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The Duchess's Investigative Society #10
Christmas with an Earl's Son
The most scandalous Musgrave is back in town…
‘Dante’ Musgrave, Viscount Southwick, has finally returned to England after years of outrunning scandal throughout all of Europe. Unfortunately, scandal has a way of finding him and he can’t seem to escape it this Christmas. A solution is offered the form of a ruined young woman in the wilds of the English countryside. It seems simple enough—wed the girl, save her reputation, and fashion himself a new status as a staid married man. There’s one catch though—he has to persuade said ruined woman to accept his proposal. And that’s made all the more difficult when he meets her twin sister. Maddie is used to doing her duty and ignoring all desire for adventure and excitement. When her sister Phoebe finds herself caught in a situation Maddie blames herself for, it seems only right Maddie try to fix things. The arrival of Lord Southwick will save the family from ruin and ensure her sister’s future. Now all she needs to do is persuade the ridiculously attractive viscount Phoebe is worth fighting for. Not an easy take when she wishes he was fighting for her. All he’s ever known is scandal. She’s about to get caught up in one. Can they resist the pull between them long enough to save them both from ruin or will this instant attraction prove to be the downfall of them both?
Christmas with a Son's Earl is a steamy Regency Christmas romance that can be read as a standalone. If you love reformed rakes and forbidden romance, you'll adore this romantic Christmas story.
‘Dante’ Musgrave, Viscount Southwick, has finally returned to England after years of outrunning scandal throughout all of Europe. Unfortunately, scandal has a way of finding him and he can’t seem to escape it this Christmas. A solution is offered the form of a ruined young woman in the wilds of the English countryside. It seems simple enough—wed the girl, save her reputation, and fashion himself a new status as a staid married man. There’s one catch though—he has to persuade said ruined woman to accept his proposal. And that’s made all the more difficult when he meets her twin sister. Maddie is used to doing her duty and ignoring all desire for adventure and excitement. When her sister Phoebe finds herself caught in a situation Maddie blames herself for, it seems only right Maddie try to fix things. The arrival of Lord Southwick will save the family from ruin and ensure her sister’s future. Now all she needs to do is persuade the ridiculously attractive viscount Phoebe is worth fighting for. Not an easy take when she wishes he was fighting for her. All he’s ever known is scandal. She’s about to get caught up in one. Can they resist the pull between them long enough to save them both from ruin or will this instant attraction prove to be the downfall of them both?
Christmas with a Son's Earl is a steamy Regency Christmas romance that can be read as a standalone. If you love reformed rakes and forbidden romance, you'll adore this romantic Christmas story.
228 pages, Kindle Edition
Published October 30, 2023
About the author
Samantha Holt
294 books698 followersSamantha Holt resides in Warwickshire, England, with her twin girls, having followed her soldier husband around the UK for nearly 10 years. Growing up in Hampshire, she was inspired by the authors Jane Austen and Elizabeth Gaskell, both of whom lived and wrote only miles from her home town.
Samantha loves the romance genre and has been devouring romantic literature for as long as she can remember. History is another passion of hers and she loves to combine her love for history and romance into exciting and passionate tales.
Samantha loves the romance genre and has been devouring romantic literature for as long as she can remember. History is another passion of hers and she loves to combine her love for history and romance into exciting and passionate tales.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 62 reviews
November 3, 2023
Christmas with an Earl’s Son. My fellow readers I did not expect this book to hit me the way that it did. This love story is so amazing. Picture it. Two hearts meet by happenstance.
Beautiful young woman falls. Handsome young man offers his hand and strength to help said beautiful woman from her fall. Eyes collide instantly hearts pitter patters and stomach develops butterflies. From this moment on these two lives will never be the same. Sigh.
What an amazing love story. Dante has become my book hero. His presence is so huge in the storyline, which I absolutely loved. For a young man who wanted to hide away from the nobility Dante’s personality, objectivity and feelings change and grow. It’s almost like a meaningful purpose for himself, the woman that he loves and his family.
I found the book to be very moving. The storyline holds so much character, emotions, accountability, courage and meaning behind it. The story is not to heavy, but it certainly had me very happy with having the opportunity to read this romantic tale. The story is set around my favorite holiday season, which is Christmas. Maddie and Dante share, explore, and fall down the proverbial rabbit hole where two souls are meant to be, but are orchestrated by other forces to never be.
Ugh, this love is to real for all, who actually do not have a right to make decisions about two young lives. It was like euphoric feeling when the power of two twin sisters, one young Viscount and a persistent Countess moved unmovable mountains to fight the constraints of unfathomable laws. The same laws that are outdated and most assuredly cross the lines of inhuman laws. I am so pleased with the writing in the book. The story is clear.
I understood what the writer wanted to convey to their readers. I enjoyed that the book is an easy read leaving me with the opportunity to bask in the desires and passions of two hearts. Two hearts who explore one another through site, feelings, and touch. It doesn’t get no better than that. Yes this love story has the entertainment.
Most definitely it has those ultimate clandestine scenes that sparks the fires of racing hormones. There are characters that you will enjoy reading and some that bring exciting fun. The need to protect. Others bring about revenge and requested meetings at dawns. And again a persistent Countess whose the mother of all mothers.
I give this book two snaps and a, sister dear, how would you like me to serve up Lady Sophie, with one punch or two? Until next time my fellow readers. Read on! I received a copy of this book from the author in exchange for an honest review. #ChristmaswithanEarlsson #SamanthaHolt #Booksprout #Goodreads #Bookbub
Beautiful young woman falls. Handsome young man offers his hand and strength to help said beautiful woman from her fall. Eyes collide instantly hearts pitter patters and stomach develops butterflies. From this moment on these two lives will never be the same. Sigh.
