love.
I received this book from the publisher and NetGalley. This in no way affects my opinion of this book which I read and reviewed voluntarily.
April 23, 2023
Thanks to NetGalley for a copy of this ebook, and this is my freely given opinion.
Daniel Millstone, the Duke of Warwick, is not interested in the lifestyle that is generally expected of someone of his social status. He is very focused on his own passions, which are science and technology based. Most of his peers in Society do not understand this, and neither did his own parents - leading him to be disdained by his own parents and given the moniker of the Mad Duke by Society. The only person who seems to understand him and support him is his godmother, Lady Heywood. But even then, she is pushing him to join in the whirl of the Season and find himself a bride, and do his duty to the Dukedom. As such, he has escaped to a small town where he plans on spending time focusing on making progress on his various inventions.
Except his new neighbour is very disruptive and distracting. Her hounds bark and yowl all night, and she as a particularly pushy pet pig. Not to mention that Adeline Foster is exotically beautiful, but also bold, intelligent, challenging, and the half sister of his nemesis. But when her step brother, who has never accepted her or her non-English mother, finds her and tries to force her into a marriage to take care of his debt, Daniel intervenes. Not only is it satisfactory to thwart his old enemy, but he proposes a scheme for a false courtship between the two to keep her brother from selling her off to the moneylender he is in debt to, and will hopefully also keep Daniel safe from his godmother's matchmaking.
This was a bit unevenly written with some slow and dragging bits and other bits being glossed over. Adeline's step brother seemed to be a bit too one dimensional as a villain, but I felt that he has potential as a character with greater depth. Yes, he was a horrible jerk and prejudiced towards her and her mother - but then his resentment could have greater meaning. After all, his father did not appear to have a loving relationship with his own mother, and then married an Arabian commoner extremely shortly after his mother's death. I could understand where the brother would be quite resentful of the new stepmother and her baby. It just felt that more could have been done with his character and his relationship with Adeline, especially when it is shown that he can be protective and caring for his other sister, and that he is characterized as being intelligent and cunning. The sideline mention of her sister's book and romance felt rushed and tacked on. Especially considering Mary's publishing effort seemed to highlight one of the theme's of prejudice against women, I would have liked a bit more about her growth and success as an author.
But I did like having a heroine with a diverse background and bringing in diversity into a Regency historical, and the Duke's appreciation of her intelligence and endeavouring to support her own desire to learn and pass on her knowledge and skill. I enjoyed how they connected through their appreciation of each other's intelligence and skill. Daniel was definitely not a lovey dovey, affectionate romantic hero - he is quite arrogant and very focused on his own endeavours, but then it just shows that he needs a special woman to get him, and get him out of his own shell and singular focus. Adding the medical history aspects to the story, and the animals is a bonus for me personally.
3.75 stars out of 5
Daniel Millstone, the Duke of Warwick, is not interested in the lifestyle that is generally expected of someone of his social status. He is very focused on his own passions, which are science and technology based. Most of his peers in Society do not understand this, and neither did his own parents - leading him to be disdained by his own parents and given the moniker of the Mad Duke by Society. The only person who seems to understand him and support him is his godmother, Lady Heywood. But even then, she is pushing him to join in the whirl of the Season and find himself a bride, and do his duty to the Dukedom. As such, he has escaped to a small town where he plans on spending time focusing on making progress on his various inventions.
Except his new neighbour is very disruptive and distracting. Her hounds bark and yowl all night, and she as a particularly pushy pet pig. Not to mention that Adeline Foster is exotically beautiful, but also bold, intelligent, challenging, and the half sister of his nemesis. But when her step brother, who has never accepted her or her non-English mother, finds her and tries to force her into a marriage to take care of his debt, Daniel intervenes. Not only is it satisfactory to thwart his old enemy, but he proposes a scheme for a false courtship between the two to keep her brother from selling her off to the moneylender he is in debt to, and will hopefully also keep Daniel safe from his godmother's matchmaking.
This was a bit unevenly written with some slow and dragging bits and other bits being glossed over. Adeline's step brother seemed to be a bit too one dimensional as a villain, but I felt that he has potential as a character with greater depth. Yes, he was a horrible jerk and prejudiced towards her and her mother - but then his resentment could have greater meaning. After all, his father did not appear to have a loving relationship with his own mother, and then married an Arabian commoner extremely shortly after his mother's death. I could understand where the brother would be quite resentful of the new stepmother and her baby. It just felt that more could have been done with his character and his relationship with Adeline, especially when it is shown that he can be protective and caring for his other sister, and that he is characterized as being intelligent and cunning. The sideline mention of her sister's book and romance felt rushed and tacked on. Especially considering Mary's publishing effort seemed to highlight one of the theme's of prejudice against women, I would have liked a bit more about her growth and success as an author.
But I did like having a heroine with a diverse background and bringing in diversity into a Regency historical, and the Duke's appreciation of her intelligence and endeavouring to support her own desire to learn and pass on her knowledge and skill. I enjoyed how they connected through their appreciation of each other's intelligence and skill. Daniel was definitely not a lovey dovey, affectionate romantic hero - he is quite arrogant and very focused on his own endeavours, but then it just shows that he needs a special woman to get him, and get him out of his own shell and singular focus. Adding the medical history aspects to the story, and the animals is a bonus for me personally.
3.75 stars out of 5
March 11, 2023
How Not To Marry A Duke by Tina Gabrielle is the second book of her Daring Ladies Series and my very first book by this author.
And what can I say? It won't be my last! That's for sure! ♡
Lady Adeline and the Duke of Warwick are neighbours in a small village. He is only interested in his inventions, she's a healer and not really conventional.
As her half-brother - Lord Foster - forces her to marry a moneylender to pay his debts, Warwick - out of his usual character - helps her unusually. Pretending to courting Lady Adeline could be not the help she needs, but also the one he needs to deal with his godmother. But was it really a good idea?
OH MY GOODNESS!
I ABSOLUTELY LOVED AND DEVOURED THIS BOOK!
The love story of Adeline and Warwick was
E-V-E-R-Y-T-H-I-N-G! In my opinion it was so so so so good!
