A Duke for Diana by Sabrina Jeffries ARC Review!

 

Title: A Duke for Diana (Designing Debutantes #1)
Author: Sabrina Jeffries
Publish Date: May 31st, 2022
Publisher: Zebra
Source: Huge thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for providing me with an ARC for review!

Self-made civil engineer Geoffrey Brookhouse has unexpectedly inherited the dukedom of Grenwood. But he has a secret that could ruin his family. Hoping to save his timid sister from that fate, he seeks to marry her off to a respectable, protective gentleman. With the London Season imminent, Geoffrey hires Elegant Occasions to orchestrate her debut. Yet Lady Diana Harper, spirited fashion expert, proves more than he bargained for. Suddenly, Geoffrey’s sister is emerging from her shell, and he is beleaguered with social invitations and gossip! Worse, Diana is attempting to transform him into a presentable duke—when all he really wants is to win her heart...

Diana doesn’t know what to make of the handsome, disheveled duke. The man bristles at the very idea that his fashion faux pas might spoil his sister’s chances. Yet Geoffrey’s stubbornness simply inspires Diana to ruffle his feathers—by setting him on a course of self-improvement. Although there’s something endearing, even irresistible about his flaws, can a man who hates the ton tolerate a woman who makes her living catering to them? Little does either know that they have more in common than they suspect—and that two can create a society all their own...

Penelope's Review

This is the first book in a promising new regency romance by Sabrina Jeffries. After her parent's scandalous divorce ruins any prospects for Diana and her younger sister, the two girls, along with their already married older sister, decide to start Elegant Occasions - a party planning service for the ton. When Geoffrey enlists their services for his sister, Rosabel, he meets Diana and our story goes from there.

Geoffrey is a gruff character, unused to the ways of the ton since his dukedom was thrust upon him entirely unexpectedly. Honestly, I kind of liked his disdain for the ton while also appreciating his ability to modify his opinions when necessary. Diana was strong and independent, and though the gossip surrounding her family did affect her, I liked her attitude in regards to moving forward and forging her own place in society. 

In terms of their relationship... I did and didn't like it. It had it's moments where I thought they were the sweetest match ever and then there were times when I felt less invested. The marriage issue was sort of hard to follow... they wanted to get married, but he didn't, then she didn't but he did... but also didn't at the same time... it was a little annoying to be honest. I actually loved Geoffrey's sister Rosabel! She was fun and I actually really enjoyed her parts!

Overall, the plot of the book is pretty good, and the main characters on their own were good, but I wasn't in love with the romance. I'm happy about how things turned out, and it wasn't a bad read by any means, just not one of my favorites. That being said, I will continue the series to see what becomes of Diana's sisters!

Rating: 3/5 Devils!

A Daring Pursuit by Kate Bateman ARC Review!

 

Title: A Daring Pursuit
Author: Kate Bateman
Publish Date: May 24th, 2022
Publisher: St. Martin's Paperbacks
Source: Huge thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for providing me with an ARC for review!

The Davies and Montgomery families have been locked in an ancient feud. But it’s a thin line between love and hate in Kate Bateman's A Daring Pursuit.

TWO ENEMIES

Carys Davies is doing everything in her power to avoid marriage. Staying single is the only way to hide the secret that could ruin her—and her family—if it was revealed. For the past two seasons she’s scandalized the ton with her outrageous outfits and brazen ways in a futile bid to deter potential suitors. Outwardly confident and carefree, inside she’s disillusioned with both men and love. There’s only one person who’s never bought her act—the only man who makes her heart race: Tristan Montgomery, one of her family’s greatest rivals.

ONE SCANDALOUS BARGAIN

Wickedly proper architect Tristan needs a respectable woman to wed, but he’s never stopped wanting bold, red-headed Carys. When she mockingly challenges him to show her what she’s missing by not getting married, Tristan shocks them both by accepting her indecent proposal: one week of clandestine meetings, after which they’ll go their separate ways. But kissing each other is almost as much fun as arguing, and their affair burns hotter than either of them expects. When they find themselves embroiled in a treasonous plot, can they trust each other with their hearts, their secrets…and their lives?

Penelope's Review

This is my first book by this author and I have to say I quite liked her writing style! I'm a huge fan of regency romance so there are lots of times when I feel like I'm reading the same book again (not that I mind, this is my comfort genre so I go in expecting the same tropes lol!) but I found this one to have a few pretty unique aspects which is always exciting! 