What an amazing love story. Dante has become my book hero. His presence is so huge in the storyline, which I absolutely loved. For a young man who wanted to hide away from the nobility Dante’s personality, objectivity and feelings change and grow. It’s almost like a meaningful purpose for himself, the woman that he loves and his family.
I found the book to be very moving. The storyline holds so much character, emotions, accountability, courage and meaning behind it. The story is not to heavy, but it certainly had me very happy with having the opportunity to read this romantic tale. The story is set around my favorite holiday season, which is Christmas. Maddie and Dante share, explore, and fall down the proverbial rabbit hole where two souls are meant to be, but are orchestrated by other forces to never be.
Ugh, this love is to real for all, who actually do not have a right to make decisions about two young lives. It was like euphoric feeling when the power of two twin sisters, one young Viscount and a persistent Countess moved unmovable mountains to fight the constraints of unfathomable laws. The same laws that are outdated and most assuredly cross the lines of inhuman laws. I am so pleased with the writing in the book. The story is clear.
I understood what the writer wanted to convey to their readers. I enjoyed that the book is an easy read leaving me with the opportunity to bask in the desires and passions of two hearts. Two hearts who explore one another through site, feelings, and touch. It doesn’t get no better than that. Yes this love story has the entertainment.
Most definitely it has those ultimate clandestine scenes that sparks the fires of racing hormones. There are characters that you will enjoy reading and some that bring exciting fun. The need to protect. Others bring about revenge and requested meetings at dawns. And again a persistent Countess whose the mother of all mothers.
I give this book two snaps and a, sister dear, how would you like me to serve up Lady Sophie, with one punch or two? Until next time my fellow readers. Read on! I received a copy of this book from the author in exchange for an honest review. #ChristmaswithanEarlsson #SamanthaHolt #Booksprout #Goodreads #Bookbub
October 30, 2023
Festive romance with a scandal and fire
Oh boy oh boy! This was something!
This story was such a page-turner could not stop! It as interesting plot and steamy Regency romance on full swig that will keep you warm and toasty on this cold season. If you are in search of a romantic cozy mystery in one is for you.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Oh boy oh boy! This was something!
This story was such a page-turner could not stop! It as interesting plot and steamy Regency romance on full swig that will keep you warm and toasty on this cold season. If you are in search of a romantic cozy mystery in one is for you.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
November 13, 2023
Thanks to BookSprout for a copy of this story and this is my freely given opinion...
This is the story of Dante/Basil (his given family name, and the one mostly used by his mother), the only son of the notorious Musgrave family and who has been mentioned but generally out of the picture in the last several stories of the Musgrave sisters, because of his own scandals. Dante, if I remember correctly, was involved in a rather public instance of drunken dishabille in his youth, amongst other Musgrave-centred social faux pas. He had spent much of the last while traveling about the continent, while his sisters married well, and returned, hoping some of the taint of his reputation has lessened. However, he is once more in the cross hairs of the gossips and the scandal sheets as he has been implicated in ruining and impregnating two women. It is not clear exactly what happened, but it sounds as though Dante, a scandalous rake though he may seem, having grown up in a household of so many sisters, would not be so low as to treat women so badly. It seems he likely took the fall for someone else, and is suffering Society's censure for it, especially in light of his past.
A solution of a marriage of convenience is offered by his mother, to a woman of good family, but likewise tainted by scandal, in Wales. Dante reluctantly travels to their estate there to explore this option, and finds himself coming to the aid of a beautiful woman who fell walking on the slick, muddy roads. He is instantly attracted to her and thrilled when he finds out she is the daughter of the family he was sent to visit. Of course things are not so easy, and the woman he meets is not the intended target of his courtship. She is widowed Maddie Seymour, the twin sister of Phoebe. Phoebe Bloomsbury, was accosted by a rogue and ruined, when she was mistaken for her sister, Maddie, causing Maddie great distress and guilt. Her attraction to Dante compounds that guilt, knowing that he is a great catch for her sister and would ameliorate her sister, and their family's ruined reputation.
Dante and Maddie try to do what they are told is right, and the expected thing, and fight their attraction to each other, but Phoebe resists the plans for her future, and their past scandals come back to cause continued strife and hardship for Maddie, Dante, and the Bloomsburys.
It was nice to finally meet Dante, after having him alluded to in previous stories. I quite liked the story of mixed-up twin identities, and his attraction to Maddie. I found Phoebe's character to be quite childish at times and it did not seem like she and Maddie were twins. I also found that the story really skimmed a bit too lightly over some aspects such as the current scandal Dante was involved in, and also the people who were involved in Phoebe's ruination; more detail in the whys and hows, and the resolution would have been nice. After the kidnapping scenario, the story suddenly cut to the epilogue and happy ending rather abruptly, so I found the ending rather abrupt and sudden.
3 stars out of 5
This is the story of Dante/Basil (his given family name, and the one mostly used by his mother), the only son of the notorious Musgrave family and who has been mentioned but generally out of the picture in the last several stories of the Musgrave sisters, because of his own scandals. Dante, if I remember correctly, was involved in a rather public instance of drunken dishabille in his youth, amongst other Musgrave-centred social faux pas. He had spent much of the last while traveling about the continent, while his sisters married well, and returned, hoping some of the taint of his reputation has lessened. However, he is once more in the cross hairs of the gossips and the scandal sheets as he has been implicated in ruining and impregnating two women. It is not clear exactly what happened, but it sounds as though Dante, a scandalous rake though he may seem, having grown up in a household of so many sisters, would not be so low as to treat women so badly. It seems he likely took the fall for someone else, and is suffering Society's censure for it, especially in light of his past.