When they first met! OMG! I laughed so much! Adeline isn't this normal lady. She has a pet pig (Henry) and two huge dogs.
She's a healer and is such a strong and self-confident woman! I loved her so much!
And Warwick! Awwww! Be still my beating heart! 💓
He's the complete opposite! At first so uptight and a man, who's more interested into science than getting a wife.
The development of their relationship from the beginning to the end was SOOOO ENJOYABLE! I felt with them and swooned so many times! Oh dear! 🥰
And all these ups and downs! Awwww!
They had to deal with lot of things like the unpleasant half-brother or the dubious moneylender!
I really really loved this book and the characters! I'm not even sure how could not love this book!
It has everything! (I know I said it before, but I'll say it more times if necessary! LOL)
HOW NOT TO MARRY A DUKE is the perfect love story! An enemies-to-lovers, opposites attract, fake engagement, historical romance full of love and laughter and drama and wonderful characters! ❤️
Thank you so much to Tina Gabrielle and Entangled Publishing for this ARC via NetGalley.
This my honest review in my own words.
And what can I say? It won't be my last! That's for sure! ♡
Lady Adeline and the Duke of Warwick are neighbours in a small village. He is only interested in his inventions, she's a healer and not really conventional.
As her half-brother - Lord Foster - forces her to marry a moneylender to pay his debts, Warwick - out of his usual character - helps her unusually. Pretending to courting Lady Adeline could be not the help she needs, but also the one he needs to deal with his godmother. But was it really a good idea?
OH MY GOODNESS!
I ABSOLUTELY LOVED AND DEVOURED THIS BOOK!
The love story of Adeline and Warwick was
E-V-E-R-Y-T-H-I-N-G! In my opinion it was so so so so good!
When they first met! OMG! I laughed so much! Adeline isn't this normal lady. She has a pet pig (Henry) and two huge dogs.
She's a healer and is such a strong and self-confident woman! I loved her so much!
And Warwick! Awwww! Be still my beating heart! 💓
He's the complete opposite! At first so uptight and a man, who's more interested into science than getting a wife.
The development of their relationship from the beginning to the end was SOOOO ENJOYABLE! I felt with them and swooned so many times! Oh dear! 🥰
And all these ups and downs! Awwww!
They had to deal with lot of things like the unpleasant half-brother or the dubious moneylender!
I really really loved this book and the characters! I'm not even sure how could not love this book!
It has everything! (I know I said it before, but I'll say it more times if necessary! LOL)
HOW NOT TO MARRY A DUKE is the perfect love story! An enemies-to-lovers, opposites attract, fake engagement, historical romance full of love and laughter and drama and wonderful characters! ❤️
Thank you so much to Tina Gabrielle and Entangled Publishing for this ARC via NetGalley.
This my honest review in my own words.
March 31, 2023
The Duke of Warwick is a thinker. He loves to spend time adapting and thinking of new uses for inventions (steam engines, gun powders etc.). While tinkering at a country house he meets his neighbor Lady Adeline Foster. She studied the healing arts from her mother her was Middle Eastern and cleans and bandages a wound for him. The next day he hears her step brother, the new Earl, insisting she marry a money lender to clean his debts. Warwick steps in and announces that he is courting Adeline.
Warwick wants to help Adeline be free of her brother but also wants to avoid the marriage mart for the season. His godmother hosts Adeline for the season so the Warwick and she can be seen courting. The cover for this book is lovely and draws attention. It is interesting to me that Warwick has characteristics of ADD but that wouldn’t be recognized in the time period. Her being of mixed race and medical knowledge plays into the story well too. I wish there was a comeuppance for the brother or better solution to the main dilemma. If the Duke is only going to end up paying the debt himself he could have done in the beginning because of his wealth. I wanted a better resolution. But the chemistry is great as is Adeline’s desire for a love match. And the Epilogue gives a nice HEA.
This is the second in the Daring Ladies series. It can be read as a stand alone but the couple in the first book, One Night with an Earl are friends of Warwick and makes appearances in the story. Thank you to NetGalley and Entangled Publishing for the ARC am I’m leaving a voluntary review.
Warwick wants to help Adeline be free of her brother but also wants to avoid the marriage mart for the season. His godmother hosts Adeline for the season so the Warwick and she can be seen courting. The cover for this book is lovely and draws attention. It is interesting to me that Warwick has characteristics of ADD but that wouldn’t be recognized in the time period. Her being of mixed race and medical knowledge plays into the story well too. I wish there was a comeuppance for the brother or better solution to the main dilemma. If the Duke is only going to end up paying the debt himself he could have done in the beginning because of his wealth. I wanted a better resolution. But the chemistry is great as is Adeline’s desire for a love match. And the Epilogue gives a nice HEA.
This is the second in the Daring Ladies series. It can be read as a stand alone but the couple in the first book, One Night with an Earl are friends of Warwick and makes appearances in the story. Thank you to NetGalley and Entangled Publishing for the ARC am I’m leaving a voluntary review.
April 27, 2023
From the memorable meet cute to the charging pig, this courtship of convenience may turn out to be anything but! I loved Adeline's character for her brains and beauty, while Daniel was equally handsome and brilliant in his own right. His act of unexpectedly playing the hero on her behalf was out of character, but his distaste for the despicable brother was charming. What? He was an a** and trying to force the half sister he didn't acknowledge until he needed to use her for his own gain was beyond being an a**, so yeah, Daniel had good taste, if not always good sense. One things lead to another and before long, the fake part of their arrangement is feeling anything but.
Trust me, fair readers, if you love smart characters who aren't afraid to follow their hearts... eventually... and face down those that would shun them, be it family or ton, this one is totally for you!
*ecopy received for review; opinions are my own
Trust me, fair readers, if you love smart characters who aren't afraid to follow their hearts... eventually... and face down those that would shun them, be it family or ton, this one is totally for you!
*ecopy received for review; opinions are my own
June 2, 2023
This is my 10th book by Tina Gabrielle. I didn't start reading her until July of 2020 and she soon became a favorite. I wrote in my notes – really like this author. Great stories, great characters and great sex. Book 1 in this series came out in Oct, 2021 and then nothing until now. So happy to see her with a new book out, especially this series because book 1 was such a great read.