First off, we have a main female character who purposely wears scandalous outfits to every ball she attends (LOVED this - thanks to good writing, I had a mental image of each stunning outfit!). She does this to avoid marrying anyone due to a secret that we learn about pretty early in the book (though I won't go into details for those who wish to remain surprised). Carys was a fun, layered character who always seemed so good-natured, yet bold and unafraid. Tristan is more reserved and proper, yet he can't help but be intrigued with Carys's salacious disregard for the ton's rules. These two are such a great match. Both complement each other's personalities, both are intelligent and caring, and both are in love before they even realize it.

Overall, the plot here was great, the supporting characters (including Carys's animals!) were all fantastic, and our main characters were a perfect match. Though there is an element of blackmail, it takes a backseat to the romance between Carys and Tristan which is ok, just something to note! I'm looking forward to what comes next in this series, and will definitely be going back and reading the first one!

Rating: 4/5 Devils!

Rules for Engaging the Earl by Janna MacGregor ARC Review!

Title: Rules for Engaging the Earl (The Widow Rules #2)
Author: Janna MacGregor
Publish Date: April 26th, 2022
Publisher: St. Martin's Paperbacks
Source: Huge thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for providing me with an ARC for review!

Get ready for lost wills, broody dukes, and scorching hot kissing all over London.

Constance Lysander needs a husband. Or, so society says. She’s about to give birth to her late husband’s child―a man who left her with zero money, and two other wives she didn’t know about. Thankfully, she has her Aunt by her side, and the two other wives have become close friends. But still―with a baby on the way, her shipping business to run, and an enemy skulking about, she has no time to find the perfect match.

Enter Jonathan, Earl of Sykeston. Returned war hero and Constance’s childhood best friend, his reentry into society has been harsh. Maligned for an injury he received in the line of duty, Jonathan prefers to stay out of sight. It’s the only way to keep his heart from completely crumbling. But when a missive from Constance requests his presence―to their marriage ceremony―Jonathan is on board. His feelings for Constance run deep, and he’ll do anything to make her happy, though it means risking his already bruised heart.

With Constance, Jonathan, and the new baby all together, it’s clear the wounds―both on the surface and in their relationship―run deep. But when the nights come, their wounds begin to heal, and both come to realize that their marriage of convenience is so much more than just a bargain.

Penelope's Review

This is the second book in the Widow Rules series but can be read as a standalone! I really liked the first book, so I was excited to delve into Constance's story in the second! Constance is the late Merriweather's second wife and is about to give birth to his child when she calls her childhood friend Jonathan for help. Jonathan was injured in the war and suffers from both the physical pain of the injury as well as the psychological damage that accompanied his circumstances. When Constance writes to Jonathan, asking him to be her husband and a father to her child, her friend reluctantly agrees due the affection he held for her when they were younger that he harbors still. 

I liked Constance and her optimistic, sweet disposition. Her love for Jonathan and her desire to see him happy were some of my favorite aspects of the relationship and the book in general. But there were times when she was simply too composed. I found myself frustrated at her lack of passion at times. Jonathan himself also wasn't my favorite character. He was very withdrawn and taciturn and it took almost the entire book for him to really show some growth. He was very snappish and unkind for much of the story and despite the reasons behind his behavior, it was a bit annoying. I will say that I liked his attitude towards the end however, and was happy with the conclusion to both their relationship and the book.

Overall, I found that the book got off to a very slow start. Despite there being a few different arcs to read through (the growth of their relationship, the difficulties Jonathan must overcome, a villain hanging over both of their heads), the whole story seemed to just meander along. There weren't really any points where I felt the need to read quicker, or stay up later to get through more. But that being said, there was a decent plot and very enjoyable side characters - we get to see Katherine and Beth for a little bit, and I loved the butler, Mr. North. I will continue to read this series as I am curious to see what happens with the third wife, Beth. I have a feeling I will love the story!

Rating: 3/5 Devils!

The Rigid Duke by Darcy Burke ARC Review!

 

Title: The Rigid Duke (Matchmaking Chronicles #1)
Author: Darcy Burke
Publish Date: March 8th, 2022
Publisher: Zealous Quill Press
Source: Huge thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for providing me with an ARC for review!

As a refinement tutor, Mrs. Juno Langton helps young ladies develop the skills and confidence to secure an advantageous marriage. Her cheerful disposition never wavers no matter how challenging her assignment. When a house party provides an opportunity to match her difficult charge with a duke, Juno will go to any lengths to satisfy her employer and ensure the young lady’s future. Too bad the duke is an unsmiling, rigid grouch, albeit an irritatingly handsome one.

