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Suddenly a Duke #1
Portrait of the Duke
A fun-loving man who has become a staid duke . . .
An independent lady who wishes to pursue her artistic bent . . .
A long-ago meeting which left a lasting impression on them both . . .
Daniel Judson, the Duke of Westfield, changed from a carefree young rogue into a sober duke once faced with a mountain of responsibilities after he assumed his grandfather’s title. After seeing both his sisters wed, Daniel knows it is finally time for him to take a wife in order to provide the necessary ducal heir.
Lady Margaret Townsend’s come-out was delayed by the ill health and subsequent deaths of her parents. Now an ancient four and twenty, she makes her debut into Polite Society—not to find a husband—but to secure important social connections within the ton in order to acquire commissions to paint their portraits, a dream she has long held.
Sparks surfaced during their initial encounter ten years ago. Their second introduction at the inaugural ball of the Season leaves Daniel certain he has found his duchess, while Margaret is confused by the never-known feelings stirring within her.
Will the duke convince this lady she can have both marriage and her art—or will her stubbornness to follow a chosen path have her miss out on love?
Find the answer in Alexa Aston’s Portrait of the Duke, Book 1 in Suddenly a Duke.
Each book in the Suddenly a Duke series is a standalone story that can be enjoyed out of order and can be read for free with Kindle Unlimited.
Suddenly a Duke
Book 1 – Portrait of the Duke
Book 2 – Music for the Duke
Book 3 – Polishing the Duke
Book 4 – Designs on the Duke
Book 5 – Fashioning the Duke
Book 6 – Love Blooms with the Duke
Book 7 – Training the Duke
Book 8 – Investigating the Duke
An independent lady who wishes to pursue her artistic bent . . .
A long-ago meeting which left a lasting impression on them both . . .
Daniel Judson, the Duke of Westfield, changed from a carefree young rogue into a sober duke once faced with a mountain of responsibilities after he assumed his grandfather’s title. After seeing both his sisters wed, Daniel knows it is finally time for him to take a wife in order to provide the necessary ducal heir.
Lady Margaret Townsend’s come-out was delayed by the ill health and subsequent deaths of her parents. Now an ancient four and twenty, she makes her debut into Polite Society—not to find a husband—but to secure important social connections within the ton in order to acquire commissions to paint their portraits, a dream she has long held.
Sparks surfaced during their initial encounter ten years ago. Their second introduction at the inaugural ball of the Season leaves Daniel certain he has found his duchess, while Margaret is confused by the never-known feelings stirring within her.
Will the duke convince this lady she can have both marriage and her art—or will her stubbornness to follow a chosen path have her miss out on love?
Find the answer in Alexa Aston’s Portrait of the Duke, Book 1 in Suddenly a Duke.
Each book in the Suddenly a Duke series is a standalone story that can be enjoyed out of order and can be read for free with Kindle Unlimited.
Suddenly a Duke
Book 1 – Portrait of the Duke
Book 2 – Music for the Duke
Book 3 – Polishing the Duke
Book 4 – Designs on the Duke
Book 5 – Fashioning the Duke
Book 6 – Love Blooms with the Duke
Book 7 – Training the Duke
Book 8 – Investigating the Duke
286 pages, Kindle Edition
Published February 3, 2023
747 people are currently reading
351 people want to read
About the author
Alexa Aston
151 books482 followersAward-winning and USA Today bestselling author Alexa Aston lives with her husband in a Dallas suburb, where she eats her fair share of dark chocolate and plots out stories while she walks every morning. She enjoys travel, sports, and time with her family.
Her historical romances bring to life loveable rogues and dashing knights, while her contemporary romances are light and flirty and sometimes contain a bit of suspense.
Stay in touch with Alexa at:
Website: https://alexaaston.com/
Newsletter Sign-Up: https://dashboard.mailerlite.com/form...
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/authoralexaa...
Twitter: https://twitter.com/AlexaAston
BookBub Follow: https://www.bookbub.com/authors/alexa...
Amazon Author Page: https://www.amazon.com/author/alexaaston
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Goodreads Author Page: https://www.goodreads.com/author/show...
Her historical romances bring to life loveable rogues and dashing knights, while her contemporary romances are light and flirty and sometimes contain a bit of suspense.
Stay in touch with Alexa at:
Website: https://alexaaston.com/
Newsletter Sign-Up: https://dashboard.mailerlite.com/form...
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/authoralexaa...
Twitter: https://twitter.com/AlexaAston
BookBub Follow: https://www.bookbub.com/authors/alexa...
Amazon Author Page: https://www.amazon.com/author/alexaaston
BingeBooks Author Page: https://bingebooks.com/profile/AlexaA...
Goodreads Author Page: https://www.goodreads.com/author/show...
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 108 reviews
January 28, 2023
I am definitely excited for this new series due to strong independent female main characters and the first book definitely delivered!
Margaret found herself living with her married older sister and not coming out into society until an older age. She didn't exactly fit in or get along either her sister or mother when she was younger. She is tall with firery red hair and loves to paint. Margaret first meets Daniel when she was about fifteen and ends up painting him after they speak their minds with eachother. Fast forward a decade and they run into eachother again.
What I really like about this book is Margaret really loving her art and not settling for just finding a man instead. I am amazed at her ability to just sketch and then go back and create the painting in her own time. Sparks fly between Daniel and Margaret and Margaret doesn't think she can have both her art and a marriage. Of course some secret trysts keep the romance exciting and keep reader's wanting more.
I really like Daniel's grandmother in this book. She is just overly kind (commissions a portrait from Margaret to help her gain notoriety) and knows when to tell it how it is. She loves her grandson and helps assure on how good of a man he is.
If the other books in the series are as good as this one, I will probably read them straight through as well!
Thank you to Dragonblade and Netgalley for providing me a copy of this ARC for my honest review.
Margaret found herself living with her married older sister and not coming out into society until an older age. She didn't exactly fit in or get along either her sister or mother when she was younger. She is tall with firery red hair and loves to paint. Margaret first meets Daniel when she was about fifteen and ends up painting him after they speak their minds with eachother. Fast forward a decade and they run into eachother again.
What I really like about this book is Margaret really loving her art and not settling for just finding a man instead. I am amazed at her ability to just sketch and then go back and create the painting in her own time. Sparks fly between Daniel and Margaret and Margaret doesn't think she can have both her art and a marriage. Of course some secret trysts keep the romance exciting and keep reader's wanting more.
I really like Daniel's grandmother in this book. She is just overly kind (commissions a portrait from Margaret to help her gain notoriety) and knows when to tell it how it is. She loves her grandson and helps assure on how good of a man he is.
If the other books in the series are as good as this one, I will probably read them straight through as well!
Thank you to Dragonblade and Netgalley for providing me a copy of this ARC for my honest review.
March 22, 2023
I received an Advance Reader Copy from the publisher via NetGalley. This in no way impacted on my view.