This book didn't disappoint. I loved Adeline and Warwick. What a great couple. I loved their story and personalities. Really great depth of characters.
This book didn't disappoint. I loved Adeline and Warwick. What a great couple. I loved their story and personalities. Really great depth of characters.
Read
March 24, 2023Unfortunately this is a DNF for me. 25% in, I’m just bored & uninterested in how this story progresses. I mean, I kinda get the whole fake dating thing? But actually going to London to sell it? Meh. Don’t care.
May 14, 2023
How Not to Marry a Duke by Tina Gabrielle is book Two in the Darling Ladies Series. This is the story of Daniel Millstone, Duke of Warwick and Adeline Foster. I really enjoyed this book and loved how Daniel stepped up to help Adeline which lead me to a wonderful story.
June 1, 2023
How Not to Marry a Duke was an easy read. The romance was sweet and charming and the meet cute between Adeline and Daniel was so cute. Also, I loved how they were both unconventional in their roles amidst the ton, hers as a healer and his as an inventor.
April 25, 2023
I voluntarily read and reviewed this advanced copy from NetGalley. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
How Not to Marry a Duke was such a treat, it was like finally winning a prize from a claw machine. I read the first two books in the Daring Ladies series and I liked both of these novels, with the sequel eking out with the lead. As the reigning princess of tropes, I was more than pleased with how much this book had to offer: fake dating, healing touches, and an adorable pet pig. I was hooked from the beginning and I was delighted by how the main relationship developed throughout the story. Adeline was one of my favorite heroines in a hot minute. She was a smart independent woman who was proud of her Middle Eastern culture and strove to learn more about the healing arts. I couldn't relate to her love of animals, but I was willing to relent because of her swine sweetheart, Henry. How Not to Marry a Duke was like a magic carpet ride with surprises around every corner and I never knew what to expect after each amazing chapter.
I couldn't get enough of How Not to Marry a Duke and I was sad that it eventually had to end. I wonder which couple will be featured next in the sequel. Possibly a hero with a more romantic name than Warwick when moaning in passion? I gotta tell you it took me out when she wailed his name in a moment of excitement. Warwick just doesn't elicit great feelings of lust for me. The couple's passion for science as well as each other was wonderful to see. I mean if she considered a trip to an anatomical convention as a romantic gesture, we're in good company. I'm happy to have discovered Tina Gabrielle's work and I hope to read more of her publications in the future. This may have been entitled How Not to Marry a Duke, but I certainly wouldn't mind walking down the aisle with this one in particular!
How Not to Marry a Duke was such a treat, it was like finally winning a prize from a claw machine. I read the first two books in the Daring Ladies series and I liked both of these novels, with the sequel eking out with the lead. As the reigning princess of tropes, I was more than pleased with how much this book had to offer: fake dating, healing touches, and an adorable pet pig. I was hooked from the beginning and I was delighted by how the main relationship developed throughout the story. Adeline was one of my favorite heroines in a hot minute. She was a smart independent woman who was proud of her Middle Eastern culture and strove to learn more about the healing arts. I couldn't relate to her love of animals, but I was willing to relent because of her swine sweetheart, Henry. How Not to Marry a Duke was like a magic carpet ride with surprises around every corner and I never knew what to expect after each amazing chapter.
I couldn't get enough of How Not to Marry a Duke and I was sad that it eventually had to end. I wonder which couple will be featured next in the sequel. Possibly a hero with a more romantic name than Warwick when moaning in passion? I gotta tell you it took me out when she wailed his name in a moment of excitement. Warwick just doesn't elicit great feelings of lust for me. The couple's passion for science as well as each other was wonderful to see. I mean if she considered a trip to an anatomical convention as a romantic gesture, we're in good company. I'm happy to have discovered Tina Gabrielle's work and I hope to read more of her publications in the future. This may have been entitled How Not to Marry a Duke, but I certainly wouldn't mind walking down the aisle with this one in particular!
April 14, 2023
Barbara’s rating: 3.8 of 5 Stars
Series: Daring Ladies #2
Publication Date: 4/25/23
Period: Regency
Number of Pages: 352
This was a fun romp between two people who each have a problem and each needs the other to help with the solution. It starts with a ‘meet cute’ when Adeline’s pig, Harry, attacks the Duke of Warwick and ends with a lovely epilogue where Warwick realizes that “a man cannot live on logic alone. But he can live for love.” I enjoyed the characters, the plot, the pacing, and the writing style. Each book in this series is a standalone, so you don’t have to worry if you haven’t read the first book.
Lady Adeline Foster was much loved by both her mother and father as well as her half-sister, Mary – but she was reviled by her half-brother, Edwin. Edwin taunted and belittled Adeline her entire life because of her mixed Mediterranean heritage. While she and Edwin had the same father, they had different mothers and Adeline’s mother was the daughter of a traveling Arabic rug merchant and not in the least aristocratic. When her father passed away, Edwin inherited the Earldom, and had complete control of Adeline – or so he thought. Adeline inherited a small, run-down property from her father and promptly loaded up her belongings and moved to Chilham, in Kent. Of course, she quickly discovered her property needed a whole lot more work than she’d thought – but she would make it work and she’d use her medical skills – learned from her mother – to help the local people in Chilham. She was a happy and content woman – until . . . That nasty neighbor made an appearance at her door . . .
Daniel Millstone, the Duke of Warwick, moved to a small property in Chilham seeking peace and quiet so he could concentrate on his inventions. Warwick was a brilliant mathematician, engineer, scientist – you name it – and he was rich as Croesus. He discovered he had a new neighbor when the racket from the neighbor’s dogs became unbearable. He’ll just put a stop to that! Yep, he will – or will he?
When Adeline’s half-brother shows up and announces she is to wed a very unsavory moneylender – and Warwick wants to stop his Godmother’s matchmaking efforts for the rest of the season, they realize they can help each other by pretending a courtship. We all know that is going to work out well.