The Duke of Warrington dislikes social gatherings and despises the Marriage Mart which makes it nigh impossible to find a wife. He plans to secure his future duchess at a house party, but she’s being managed by a thoroughly meddlesome—and provocative—Mrs. Langton, who is determined to find his better nature. He’ll do anything to avoid her sunny charm and room-brightening smiles, but she’s breaking through his shell and the only way he can think to keep her quiet is to kiss her. He must marry the young lady, not desire the companion.

But now he’s rethinking his wife choices.

Penelope's Review

This is a fun, quick read with great characters and a fun little plot! At only 156 pages, you can fly through this in one sitting. The book takes place over a week long house party where the Duke of Warrington is expected to suit with Lady Marina in order to avoid the London season. 

Dare is a handsome, yet grumpy man who rarely smiles and despises parties. He prefers to be outdoors on his feet or on his horse, alone. Juno is the complete opposite. She is upbeat and cheerful, always smiling, and loves people and parties! I guess it's true when they opposites attract haha! I absolutely loved how Juno was able to drag Dare out of his shell. She really did bring out the best in him, and I liked seeing the happier side of him. 

Lady Marina was shy and quiet, but I sensed a bit of mettle about her near the end - I'd actually be very curious to see what becomes of her. I loved that she'd rather have her nose in a book than talk to people - I can relate lol! 

Despite the fact that this book was short, I didn't feel like any aspect was rushed. I liked the pace at which things progressed and was a fan of the writing style. The book had just the right amount of spice, danger due to forbidden love, and connection. Overall, an enjoyable read and I look forward to the next in the series!

Rating: 4/5 Devils!

Say You'll Be My Lady by Kate Pembrooke Book Review!

 

Title: Say You'll Be My Lady (The Unconventional Ladies of Mayfair #2)
Author: Kate Pembrooke
Publish Date: February 22nd, 2022
Publisher: Forever
Source: Huge thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for providing me with a copy for review!

Opposites attract in this irresistible Regency romance, where a proper gentleman who lives by the ton's rules and a lady who lives to break them try to resist one another—perfect for fans of Netflix’s Bridgerton series.

Lady Serena Wynter doesn’t mind flirting with a bit of scandal—she’s determined to ignore society’s strictures and live life on her own fiercely independent terms. These days, she chooses to pour her passions into charitable causes with the vibrant group of ladies in her Wednesday Afternoon Social Club. But there is one man who stirs Serena’s deepest emotions, one who’s irresistibly handsome, infuriatingly circumspect, and too honorable for his own good...

Charles Townshend, former boxer and consummate gentleman, worries Serena’s reckless nature will earn her the ton’s scorn…or put her in serious danger. Though Charles isn’t immune to the attraction between them, a shocking family secret prevents him from ever acting on his desires. But it seems Lady Serena doesn’t intend to let his penchant for propriety stand in the way of a mutually satisfying dalliance.

Penelope's Review

This is a friends-to-lovers regency romance book that follows Lady Serena Wynter and her friend Charles Townshend. The book can be read as a standalone, I haven't read the first in this series and I was able to understand everything that was going on. I didn't feel like I was missing anything by not having read the first one which is always great!

Lady Serena is an absolute firebolt. She's bold and daring, willing to do whatever is necessary to help those less fortunate than her, and she goes after what she wants with abandon. I appreciate a strong female lead and this book gives just that! Charles is a very protective man, with a high sense of propriety. He always wants to do right by Serena, protecting her from anything that could hurt her including herself. As separate characters, I did like them both, but together, I felt like there was something missing. I almost liked them better as friends than as a romantic couple. 

I felt like much of this book was "telling" rather than "showing" which is great sometimes, but not for a whole book. The plot had some really interesting parts but I feel like they weren't put together in the greatest way - I ended up enjoying the read overall though! Oh and I loved Jem - such a sweet character! I could see the outcome for him from a mile away and I loved it! Any scene with him in it was entertaining!

I do plan to continue reading this series - I have a feeling the next book focuses on a "reformed rake" trope which I LOVE so I'll definitely check it out!

Rating: 3/5 Devils!

The Lady Tempts an Heir by Harper St. George Book Review

 

Title: The Lady Tempts an Heir (The Gilded Edge Heiresses #3)
Author: Harper St. George
Publish Date: February 22nd, 2022
Publisher: Berkley
Source: Huge thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for providing me with a review copy!

A fake engagement brings together a lady with bold and daring dreams, and the heir whose heart she captured—perfect for fans of Bridgerton!

Tall, dark, and brooding—to say that American Maxwell Crenshaw stood out in the glittering ballrooms of London, is an understatement. He vowed never to set foot in England again, but when a summons from his father, along with an ultimatum to secure his legacy, has him crossing the Atlantic for the last time, reuniting him with the delectable Lady Helena March, he can’t deny the temptation she presents. Or the ideas she inspires...