Daniel Judson, the Duke of Westfield, became Duke too young, following the deaths of his parents, and his grandfather. He took responsibility for his sister's marriages, and has resigned himself to a life of commitment, with a future loveless marriage on the cards. A decade ago, as a young buck around town, he met Lady Margaret Townsend, and she left an impression he can't shake. When he doesn't see her on the marriage mart, he is surprised by her absence, so when she returns to society, at the ripe old age of 24, he is drawn to her like never before. Margaret has always known she was the unwanted daughter, and was forced to care for her uncaring mother through her illness, and later death. Relying on her older, and unkind, sister and her husband, Margaret only wants to join society to gain clients for her portraiture business. Coming face to face with Daniel again, and noting the sparks flying, Margaret needs to find a way to love, and be a business woman.
A new series from one of my favourite Regency authors, I enjoyed the way this book set the stage for the series. Daniel and Margaret's every interaction was filled with wit and humour, and chemistry too. I loved Margaret as a person who knew their own mind, and what they wanted. She had been beloved by her father, but hated by her sister and mother. Forced to care for her mother, and then be at her sister's side with the children, she was ready to escape. Approaching her 25th birthday, when she would reach her majority and come into her inheritance, Margaret was ready to forge her own path. Finding a wealthy patron to be her first client, she hopes that the value of her work will be appreciated, and sets her apart from others. Daniel was not someone she was expecting, and he made her feel things she never had before. Daniel's character was sweet, and I loved the way their romance progressed. A great Regency romance, and I look forward to the rest of the series.
Daniel Judson, the Duke of Westfield, became Duke too young, following the deaths of his parents, and his grandfather. He took responsibility for his sister's marriages, and has resigned himself to a life of commitment, with a future loveless marriage on the cards. A decade ago, as a young buck around town, he met Lady Margaret Townsend, and she left an impression he can't shake. When he doesn't see her on the marriage mart, he is surprised by her absence, so when she returns to society, at the ripe old age of 24, he is drawn to her like never before. Margaret has always known she was the unwanted daughter, and was forced to care for her uncaring mother through her illness, and later death. Relying on her older, and unkind, sister and her husband, Margaret only wants to join society to gain clients for her portraiture business. Coming face to face with Daniel again, and noting the sparks flying, Margaret needs to find a way to love, and be a business woman.
A new series from one of my favourite Regency authors, I enjoyed the way this book set the stage for the series. Daniel and Margaret's every interaction was filled with wit and humour, and chemistry too. I loved Margaret as a person who knew their own mind, and what they wanted. She had been beloved by her father, but hated by her sister and mother. Forced to care for her mother, and then be at her sister's side with the children, she was ready to escape. Approaching her 25th birthday, when she would reach her majority and come into her inheritance, Margaret was ready to forge her own path. Finding a wealthy patron to be her first client, she hopes that the value of her work will be appreciated, and sets her apart from others. Daniel was not someone she was expecting, and he made her feel things she never had before. Daniel's character was sweet, and I loved the way their romance progressed. A great Regency romance, and I look forward to the rest of the series.
February 5, 2023
❤️❤️❤️❤️
💋💋
First book in a wonderful new and promising series from Alexa.
Full of passion, intrigue and brilliant characters that will make for some great stories to come.
I loved these characters, they fit so well together and had a lot of chemistry and depth to them.
I look forward to reading more soon.
I received an Arc copy of this book and chose to post this review
💋💋
First book in a wonderful new and promising series from Alexa.
Full of passion, intrigue and brilliant characters that will make for some great stories to come.
I loved these characters, they fit so well together and had a lot of chemistry and depth to them.
I look forward to reading more soon.
I received an Arc copy of this book and chose to post this review
March 22, 2023
Lighthearted piece of fluff. Likable MCs, okay chemistry and a plot that was driven by miscommunication. It was still cute though.
February 15, 2023
Another great story...
This story disappointed me, in that by 50% through, the h was still refusing to marry the duke. Indeed, I skipped to the third from last chapter, and she was STILL refusing his attentions!
I personally don't read romance stories to be faced with anger, confrontation and disappointment throughout the entire book.
On the other hand, I may go back to the middle where I left off...
This story disappointed me, in that by 50% through, the h was still refusing to marry the duke. Indeed, I skipped to the third from last chapter, and she was STILL refusing his attentions!
I personally don't read romance stories to be faced with anger, confrontation and disappointment throughout the entire book.
On the other hand, I may go back to the middle where I left off...
February 9, 2023
Stubborn
What do you do with a stubborn redhead that wants to be nothing but a portrait artist? Why you introduce her to a Duke that is just as stubborn, of course And then you set back and enjoy Alexa Aston's weaving of a magical tale
What do you do with a stubborn redhead that wants to be nothing but a portrait artist? Why you introduce her to a Duke that is just as stubborn, of course And then you set back and enjoy Alexa Aston's weaving of a magical tale
February 14, 2023
An absolute pleasure to read and very romantic. A duke who thinks he can have anything he wants, hits a brick wall when the lady he wants isn't afraid to physically show her displeasure over his demands. Lady Margaret Townsend only wants to be independent making her own money as an accomplished artist. Daniel Judson, Duke of Westfield, wants Margaret as his duchess. It will take a smart woman to lead him on the right path. Sexual encounters and passionate kisses. This book couldn't be rated anything else but 5 *STARS." An exciting start to a new series.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book.
March 24, 2023
Thanks to NetGalley for a copy of this ebook and this is my freely given opinion.
Lady Margaret Townsend first met Daniel Judson years prior when she was just a young girl, and he was one of the young men attending to her debutante Diamond of a sister. She was outspoken, bold, and made a strong impression on the young man who was new about town. So much so that when he expected her to make her debut, he looked for her.
But years went by and Margaret spent many of them caring for her ill parents, missing her chance to debut until she was in her 20s. By then, she had determined she did not want to marry, but had set a goal to make some connections in society so she could progress with her goal on making a living with her art, as a portrait artist. At this point, she is living with her sister Dolly and her Marquess husband, and what she has seen of marriage between her sister and her parents has not endeared the state to Margaret. She is also not comfortable living with them, not being close to her rather narcissistic and selfish sister, and the Marquess. She just has a few more months to wait until she gains her majority and has access to her dowry, and can live independently.
In the meantime, it is still technically her debut and she has to join them in the social whirl. During a ball, she and Daniel finally have their second meeting, and Daniel comes away thinking that maybe he has finally found his duchess. But as he discovers her hopes and dreams, he is conflicted about if he can have a relationship with a woman with such definitive and independent goals as his duchess.
