Nicholas Radnor unexpectedly becomes the Duke of Holinburgh after the death of his uncle. He has the title but most of the wealth that was unencumbered was left to three women. He is surprised when the last of the inheritors literally knocks on his door. Iris Barrington, is a book trader. She buys and sells rare books on the continent and in England. She has come to Nicholas because the previous Duke had been helping her look for a rare book that could be in his family collection. She was unaware that she was named in a will. As her background is being verified Nickolas has her come and look for the book in his library and also search out items that he can sell for to prop up his Dukedom.

This is the third in the series and while I read it as a stand alone. I wish I had read the previous two books first as the other MC’s are very much a part of this story. The book has a mystery element too as attempts are made on the life of Iris and Nicholas.

I think this book is great fun. There is stuffiness, humor, passion, meddling family and a mystery. I’ve only read a novella by the author previously so it was nice to read a full book. She has been writing for years so there is a good sized catalogue of books that I can enjoy when I have the time. Thank you to NetGalley and Kensington Books for the ARC and I am leaving a voluntary review.

More than just a romance, this book is also a captivating read filled with mystery.
Nicholas is the new Duke of Hollinburgh. He needs funds to run his new estate. Iris is a strong and independent heroine, as I like. She does business evaluating and selling rare old books. She is one of the three heiresses to the fortune of the deceased Duke. The death of this previous Duke is suspicious. Nicholas is looking to find the answer to the mystery of death. They will meet while she investigates to find a book that belonged to the previous duke.
Iris and Nicolas shared a mutual attraction from the start. We follow Iris and Nicholas through their investigations and their romance. This book brings more than romance; it is an entertaining book with intrigue.

I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.

This is the third book in A Duke's Heiress series. We get to meet Iris Barrington, independent woman, rare book seller, world traveler and the late Duke of Hollinburgh's third and final heiress. But before Iris can claim her inheritance she must be rigorously investigated to prove she is not a charlatan. As the investigation gets on it's way, what better way to keep a close eye upon Iris than to employ her to inventory the vast library of the late duke? This way Nicholas, the new Duke has her close under his scrutiny as her past is dug into. This closeness is making it hard for Nicholas to deny the growing attraction he feels towards the feisty & fierce beauty.
I really enjoyed this series, all of the books can be read as a stand-alone, they are filled with delightful, likeable characters, witty banter and a nice fast tempo that makes for easy and joyful reading.
I would recommend this book and the previous two to regency romance readers wanting a fast, entertaining romance filled with swoon-worthy dukes and delightful independent ladies!
Thank you to Kensington Books and to Net Galley for the free ARC, I am leaving my honest review voluntarily.

This is part three of the A Duke’s Heiress trilogy but could be read as a standalone. I love Madeline Hunter and this one doesn’t disappoint. A wealthy duke has died and left bequests to three young women. This is the story of the third, and last.

Iris is a bookseller, a profession all of us book lovers will appreciate. She is fiercely independent, unconventional and alluring, also something all of us romance readers like to see. She is also sensuous and very attracted to Nicholas, Duke of Hollingsworth- a bit of a problem as she believes her family’s name has been besmirched by his family. She has come to London to search for the proof to clear that name.

Nicholas is captivated by Iris. He is a sexy hunk and oh so honorable. Although he desires her he lets her determine the pace of their attraction, appealing to us modern readers.

But they have two major mysteries to solve as well as a few other. All seem to be linked. The pace flows along interweaving the mystery and the romance. After reading it you may well decide to read the others in the series. This book’s resolution, though solving one of the mysteries running through the series, should not take away from the excitement of books 1and 2.

Thanks to NetGalley and Kensington Books for this ARC in return for my honest opinion.

4 Stars! This is the 3rd book in ‘A Duke’s Heiress’ series and can be read as a standalone. I did read the 2nd book but that was awhile ago so I only remember bits and pieces from it. This book gives the gist of what happened in the previous books so you won’t be lost. I do believe this is the final book in the series & I wish there had been an epilogue that expanded on the 3 books main characters HEA’s. This books main characters were the Duke/Nicolas & Iris Barrington. I liked both of them. Iris isn’t your typical virginal debutante since she’s not a debutante nor a virgin! This book has mystery, attempted murders, plotting, books, friendship, sexy times, decades old secrets, some witty flirting all wrapped up with a HEA ending.
*I received this at no charge & I voluntarily left this review.*

Looking to right a wrong done to her deceased father’s reputation, Iris infiltrates Nicholas’ life as a qualified bookseller. Attracted to her at once, Nicholas must decide not to go with convention and pursue her as well as the mysterious deaths in his family. I received an ARC from NetGalley and Kensington Books for my honest review.