I loved Daniel and Adeline – both were strong, stubborn, bookish, scientific, misfits who were made for each other – although it really took Daniel much too long to come to that conclusion. You can’t blame him though. His upbringing showed him that love didn’t exist in marriages and that it was entirely a business arrangement. So, he’d channeled all of his passions into his scientific pursuits and had no clue love could actually exist in a relationship.
I enjoyed this book and watching Warwick and Adeline find their HEA. While I had some concerns about a few things, it was overall a nice read. Books where the villain(s) aren’t punished – or are even rewarded, as in this case – really attack my sense of fair play. As clever as both Warwick and Adeline are, they could have come up with a great punishment – I just know it. Anyway, I would recommend this book to a friend.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an Advanced Reader Copy (ARC) of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
Series: Daring Ladies #2
Publication Date: 4/25/23
Period: Regency
Number of Pages: 352
This was a fun romp between two people who each have a problem and each needs the other to help with the solution. It starts with a ‘meet cute’ when Adeline’s pig, Harry, attacks the Duke of Warwick and ends with a lovely epilogue where Warwick realizes that “a man cannot live on logic alone. But he can live for love.” I enjoyed the characters, the plot, the pacing, and the writing style. Each book in this series is a standalone, so you don’t have to worry if you haven’t read the first book.
Lady Adeline Foster was much loved by both her mother and father as well as her half-sister, Mary – but she was reviled by her half-brother, Edwin. Edwin taunted and belittled Adeline her entire life because of her mixed Mediterranean heritage. While she and Edwin had the same father, they had different mothers and Adeline’s mother was the daughter of a traveling Arabic rug merchant and not in the least aristocratic. When her father passed away, Edwin inherited the Earldom, and had complete control of Adeline – or so he thought. Adeline inherited a small, run-down property from her father and promptly loaded up her belongings and moved to Chilham, in Kent. Of course, she quickly discovered her property needed a whole lot more work than she’d thought – but she would make it work and she’d use her medical skills – learned from her mother – to help the local people in Chilham. She was a happy and content woman – until . . . That nasty neighbor made an appearance at her door . . .
Daniel Millstone, the Duke of Warwick, moved to a small property in Chilham seeking peace and quiet so he could concentrate on his inventions. Warwick was a brilliant mathematician, engineer, scientist – you name it – and he was rich as Croesus. He discovered he had a new neighbor when the racket from the neighbor’s dogs became unbearable. He’ll just put a stop to that! Yep, he will – or will he?
When Adeline’s half-brother shows up and announces she is to wed a very unsavory moneylender – and Warwick wants to stop his Godmother’s matchmaking efforts for the rest of the season, they realize they can help each other by pretending a courtship. We all know that is going to work out well.
I loved Daniel and Adeline – both were strong, stubborn, bookish, scientific, misfits who were made for each other – although it really took Daniel much too long to come to that conclusion. You can’t blame him though. His upbringing showed him that love didn’t exist in marriages and that it was entirely a business arrangement. So, he’d channeled all of his passions into his scientific pursuits and had no clue love could actually exist in a relationship.
I enjoyed this book and watching Warwick and Adeline find their HEA. While I had some concerns about a few things, it was overall a nice read. Books where the villain(s) aren’t punished – or are even rewarded, as in this case – really attack my sense of fair play. As clever as both Warwick and Adeline are, they could have come up with a great punishment – I just know it. Anyway, I would recommend this book to a friend.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an Advanced Reader Copy (ARC) of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
March 27, 2023
I truly enjoyed this story. I have read it twice and I think it is going on my keeper shelf
This review may contrain spoilers.
This story is about the youngest half-sibling of an earl. Her two older half-siblings were born to the earl and his first wife. The first wife passed during childbirth, but two weeks after she passed away, the earl married the heroine's mother. The heroine's mother was the result of an Arab princess and a Turkish rug merchant. While not British royalty, the heroine did have blue blood in her veins. AND her mother was married to her father, so she was legitimate. Even though the heroine's mother tried repeatedly to mother the earl's heir, the boy refused to acknowledge her and was repeatedly rude. The heroine's mother passed away but before that she taught the heroine about the healing arts. The heroine also had her mother's attendant, who stayed with her and took care of her. The heroine got along well with her half-sister, they were only about a year apart and the half-sister loved the heroine's mother as her own. When the earl passed away, the heroine was kicked out of the house to a cottage that was left to her by their father. The only problem was that the cottage was not kept up and needed some renovations, but the half-brother refused to help her. The heroine's neighbor was an engineer who was working on the final touches of his new steam engine that would be more efficient that the present day steam engines. He was devoted to his work and progress. He felt that some jobs could be improved by technology. The neighbor is also a duke in hiding. He doesn't want anyone there and his godmother wants him to get married. The first time they meet, the heroine's dogs are barking and disrupting him. He comes over and the pet pig escapes and knocks them over. The hero is very disparaging of the animals. The heroine is a healer and she is working on healing the dogs and the pig is her pet. The second time they meet it is because the pig has escaped again and is in the hero's drawing room, eating the throw pillows. The hero uses kitchen scraps to lure the pig back to his pen. When he arrives at the heroine's home, he hears her yelling for some one to get out. He goes in the house and sees his childhood nemesis bullying the heroine. The half-brother, the present earl, has speculated on a business deal and the ship sunk. So he owes a lot of money to a money lender who has seen the heroine"s beauty and wants to marry her. The half-brother is ordering her to marry the man. The hero, who takes in all in, says that he is courting the heroine. At that point, the half-brother called him by his title and the heroine knows who he is. She agrees to the ruse to get her half-brother out of the house. The hero talks the heroine into a faux courtship to save him from the Season's debutantes.
I enjoyed this story. It was very detailed and I felt as if I was right there in the action. I liked all of the characters, the settings and how the story was told. This story did not drag and I enjoyed the way the author used the heroine's Middle East heritage to describe how immigrants in that time period lived. It was very interesting. I gave this book 5 stars and recommend reading.
This review may contrain spoilers.