I loved how Daniel seemed so sure of his feelings for her from the beginning... though really the attraction may have started early on and I have some inkling of distaste in that it may have happened when she was so young... only 14-15 years old. However, I also liked how strong minded and focused she was on her path to seek independence; I quite liked the character of Margaret. The dynamic of her relationship with her sister was quite reminiscent of several Marion Chesney/M.C Beaton historicals I used to read as well, that I quite enjoyed way back when. Dolly and her husband were generally pretty flat and awful as secondary characters, but there were hints that they could be more, but I hated generally how Dolly treated Margaret - and people in general, and how it was implied how their mother treated Margaret as well. But I guess that was meant to contrast how Margaret was to her, and she was a good foil to highlight Margaret as a person of greater depth and character.
A historical romance with an interesting meet-cute.
3.75 stars out of 5
Lady Margaret Townsend first met Daniel Judson years prior when she was just a young girl, and he was one of the young men attending to her debutante Diamond of a sister. She was outspoken, bold, and made a strong impression on the young man who was new about town. So much so that when he expected her to make her debut, he looked for her.
But years went by and Margaret spent many of them caring for her ill parents, missing her chance to debut until she was in her 20s. By then, she had determined she did not want to marry, but had set a goal to make some connections in society so she could progress with her goal on making a living with her art, as a portrait artist. At this point, she is living with her sister Dolly and her Marquess husband, and what she has seen of marriage between her sister and her parents has not endeared the state to Margaret. She is also not comfortable living with them, not being close to her rather narcissistic and selfish sister, and the Marquess. She just has a few more months to wait until she gains her majority and has access to her dowry, and can live independently.
In the meantime, it is still technically her debut and she has to join them in the social whirl. During a ball, she and Daniel finally have their second meeting, and Daniel comes away thinking that maybe he has finally found his duchess. But as he discovers her hopes and dreams, he is conflicted about if he can have a relationship with a woman with such definitive and independent goals as his duchess.
I loved how Daniel seemed so sure of his feelings for her from the beginning... though really the attraction may have started early on and I have some inkling of distaste in that it may have happened when she was so young... only 14-15 years old. However, I also liked how strong minded and focused she was on her path to seek independence; I quite liked the character of Margaret. The dynamic of her relationship with her sister was quite reminiscent of several Marion Chesney/M.C Beaton historicals I used to read as well, that I quite enjoyed way back when. Dolly and her husband were generally pretty flat and awful as secondary characters, but there were hints that they could be more, but I hated generally how Dolly treated Margaret - and people in general, and how it was implied how their mother treated Margaret as well. But I guess that was meant to contrast how Margaret was to her, and she was a good foil to highlight Margaret as a person of greater depth and character.
A historical romance with an interesting meet-cute.
3.75 stars out of 5
February 1, 2023
Portrait of the Duke
Suddenly a Duke #1
Alexa Aston
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Daniel Judson used to be a carefree young rogue until he became a Duke. That's when he was faced with many responsibilities after his grandfather passed away. He makes sure he does the right thing by making sure his sisters are wed to good men but knows that it's finally time for him to take a wife and provide a ducal heir.
Lady Margaret Townsend didn't have her come out when she should have as it was delayed by the ill health, and then sadly, the death of both of her parents. Now it's time to finally make her debut into polite society at the age of twenty-four. However, she's not looking for a husband as most ladies of rank do. She wants to secure important social connections among the ton in order to acquire commissions to paint their portraits as she is very talented, and it's a dream she has had for as long as she can remember.
Daniel and Margaret met ten years prior when her sister made her debut and sparks flew. This time, when he meets her again, Daniel knows he has found his duchess, while Margaret is confused by the new feelings he has stirred within her.
Can a Duke convince a headstrong lady that she can have both marriage and her art? Or will she be too stubborn and set on her chosen path to see she really can have the best of both worlds?
Oh my gosh, Alexa Aston has just boggled my mind. I knew this author was good at writing Regency Era books, but this is a masterpiece. I devoured this book like a starving lunatic. I couldn't get enough, and I still want more. From the first word until the last word, I was mesmerized. The main characters were absolutely fabulous. I loved the fact that Ms. Aston made her heroine almost six feet tall instead of the usual tiny little perfect dolls that writers tend to use.
She also spoke up for herself and knew what she wanted. As for our hero, the duke, he was perfect because he loved his duchess for who she was, and he let her shine. All in all, this is one of the best Regency Era books I have ever read, and I can't wait to read the rest of this series. Ms. Aston, you have certainly left one heck of an impression on me.
Suddenly a Duke #1
Alexa Aston
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Daniel Judson used to be a carefree young rogue until he became a Duke. That's when he was faced with many responsibilities after his grandfather passed away. He makes sure he does the right thing by making sure his sisters are wed to good men but knows that it's finally time for him to take a wife and provide a ducal heir.
Lady Margaret Townsend didn't have her come out when she should have as it was delayed by the ill health, and then sadly, the death of both of her parents. Now it's time to finally make her debut into polite society at the age of twenty-four. However, she's not looking for a husband as most ladies of rank do. She wants to secure important social connections among the ton in order to acquire commissions to paint their portraits as she is very talented, and it's a dream she has had for as long as she can remember.
Daniel and Margaret met ten years prior when her sister made her debut and sparks flew. This time, when he meets her again, Daniel knows he has found his duchess, while Margaret is confused by the new feelings he has stirred within her.
Can a Duke convince a headstrong lady that she can have both marriage and her art? Or will she be too stubborn and set on her chosen path to see she really can have the best of both worlds?
Oh my gosh, Alexa Aston has just boggled my mind. I knew this author was good at writing Regency Era books, but this is a masterpiece. I devoured this book like a starving lunatic. I couldn't get enough, and I still want more. From the first word until the last word, I was mesmerized. The main characters were absolutely fabulous. I loved the fact that Ms. Aston made her heroine almost six feet tall instead of the usual tiny little perfect dolls that writers tend to use.
She also spoke up for herself and knew what she wanted. As for our hero, the duke, he was perfect because he loved his duchess for who she was, and he let her shine. All in all, this is one of the best Regency Era books I have ever read, and I can't wait to read the rest of this series. Ms. Aston, you have certainly left one heck of an impression on me.
February 1, 2023
Daniel Judson, the Duke of Westfield, changed from a carefree young rogue into a sober duke once faced with a mountain of responsibilities after he assumed his grandfather’s title. After seeing both his sisters wed, Daniel knows it is finally time for him to take a wife. Lady Margaret Townsend’s come-out was delayed by the ill health and subsequent deaths of her parents. Now an ancient four and twenty, she makes her debut into Polite Society, not to find a husband but to secure important social connections within the ton in order to acquire commissions to paint their portraits, a dream she has long held. Daniel & Margaret met briefly ten years before, sparks flew & neither forgot the encounter. Their second introduction at the inaugural ball of the Season leaves Daniel certain he has found his duchess, while Margaret is confused by the never-known feelings stirring within her but she’s determined not to marry.