This was my first Madeline Hunter novel, and unfortunately it was a mixed bag for me, leaving me a little less than enthused about this read. I'm not sure I would have finished reading it if I didn't feel compelled to then write a review of it. For me, this didn't work as a standalone novel, and I felt a little lost at times with the narrative, not having read the first 2 books of "A Duke's Heiress" series. Additionally, there were numerous Radnor family members - cousins and uncles galore, and two grandfathers pitted against each other in the past - that it became difficult at times to recall who had good relations with Nicholas Radnor, the Duke of Hollinburgh (the MMC), how these characters all related to one another, and who shared actual blood with whom. While I found the dash of mystery to be the best part of this novel, I didn't feel as though there was much chemistry between the heroine, Iris Barrington, a trader of valuable rare books, a trade she learned from her beloved, disgraced grandfather, and the hero, Nicholas. For me, the novel didn't really become interesting until the last 17% when we start to find out how all the pieces of the puzzle fit together, what are the secrets being kept in the Radnor family and between Iris and Nicholas, why something was done deliberately to Iris's grandfather that blackened his name and ruined his business and livelihood. For me, this was the strongest part of the novel - the last 50 pages or so - and perhaps helped pull this novel up from 2.5 stars to 3. Still, there are many pages before that which didn't grab my attention or hold me in thrall. I am glad that Iris and Nicholas get their happy ending, although how their families are linked is a bit odd. What Nicholas tells Iris is true in the few pages, but others in society would see their relationship differently if their families' connection was ever found out. I did love King Arthur, a resident cat and Bridget MacCallum in this novel.

2.5 stars rounded up to 3 for the clever ending. Unfortunately I don't believe I will be reading the other 2 books in the series.

Thank you to NetGalley for providing me with this eARC for free. This is my honest review of the novel, and all opinions expressed herein are my own.

The final book in the A Duke's Heiress trilogy. We finally learn who is responsible for the death of the previous Duke of Hollinburgh, and meet the the 3rd heiress. Overall, and enjoyable end to the series, but I felt that the ending was somewhat abrupt.

Genre: historical romance and mystery
Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️/5
Steam: 🌶️🌶️🌶️/5

- Third in a trilogy with overarching mystery plot
- Big red cat is the star of the book
- Starchy duke
- Spinster bluestocking rare book appraiser
- Family secrets
- Class difference
- House party
- MMC is a total goner for the FMC

The final installment of A Duke’s Heiress trilogy is here and what an amazing ending this is!
I would definitely recommend reading the other books in the trilogy before you start this one. Especially the first to get the most context of the overarching plot line.

I adored this one, the best in the series and such a great conclusion. There is still the mystery of what actually happened to the former duke and why the will was changed. Then we have another mystery when the missing third heiress happens to arrive on Nicholas’ doorstep trying to find a certain rare manuscript.

This is the steamiest of the 3 books and the one where I really liked the chemistry between the couple. I love that you see Nicholas turning into starchier duke the longer the series continues and he gets called out on it frequently throughout the book. The tension between Iris and Nicholas is so palpable and I really like that Nicholas knows what he wants and goes after it.

The star of this book is obviously King Arthur, our big red life-rescuing cat. He is an absolute boss and has absolute rights to snooze on his big chair.

When we finally get to all the revelations the first seems to come out of nowhere and blindsided me, it didn’t make sense and I was initially underwhelmed. However, then we get curveball after curveball thrown at us and let me tell you; I have read many mysteries and countless Scandinavian crime novels, which means by now I most of the time guess who did it and why, but Madeline Hunter, girl, you surprised me! And going back thinking about the previous books it all makes so much sense and I can hit myself for not seeing it sooner. When a writer does this they have a forever fan in me and I feel humbled.

This was my first series by Madeline Hunter and I am definitely going to go back and put all her books on my tbr, I need to read them all now, and I think she is going to become one of those auto buy-authors for me.