This story is about the youngest half-sibling of an earl. Her two older half-siblings were born to the earl and his first wife. The first wife passed during childbirth, but two weeks after she passed away, the earl married the heroine's mother. The heroine's mother was the result of an Arab princess and a Turkish rug merchant. While not British royalty, the heroine did have blue blood in her veins. AND her mother was married to her father, so she was legitimate. Even though the heroine's mother tried repeatedly to mother the earl's heir, the boy refused to acknowledge her and was repeatedly rude. The heroine's mother passed away but before that she taught the heroine about the healing arts. The heroine also had her mother's attendant, who stayed with her and took care of her. The heroine got along well with her half-sister, they were only about a year apart and the half-sister loved the heroine's mother as her own. When the earl passed away, the heroine was kicked out of the house to a cottage that was left to her by their father. The only problem was that the cottage was not kept up and needed some renovations, but the half-brother refused to help her. The heroine's neighbor was an engineer who was working on the final touches of his new steam engine that would be more efficient that the present day steam engines. He was devoted to his work and progress. He felt that some jobs could be improved by technology. The neighbor is also a duke in hiding. He doesn't want anyone there and his godmother wants him to get married. The first time they meet, the heroine's dogs are barking and disrupting him. He comes over and the pet pig escapes and knocks them over. The hero is very disparaging of the animals. The heroine is a healer and she is working on healing the dogs and the pig is her pet. The second time they meet it is because the pig has escaped again and is in the hero's drawing room, eating the throw pillows. The hero uses kitchen scraps to lure the pig back to his pen. When he arrives at the heroine's home, he hears her yelling for some one to get out. He goes in the house and sees his childhood nemesis bullying the heroine. The half-brother, the present earl, has speculated on a business deal and the ship sunk. So he owes a lot of money to a money lender who has seen the heroine"s beauty and wants to marry her. The half-brother is ordering her to marry the man. The hero, who takes in all in, says that he is courting the heroine. At that point, the half-brother called him by his title and the heroine knows who he is. She agrees to the ruse to get her half-brother out of the house. The hero talks the heroine into a faux courtship to save him from the Season's debutantes.
I enjoyed this story. It was very detailed and I felt as if I was right there in the action. I liked all of the characters, the settings and how the story was told. This story did not drag and I enjoyed the way the author used the heroine's Middle East heritage to describe how immigrants in that time period lived. It was very interesting. I gave this book 5 stars and recommend reading.
April 30, 2023
This is a story about a couple who made a deal to have a fake courtship throughout the season so everyone would leave them alone and partly as a snub to a young beauty’s half brother.
Adeline had just moved into her dilapidated country cottage as her her only inheritance from her late father after being kicked out by her hateful half brother. Her former nursemaid, now currently her companion or second mother, Hasmik is staying with her to help her out with the cottage, herbs, newly adopted animals, nursing and more.
Duke of Warwick has chosen to stay in his country home so he can have some quiet and peace while he tinkers and makes some improvements on inventions. He has no use for idle talks, balls, courtships and etc. He’s even avoiding his godmother, Lady Haywood whom he adores like a plague because of her demands of finding a wife and providing an heir. He’s managed to avoid the Seasons so far in the past because he’s been in hiding away from everyone.
They meet for the first time due to the dogs making a lot of ruckus. The Duke storms over to investigate the noise at his neighbor, only to be bowled over by Adeline’s pet pig. They start to argue from there. They did not get along. He’s left more injured (arm) They both were not happy with each other. The following morning, Adeline’s half brother, Lord Foster barges into her home making demands that she is to marry a low scum money lender to cover his debts. She refuses. All the noises from her screaming at him to get out and him yelling his threats caused the Duke to come rushing over. He overhears their arguments. As no love lost over his childhood nemesis, he steps in stating that he’s been courting Adeline secretly. Lord Foster doesn’t really believe him and was finally kicked out her cottage.
They both agreed on a deal after stating their intentions of not marrying and etc. Their journey and unexpected relationship start at that incident.
There are plenty of interesting secondary characters in this plot you’d enjoy and/hate. There are Middle is Eastern heritage, strong women faced with discriminations while pursuing their interests/careers, racisms, secrets with family members and close friends, couple of spicy scenes, amusing and hilarious banters and many more.
Oh! One more thing, who can forget one adorable and delightful character in this book? Henry the pet pig!! Gotta love him!!
Another thing, I did not realize this was a second book in this series, The Daring Ladies Series. I’d say you can read this standalone. I will be reading the first book due to the fact how much I really enjoyed this novel.
4 1/2 stars from me.
Thank you so much Entangled Publishing/ Amara and Netgalley for this physical ARC and eBook. As usual all my reviews are purely my own opinions without any influence from any publishers.
Adeline had just moved into her dilapidated country cottage as her her only inheritance from her late father after being kicked out by her hateful half brother. Her former nursemaid, now currently her companion or second mother, Hasmik is staying with her to help her out with the cottage, herbs, newly adopted animals, nursing and more.
Duke of Warwick has chosen to stay in his country home so he can have some quiet and peace while he tinkers and makes some improvements on inventions. He has no use for idle talks, balls, courtships and etc. He’s even avoiding his godmother, Lady Haywood whom he adores like a plague because of her demands of finding a wife and providing an heir. He’s managed to avoid the Seasons so far in the past because he’s been in hiding away from everyone.
They meet for the first time due to the dogs making a lot of ruckus. The Duke storms over to investigate the noise at his neighbor, only to be bowled over by Adeline’s pet pig. They start to argue from there. They did not get along. He’s left more injured (arm) They both were not happy with each other. The following morning, Adeline’s half brother, Lord Foster barges into her home making demands that she is to marry a low scum money lender to cover his debts. She refuses. All the noises from her screaming at him to get out and him yelling his threats caused the Duke to come rushing over. He overhears their arguments. As no love lost over his childhood nemesis, he steps in stating that he’s been courting Adeline secretly. Lord Foster doesn’t really believe him and was finally kicked out her cottage.
They both agreed on a deal after stating their intentions of not marrying and etc. Their journey and unexpected relationship start at that incident.