The first in a new series & another lovely series starter. I loved both Daniel & Margaret, the chemistry between them sizzled but it was their verbal banter, which was the icing on the cake. I also loved the Dowager Duchess but totally disliked Dolley – I would have loved to see her reaction to Daniel's lovely proposal. I love the author's books & this was another page turner for me, I even forgave some Americanisms as I was caught up in the story & loved their journey to a HEA. A well written engrossing read, which once again ticked all the boxes for me
My honest review is for a special copy I voluntarily read
The first in a new series & another lovely series starter. I loved both Daniel & Margaret, the chemistry between them sizzled but it was their verbal banter, which was the icing on the cake. I also loved the Dowager Duchess but totally disliked Dolley – I would have loved to see her reaction to Daniel's lovely proposal. I love the author's books & this was another page turner for me, I even forgave some Americanisms as I was caught up in the story & loved their journey to a HEA. A well written engrossing read, which once again ticked all the boxes for me
My honest review is for a special copy I voluntarily read
February 14, 2023
Portrait of the Duke, by Alexa Aston. I love this book so much. The writing was exceptionally good. The writer uses her skill to write a story that plays out in your imagination like a movie, a really good romantic movie. This book sets itself for the perfect Valentines gift. I was lost in the romance world of two people who are so strong willed, that they did not realize what they have with each other, until it was threatened.
I loved Margaret independence and her end goal of painting for the rest of her life. No matter if she was lonely for the rest of her life all Margaret wanted to do was paint. She just wanted to be happy. Daniel is a Duke who was on a mission to win over this fiery red haired lady that has stolen his heart. I enjoyed the word sparing that Daniel and Margaret had. Pesterfeild was an awesome nickname I thought. The romance relationship was exciting and seductive.
The moments that our beautiful couple share was intimate and very passionate. Daniel and Margaret takes the lead of one of the best passionate romance couples in the Historical Romance world. I give this two snaps and a, “Older sisters. One minute you love them to death, and the next you’re ready to scratch their eyes out.” Until next time my fellow readers… read on!
I loved Margaret independence and her end goal of painting for the rest of her life. No matter if she was lonely for the rest of her life all Margaret wanted to do was paint. She just wanted to be happy. Daniel is a Duke who was on a mission to win over this fiery red haired lady that has stolen his heart. I enjoyed the word sparing that Daniel and Margaret had. Pesterfeild was an awesome nickname I thought. The romance relationship was exciting and seductive.
The moments that our beautiful couple share was intimate and very passionate. Daniel and Margaret takes the lead of one of the best passionate romance couples in the Historical Romance world. I give this two snaps and a, “Older sisters. One minute you love them to death, and the next you’re ready to scratch their eyes out.” Until next time my fellow readers… read on!
March 29, 2023
The talented h is overly determined to live for her 'art', when really she was trying to live her grandmother's dream. It should have been good, but the exaggeration detracted from what was a good plot. I really liked the H until he acted completely out of character. I am out of order with other readers, but just didn't like the plot devices.
January 28, 2023
Counting the days till she can move out of her sister’s home, spinster Margaret plans to paint portraits of the ton for a living. Daniel has never forgotten the red headed young girl he met many years ago. He is looking for a bride to be his duchess. As attracted as they are to each other, neither decides the other is suitable. I received an ARC from NetGalley and Dragonblade Publishing for my honest review.
October 10, 2023
Wanted to like it waayyy more —- ultimately DNF
As other reviewers found, the heroine of the story was confusing. She’s so smart in most moments and then she’s written like a child in others.
SPOILER AHEAD
After her and the hero have their encounter in the garden, he has to tell her not to discuss it like she’s a child who would not know any better which turned me off from the whole scene— felt groom-y like, don’t tell your parents, instead of like a romantic or even steamy secret. She would, as she’s already demonstrated, already know that. The exchange was weird and a tad gross when it should have been romantic/spicy.
Also she says “ …from what I gather…” like she needs to gather “data” about her own society, which she’s grown up in. She wouldn’t need to gather anything it doesn’t make sense. Again she’d already know unless she was from another planet. A couple examples like this took me out of the story.
I went in expecting tropes, that’s not what bothered me— it was the inconsistencies in the main female character that made it frustrating. I know the women in Regency novels are supposed to be a little naive, but FMC went from totally clueless to arranging to sleep with MMC outside marriage (again, fine but inconsistencies were very distracting).
DNF, unfortunately, but perhaps I’ll come back to it, and /or give others in this series a try…
As other reviewers found, the heroine of the story was confusing. She’s so smart in most moments and then she’s written like a child in others.
SPOILER AHEAD
After her and the hero have their encounter in the garden, he has to tell her not to discuss it like she’s a child who would not know any better which turned me off from the whole scene— felt groom-y like, don’t tell your parents, instead of like a romantic or even steamy secret. She would, as she’s already demonstrated, already know that. The exchange was weird and a tad gross when it should have been romantic/spicy.
Also she says “ …from what I gather…” like she needs to gather “data” about her own society, which she’s grown up in. She wouldn’t need to gather anything it doesn’t make sense. Again she’d already know unless she was from another planet. A couple examples like this took me out of the story.
I went in expecting tropes, that’s not what bothered me— it was the inconsistencies in the main female character that made it frustrating. I know the women in Regency novels are supposed to be a little naive, but FMC went from totally clueless to arranging to sleep with MMC outside marriage (again, fine but inconsistencies were very distracting).
DNF, unfortunately, but perhaps I’ll come back to it, and /or give others in this series a try…
November 6, 2023
10 stars for Margaret. 🤌🏻🤌🏻
0 stars for Daniel. Daniel was a one-dimensional d bag, super unlikeable. Lol!
0 stars for Daniel. Daniel was a one-dimensional d bag, super unlikeable. Lol!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
February 11, 2023
Portrait of the Duke by Alexa Aston. To say I’m a fan of Aston is a serious understatement, but I really loved this book. She hit the ball out of the park with her two characters: Lady Margaret Townsend and Daniel Judson, Duke of Westfield. Margaret had met the duke many years earlier when he had bee a simple viscount. At the time she advised him to drop his pursuit of her sister, Dolley, as his title would not be enough for her. He was handsome. She was outspoken. Now it was nearly ten years later and she was finally to make her come out at 24. She had stayed home to care for, first, her dying mother, then, her father. Then there was a year of mourning. Then, her cousin, who had inherited, asked her to leave his home, which had been her home all her life. So she joined her sister, Dolley, and Dolley’s husband in London. Neither of them were happy to have her. She was to have her first season. She was not looking for a husband, but rather contacts to use to launch her career as a portrait artist. At the first ball she met the duke, who was the young viscount she had met many years before. He had looked for her in the past, but of course, she had not been there. He signed her card for two dances-unheard of, and they were both waltzes. He fell in love fast. Well, she did, too, but there was that not-wanting-to-marry thing. Plus, she didn’t like being told what to do.