Thank you to netgalley and Kensington Books for providing an ARC

I received a copy of this title form the publisher; all opinions and thoughts expressed are my own. The Heiress Bride is the final story in the trilogy and wraps up the mystery around the death of the Duke of Hollingburgh. This one features Nicholas Radnor, the new Duke of Hollinburgh and his quest to find both the final heiress of his uncle's will and what actually happened to his uncle. Iris Barrington, the final heiress, works as a dealer in rare books, which is something of a family business; her grandfather was in the trade, but was accused by a prior Duke of Hollingburgh of taking a rare book causing him to flee to Italy in disgrace. Nicholas and Iris end up working together to try and figure out what happened all those years ago as well as solve the mystery around his predecessor's death.

I really enjoyed this story and thought that there was a very nice balance between the mystery and the romance. I love how Ms. Hunter writes characters that are actual grownups and act accordingly; you never have to worry about too stupid to live heroines or unrealistic plots. She specializes in creating characters that are multi-dimensional and doesn't rely on crazy plots to drive her stories. I really loved the mystery and how it wrapped up the over-arching story and brought back the characters from the prior two books in an organic way so that it doesn't feel gratuitous. After the gap between books, I hope that Ms. Hunter continues to write as there are few authors writing today that are up to her calibur.

This is the 3rd book of A Duke's Heiress series, it can be read as stand alone, author describe the main mystery in this book. The new Duke of Hollinburgh, Nicholas Radnor lookimg for the 3rd misterious heiress then Iris Barrington appear. Irish is a rare bookseller when she approach Nicholas, she only mean for business not knowing about heiress. I enjoy this book, family secret, family honor, family deception mixed well in this book. Previous character from this series appear much in this book. Many question got answer and i glad everyone safe.

Thank you to NetGalley for provide this book, it is pleasure to review this book.

#TheHeiressBride #ADukeHeiress #MadelineHunter #KensingtonPublishing #ZebraBooks #NetGalley #NetGalleyCoop #ARC

Just how I like my historical romance - a handsome Duke who needs to be married and a very appealing woman who is not really Duchess material. Then lots of events which get in the way of them being together culminating in the usual happy ending.

Nicholas is the new Duke of Hollinburgh and as such is being hunted by the mothers of all the eligible girls in London. Iris Barrington is a very unusual woman for the time, single, independent and working as a rare book seller. Events bring them together and lots of entertainment ensues.

This book was nicely written and easy to read, very entertaining and with many likeable characters. I enjoyed it very much and would recommend it to anyone who enjoys an historical romance.

Thank you NetGalley for this eARC in exchange for an honest review.

Nicholas Radnor is a typical Duke- handsome, roguish, titled…and with dwindling funds.

Iris Barrington is an independent book merchant and mysterious heiress to the Radnor family’s fortune.

Obviously, meet cute, sparks fly, books are bought, sold, found and read (happy days) and shenanigans ensue.

The plot has some unrealistic elements- there would have been very few independent women of means during the time period, and book merchants to boot! But on the other hand, she’s a totally fierce woman and I love her, so there’s that.

The chemistry is great, the mystery is good, and the resolution is more than satisfactory. A great 4 ⭐️ read!

Regency HEA mystery - This book started off exciting and kept it going thru out the whole story. It was fun and interesting. It had so many twists and turns. I was entertained all throughout the book. This book was a page turner and fast paced. Basically, Iris is looking to restore her family name. Nicholas is suspicious of Iris who received an inheritance from his family. There is a mystery of why Iris received this inheritance. This book is at times lighthearted and makes you smile and laugh. It deals with family and how relationships are never cut and dry. There is tons of action and drama both with supporting friends, family. I love the interaction with family and friends. They make a good couple and have a great connection. I liked it. It is an easy flowing read I would recommend this book because this author is keeps you entertained with this enjoyable book. I look forward to her other books.
**I received this book from NetGalley and publisher for an honest review. All opinions expressed are my own.

I have read all of Madeline Hunter’s books starting with the Rarest Blooms series. Most of her books have a hero from the aristocracy and a heroine of more moon origins. There is a mystery involved as well as several secondary characters. The Heiress Bride follows this predicted path, but that by no means makes the book any less enjoyable. I loved all 5he characters, the mystery was involved and interesting and the romance deep and passionate. She has a wonderful way of writing and explaining the plot through the characters dialogue. 5 stars.

3/5. Releases 5/23/2023.

For when you're vibing with... a bit of light mystery, heroines with unique jobs, secrets, and the threat of *gasp* marrying for money!!!

I struggled with this one, for reasons that I'll get into below--it might actually be more like a 2.5-2.75 for me, but for reasons I'll, again, get into below, it doesn't seem fair to go there just yet.