There are plenty of interesting secondary characters in this plot you’d enjoy and/hate. There are Middle is Eastern heritage, strong women faced with discriminations while pursuing their interests/careers, racisms, secrets with family members and close friends, couple of spicy scenes, amusing and hilarious banters and many more.
Oh! One more thing, who can forget one adorable and delightful character in this book? Henry the pet pig!! Gotta love him!!
Another thing, I did not realize this was a second book in this series, The Daring Ladies Series. I’d say you can read this standalone. I will be reading the first book due to the fact how much I really enjoyed this novel.
4 1/2 stars from me.
Thank you so much Entangled Publishing/ Amara and Netgalley for this physical ARC and eBook. As usual all my reviews are purely my own opinions without any influence from any publishers.
April 23, 2023
A new beginning. A fresh start. A dream of becoming a healer. Lady Adeline Cameron is determined to make the best of her future in the rundown cottage her father, the Earl Foster, left her in the Kentish countryside. The ton rejects intelligent women, especially when they’re not of pure breeding. Her mother was Lebanese, and a healer and midwife herself. Her skin just a touch darker, extensive knowledge about herbs and the wish to marry for love is all Adeline has left of her.
His godmother, the Lady who championed him when his own parents failed him, would like so very much to see him settled. So now he, Daniel Millstone, Duke of Warwick, is hiding in the countryside. Anonymous peace and quiet to conduct his work. Engineering, mathematics, science - that's what fascinates him. Improving technology and his inventions. That and running his duchy, of course. He’ll choose a wife. Eventually. Just not this Season. The ton can entertain themselves. Mad, they call him. Eccentric. Rude.
But now his new neighbour and his livestock disrupt that peace. Their lives literally collide - a meet-cute - when he stalks over to set the man straight and her 200 pound pet pig Henry runs them over. Yes, his new neighbour is a woman. A striking beauty. Mesmerising, wilful and opinionated.
Returning Henry from an uninvited visit to his drawing room the next day, Daniel finds her cornered by her boorish half-brother who is coincidentally Daniel’s childhood nemesis. The oaf is threatening to marry her off to a despicable moneylender to settle his own debts. Blue-blooded gentlemen that he is, Daniel promptly declares he’s courting Lady Adeline.
Maybe not his brightest idea, but a convenient solution to both their problems. His godmother will leave him in peace and her half-brother can sod off. An agreement of convenience. One minor detail: they will have to convince their families and the ton of their honourable intentions… whatever could go wrong?
📚 The story of two highly intelligent kindred spirits. Both looking to better the lives of those around them. He a socially clumsy, nerdy and eccentric - he turned his ballroom into a workshop – duke who doesn’t think love exists. She the self-confident bluestocking lady who kickstarts his heart. Which wasn’t her plan at all! She only wanted to heal the burn on his arm.
With a little nudge here and a little push there by Lady Heywood, Daniel’s doting godmother, and Hasmik, Adeline’s Egyptian companion. Slowly they discover one another. Acceptance, respect, trust. Their agreement evolving into friendship and eventually blossoming into love. But it’s not without a struggle!
📚 fake courtship, forced proximity, unconventional MCs, steamy, open door, slow burn, enemies to friends to lovers
I honestly devoured this book! It’s beautifully written with a fresh and original story full of love and laughter and drama and wonderful characters! I highly recommend it!!
Thank you to Tina Gabrielle, NetGalley and Entangled Publishing for this eARC.
All opinions expressed are my own.
His godmother, the Lady who championed him when his own parents failed him, would like so very much to see him settled. So now he, Daniel Millstone, Duke of Warwick, is hiding in the countryside. Anonymous peace and quiet to conduct his work. Engineering, mathematics, science - that's what fascinates him. Improving technology and his inventions. That and running his duchy, of course. He’ll choose a wife. Eventually. Just not this Season. The ton can entertain themselves. Mad, they call him. Eccentric. Rude.
But now his new neighbour and his livestock disrupt that peace. Their lives literally collide - a meet-cute - when he stalks over to set the man straight and her 200 pound pet pig Henry runs them over. Yes, his new neighbour is a woman. A striking beauty. Mesmerising, wilful and opinionated.
Returning Henry from an uninvited visit to his drawing room the next day, Daniel finds her cornered by her boorish half-brother who is coincidentally Daniel’s childhood nemesis. The oaf is threatening to marry her off to a despicable moneylender to settle his own debts. Blue-blooded gentlemen that he is, Daniel promptly declares he’s courting Lady Adeline.
Maybe not his brightest idea, but a convenient solution to both their problems. His godmother will leave him in peace and her half-brother can sod off. An agreement of convenience. One minor detail: they will have to convince their families and the ton of their honourable intentions… whatever could go wrong?
📚 The story of two highly intelligent kindred spirits. Both looking to better the lives of those around them. He a socially clumsy, nerdy and eccentric - he turned his ballroom into a workshop – duke who doesn’t think love exists. She the self-confident bluestocking lady who kickstarts his heart. Which wasn’t her plan at all! She only wanted to heal the burn on his arm.
With a little nudge here and a little push there by Lady Heywood, Daniel’s doting godmother, and Hasmik, Adeline’s Egyptian companion. Slowly they discover one another. Acceptance, respect, trust. Their agreement evolving into friendship and eventually blossoming into love. But it’s not without a struggle!
📚 fake courtship, forced proximity, unconventional MCs, steamy, open door, slow burn, enemies to friends to lovers
I honestly devoured this book! It’s beautifully written with a fresh and original story full of love and laughter and drama and wonderful characters! I highly recommend it!!
Thank you to Tina Gabrielle, NetGalley and Entangled Publishing for this eARC.
All opinions expressed are my own.
April 23, 2023
Reviewed at Keeper Bookshelf
I clearly admit that the first line of the cover description for How Not to Marry a Duke (“From the moment her pet pig attacks him, Adeline Foster knows she does not care at all for the Duke of Warwick.”) I knew that I had to discover more about not only the pet pig but the lady who trusts her pet’s reactions to a man more than anyone’s. I’m so glad I took that chance, especially when I discovered that the author considers the stories within this series as stand-alone titles. I will go back to the beginning of any series, but if I can dive right in without that being necessary, then I’m going to without hesitation.