Two great characters. They both know who they were and what they wanted, but that changed, as those things do. Fabulously written characters. The reader could feel the angst as Margaret fought her feelings. Her grandmother had married a man (her grandfather) who controlled all aspects of her life, including making her give up her art. She swore it would not happen to her. Another great character was Dolley who was self-centered and any hope of that changing was put to death by her husband, who neglected and disrespected her. It was a terrific story, well-plotted. The flow of the story was perfect for the situation. It is truly one of the best stories I’ve read, including Aston’s previous tomes.
I was invited to read a free e-ARC of Portrait of the Duke by Dragonblade, through Netgalley. All thoughts and opinions are mine. #Netgalley #Dragonblade #AlexaAston #PortraitOfTheDuke
Two great characters. They both know who they were and what they wanted, but that changed, as those things do. Fabulously written characters. The reader could feel the angst as Margaret fought her feelings. Her grandmother had married a man (her grandfather) who controlled all aspects of her life, including making her give up her art. She swore it would not happen to her. Another great character was Dolley who was self-centered and any hope of that changing was put to death by her husband, who neglected and disrespected her. It was a terrific story, well-plotted. The flow of the story was perfect for the situation. It is truly one of the best stories I’ve read, including Aston’s previous tomes.
I was invited to read a free e-ARC of Portrait of the Duke by Dragonblade, through Netgalley. All thoughts and opinions are mine. #Netgalley #Dragonblade #AlexaAston #PortraitOfTheDuke
January 29, 2023
*I received a free ARC from the publisher through NetGalley in exchange for my honest review*
I'm a big Alexa Aston fan and always have high expectations for her books. I'm so used to her series having the connections between the characters for each book established at the beginning (usually having served together or grown up together) that it was interesting to this book just focus on and talk about the main characters. I really liked the independent streak and self confidence of Margaret. She's an easy character to root for. Daniel's east to root for as well because he immediately appreciates Margaret for who she is. It was interesting that both of them grew up in families where their parents and grandparents hated their spouses - it certainly made it easy to understand why they weren't sure love was something they could find. And then Dolley's marriage not exactly being the picture of marital bliss only seemed to confirm for Margaret that it was unlikely to find a love in a marriage. Thankfully Daniel's grandmother quickly took Margaret under her wing and gave her the support she needed to pursue her dreams and pushed Daniel to make things right after things went wrong with Margaret. On that note, I felt so bad for Daniel when Margaret rejected him - it was clear his words came from a place of hurt. Of course had he told Margaret he loved her he may have avoided the whole argument to begin with. As for Margaret I understood her reluctance to put herself in a situation in which she may have to give up her art, but I wish she could have taken a chance and told Daniel how she felt rather than making him feel as though he had been used. The proposal scene was one I have come to expect from Alexa Aston and completely satisfactory.
I did read the excerpt from book 2 and it seems to start on quite a depressing note, but I liked the little bit we see of North in this book that I want to know more about what happens with him.
I'm a big Alexa Aston fan and always have high expectations for her books. I'm so used to her series having the connections between the characters for each book established at the beginning (usually having served together or grown up together) that it was interesting to this book just focus on and talk about the main characters. I really liked the independent streak and self confidence of Margaret. She's an easy character to root for. Daniel's east to root for as well because he immediately appreciates Margaret for who she is. It was interesting that both of them grew up in families where their parents and grandparents hated their spouses - it certainly made it easy to understand why they weren't sure love was something they could find. And then Dolley's marriage not exactly being the picture of marital bliss only seemed to confirm for Margaret that it was unlikely to find a love in a marriage. Thankfully Daniel's grandmother quickly took Margaret under her wing and gave her the support she needed to pursue her dreams and pushed Daniel to make things right after things went wrong with Margaret. On that note, I felt so bad for Daniel when Margaret rejected him - it was clear his words came from a place of hurt. Of course had he told Margaret he loved her he may have avoided the whole argument to begin with. As for Margaret I understood her reluctance to put herself in a situation in which she may have to give up her art, but I wish she could have taken a chance and told Daniel how she felt rather than making him feel as though he had been used. The proposal scene was one I have come to expect from Alexa Aston and completely satisfactory.
I did read the excerpt from book 2 and it seems to start on quite a depressing note, but I liked the little bit we see of North in this book that I want to know more about what happens with him.
February 5, 2023
4.5 STARS
I've mentioned before how I love when we get to meet the H/h as children. The h is 14 and the H 22 when he comes to call on her older sister. She is a very opinionated 14 year old and warned him against her sister. I loved the dialogue they had together. They meet again 10 years later and the road isn't smooth sailing.
A Duke who is put in his place! The Duke was very arrogant and expected people to bow to him because of his status. At times it was off putting, but then you realize he was modeling himself after his father and grandfather.
The h knew she wanted to paint portraits from a young age. Her grandmother taught her to paint but to also follow your dreams. The grandmother had to give up her painting and friends because her husband didn't allow it. So the h was also following what her grandmother taught her - art first and no husband will allow you to paint.
The H's grandmother was priceless and a joy. She would attempt to correct her grandson when he became too full of himself - which was often.
Lovemaking outside of marriage - heat level 4 out of 5. Just a touch of romance - neither realize what is happening (falling in love) but the H goes about things all wrong and the h wants nothing to do with him.
Only villain in this story was the h's awful sister. She was the diamond when she made her debut and loved how people fawned over her. She treated her sister awful and I wanted her to be brought down several pegs. The H and his grandmother did several times, but it didn't sink in.
Loved the epilogue 6 years in the future. I wanted the maid to be mentioned since she was a big part of the ending. No cheating, no cliffhanger, HEA, some romance and steam. I can't improve on the blurb, just recommending this story and author. (ljb)
I've mentioned before how I love when we get to meet the H/h as children. The h is 14 and the H 22 when he comes to call on her older sister. She is a very opinionated 14 year old and warned him against her sister. I loved the dialogue they had together. They meet again 10 years later and the road isn't smooth sailing.
A Duke who is put in his place! The Duke was very arrogant and expected people to bow to him because of his status. At times it was off putting, but then you realize he was modeling himself after his father and grandfather.
The h knew she wanted to paint portraits from a young age. Her grandmother taught her to paint but to also follow your dreams. The grandmother had to give up her painting and friends because her husband didn't allow it. So the h was also following what her grandmother taught her - art first and no husband will allow you to paint.
The H's grandmother was priceless and a joy. She would attempt to correct her grandson when he became too full of himself - which was often.
Lovemaking outside of marriage - heat level 4 out of 5. Just a touch of romance - neither realize what is happening (falling in love) but the H goes about things all wrong and the h wants nothing to do with him.
Only villain in this story was the h's awful sister. She was the diamond when she made her debut and loved how people fawned over her. She treated her sister awful and I wanted her to be brought down several pegs. The H and his grandmother did several times, but it didn't sink in.