A solution of a marriage of convenience is offered by his mother, to a woman of good family, but likewise tainted by scandal, in Wales. Dante reluctantly travels to their estate there to explore this option, and finds himself coming to the aid of a beautiful woman who fell walking on the slick, muddy roads. He is instantly attracted to her and thrilled when he finds out she is the daughter of the family he was sent to visit. Of course things are not so easy, and the woman he meets is not the intended target of his courtship. She is widowed Maddie Seymour, the twin sister of Phoebe. Phoebe Bloomsbury, was accosted by a rogue and ruined, when she was mistaken for her sister, Maddie, causing Maddie great distress and guilt. Her attraction to Dante compounds that guilt, knowing that he is a great catch for her sister and would ameliorate her sister, and their family's ruined reputation.
Dante and Maddie try to do what they are told is right, and the expected thing, and fight their attraction to each other, but Phoebe resists the plans for her future, and their past scandals come back to cause continued strife and hardship for Maddie, Dante, and the Bloomsburys.
It was nice to finally meet Dante, after having him alluded to in previous stories. I quite liked the story of mixed-up twin identities, and his attraction to Maddie. I found Phoebe's character to be quite childish at times and it did not seem like she and Maddie were twins. I also found that the story really skimmed a bit too lightly over some aspects such as the current scandal Dante was involved in, and also the people who were involved in Phoebe's ruination; more detail in the whys and hows, and the resolution would have been nice. After the kidnapping scenario, the story suddenly cut to the epilogue and happy ending rather abruptly, so I found the ending rather abrupt and sudden.
3 stars out of 5
October 30, 2023
Dante's Bride . . .
Dante Musgrave, Viscount Southwick, returns to England, hoping everyone has had time to forget his scandalous reputation by now. But people seem to thrive on scandal. His mother urged him to go to their country estate in Monmouthshire until Christmas where he can stay for a while to allow the furor die down. She continued to tell him of the daughter of a friend who found herself in an uncomfortable situation when a cad forced himself on her. If Dante married this ruined young woman from the countryside, it would restore his reputation. Mothers would stop hounding him to marry their daughters and he could sire an heir to secure his future fortunes. He could set her up in a house in Monmouthshire and return to London. And he must wed her by Christmas so he can join his family in Bath without his reputation ruining everything.
So he agreed to marry Phoebe Bloomsbury, whom he will have to convince of his sincerity. Maddie is walking home and sees a man on horseback coming toward her. She spins quickly to move into the trees and avoid him, but her foot slipped and she fell in the mud and rolled down an embankment into a tree. The rider rushed down to help her. He was so handsome it took her breath away. He rescued her book and gently brushed it off, further impressing her with his care for the book. Then he offered to walk her home since he was going that way. When he told her who he was meeting, it turned out to be her father!
Meeting her twin sister, Maddie, he feels a surprisingly strong attraction to her instead, and assumes this is the ruined girl he is to ask for in marriage. But he can’t say anything until he meets with her father first. Once he finds out, will he be honor bound to marry Phoebe? Maddie already admires him herself. But Maddie feels a duty she owes to her sister regardless of her own feelings. How will Dante convince Maddie to give him a chance? Or will she continue to resist the viscount’s charms despite her own feelings? Will this Christmas season bring them happiness? Or will both of them have to sacrifice what they could have had in order to prevent further scandal?
Dante Musgrave, Viscount Southwick, returns to England, hoping everyone has had time to forget his scandalous reputation by now. But people seem to thrive on scandal. His mother urged him to go to their country estate in Monmouthshire until Christmas where he can stay for a while to allow the furor die down. She continued to tell him of the daughter of a friend who found herself in an uncomfortable situation when a cad forced himself on her. If Dante married this ruined young woman from the countryside, it would restore his reputation. Mothers would stop hounding him to marry their daughters and he could sire an heir to secure his future fortunes. He could set her up in a house in Monmouthshire and return to London. And he must wed her by Christmas so he can join his family in Bath without his reputation ruining everything.
So he agreed to marry Phoebe Bloomsbury, whom he will have to convince of his sincerity. Maddie is walking home and sees a man on horseback coming toward her. She spins quickly to move into the trees and avoid him, but her foot slipped and she fell in the mud and rolled down an embankment into a tree. The rider rushed down to help her. He was so handsome it took her breath away. He rescued her book and gently brushed it off, further impressing her with his care for the book. Then he offered to walk her home since he was going that way. When he told her who he was meeting, it turned out to be her father!
Meeting her twin sister, Maddie, he feels a surprisingly strong attraction to her instead, and assumes this is the ruined girl he is to ask for in marriage. But he can’t say anything until he meets with her father first. Once he finds out, will he be honor bound to marry Phoebe? Maddie already admires him herself. But Maddie feels a duty she owes to her sister regardless of her own feelings. How will Dante convince Maddie to give him a chance? Or will she continue to resist the viscount’s charms despite her own feelings? Will this Christmas season bring them happiness? Or will both of them have to sacrifice what they could have had in order to prevent further scandal?
