I adore a good Duke romance, and this book had the potential to be great, but sadly, it fell short. "Last Night With the Duke" had a strong exposition that could have led to a far greater plot than we were given. To me, this story was very bland. There were some very interesting plot points that were not exploited to their full potential. My overall feeling for the book was "Meh."

My biggest issue is that despite having the set up for one, there was no big conflict to captivate my attention. It was a slow read because of this. Throughout the story, I kept thinking, something has to happen soon, and before I knew it the book ended and there still wasn't anything exciting going on. It was a very mundane tale. It finished as a riches to rags to riches plot with little interest. I would not recommend this one to historical romance addicts, although it could probably be a good starter book to gently ease someone into the genre.

Nope. Didn't work for me. I wanted it to because I love a reformed rake and on the shelf spinsters are a good trope for me too, but the back story to this wasn't explained well enough and I just couldn't get on board with the characters and the plot the way I wanted too. Hey ho.

DNF so will not be rating or reviewing. Thank you for the opportunity to read this title.

This is the first story in The Rakes of St. James series and I found it lighthearted and fun. I believe the faster pace of it might have had me enjoying it even more.

As for the characters, they were well fleshed out, but I missed that special spark of chemistry between the two.

If you love your romance to have a little mystery and humor, then this one’s for you.

Melanie for b2b

I was completely captivated and thoroughly sucked into this book. Esmeralda is hardworking, stubborn,and completely loyal to her sister and their dog. Griffin is loyal and stubborn and self entitled, but we realize it's not really self entitlement just concern and love for his family. They are heartbreakingly wonderful together and the author allows you to be a part of this family for such a short time. I can't wait to have more of the Rakes.

* I voluntarily reviewed a uncorrected Advance Reader copy from Netgalley. All opinions are my own and honestly expressed.

Last Night With a Duke
By Amelia Grey Five Stars *****

Miss Esmeralda Swift runs a successful business that supplies Chaperones, Governesses, Tutors and Nurses to the ton, as need required. She had carved out a safe life for herself, her younger sister Josephine, and her sister’s adopted dog, Napoleon. It wasn’t perfect, but for a young woman who had received nothing from her parents in the way of help, she had done very well. She was providing for her sister, and their lives were orderly and safe. That was the best one could hope for – even if she wasn’t able to afford coal for the fireplace at the time. But in one afternoon, and a chance meeting with The Duke of Griffin, Miss Swift sees her life take a 180-degree turn – one that she could never have anticipated.

Her upbringing had been as a pampered member of the ton, until her mother met and married a penniless Irishman for love. Her mother’s family disowned her and even while she had an uncle who was a Marquis, Esmeralda never contacted them, only having deep-seated disdain for members of the peerage. The Duke of Griffin was looking for someone to help him as a chaperone for his sisters, and a chance discovery of the agency she ran, led him straight to her door. He overheard her tutoring another governess on the charges that she was finding difficult, and decided there and then that Miss Swift would be the one to take care of his own sisters.

He understands the need for a firm hand with his sisters. Griffin is smart enough to know that he needs help with the girls. And he knows that Miss Swift would be perfect. Despite her best efforts, Esmeralda is unable to dissuade the Duke of Griffin, and finally accepted his financially tempting offer.

However, Karma has her sights set on making the Duke of Griffin pay for a prank that he and two other rogues played on debutantes coming out years ago – and his sisters are the target. Can Miss Swift protect his very beautiful and lively sisters when revenge has them in her crosshairs? This book has great characters and a fast moving plot—and subplots—guaranteed to keep you entertained. I read the book cover to cover before I could put it down! Five stars for this one!

I received this ARC from the publisher through NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.

"All I could think was, dear God, I want to kiss her right now"
There's no romance like historical romance. These stories transport you to another time, but you can't help enjoy them. The lovely stories, the romantic gestures, all it, takes you out of the every day romance. The scenery is elegant, the stories are fun, interesting. This author has a flowery way of making things enjoyable. I couldn't put this down. Redeemable qualities, the ogre of a man and the woman trying to hide from society. It's a story you're not going to be able to walk away from.

LAST NIGHT WITH THE DUKE by Amelia Grey kicks off THE RAKES OF ST. JAMES regency historical series with an intriguing look at how misdeeds can affect more than yourself. Three friends believe their prank was harmless, but they’ll soon find out how hard it is to overcome seeds sown. It will be entertaining to discover who pulls each rake from their beloved bachelorhood.

The Duke of Griffin must oversee his two sisters’ coming out for the Season. His own reputation has set the stage for trouble, so he seeks a well-bred woman from an employment agency to chaperone the girls. Can they avoid adding more fuel to the fire of the anonymous scandal sheet that broadcasts their secrets?