Loved the epilogue 6 years in the future. I wanted the maid to be mentioned since she was a big part of the ending. No cheating, no cliffhanger, HEA, some romance and steam. I can't improve on the blurb, just recommending this story and author. (ljb)
May 14, 2023
The following are my thoughts as I read this book. Margaret Townsend…younger sister to Dolley an Incomparable, treated poorly by her mother and sister, loves to paint. Daniel Judson..Duke of Westfield, formerly a viscount (Lord Browning), has decided it is time to do his duty and take a wife. Awww the MCs met when the h was still considered a kid. Wow the h has had a rough past ten years. I don’t like the sister of the h. Dang the H is so uninterested in marriage that he is willing nay eager to let his grandmother find him a wife. Of course the h is not interested in marriage, she has bigger plans. I believe the Dowager Duchess of Westfield is up to some match making . I agree with the H about the h. Now the h is having doubts about her plan for life. I still don’t like the h’s sister. The H is even more determined to make the h his duchess. I will say one thing the h is passionate about art. Well the h has made an unexpected decision but I don’t know the H is going to react to it. The H did not have a good reaction to the h’s decision and of course made the situation much worse. Ahh the H just had an epiphany, I wonder if it is too late. Nope he made a very dramatic declaration and won the h over. Yea HEA! This is book one in the Suddenly A Duke series. I liked the H even if he did think mostly like a man, LOL. His grandmother had a really big role in the story, it was endearing. The h was different from most who are social butterflies, instead she was not a big fan of the ton plus she had missed her initial come out by almost ten years. There was light steam and to me a good chemistry between the MCs. On to book two.
July 29, 2023
I enjoyed this book more than I expected. Daniel and Margaret were great together. I like how the story begins with how Margaret and Daniel met at first. It was sweet and innocent, but an impression was made. I loved that Daniel was smitten from the first, even if he didn’t fully understand or want to recognize it. He tried to look for her throughout the seasons because he remembered her, and I found that so touching. His character was very deliberate and sure, but he wasn’t mean or nasty to Margaret (save one argument when they were both hurt.) He didn’t want to intentionally hurt Margaret, and I liked that. Their banter and flirting was a fun touch.
Margaret was a fun and strong lady. Despite how her family treated her, she remained loyal to them and tried to honor them as she could. She showed great strength of character and was not mean spirited. She was talented and had confidence, but wasn’t prideful. She knew what she wanted, and she tried to go for it with all she had.
My only qualm with the story is the periphery relationships. I feel like there were hints of deeper issues and I expected that we may see some of those items resolved, such as the relationship between Margaret and Dolley and then Dolley and her husband. It seemed those characters grew a bit during the story, but I was left saying “what happened between them?!” It didn’t detract from the main story, but it would have been nice to see those fleshed out.
Overall, a very good story and I will be reading more of this series!
Margaret was a fun and strong lady. Despite how her family treated her, she remained loyal to them and tried to honor them as she could. She showed great strength of character and was not mean spirited. She was talented and had confidence, but wasn’t prideful. She knew what she wanted, and she tried to go for it with all she had.
My only qualm with the story is the periphery relationships. I feel like there were hints of deeper issues and I expected that we may see some of those items resolved, such as the relationship between Margaret and Dolley and then Dolley and her husband. It seemed those characters grew a bit during the story, but I was left saying “what happened between them?!” It didn’t detract from the main story, but it would have been nice to see those fleshed out.
Overall, a very good story and I will be reading more of this series!
October 10, 2023
perfect
wasn't sure when I started this book, but love the feisty Margaret was always left in the shadows of her sister, Dolly Dolly was the perfect beautiful sister, and always seem to put Margaret down but Margaret was just fine with that. She met Laura Downing when she was 15 and she spoke and said that he had no chance with Dolly, because she wanted nothing short of an earl or a duke. They exchanged words and he couldn't get over her feistiness Daniel Was very intrigued with her, but she was young Margaret love to paint and sketch and knew others would not appreciate women artists, but she ran upstairs and sketched Daniels picture and kept it for many years as she grew and went to different balls and dances she knew she wasn't as beautiful as her sister because she was very tall and had fiery red hair, but she hung back and wasn't concerned about getting Married because she wanted to be an artist, but then duke of Westfield walked in and he saw her and she saw him and he immediately recognized her and was smitten they dance together. He's secretly signed her dance card twice, and Dolly was horrified that he did sell dally was very jealous because she wanted to possibly have the Duke of Wakefield as a lover after she found out that she was pregnant she still seem to be jealous of Margaret wasn't interested in getting married, but Daniel was not deterred and pursued her but Margaret was steadfast that her art and painting came first will they find a common ground read and find out
wasn't sure when I started this book, but love the feisty Margaret was always left in the shadows of her sister, Dolly Dolly was the perfect beautiful sister, and always seem to put Margaret down but Margaret was just fine with that. She met Laura Downing when she was 15 and she spoke and said that he had no chance with Dolly, because she wanted nothing short of an earl or a duke. They exchanged words and he couldn't get over her feistiness Daniel Was very intrigued with her, but she was young Margaret love to paint and sketch and knew others would not appreciate women artists, but she ran upstairs and sketched Daniels picture and kept it for many years as she grew and went to different balls and dances she knew she wasn't as beautiful as her sister because she was very tall and had fiery red hair, but she hung back and wasn't concerned about getting Married because she wanted to be an artist, but then duke of Westfield walked in and he saw her and she saw him and he immediately recognized her and was smitten they dance together. He's secretly signed her dance card twice, and Dolly was horrified that he did sell dally was very jealous because she wanted to possibly have the Duke of Wakefield as a lover after she found out that she was pregnant she still seem to be jealous of Margaret wasn't interested in getting married, but Daniel was not deterred and pursued her but Margaret was steadfast that her art and painting came first will they find a common ground read and find out
February 7, 2023
Since 2015, I have read hundreds and hundreds of different authors but I only have 31 authors that I consider my favorites and have read all their books (in my genre). Alexa Aston is one of those authors. I've only been reading her since early 2021 and this is my 33rd book by her.
My reviews are different from a lot I see. I don't give reviews that repeat everything in an author’s synopsis. I actually don’t even read those anymore so I am totally surprised on all aspects of the story. No hint of spoilers of any kind and will have no idea what it's about. I am also reluctant to say too much in my reviews as to give any hint of what happens even thought we all know how the books in these genres end up. :)
I really enjoyed this book. I liked Daniel and Margaret. I liked their story. Sometimes I felt Margaret was a bit too set in her ways and unmoving on a certain subject and Daniel tended to be way too arrogant but they made a good couple. I have written this before in my reviews but I have to say again, I would love an author to sometimes write a small couple of paragraphs of the reaction of a nemesis' (her sister in this case) when they find out a couple have gotten together that they tried so hard to keep apart. I always wandered how a certain characters would act knowing. I feel sometimes that is just left hanging. Just a weird thought. :)
Can't wait for the rest of this series.