November 2, 2023
I loved reading this series, it has been great, every book a wonderful read. But Dante’s story set at Christmas is truly a treat. Dante Musgrave has been in trouble since he was a boy, he is the only male in a family of females. Scandal seems to follow him no matter what he does. When he tries to help out two different women both with different problems, he is accused of getting both with child! His mother comes up with a way to save another lady’s reputation and get him back in society’s graces. She wants him to marry a young lady she knows of from the county who was ruined by a man who then fled leaving her with all the gossip to handle. Dante has no desire to wed, especially a stranger who he has never met. His mother uses his love of his many sisters to get him to agree. When he Mets a woman on the way who has just taken a fall, he is shocked at her beauty. He is taken in by her way of speaking and shocked when he finds out she is the daughter of the gentleman he is to meet. It will not be a hardship to marry this, Lady. Till he finds out her name is Maddie and not Phoebe that he was told. They are twins! Maddie is a widow and Phoebe wants nothing to do with him or getting married. What a fun somewhat suspense tale. Both Dante and Maddie try to stay away from each other, but the heart wants what the heart wants. Both are trying to do the right thing. Phoebe is a brat and comes up with some really wild ways to not spend time with Dante. Add in a villain or two along with someone out to get Dante. What a fast-paced story with tons going on. Once you start reading you will not be able to put it down. I wish there had been an epilogue so we could see how our couple was doing. Unfortunately, this is the end to this series, but I know Samantha will come up with another great story for us. If you have not read all the books, you should read each as they are wonderful and fun. I received an ARC from the author and wish to thank her. This is my honest opinion and am freely giving it.
October 30, 2023
I enjoyed this Regency Christmas Story about a scandalous Viscount. Basil “Dante” Musgrave, Viscount Southwick, who has returned to England after hiding out in Europe these last few years. Unfortunately, he once again is being accused of ruining a young lady and although it isn’t true his reputation proceeds him and he once again is fleeing scandal.
His mother offers him a way out, marry Phoebe a young lady who lives by their countryside estate, who is in need of a husband after being recently compromised. He accepts his fate and a marriage of convenience and goes there to meet with her. After all, how hard could it be court her into marriage considering her circumstances?
On his way there he meets Maddie and is immediately attracted to her. Wouldn’t you know it, just Dante’s luck, she is Phoebe’s twin. Dante tries to do the right thing and meets Phoebe. Unfortunately, for Dante she is not interested in getting married. She did not do anything wrong, and isn’t going to be forced into a marriage of convenience.
Although, he tries to want Phoebe he can’t forget Maddie, who also feel guilty because she wants Dante for herself but won’t hurt her sister. If he acts on his attraction it’ll be another scandal. The horrible man who compromised Phoebe thought she was Maddie and wanted to force Maddie into marriage not for love but for greed.
A kidnapping, a death threat, unscrupulous characters, alleged scandals, attraction, passion and love made for a very interesting Christmas story.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
His mother offers him a way out, marry Phoebe a young lady who lives by their countryside estate, who is in need of a husband after being recently compromised. He accepts his fate and a marriage of convenience and goes there to meet with her. After all, how hard could it be court her into marriage considering her circumstances?
On his way there he meets Maddie and is immediately attracted to her. Wouldn’t you know it, just Dante’s luck, she is Phoebe’s twin. Dante tries to do the right thing and meets Phoebe. Unfortunately, for Dante she is not interested in getting married. She did not do anything wrong, and isn’t going to be forced into a marriage of convenience.
Although, he tries to want Phoebe he can’t forget Maddie, who also feel guilty because she wants Dante for herself but won’t hurt her sister. If he acts on his attraction it’ll be another scandal. The horrible man who compromised Phoebe thought she was Maddie and wanted to force Maddie into marriage not for love but for greed.
A kidnapping, a death threat, unscrupulous characters, alleged scandals, attraction, passion and love made for a very interesting Christmas story.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
November 2, 2023
The Musgrave name is synonymous with scandal, and Dante has been involved with many of them. Having recently returned from Europe, where he had fled to give Society time to forget his previous scandals, Dante now finds himself falsely accused of getting two women pregnant. His mother has decided that it is time to assist him in repairing his reputation, and insists that he marry Phoebe, the daughter of their country neighbor who has become ruined by a publicly forced kiss from a cad. Reluctantly he agrees. However, he falls in love at first sight, with a young woman who has slipped in the mud and needs his assistance. Her name is Maddie, a young widow who just happens to be Phoebe’s twin sister. And so, much of the story is Phoebe resisting being forced into a marriage she does not want, and Dante and Maddie trying to keep their hands off each other. Add to that a scheming couple bent on profiting from Dante’s poor reputation, and Maddie��s unknown inheritance, and you have a story that will tie your stomach in knots and break your heart. This story has deceit, manipulation, conflict and humor. The author does a wonderful job of engaging the reader’s emotions and keeping them on edge. Familial love and loyalty is a huge theme of this story, and it makes sense that it takes place during the Christmas season. But…..Dante is the last of the Musgraves and sending him off to a happily ever after life most likely means that the series is at an end….and I find that to be sad, as this series has been an entertaining and wild ride.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
November 3, 2023
Even though Samantha Holt isn't a super steamy author, I have always loved her stories and gotten great reads from her storytelling. This is my 46th book by her and have been reading her since 2016.
I know that some of you who read my reviews know I really don’t say too much. Sometimes I'll see that a reviewer will repeat everything from the authors book description which drives me crazy. Personally, I don’t even read book descriptions anymore, even with a new author. That way I am totally surprised on all aspects of the story. I don't want any hints or spoilers of what may happen in the story which book descriptions will sometime give away. I am even reluctant to say too much in my own reviews as to not give any hint of what happens. But I don’t think I’m giving anything away by saying this because it’s in almost every Regency story anyway BUT one thing I hate about this era is just if a man kisses you in a garden and you get caught, or god forbid practically molested or you fall to the ground and take some poor sap standing next to you down with you, you are ruined and have to marry. So freaking ridiculous. It makes me think of the real regency era and this probably happening to a ton of couples. How horrible and sad to have to marry because of it. No wonder a lot of the men had mistresses. Yikes.
I have to say I loved Dante and Maddie. I thought they were super cute. I loved their chemistry together. I thought this was a great storyline as well. I didn't read like only 228 pages. It seemed to have good depth in both the characters and the story.