Lady Helena March is flirting with scandal. Instead of spending her time at teas and balls in search of another husband, as is expected of a young widow, Helena pours her energy into The London Home for Young Women. But Society gives no quarter to unmarried radicals who associate with illegitimate children and fallen women, and Helena’s funding is almost run out. So when the sinfully seductive Crenshaw heir suggests a fake engagement to save them both—him from an unwanted marriage and her from scorn and financial ruin—Helena finds herself too fascinated to refuse the sexy American.

As their arrangement of convenience melts oh so deliciously into nights of passion, their deception starts to become real. But if Max knew the true reason Helena can never remarry, he wouldn’t look at her with such heat in his eyes. Or might the Crenshaw heir be willing to do whatever it takes to win the one woman he’s never been able to forget...

Penelope's Review

Another great historical romance by Harper St. George! This time we are focusing on Maxwell Crenshaw (the first two books were based on his sisters August and Violet) and I'm so excited that we got to dive into the brother's perspective! 

When Maxwell is given an ultimatum, he concocts a fake engagement scheme with Lady Helena March that will benefit the both of them. Helena was a very forward thinking, confident young woman. I loved how much she cared about the less fortunate and the work she put in to making their lives better despite the difficulties she faced in her own life because of it. Maxwell was respectful, willing to listen and learn, and of course tall, dark, and handsome lol! I had so much fun watching the two of them get closer and fall in love. 

In terms of the story itself, I thought it was an interesting read with lots of little aspects to keep me entertained. I loved the very unique issue that Helena has to deal with - I don't want to spoil anything, but let's just say it was very refreshing to see a different sort of women's issue brought to light. 

I am very much looking forward to the next book in this series! It seems like we will be getting Camille's story which should be a good one!

Rating: 4/5 Devils!

The Most Eligible Bride in London by Ella Quin ARC Review

 

Title: The Most Eligible Bride in London (The Lords of London #3)
Author: Ella Quinn
Publish Date: February 22nd, 2022
Publisher: Zebra
Source: Huge thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for providing me with an ARC for review!

Love conquers even the most unlikely lord in USA Today bestselling author Ella Quinn’s delightful Lords of London series, as a reformed rogue endeavors to prove himself worthy of his chosen bride...

Mistakes happen, to be sure. Rarely are those mistakes as unfortunate as the one made by Nathanael, Viscount Fotherby, when he abducted the now Lady Merton to save his friend from marriage. Nate has been trying to make amends ever since, leaving behind his self-centered ways to fulfill his duties—and that includes finding a wife of his own. One woman sparks his interest above all others—a lady he helped when she was rescuing a child. Alas, there is a devilish complication...

Miss Henrietta Stern, Lady Merton’s younger sister, is intrigued by the stranger who comes to her aid—until she learns his identity. Nate’s stunt could have ruined her sister’s reputation, and her family may never forgive him. With beauty, connections, and a sizeable dowry, Henrietta has plenty of admirers. Yet no other suitor quickens her pulse quite like Nate does. Her heart insists that the gentleman has changed for the better. But can a renowned scoundrel possibly prove himself to be the perfect husband?

Penelope's Review

So this is my first book by Ella Quinn, and despite the fact that it's the third in a series, generally the order you read doesn't matter much in historical fiction novels. But in this book, I actually felt pretty lost. There were a ton of references to events that happened in previous books that I wasn't aware of, which is very unusual for this genre. 

The book starts off with a surprise encounter between Nate and Henrietta, and from that one moment they both decide that they will marry the other person. Sometimes insta-love works for a story, sometimes it doesn't. Honestly, I felt like it just made these two characters seem very robotic. I felt like I was reading a list of steps that each character had to take in order to get to the end goal of marriage, rather than a flowing story. And there were a ton of conversations thrown into the book that didn't further the plot at all, and left me wondering why they had been included at all.

There were some men who sold children, and in the very beginning of the book, Henrietta shoots one of them. It made it seem like this would end up playing a large part of the book, but it ended up being hardly mentioned at all. Perhaps if that had played a larger part in the story, tis book would have been more interesting. Unfortunately, it just didn't work for me. 

There is also a very short sex scene which honestly felt like the characters just wanted to check an item off a list. I didn't feel any passion between these two. Overall, while the book had some moments that were sweet, there just wasn't enough to make in memorable or interesting. Of course, this is just my opinion and you're welcome to give it a try! But I do recommend reading the series in order as this doesn't seem like a series that can be read out of order.

Rating: 2.5/5 Devils!