My reviews are different from a lot I see. I don't give reviews that repeat everything in an author’s synopsis. I actually don’t even read those anymore so I am totally surprised on all aspects of the story. No hint of spoilers of any kind and will have no idea what it's about. I am also reluctant to say too much in my reviews as to give any hint of what happens even thought we all know how the books in these genres end up. :)
I really enjoyed this book. I liked Daniel and Margaret. I liked their story. Sometimes I felt Margaret was a bit too set in her ways and unmoving on a certain subject and Daniel tended to be way too arrogant but they made a good couple. I have written this before in my reviews but I have to say again, I would love an author to sometimes write a small couple of paragraphs of the reaction of a nemesis' (her sister in this case) when they find out a couple have gotten together that they tried so hard to keep apart. I always wandered how a certain characters would act knowing. I feel sometimes that is just left hanging. Just a weird thought. :)
Can't wait for the rest of this series.
February 17, 2023
This is the story of Margaret, the second daughter to an Earl who meets a young viscount, Lord Browning, as he comes to pay a call on her older sister, Dolley. Margaret is 14 at the time and is not interested in the rituals that are necessary to go through as a member of the aristocracy. She does not plan to marry and wastes no time telling Lord Browning that her sister, Dolley, will not be interested in him as he is only a viscount, and because of her beauty she would accept nothing less than a Marquess or preferably a duke. Fast forward 10 years later, Margaret is unmarried and hasn't had her comeout due to taking care of her parents during their illnesses and then going through her mourning periods. She meets Daniel, now the Duke of Westfield at a ball. He is accompanied by his grandmother, who was at one time, best friends with Margaret's grandmother. Daniel is on the hunt for a wife and he asks his grandmother to provide him the names of several debutantes who may be good candidates. Both Daniel and his grandmother think Margaret would make him a great duchess but Margaret has no desire to marry. She has plans to live independently and paint portraits of the people of the ton in order to supplement her dowry. Daniel has to decide if he would be willing to allow Margaret to fulfill her dreams at the same time as serving as his duchess. A great read from a fabulous author. I am looking forward to her next installment in the series.
March 20, 2023
I knew this would be an easy read and light on content, but it was still a bit of a disappointment.
I have no problem with novels like this not being 100% historically accurate or the odd bit of modern language and conventions- it is a work of fiction. This absolutely infuriated me with the continuous use of the word "block". Nobody in regency times would have used this word, nobody in England would use it now. It just didn't work. I also don't think a duke would say "gran". There were lots of other phrases used that just didn't fit with the characters and time period.
I also did not enjoy Lady Margaret. So she was a frank and outspoken teenager, I think she would have been less so as an adult and would not have immediately started telling people she hardly knew including a Duke about how badly she was treated by her family. You would not just come out with that. It would have been one thing if he had witnessed incidents and during the course of getting to know each other she confided in him, but no: "hello i am lady Margaret, woe is me because I want to paint and my family are unkind to me but I will be nice to them because I am such a wonderful person and everyone else loves me and I will tell everyone all about it because I am so frank and truthful". Literally she is on repeat.
I wasn't expecting the world from this book, but maybe a little bit of depth to the characters and developement
I have no problem with novels like this not being 100% historically accurate or the odd bit of modern language and conventions- it is a work of fiction. This absolutely infuriated me with the continuous use of the word "block". Nobody in regency times would have used this word, nobody in England would use it now. It just didn't work. I also don't think a duke would say "gran". There were lots of other phrases used that just didn't fit with the characters and time period.
I also did not enjoy Lady Margaret. So she was a frank and outspoken teenager, I think she would have been less so as an adult and would not have immediately started telling people she hardly knew including a Duke about how badly she was treated by her family. You would not just come out with that. It would have been one thing if he had witnessed incidents and during the course of getting to know each other she confided in him, but no: "hello i am lady Margaret, woe is me because I want to paint and my family are unkind to me but I will be nice to them because I am such a wonderful person and everyone else loves me and I will tell everyone all about it because I am so frank and truthful". Literally she is on repeat.
I wasn't expecting the world from this book, but maybe a little bit of depth to the characters and developement
March 27, 2023
This is book 1 of a new series, Suddenly a Duke, and I think it is off to a brilliant start. I have read a number of books by Ms. Aston and have enjoyed them all, and this is no different. Daniel was once a carefree rogue, but the early transition into his title as Duke of Westfield, has made him a sober man mindful of all his responsibilities. Now that his sisters are wed, it is now time for him to find his duchess. He met Margaret 10 years ago, and she left quite an impression on him and he never forgot her. When he sees her again after all that time, he is even more drawn to her. Because of her mother's illness, Margaret made a late debut into society. But she has no interest in marrying. She hopes to secure clients for her portrait painting business. When she see Daniel again, the sparks are certainly there, stronger than ever, but Margaret loves painting too much to give it up for marriage. Daniel knows Margaret is the woman for him, and he must convince her that she can have both marriage and her painting.
Daniel and Margaret were both wonderful characters and I enjoyed the witty banter between them. Their romance progressed at a nice pace and the chemistry between them was strong. This was a delightful start to what looks to be a captivating series, and I can't wait to read more!
I received a complimentary copy from Dragonblade Publishing via Netgalley and am voluntarily leaving my review.
Daniel and Margaret were both wonderful characters and I enjoyed the witty banter between them. Their romance progressed at a nice pace and the chemistry between them was strong. This was a delightful start to what looks to be a captivating series, and I can't wait to read more!
I received a complimentary copy from Dragonblade Publishing via Netgalley and am voluntarily leaving my review.
February 3, 2023
Setting the tone for the rest of the series to come, this beautiful romance had me enthralled from start to finish. Lady Margaret Townsend is cut from a different mold than her Regency contemporaries. She speaks her mind and at the age of fourteen, going on fifteen, she had already determined the course that her life would take. It is at this juncture that she first meets Daniel Judson, who later becomes the Duke of Westfield, and warns him against wasting his time on her sister as he would not meet her requirements for a husband. Even at that point in time, Daniel finds himself intrigued by the cheeky young girl, little realizing what an impact he had on her. It is a full decade later when Daniel again sees Lady Margaret and he discovers that his initial interest is still warranted. Dealing with her sister's vanity and jealousy, Margaret has to tread a fine line if she wants to continue living in her sister's household, but ultimately she gains the freedom to explore the desire of her heart. The relationship between Margaret and Daniel is fated, but not without its turmoil and upsets. It takes wise words from his grandmother for Daniel to understand the way to Margaret's heart bringing the novel comes to a romantic and heartwarming conclusion. I received a copy of this book as a gift through Dragonblade Publishing and NetGalley and this is my honest and voluntary review.