I had such fun with Daniel and Adeline’s story. Both have some interesting issues to be dealt with as in Adeline’s overbearing half-brother who intends to marry her off to a loanshark and Warwick’s matchmaking relative who intends for the reclusive, inventor, genius, Duke, to no longer keep the family waiting for heirs. When Adeline moves into the badly in need of repairs property next door Daniel is beyond annoyed at the racket her dogs make along with just about everything about his new neighbor that is unsettling his rather boring and settled life. He’s in for quite the surprise when he goes storming off to put an end to the noise and gets bitten by Adeline’s overprotective pet pig, Henry.
When Daniel steps in between the siblings to declare that he and Adeline are courting to save her from the fate her odious half-brother has in mind for her, he never considered that his life might suddenly be changed in a way that was not all that objectionable. I loved their bantering, the feeling of, well, if not true enemies but friends turning into lovers that finally find their forever love right in front of them. Oh, it’s not always an easy road to their happy ending, but it is a steamy, emotional, laughter-filled experience that neither had expected.
There were a few things that I questioned or wished had turned out differently, but none of those things made an overall difference to my enjoyment of Daniel and Adeline’s romance. If you love a romance where you’ll spend a lot of time laughing at the antics of the animals, where a Duke finally comes out of his mental locked kingdom enough to notice a beautiful woman’s charm and a lovely healer with a heart of gold captures the man of her dreams… then you’ll enjoy this novel.
*I received an e-ARC of this novel from the publisher via NetGalley. That does not change what I think of this story. It is my choice to leave a review giving my personal opinion about this book.*
Release date: April 25, 2023
I clearly admit that the first line of the cover description for How Not to Marry a Duke (“From the moment her pet pig attacks him, Adeline Foster knows she does not care at all for the Duke of Warwick.”) I knew that I had to discover more about not only the pet pig but the lady who trusts her pet’s reactions to a man more than anyone’s. I’m so glad I took that chance, especially when I discovered that the author considers the stories within this series as stand-alone titles. I will go back to the beginning of any series, but if I can dive right in without that being necessary, then I’m going to without hesitation.
I had such fun with Daniel and Adeline’s story. Both have some interesting issues to be dealt with as in Adeline’s overbearing half-brother who intends to marry her off to a loanshark and Warwick’s matchmaking relative who intends for the reclusive, inventor, genius, Duke, to no longer keep the family waiting for heirs. When Adeline moves into the badly in need of repairs property next door Daniel is beyond annoyed at the racket her dogs make along with just about everything about his new neighbor that is unsettling his rather boring and settled life. He’s in for quite the surprise when he goes storming off to put an end to the noise and gets bitten by Adeline’s overprotective pet pig, Henry.
When Daniel steps in between the siblings to declare that he and Adeline are courting to save her from the fate her odious half-brother has in mind for her, he never considered that his life might suddenly be changed in a way that was not all that objectionable. I loved their bantering, the feeling of, well, if not true enemies but friends turning into lovers that finally find their forever love right in front of them. Oh, it’s not always an easy road to their happy ending, but it is a steamy, emotional, laughter-filled experience that neither had expected.
There were a few things that I questioned or wished had turned out differently, but none of those things made an overall difference to my enjoyment of Daniel and Adeline’s romance. If you love a romance where you’ll spend a lot of time laughing at the antics of the animals, where a Duke finally comes out of his mental locked kingdom enough to notice a beautiful woman’s charm and a lovely healer with a heart of gold captures the man of her dreams… then you’ll enjoy this novel.
*I received an e-ARC of this novel from the publisher via NetGalley. That does not change what I think of this story. It is my choice to leave a review giving my personal opinion about this book.*
Release date: April 25, 2023
April 20, 2023
HOW NOT TO MARRY A DUKE is a delightful historical romance that begins with neighbors meeting due to some pesky animals. The Duke of Warwick is at his country estate and bothered by the sounds of the hounds next door as he tries to work on his inventions. When he goes to ask them to quiet down, he is accosted by a pet pig and meets the lovely Adeline Foster, half-sister of the Earl of Foster. They part their separate ways, not particularly liking each other, but their paths soon cross again while Adeline is having an argument with her half-brother.
Edwin is in debt and has decided to settle his debt by having his despised half-sister Adeline marry the despicable moneylender. Warwick overhears his former nemesis and the argument, swooping in by saying Adeline cannot marry the moneylender, as they are courting. After her half-brother leaves, Adeline and Warwick discuss and decide that, to solve both their problems, they will court for the season and then part ways, having resolved the issue with the moneylender as he'll be forced to find someone else to wed and resolved the issue of Warwick's meddling godmother who dearly wants him to choose a bride.
However, as they spend time together fake courting, their real chemistry grows until it is undeniable - if only they are ready to put aside their pride and admit it.
This was quite a quick read featuring a couple that was full of chemistry. They really seemed made for each other, and the fake dating was quite fun. While it took a while to build to the steam, there were some very steamy scenes that brought it all together, and the wait did not feel long at all. The story really focuses on their relationship as they get to know one another and perform for society, as well as how they fall in love, and I loved the focus plot.
Both Adeline and Warwick were easily likable characters, and they made the story quite consuming. Other side characters, such as Hasmik, the duke's godmother, and Adeline's sister Mary, were also really intriguing, and I loved seeing a reappearance from the couple in the first book of this series (though they had a very small role and this is a stand-alone).
Overall, this was an absolutely delightful and charming historical romance that I highly recommend for anyone who loves fake dating scenarios! Please note that I received an ARC. All opinions are my own.
Edwin is in debt and has decided to settle his debt by having his despised half-sister Adeline marry the despicable moneylender. Warwick overhears his former nemesis and the argument, swooping in by saying Adeline cannot marry the moneylender, as they are courting. After her half-brother leaves, Adeline and Warwick discuss and decide that, to solve both their problems, they will court for the season and then part ways, having resolved the issue with the moneylender as he'll be forced to find someone else to wed and resolved the issue of Warwick's meddling godmother who dearly wants him to choose a bride.