How to Deceive a Duke by Samara Parish ARC Review

 

Title: How to Deceive a Duke (Rebels with a Cause #2)
Author: Samara Parish
Publish Date: January 25th, 2021
Publisher: Forever
Source: Huge thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for providing me with an ARC for review!

Fiona McTavish is an engineer, a chemist, a rebel—and no one’s idea of a proper lady. She prefers breeches to ballrooms, but her new invention—matches—will surely turn as many heads. There’s just a little matter of her being arrested for a crime she didn’t commit. And the only person she can turn to for help is the man who broke her heart years ago.

Edward Stirling, Duke of Wildeforde, will do anything to restore his family’s name and put his father’s scandalous death behind them. But when Fiona needs his help getting released from prison, he can’t deny her—even though it means she must live with him as a condition of her freedom. With the desire between them rekindling as fast as the gossip about their arrangement is spreading among the ton, Edward will have to choose what matters most to him—his reputation or his heart.

Penelope's Review

I was lucky enough to read the first book in this series, How to Survive a Scandal, and I loved it so I knew I had to get my hands on the second - and I'm so happy I did! This book really showcased the author's writing style and skill in my opinion. It's centered on Fiona McTavish and Edward Stirling, both of which we met in the first book. It can be read as a standalone, but is also a nice continuation for the series. 

Fiona was SUCH a great character. I'm so excited she got her own book as I loved the glimpses we saw of her in How to Survive a Scandal. Fiona is fierce and fearless, intelligent, brave, and resourceful. This book really showcased her talents and I loved getting to know her more. Edward I also ended up loving, but I do have to say he wasn't my favorite at first. I feel like it took so long for him to finally decide to put Fiona first over reputation, but there were many moments between the two that made up for this. 

The plot itself was great, with many twists and turns that I never saw coming. It was unique and interesting, and ended up being a quick read. I really liked the Duke's brother and sister and hope to see a book for each of them in the future - would love to know what becomes of them! Overall, another great read by Samara Parish and I'm looking forward to what comes next in the series!

Rating: 4/5 Devils!

2021 Book Challenge Wrap Up + 2022 Book Challenges!

 Hi everyone! I was hoping to get this post up on the 1st, but as usual, I'm late lol! So in 2021, I got back into blogging and I think it went really well! Overall, I posted 205 blog posts! I also participated in 2 book challenges, the 2021 New Release Challenge, and the 2021 Beat the Backlist Challenge. Let's see how I did!

So, this challenge was hosted by Unconventional Bookworms and they are hosting again this year so be sure to go sign up! My goal for this challenge was 25 books, and I ended up completing 64!! Woohoo! Officially a 2021 New Release Veteran lol! 

The second challenge I participated in was hosted by Austine Decker! She is also hosting again this year so be sure to sign up! My goal for this challenge was also 25 books but unfortunately I really slacked with this one and only read 11 books :( I'm hoping to really step it up this year because I have a whole stack of TBR books lol! 

If you'd like to see a list of all the books I read for these challenges, check it out here: 2021 Book Challenges

Ok now let's talk 2022 challenges!!

So I've decided to add a couple more this year, since I did fairly well on last year's. 

1. 2022 New Release Challenge hosted by Unconventional Bookworms. My goal for this challenge is 65 books, New Release Veteran!

2. 2022 Beat the Backlist Challenge hosted by Austine Decker. My goal for this challenge is 25 books again! Let's see if I can do it this time!

3. Finish the Series Challenge hosted by Celebrity Readers. This is my first time participating in this challenge so I'm setting my goal at a C-list series finisher which means I'm commiting to finishing 1-4 series. A couple I have in mind is the Shatter Me series (started in high school, never finished), Red Queen series (can't remember when I started it but many years ago), and more recently, the Throne of Glass series which I started last year and then put down. 

4. 2022 Historical Fiction Reading Challenge hosted by The Intrepid Reader. This is also the first time I'm joining this challenge but I absolutely LOVE historical romance so I'm going to set my goal at Ancient History - 25 books. I'm hoping to do more, but we'll see how it goes!

5. 2022 NetGalley and Edelweiss Reading Challenge hosted by Socrates Book Reviews. This is my first time participating, but I'm setting my goal at Gold - 50 books. 

6. 2022 Book Blogger Support Challenge hosted by Pages Unbound. This challenge has a new prompt each month geared towards supporting book bloggers! I can't wait to start this challenge and support those in this wonderful community!

And that's it! Those are the challenges I have chosen for 2022! Here is a link to the page where I will be updating my progress for each of these challenges as the year goes on: 2022 Book Challenges 

I also just want to give a quick shout out to GirlXOXO for posting a master list of 2022 book challenges!

Have a great 2022 everyone!