I know that some of you who read my reviews know I really don’t say too much. Sometimes I'll see that a reviewer will repeat everything from the authors book description which drives me crazy. Personally, I don’t even read book descriptions anymore, even with a new author. That way I am totally surprised on all aspects of the story. I don't want any hints or spoilers of what may happen in the story which book descriptions will sometime give away. I am even reluctant to say too much in my own reviews as to not give any hint of what happens. But I don’t think I’m giving anything away by saying this because it’s in almost every Regency story anyway BUT one thing I hate about this era is just if a man kisses you in a garden and you get caught, or god forbid practically molested or you fall to the ground and take some poor sap standing next to you down with you, you are ruined and have to marry. So freaking ridiculous. It makes me think of the real regency era and this probably happening to a ton of couples. How horrible and sad to have to marry because of it. No wonder a lot of the men had mistresses. Yikes.
I have to say I loved Dante and Maddie. I thought they were super cute. I loved their chemistry together. I thought this was a great storyline as well. I didn't read like only 228 pages. It seemed to have good depth in both the characters and the story.
October 25, 2023
Dante - an earl’s son and a rogue with a heart of gold - who takes the blame for something he didn’t do and in the process ruins whatever is left of his already scandalous reputation. His mother strongly advises him to take a break in the country and marry a local girl who has recently been ruined by scandal herself. An acceptable solution to his misfortunes until he runs into the wrong sister first…
Maddie - a sensible, reliable widow always putting everyone else’s happiness before her own - and Phoebe - her spirited, obstinate twin sister. Feeling responsible for her sister’s scandal, she tries everything to bring the intended couple together - all the while falling more and more in love with him herself…
The perpetrator of Phoebe’s scandal returns to the village, Dante’s latest scandal catches up with him, and on top of that, he’s hopelessly in love with the wrong sister!
📚 A fun and fast-paced, enjoyable page-turner in which fate keeps interfering with the best-laid plans. Rather predictable at first, the story takes some interesting turns when the bad guys turn up.
The MCs share instant attraction, sizzling tension and a very, very steamy bath. Their drive to do right no matter what nearly keeps them apart, and I very much enjoyed their open and honest communication. His mother and her sister make for some witty and colourful interludes, but the end felt a bit rushed and somehow, it missed that little extra for me.
Maddie - a sensible, reliable widow always putting everyone else’s happiness before her own - and Phoebe - her spirited, obstinate twin sister. Feeling responsible for her sister’s scandal, she tries everything to bring the intended couple together - all the while falling more and more in love with him herself…
The perpetrator of Phoebe’s scandal returns to the village, Dante’s latest scandal catches up with him, and on top of that, he’s hopelessly in love with the wrong sister!
📚 A fun and fast-paced, enjoyable page-turner in which fate keeps interfering with the best-laid plans. Rather predictable at first, the story takes some interesting turns when the bad guys turn up.
The MCs share instant attraction, sizzling tension and a very, very steamy bath. Their drive to do right no matter what nearly keeps them apart, and I very much enjoyed their open and honest communication. His mother and her sister make for some witty and colourful interludes, but the end felt a bit rushed and somehow, it missed that little extra for me.
October 31, 2023
Basil (who likes to be called Dante) Musgrave, Viscount Southwick, is no stranger to scandal. He doesn’t have to create a scandal, they find him. When his mother suggests he can clean up his act and save a young woman’s reputation at the same time, he reluctantly agrees. He arrives in Monmouthshire hoping to be engaged to the young woman before Christmas. Two problems. One, Phoebe Bloomsbury wants nothing to do with Dante. Two, while he is willing to fulfill his promise to his mother, he meets and falls in love at first sight with Phoebe’s sister. What to do? This is a fast-paced exciting ending to this entertaining series. The characters are likable. Maddie and Phoebe are twins and each wants the other to find happiness. Phoebe is a trip. Her escape antics are hilarious. Dante is a rake, but has a good heart. His mother is, well, the epitome of a Musgrave. The villains, the man who ruined Phoebe with a kiss and his “business” partner, are still up to no good. Even though there is some trouble and possible scandal, the story is fun, the romance is a little complicated, Christmas is crowded, and the ending is happy.
I received an ARC of this book via BookSprout and voluntarily reviewed it.
I received an ARC of this book via BookSprout and voluntarily reviewed it.
October 27, 2023
What an amazing ending to this series. Have come to love this family, the Musgraves and what has happened to them. This has been an exceptional series by this fabulous story teller. Will definitely miss them and have to reread this series. The Musgraves have quite a history from dog napping of the Prince's pet to all the rumors of each of the adult children in this series. Dante is the only son and due to the rumors of getting two women pregnant , he leaves London for awhile.On return, people feel that he is still responsible for what happened. So off he goes to the wilds to find himself a bride, who was ruined. There he finds Maddie , who is a twin sister of Phoebe , who is the woman he is suppose to marry. Phoebe was kissed and ruined by mistake. Maddie falls down a slippery hill where Dante helps her. They both become aware of each other and realize that they have feelings for each other. Much goes on to put a stop to them but as always love wins out. Just can't say enough about this book and the rest of the series. To the author, thanks again for this amazing series.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
October 28, 2023
What a delightful and steamy Regency romance that will warm your heart this holiday season! The story follows the scandalous Dante Musgrave, Viscount Southwick, who returns to England after years of fleeing from his notorious reputation. He hopes to settle down and redeem himself by marrying a ruined young woman, Eliza, who lives in the countryside with her twin sister, Grace. However, things get complicated when he meets Grace and feels an instant attraction to her. Grace is the opposite of her sister: dutiful, sensible, and reserved. She wants to help Eliza secure a good match, but she can’t deny her own feelings for the charming and handsome viscount. Will they be able to resist their forbidden romance, or will they risk everything for love?