February 4, 2023
I enjoy Ms. Aston's books and Portrait of the Duke was a delight to read. I loved Margaret's passion for sketching and painting and was glad that she stayed true to her dream of becoming a portrait artist for the ton even though it was highly frowned upon by Polite Society for a young woman to work for money. Daniel Judson, the Duke of Westfield, was finally ready to settle down and find a wife. He enlisted his beloved grandmother's help, and when she met Margaret, she was delighted to meet the granddaughter of her childhood friend. She was determined to bring the two of them together, but there's a problem--Margaret doesn't wish to marry.
I enjoyed the interaction that Daniel has with Margaret, and he's convinced she'll make the perfect duchess. Margaret's sister Dolley was a piece of work. She was so selfish and mean to Margaret unless it suited her purpose. I had wished she got a comeuppance for her cruelty, but that never happened. There's no real villain in the story--just Margaret's reluctance to marry and give up her art. Through some missteps, these two finally have their HEA. I'm looking forward to reading more of this series.
I voluntarily read the advanced reader copy and all opinions are my own.
I enjoyed the interaction that Daniel has with Margaret, and he's convinced she'll make the perfect duchess. Margaret's sister Dolley was a piece of work. She was so selfish and mean to Margaret unless it suited her purpose. I had wished she got a comeuppance for her cruelty, but that never happened. There's no real villain in the story--just Margaret's reluctance to marry and give up her art. Through some missteps, these two finally have their HEA. I'm looking forward to reading more of this series.
I voluntarily read the advanced reader copy and all opinions are my own.
August 7, 2023
Enjoyable story. Thing that annoyed me a bit was how Margaret’s family treared her. It was overdone a bit also how openly she talked about it to a man she hardly knew. Sounded like bad stepmother and stepsisters from Cinderella or some othe fairytale.
Another a bit flawed issue was Daniel’s chances to become a duke. They were much higher that the story makes them. He was a grandson of a duke a heir to the son of a duke. So unless he was dead before his father or grandfather he wouldn’t have become the duke. It was most likely he would be one. Being a second or third son or a cousin to a heir of dukedom would have make it more unlikely.
And I always find it utter unsatisfying that heroine is readi to toss her dreams after one kiss. Never wanting to marry and one kiss wanting it all. It feels like betrayal of sorts 😅
There are inconsistencies as well. The Duke thinks marriage as a business deal, to marry is to get an heir. He thinks even he might be returning to his mistress after marrying, doesn’t believe in love an all that. Then he wants to marry Margaret but isn’t sure if he’s ready to risk to marry a woman who might love art more than him. Wtf?
All things above makes this story a bit meh.
Another a bit flawed issue was Daniel’s chances to become a duke. They were much higher that the story makes them. He was a grandson of a duke a heir to the son of a duke. So unless he was dead before his father or grandfather he wouldn’t have become the duke. It was most likely he would be one. Being a second or third son or a cousin to a heir of dukedom would have make it more unlikely.
And I always find it utter unsatisfying that heroine is readi to toss her dreams after one kiss. Never wanting to marry and one kiss wanting it all. It feels like betrayal of sorts 😅
There are inconsistencies as well. The Duke thinks marriage as a business deal, to marry is to get an heir. He thinks even he might be returning to his mistress after marrying, doesn’t believe in love an all that. Then he wants to marry Margaret but isn’t sure if he’s ready to risk to marry a woman who might love art more than him. Wtf?
All things above makes this story a bit meh.
February 19, 2024
Portrait of the Duke (Suddenly a Duke Book 1) Alexa Aston
An artist at heart because her grandmother fought her how to draw and paint as a child, Margaret wanted to paint portrait for a living. A tall redhead like her father's mother, was looked down upon by her petit blonde mother and sister Dolley. Margaret told one young Vicount if he wasn't a Marquees or a Duke her sister would not marry him. She was but 15 at the time, he thanked her for the information and talked a few minutes more then left. Many years passed Margaret missed her coming out because she took care of her mother before she died and then her father before his death. Now she was having her coming out at 24. Her sister Dolley had married Marquees Baxter and they had two children a boy and girl, who the let governnes raise. Going to parties and balls was the only interest to her sister and the ton. It was at one of these balls she met the Vicount who was a Duke now, he asked her to dance with him twice, a waltz and the dinner dance. He was so tall and broad shouldered she did not look like a giant in her 2 inches under 6 feet. Oh what a intriguing story followed their love story, of portraits being painted of the Dowager Duchess and the Duke.
An artist at heart because her grandmother fought her how to draw and paint as a child, Margaret wanted to paint portrait for a living. A tall redhead like her father's mother, was looked down upon by her petit blonde mother and sister Dolley. Margaret told one young Vicount if he wasn't a Marquees or a Duke her sister would not marry him. She was but 15 at the time, he thanked her for the information and talked a few minutes more then left. Many years passed Margaret missed her coming out because she took care of her mother before she died and then her father before his death. Now she was having her coming out at 24. Her sister Dolley had married Marquees Baxter and they had two children a boy and girl, who the let governnes raise. Going to parties and balls was the only interest to her sister and the ton. It was at one of these balls she met the Vicount who was a Duke now, he asked her to dance with him twice, a waltz and the dinner dance. He was so tall and broad shouldered she did not look like a giant in her 2 inches under 6 feet. Oh what a intriguing story followed their love story, of portraits being painted of the Dowager Duchess and the Duke.
January 29, 2023
4 stars
A reasonable start to a new series. Margaret is living with her sister and brother-in-law. She knows that if she gets to 25 she can use her dowry to go and live alone. She wants to be a portrait artist. Years ago she met Daniel and put him off offering for her sister. Her sister and Mother really disliked Margaret as she was tall and red headed. Daniel is fascinated by Margaret and encouraged by his Grandmother, who thinks Margaret will be the idea duchess sets out to seduce her. There were some americanisms. In the Uk there aren't blocks like in the US. Margaret seemed to be able to wander around unchaperoned which I didn't think fitted the era. Tarpaulin was popular in the 20th century, perhaps Margaret could have used old Holland covers? A few names seemed unusual Norrie and Dolley? Margaret assautted the hero twice, was it really true love? Daniel comes over as arrogant and controlling in some instances. We meet the hero of the next book who seems quite cute.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
A reasonable start to a new series. Margaret is living with her sister and brother-in-law. She knows that if she gets to 25 she can use her dowry to go and live alone. She wants to be a portrait artist. Years ago she met Daniel and put him off offering for her sister. Her sister and Mother really disliked Margaret as she was tall and red headed. Daniel is fascinated by Margaret and encouraged by his Grandmother, who thinks Margaret will be the idea duchess sets out to seduce her. There were some americanisms. In the Uk there aren't blocks like in the US. Margaret seemed to be able to wander around unchaperoned which I didn't think fitted the era. Tarpaulin was popular in the 20th century, perhaps Margaret could have used old Holland covers? A few names seemed unusual Norrie and Dolley? Margaret assautted the hero twice, was it really true love? Daniel comes over as arrogant and controlling in some instances. We meet the hero of the next book who seems quite cute.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
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