Quick Takes:
--I often recommend reading romance series in order when possible, even though most romance novels can function as standalones. I stand by that. However, I also believe that the majority of romance novels, especially historicals that focus on individual couples per book, should be able to function as standalones. Reading in order should be, in most cases, something that adds benefit versus being a necessity.

I feel like this book was meant to stand alone... But it didn't really work that way, not for me. That's why I have a hard time rating it properly. This is the third book in a trilogy, and I just didn't fully follow the mystery plot. It wasn't overcomplicated, it just felt like I was missing some important information. The writing was solid, and I didn't dislike the characters, I just felt a little lost.

--If you like characters who, despite the mystery plot, are overall straightforward, you'll probably enjoy this. I could've used a bit more mystery between the leads and within their relationship. The hero just seemed to openly like her off the bat, she liked him even if she was hiding a thing or two, and I just... I didn't sense much internal conflict.

--Our heroine, Iris, is a rare books expert! I would love to see more niche jobs and interests from historical romance heroine. It gives you a peek at a world you don't normally see in romance in general, and it adds to general atmosphere.

The Sex Stuff:
Though the book is open door, I found the sex scenes to be a bit vague. Perhaps if I was more connected to the story, I'd enjoy it more.

Again, this was hard for me to rate, because I don't think the book stands alone. Should it have? I feel like yes--but perhaps those who've read the other books feel differently.

Thanks to Kensington and Netgalley for providing me with a copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.

I read the preceding two books in July and November. There is one underlying mystery over the trilogy. Who killed the duke? Why did he leave the bulk of his money to three barely known young ladies who worked for a living? I wanted to know the answers, so I was thrilled to get an advance copy!

I haven't read a lot of Madeline Hunter; but in this series, all the women are strong and not the usual innocent virgins. Considering just how much experience the three male cousins have, that is a good thing!

I enjoyed the story and was happy to get answers to some of the mysteries. However, unless I missed it, there are still some unknowns. The good thing is three couples all get their HEA. I recommend books 1 and 3. Book 2 is unnecessary, and I couldn't stand its hero.

This was an intriguing and exciting story! Miss Iris Barrington came to London to uncover a mystery surrounding her grandfather's good name, which had been tarnished by the accusation that he stole a valuable book. Nicholas Radnor, the Duke of Hollinburgh, allows Iris to examine his estate's libraries looking for the rare book at the heart of her family's scandal as well as his own. But can Iris keep things strictly business when confronted with the devastatingly handsome Duke?

I loved Iris. She was smart and exceedingly clever, trying to rectify a wrong done to her family. Nicholas was so honorable even though what Iris could uncover may shine unfavorably upon his own family. Iris also ignited a longing in him that he'd never experienced before. Through many twists and turns that keep me glued to the story, the mystery behind the scandal is finally revealed. I confess I didn't see it coming. The only criticism is that there were so many cousins mentioned that it was a tad confusing trying to remember who was who and how they were all related. The story moved along at a good pace and was an excellent example of weaving a story around a long-ago scandal.

I really enjoyed reading the next chapter of the Radnor family. The last of the three mysterious heiress' have been found. She actually found them. Iris Barrington shows up on Nicholas Radnor's doorstep offering to inventory his library for him. What he doesn't know is that she has a secret. In the meantime, Nicholas knows that he needs to find a bride so he can produce an heir. He isn't interested in any of the candidates. Iris is the one that has caught his eye, but she is not part of society. They have an undeniable attraction. Nicholas and his cousin Chase have decided to see if they can figure out once and for all who killed their uncle, the previous duke. Will Iris and Nicholas be able to overcome her secrets and his sense of duty? Will Nicholas and Chase be able to solve the mystery of their uncle's death? Madeline Hunter does a great job of developing her characters and the story and grabbing your attention. I have really enjoyed getting to know the Radnors and the Heiresses.

This is the third and final book in the trilogy. I recommend reading them in order since the characters are intertwined in the series.
Nicholas Radnor, Duke of Hollenburgh inherited the dukedom, but no money. His Uncle, the former duke bequeathed the money to 3 young ladies, Iris being one of them. She is a rare book/manuscript seller and is looking for a rare, illuminated manuscript that she believes Nicholas' family has to clear her grandfather's name.
Nicholas agrees to help her search his family's libraries for the book.
He needs to marry for money but can't help being attracted to Iris.
I loved the interaction between Iris and Nicholas. There were a lot of interesting characters and mystery throughout the book.
I received this book as an ARC from NetGalley and these are my opinions.