The author does a great job of creating engaging and likable characters, witty dialogue, and a captivating plot. The romance is sweet and spicy, with plenty of chemistry and passion between the main couple. The setting is also well-drawn, with vivid descriptions of the English countryside and the festive atmosphere of Christmas. I voluntarily read and reviewed an Advanced Reader's Copy of this book; all thoughts and opinions are my own.
The author does a great job of creating engaging and likable characters, witty dialogue, and a captivating plot. The romance is sweet and spicy, with plenty of chemistry and passion between the main couple. The setting is also well-drawn, with vivid descriptions of the English countryside and the festive atmosphere of Christmas. I voluntarily read and reviewed an Advanced Reader's Copy of this book; all thoughts and opinions are my own.
November 1, 2023
Basil "Dante" Musgrave gets his own story as he is coerced into marrying to avoid scandal for both families but he meets the girl's twin instead.
Maddie wants the best for her sister and its Phoebe whom Dante should marry, but Maddie feels such an attraction towards him she cant help but follow it. After all, Phoebe doesn't want to be married and escapes having to see Dante every chance she gets.
Overall this book was okay, it wasn't outstanding to me. There really wasn't much of a story line because Maddie ad Dante hit it off right at the start so what follows is kinda bland. You know they will end up together, the steam is ok, they actually do make a cute couple but I just didn't feel the story. Phoebe could have been very up front with everyone but instead was very immature in her actions. Even the supposed suspense of the bad guys was held up til the end and was a let down. While this may use the Musgrave's names and characters, there actually was nothing of the Duchess's Investigative Society in this sadly.
I have read better stories from Samantha Holt and this was a miss for me.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Maddie wants the best for her sister and its Phoebe whom Dante should marry, but Maddie feels such an attraction towards him she cant help but follow it. After all, Phoebe doesn't want to be married and escapes having to see Dante every chance she gets.
Overall this book was okay, it wasn't outstanding to me. There really wasn't much of a story line because Maddie ad Dante hit it off right at the start so what follows is kinda bland. You know they will end up together, the steam is ok, they actually do make a cute couple but I just didn't feel the story. Phoebe could have been very up front with everyone but instead was very immature in her actions. Even the supposed suspense of the bad guys was held up til the end and was a let down. While this may use the Musgrave's names and characters, there actually was nothing of the Duchess's Investigative Society in this sadly.
I have read better stories from Samantha Holt and this was a miss for me.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
October 28, 2023
Basil ‘Dante’ Musgrave, Viscount Southwick, has finally returned to England after years of outrunning scandal throughout all of Europe. Unfortunately, scandal has a way of finding him and he can’t seem to escape it this Christmas. A solution is offered the form of a ruined young woman in the wilds of the Welsh countryside. It seems simple enough—wed Phoebe, save her reputation, and fashion himself a new status as a staid married man. There’s one catch though—he has to persuade said ruined woman to accept his proposal. And that’s made all the more difficult when he meets her twin sister, Maddie.
At last the Musgrave heir has his story & it was worth the wait. I loved both Dante & Maddie, their attraction was apparent from their first meeting & it only grew & deepened with each meeting. He’s the rogue or is he? she's the widow who is like a mother hen. Of course thins don't go smoothly but it makes for an engrossing read which I devoured in two sittings.
My review is for a special copy I voluntarily read
At last the Musgrave heir has his story & it was worth the wait. I loved both Dante & Maddie, their attraction was apparent from their first meeting & it only grew & deepened with each meeting. He’s the rogue or is he? she's the widow who is like a mother hen. Of course thins don't go smoothly but it makes for an engrossing read which I devoured in two sittings.
My review is for a special copy I voluntarily read
September 27, 2023
It’s finally Basils turn. I have wanted to know more about our youngest member of the Musgraves.
He goes by Dante now and is hiding out from his latest scandals. His mother bring his mother wants to help and sends him to Munmouthshire to marry a young lady that needs help out of her own scandal that wasn’t even her doing. The only thing is the lady is high strong an is against it the whole way. Second his mother gives him two months. She wants his scandal over so he can return for Christmas.
Phoebe is not going alone at all even with her other sister Maddie supporting Dante. Dante and Maddie find they have an almost instant connection and have so many things in common. If only it was Maddie Dante was having to save with marriage. These two cannot possibly follow their hearts cause it will create its own scandal. Add in a death threat and the second party from Phoebes scandal and this story take on a life of its own.
He goes by Dante now and is hiding out from his latest scandals. His mother bring his mother wants to help and sends him to Munmouthshire to marry a young lady that needs help out of her own scandal that wasn’t even her doing. The only thing is the lady is high strong an is against it the whole way. Second his mother gives him two months. She wants his scandal over so he can return for Christmas.
Phoebe is not going alone at all even with her other sister Maddie supporting Dante. Dante and Maddie find they have an almost instant connection and have so many things in common. If only it was Maddie Dante was having to save with marriage. These two cannot possibly follow their hearts cause it will create its own scandal. Add in a death threat and the second party from Phoebes scandal and this story take on a life of its own.
October 25, 2023
Bounty, Scandal, Finding Love:
This is a terrific story that is filled with lots of emotions due to the times when scandal was on high alert. There are many shocking situations that you don't really see coming throughout this very engrossing story.
Very exciting romance between two thrilling and intelligent characters. Dante and Maddie take us through a whirlwind journey while their sizzling attraction towards each other finally grows to the breaking point where they have to face just how much they love each other.