This novel has some fun attributes that add to each chapter. There are snippets from the scandal sheet, as well as tidbits from “Miss Mamie Fortescue’s Do’s and Don’ts for Chaperones, Governesses, Tutors, and Nurses.” The characters try to do what is proper, but there is always some underlying mischief to tempt them or appall them.

This is a very sweet story. Everything isn’t behind the bedroom door or after the wedding day, but the details are brief, so I think it will appeal to those who prefer sweet romance. It has that kind of vibe – slow and building to a forever love. The plot isn’t overly complicated, they’re just getting ready for the duke’s sisters’ first season of balls and parties. It’s such an enjoyable, easy read that I zipped right through the first half before I realized it.

Overall, I really enjoyed this book. I did become irritated with what seemed like selfish, self-serving actions by the duke, but he won my heart by the end. He’s characteristically accurate of the well-to-do in being accustomed to getting his own way, but the duke proves that he makes exceptions for those he loves. He is a typical man of his era and wants what he wants, so I was disappointed he wasn’t more thoughtful of Esmeralda’s future. But he made up for that, so it I was only miffed with him temporarily.

Esmeralda is strong but often a very sad character, because she has suffered much at the hands of others. She expects the worst without hope, so her happy-ever-after is the most poignant. I couldn’t help but respect her ingenuity and wherewithal to overcome the odds pitted against her. The duke’s sisters are entertaining, but I was especially smitten with Esmeralda’s younger sister. She was so cute with the duke and showed his softer side.

This is the kind of historical regency I love. There are balls and parties, gossip and mischief. And let’s not forget the sweet animals who add to the chaos and emotion, as well as move along the characterizations. I laughed out loud several times and then teared up. The lead couple are sassy and amusing together. Their sisters and friends add to the mix without being overwhelming. LAST NIGHT WITH THE DUKE is lovely entertainment that heightens anticipation for the next rake’s story in December 2017.

Reviewed by Dorine, courtesy of Romance Junkies.

This is the perfect book to read when you want an entertaining easy read. It had well rounded characters with lots of personality and attitude to keep the reader laughing and involved with the plot.

I admired Esmeralda and felt the author did a superb job of showing how a woman can move forward with her life creating a safe world for herself and her sister against all odds. The author did a phenomenal job of the plot development of Esmeralda's secret that was exposed further into the book. The chemistry between Esmeralda and Griffin is extremely hot and "fan your face" worthy.

The Duke of Griffin was an attention getter in many ways but the time that stood to me was at the ending when he was helping Josephine deal with the Napoleon situation. What a surprising twist to this man!

Secondary characters were all attention grabbing and I look forward to reading more about them in the next two books to this trilogy.

I am not a big fan on insta-lust story. Yes, sure attraction is wanted, curiosity is wanted, but the idea that a man who sees me for the first time is immediately just thinking to strip me naked, would probably give me the creeps. Slow down man.

Probably it is because I cannot find realistic that a person who thinks like that would be able to appreciate something else in a woman aside from the physical side. And indeed the trap worked, I couldn't feel any emotional attraction between them, until the novel was much closer to the epilogue than the prologue.

That said, I don't think this is the only issue here. I found the pace of the whole story slow and the insistence exercised by the hero to get the heroine to be his twin sister's chaperone is a bit unnerving. Plus, the reason why he needs this respectable chaperone is to keep his sister untarnished by his behaviour...I say it again, in case it wasn't clear, she is HIS sister. To me what he wants is slightly difficult to achieve, isn't it Duke?

All this said I will surprise you saying that, objectively it was not that bad, overall is nice, it simply did not suit me that much. And I am one who runs with shiny eyes to get an HR when I read that the heroine is a governess/chaperone.

This was an enjoyable read that had me laughing out loud several times. However, it was lacking in several areas, mainly the pacing, which had me skimming rather than reading. I also don't like the insta-love trope, this had me grumbling through most of the book. I loved the idea of the mystery but this didn't come to fruition so I guess I'll have to come back to this series to see how it is resolved.

This is the first installment in The Rakes of St. James series by Amelia Grey and it's a strong start to a promising new series. Our first rake is the Duke of Griffin. His sisters, Vera and Sara, are twins and getting to ready to make their debut when the Season starts. Haunted by a scandal from his past and in desperate need of a chaperone for the twins, the reformed rake is forced to turn to Miss Mamie Fortescue's Employment Agency where he meets the administrator, Esmeralda Swift. Immediately attracted to her wit and beauty, Griffin decides that he wants Esmeralda to chaperone the twins and will have no one else.