However, as they spend time together fake courting, their real chemistry grows until it is undeniable - if only they are ready to put aside their pride and admit it.
This was quite a quick read featuring a couple that was full of chemistry. They really seemed made for each other, and the fake dating was quite fun. While it took a while to build to the steam, there were some very steamy scenes that brought it all together, and the wait did not feel long at all. The story really focuses on their relationship as they get to know one another and perform for society, as well as how they fall in love, and I loved the focus plot.
Both Adeline and Warwick were easily likable characters, and they made the story quite consuming. Other side characters, such as Hasmik, the duke's godmother, and Adeline's sister Mary, were also really intriguing, and I loved seeing a reappearance from the couple in the first book of this series (though they had a very small role and this is a stand-alone).
Overall, this was an absolutely delightful and charming historical romance that I highly recommend for anyone who loves fake dating scenarios! Please note that I received an ARC. All opinions are my own.
March 30, 2023
The first time Daniel Millstone, the Duke of Warwick, met Adeline Foster, he was attacked by her pet pig Henry. Not the best start to meeting one's neighbor, especially when he just wanted to get the woman's dogs to stop barking so he could continue his work in peace on his steam engine project. Adeline Foster had not met a more arrogant man than the Duke of Warwick. Doesn't he know that "Henry" was just trying to be friendly? Adeline had moved to the country and was just trying to make a life for herself as a healer in the village away from her controlling brother Edwin. When her brother tracks her down and demands that she marry a money-lender he owes money to, Warwick happens to be there and unexpectantly blurts out that she cannot marry that man because he's courting Adeline himself. Adeline is shocked at the duke's pronouncement but realizes a fake betrothal is just what she needs to keep her brother from forcing her to marry. Now, she just has to tolerate Warwick long enough to make everyone believe they're in love, but what happens if her heart wants the betrothal to be real?
This was a quick, easy read with likable characters. Warwick is an elusive duke who has shunned society because he's too busy being an inventor and working to improve other inventions. That was different, and it made me wonder why a duke had an interest in trade. As the author slowly teases out Warwick's back story, there's a connection between Warwick and Edwin, which makes the story more intriguing. Having Adeline with Egyptian heritage was enjoyable, especially since the author lets her heritage shine through the book in a number of different customs, foods and healing knowledge she had learned from her mother. The plot moves along at a good pace, although I did expect something more dramatic to happen at the end with the moneylender and Edwin. The whole issue kind of went away without much fanfare, which was a lost opportunity, in my opinion. There are a couple of graphic sex scenes, so readers beware. I look forward to reading more in this series.
I voluntarily read the advanced reader copy, and all opinions are my own.
This was a quick, easy read with likable characters. Warwick is an elusive duke who has shunned society because he's too busy being an inventor and working to improve other inventions. That was different, and it made me wonder why a duke had an interest in trade. As the author slowly teases out Warwick's back story, there's a connection between Warwick and Edwin, which makes the story more intriguing. Having Adeline with Egyptian heritage was enjoyable, especially since the author lets her heritage shine through the book in a number of different customs, foods and healing knowledge she had learned from her mother. The plot moves along at a good pace, although I did expect something more dramatic to happen at the end with the moneylender and Edwin. The whole issue kind of went away without much fanfare, which was a lost opportunity, in my opinion. There are a couple of graphic sex scenes, so readers beware. I look forward to reading more in this series.
I voluntarily read the advanced reader copy, and all opinions are my own.
April 21, 2023
To begin with, I'm still a little confused as to why a Duke would feel the need to rent a cabin in the middle of nowhere when even he thinks to himself that he has countless other properties from which he could enjoy solitude and work on his inventions, but I suppose had he done that he wouldn't have gotten the chance to meet Adeline.
Speaking of those two, I liked Daniel and Adeline on their own, but when they were together, it just felt too forced. To the point that I was surprised that anyone believed their fake relationship was real. Even when Daniel supposedly realized that he was in love with her, I just didn't buy it. Maybe I just liked them more when they disliked each other, as it was during these moments that a lot of the fun banter was had between them. I feel like what made them interesting and unique in the countryside was lost when they decided to travel to London.
I also had a hard time taking Adeline's half-brother Edwin seriously. He was supposed to be the great villain of the story, but in reality, he was just a bully and a bigot who took great pleasure in belittling Adeline simply because her mother was of Arabic descent (one of many details that was repeated so often that it became annoying).
I did like the fact that even though this was the second book in the series, I was able to enjoy it as a stand-alone. I assume that two of Daniel's friends are from the first book, but they were just there as background characters, so you didn't need to know too much about their story for their presence to make sense. There were also a lot of cute moments between them that didn't feel as forced, which I think will cause other readers to enjoy this one even more than I did. I would read more from this author.
DISCLAIMER: I received a complimentary copy of this novel from the publisher. This has not affected my review in any way. All thoughts and opinions expressed in this review are 100% my own.
Speaking of those two, I liked Daniel and Adeline on their own, but when they were together, it just felt too forced. To the point that I was surprised that anyone believed their fake relationship was real. Even when Daniel supposedly realized that he was in love with her, I just didn't buy it. Maybe I just liked them more when they disliked each other, as it was during these moments that a lot of the fun banter was had between them. I feel like what made them interesting and unique in the countryside was lost when they decided to travel to London.
I also had a hard time taking Adeline's half-brother Edwin seriously. He was supposed to be the great villain of the story, but in reality, he was just a bully and a bigot who took great pleasure in belittling Adeline simply because her mother was of Arabic descent (one of many details that was repeated so often that it became annoying).
I did like the fact that even though this was the second book in the series, I was able to enjoy it as a stand-alone. I assume that two of Daniel's friends are from the first book, but they were just there as background characters, so you didn't need to know too much about their story for their presence to make sense. There were also a lot of cute moments between them that didn't feel as forced, which I think will cause other readers to enjoy this one even more than I did. I would read more from this author.
DISCLAIMER: I received a complimentary copy of this novel from the publisher. This has not affected my review in any way. All thoughts and opinions expressed in this review are 100% my own.
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