They face many complications along the way and the ending had me fooled when a major secret was exposed.
There is one intimate scene that I suggest you have your lady's fan handy and possibly a cooling drink.
I truly enjoyed this story that kept my attention to the very end.
Mature Advisory:
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced ARC copy for my honest thoughts and opinion.
This is a terrific story that is filled with lots of emotions due to the times when scandal was on high alert. There are many shocking situations that you don't really see coming throughout this very engrossing story.
Very exciting romance between two thrilling and intelligent characters. Dante and Maddie take us through a whirlwind journey while their sizzling attraction towards each other finally grows to the breaking point where they have to face just how much they love each other.
They face many complications along the way and the ending had me fooled when a major secret was exposed.
There is one intimate scene that I suggest you have your lady's fan handy and possibly a cooling drink.
I truly enjoyed this story that kept my attention to the very end.
Mature Advisory:
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced ARC copy for my honest thoughts and opinion.
October 28, 2023
Loved Dante and Maggie's story of love, passion and mystery. Dante is trying to outrun yet another scandal this time involving two women both pregnant by someone else. Society attributes this scandal to him despite the fact he was only trying to help them. His mother sends him to Monmouth to marry a respectable young lady caught in a scandal broth also not of her making. This would be ok if fate didn't put her twin sister in his path. Dante meets Maddie first, caked in mud from a fall as he rides to her father's home he finds himself instantly attracted. The feeling is mutual, soon starts a mixed up triangle of love, family and deceit. Dante must find a way of restoring Phoebe's reputation so that he can marry Maddie instead of Phoebe. As he loves Maddie, but does she love him enough to follow her heart whilst wanting to save her sister. Will she sacrifice her love for Dante for her sister.
November 1, 2023
The action in this novel takes place during the weeks before Christmas. Other than the time of year, I wouldn't really consider it to be a Christmas story. Dante traveled to visit the Bloomsbury family. His mother, who had been pressuring him to marry, had arranged for him to meet Phoebe. Before Dante has a chance to see Phoebe, he meets her identical twin Maddie. Phoebe isn't interested in Dante but her parents expect her to marry to avoid a scandal. On the other hand, the widowed Maddie is attracted to Dante, but she doesn't want to ruin her sister's chances.
This bland love triangle is the center of the novel. There is also a mysterious villain lurking in the shadows. The motivations of the villain are mostly unknown until near the end of the story. Basically, the question is whether Dante will meet the expectations of others or decide to follow his heart.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
This bland love triangle is the center of the novel. There is also a mysterious villain lurking in the shadows. The motivations of the villain are mostly unknown until near the end of the story. Basically, the question is whether Dante will meet the expectations of others or decide to follow his heart.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
November 1, 2023
Dante Musgrave’s mother wants him to marry to diminish the scandals that surround his family, primarily attributed to him. An available young lady, Phoebe Bloomsbury comes from a good family but they too have a scandal with which to deal. Phoebe was kissed 😱 and no proposal was forthcoming. She is ruined! The societal constraints of this era are truly maddening! Be that as it may, she needs saving and Dante is sent there to be that savior. Unfortunately, he runs into Maddie, Phoebe’s twin sister in whom he’s more interested. This is an adorable romance in which Phoebe doesn’t want Dante but her widowed sister does. The really clever person in all of this is Dante’s mother. Read what happens as a couple of villains try to derail everyone’s HEA.
Only 4 stars, because I didn’t feel the Christmas festivities throughout the novel.
I have received an ARC from Booksprout and I am leaving an unbiased review voluntarily.
Only 4 stars, because I didn’t feel the Christmas festivities throughout the novel.
I have received an ARC from Booksprout and I am leaving an unbiased review voluntarily.
October 10, 2023
I am so glad Basil 'Dante' Mugrave got his own book. Of course, the most scandalous Musgave would have an interesting story. Basil thought he was walking into a quick and easy marriage of convenience set up by his mother. It was the best way to salvage his reputation and that of a woman in need of a husband after being compromised.
Basil's time in Monmouthshire to woo Phoebe became so much more. The instant attraction he felt for Phoebe's twin Maddie was a big complicaton. The scheming black guard who ruined Phoebe thinking she was Maddie was a whole other complication to deal with.
It was another wonderful addition to the Musgave's scandals. I hate this is the last one. It is a quick, fun read with a little spice and some love. I enjoyed it.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Basil's time in Monmouthshire to woo Phoebe became so much more. The instant attraction he felt for Phoebe's twin Maddie was a big complicaton. The scheming black guard who ruined Phoebe thinking she was Maddie was a whole other complication to deal with.
It was another wonderful addition to the Musgave's scandals. I hate this is the last one. It is a quick, fun read with a little spice and some love. I enjoyed it.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
October 30, 2023
This is another book in the The Duchess's Investigative Society Series.
This is the story of Basil (Dante) Musgrave - Viscount Southwick who is the youngest of the Musgrave family
Dante has not been free of scandal in his life.
To escape the latest scandal his mother suggests he goes to their country estate and marry a young lady that needs help out of her own scandal that wasn’t her fault.
There is only one problem – he meets the wrong sister – and they have an instant attraction to each other.
This is an easy fun story with not only romance but intrigue, and a little action
I was a little disappointed that unlike the earlier books there was no real investigations going on.
I received a free copy of this book and freely and honestly leave my review.
This is the story of Basil (Dante) Musgrave - Viscount Southwick who is the youngest of the Musgrave family
Dante has not been free of scandal in his life.
To escape the latest scandal his mother suggests he goes to their country estate and marry a young lady that needs help out of her own scandal that wasn’t her fault.
There is only one problem – he meets the wrong sister – and they have an instant attraction to each other.
This is an easy fun story with not only romance but intrigue, and a little action
I was a little disappointed that unlike the earlier books there was no real investigations going on.
I received a free copy of this book and freely and honestly leave my review.
November 6, 2023
This story is about the last of the scandalous Musgraves. His reputation is pretty much in ruins, yet his mother has sent him to propose marriage to the daughter of a family friend whose reputation was tarnished by a jerk. On his way to meet the daughter, he rescues a young lady who fell down an embankment and feels something for her. He then learns that she is the daughter of the man he is headed to see so he thinks that she is the one that he is to wed. Upon meeting with the father, our hero learns that he met the widowed twin of the woman he is to marry. Soon things get even more complicated, and you will have to read to see if and how they get sorted out.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
October 27, 2023
We finally get to see what happen with the only male Musgrave comes back from his exile from Europe for a scandal. I really liked this story - in love with the betrothed’s twin sister. The trying to hold themselves in check was entertaining. There is a very small mystery towards the end (really it is throughout but you don’t really know until close to the end) that was okay. I wish there was more of the investigation and more of the punishment of the villains. I think Samantha has gotten off track with the investigative part of this series which I really liked. That being said, the story is very nice.
I received a complimentary copy.
I received a complimentary copy.
October 27, 2023
This is the last of the series and I'd recommend reading all of the books in order. The story itself is fun yet the references to the family and their issues can be a bit overwhelming if you missed out on the other books. Maggie and Phoebe are twins so immediately you will understand that there is trouble brewing. Dante is a bit of a player but has a truly kind and gentle heart. Things get complex when issues from both sides present themselves! Thus it's a fast paced, fun depiction of bringing families together, dealing with scandal, and a few other twists. Greatly, enjoyed reading this story.
October 30, 2023
A delightful adventure in love. I fell in love with Dante, a bit of a player with a truly kind heart. On suggestions that he enter a marriage of convenience to aid his reputation, he sets off to woo a young lady in her own scandal mess. Fate intervenes and he falls for her twin. A whirlwind ensues of trying to find a way to marry his true love while saving her sister’s reputation. I enjoyed the heartwarming plot filled with sacrifice, family, sizzling attraction, a bit of humor, complications, a villain and some danger.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
October 30, 2023
Another great Musgrave story with wonderful characters and an intriguing storyline peppered with fun, steamy romance and suspense!
What if your life is plastered with scandals?
What if the lady you are supposed to rescue from societal disgrace and be wed to, doesn’t accept your help?
What if you fall for her sister instead?
Dante‘s life is a mess and someone wants him dead...
If you like love on first sight romances, scandalous rakes, loyal heroines, steamy passion and suspense, you will definitely enjoy this book!
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
What if your life is plastered with scandals?
What if the lady you are supposed to rescue from societal disgrace and be wed to, doesn’t accept your help?
What if you fall for her sister instead?
Dante‘s life is a mess and someone wants him dead...
If you like love on first sight romances, scandalous rakes, loyal heroines, steamy passion and suspense, you will definitely enjoy this book!
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
November 1, 2023
A Viscount trying to save himself from scandal decides to offer for a young woman whose reputation is ruined thereby saving them both. Of course he must first persuade said woman to accept his proposal, however, when he meets the twin sister Maddie, he finds himself in a dilemma. The pull between Maddie the Dante is strong. Maddie feels responsible for her Phoebe’s situation and tries to fix everything. The story is very entertaining with lots of humor, villains, trouble and scandal. But alls well that ends well and I do love a HEA.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
August 20, 2024
Quickie review: 3.5 stars. This was an entertaining read, but not great. I was intrigued that the h was a twin and the H was in a practically arranged courtship with her "ruined" sister. But I thought the h would switch places with her twin. Instead she Instead she spent most of the book pushing him towards her sister, even though it was obvious neither the sister or the H wanted to be in an arranged marriage with each other and the h had feelings for the H. I just didn't love the drama of having to see her twin be courted by the man she has feelings for. Still, I liked Maddie and Dante together. I felt the separation at the end to be unnecessary. But the book was entertaining in general.
October 30, 2023
Bad boy Basil, preferably Dante has returned home. He is tired of running away from his bad boy image that’s not entirely true. But the gossip continues and he promises his mother he will go to their country home in Wales and meet with a neighbor daughter, Phoebe who also has her reputation in ruins. Thinking saving her would save him. Arriving at the cottage Dante realizes that Phoebe has a twin, Maddie and even though they looks exactly the same he is drawn to Maddie.
Maddie is the oldest by an hour and the protector of the two. Phoebe must marry to save her reputation and Dante is the perfect solution. Although the moment she and Dante are alone they share a passionate kiss that makes the situation worse.
I truly enjoyed reading Maddie and Dante bumpy journey to their HEA. Definitely a standalone but now I need to read the previous books.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Maddie is the oldest by an hour and the protector of the two. Phoebe must marry to save her reputation and Dante is the perfect solution. Although the moment she and Dante are alone they share a passionate kiss that makes the situation worse.
I truly enjoyed reading Maddie and Dante bumpy journey to their HEA. Definitely a standalone but now I need to read the previous books.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
October 29, 2023
This was an entertaining read. I did like the characters of Maddie and Dante. I did think Maddie took too much responsibility upon herself and as a result Phoebe, her twin sister acted in a very immature way. Dante has been involved in a scandal or two but is now looking to marry, with encouragement from his mother. There was an immediate attraction between Maddie and Dante but he is destined to marry Phoebe. There is a villain and some dangerous events. It was resolved quite quickly and I would have liked to have known exactly what happened in London. I received a copy via Booksprout and have voluntarily reviewed it. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
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