The disowned granddaughter of a Viscount, Esmeralda Swift took over as administrator of the employment agency after the untimely death of Miss Mamie Fortescue. Although in a position to provide for herself and her sister, Josephine, Esmeralda is barely making ends meet. When the Duke of Griffin explains to to her that it's she he wants to chaperone the twins, she immediately turns him down. Griffin is determined to have Esmeralda chaperone the twins and after an entertaining tug of war between the two, Esmeralda breaks down and agrees to chaperone the twins. What unfolds is a delightful combination of romance and mystery as the two try to fight the feelings they have for each other and discover who is trying to ruin the twins' season.

I was immediately hooked after the first chapter of this book because it was clear that there was going to be unbearable tension between these two characters. The battle of wills between Griffin and Esmeralda was so entertaining and really set the stage for the rest of the story. I loved and admired Esmeralda. She is such a strong, relatable character. She's a headstrong woman determined to do whatever it takes to provide a comfortable life for her sister. She's honest and forthright, not afraid to say what's on her mind, but still respectful. You can't help but cheer her on because she's been dealt a pretty crappy hand in life but never complains about it. Reformed rake, Griffin, is a swoon worthy hero and easy to fall in love with. His tenacity and determination to get exactly what he wants is sexy and it's easy to understand why Esmeralda is immediately attracted to him. What I loved most about his character his sense of honor and his fierceness to protect his sisters from scandal.

Esmeralda and Griffin do everything they can to maintain a professional working relationship but the more they spend time together and get to know each other, the more they want each other. I really enjoy when tension like this builds up in a story. It's so unrealistic and anticlimactic when characters just jump right in off the bat. Amelia Grey really developed complex characters that added dimension to the story. Even the secondary characters were well developed. I loved Josephine and her dog Napoleon. Their little story within the book will definitely tug at your heartstrings. We also get to meet the other rakes of St. James and I'm really looking forward to Rath and Hawk's stories. There's even romance outside the story of our main characters and I love that one of the twins also got her own happily ever after. Overall, this was a really heartwarming, sweet read and I can't wait to see what Amelia Grey gives us next.

The Duke of Griffin finds himself in the unenviable position of protecting his sisters from unknown rakes who wants to spoil their debut as payback for his actions when he was younger. This payback could be a disaster! Griffin is determined to find the culprits and stop them from hurting his twin sisters. He's found the perfect chaperone, Esmeralda Swift. The problem is she doesn't want the job. She hates Society and their snobbish cruelty. To take care of her sister, she'll take the job. Can she prevent the truth of her family drama from being a topic of gossip? Griffin is strong willed and used to getting his own way. Esmeralda is his match. She's won't be intimidated. Their chemistry is powerful and draws them together. I enjoyed their emotional interaction and flirtatious dialogue. I liked these characters and wanted them to get their HEA. The secondary characters add so much to the story. They are interesting and captivating especially Josephine, Esmeralda's little sister. The plot is well written and has a unique twist. I enjoyed this romance by Amelia Grey. Griffin and Esmeralda are a wonderful pair. This story enchanted me. I'm looking forward to reading about the other Rakes of St. James.
A copy of this book was provided to me with no requirements for a review. I voluntarily read this book. My comments here are my honest opinions.

The Duke of Griffin and his friends, the notorious Rakes of St. James, enjoyed their youthful antics as much as any young blade of the Ton. But now, years later, past scandal may be coming home to roost. Griffin's twin sisters are making their Society debuts and rumors are swirling that someone (or someones) may pay Griffin back by ruining his sisters. Griffin decides the best way to help his sisters is to hire a chaperone to keep an eye on them when he can't be there. Almost by accident, he finds himself at Miss Mamie Fortescue's Employment Agency. He's just in time to hear a young governess getting dressed down politely but firmly by the agency's head, Miss Esmeralda Swift. As soon as he hears her, he knows she's the only one who has a chance of dealing with his sisters. As soon as he sees her, Griffin knows he wants Esmeralda as more than just an employee. She matches wits with him, keeps him guessing, and isn't (too) afraid to say "no"- not what he's used to from a woman! Griffin knows he needs to focus on tracking down the rumors and can't seduce a woman who's technically staff, but isn't sure he can be the honorable gentleman that Society thinks he isn't!

Esmeralda is the niece of a viscount, but her mother was disowned after remarrying a poor Irish poet. She has no fondness for the gentry after how her mother was treated. Hired as a governess by Miss Fortescue, she now runs the agency and takes care of her half-sister Josephine. The last thing she wants is to work for a duke who is so used to getting his way. But Esmeralda is also a realist and the amount of money he's offering for the job can help her out of debt. What could possibly go wrong?

Esmeralda is undoubtedly the star of Last Night with the Duke. She is a wonderfully written character who could be any woman, but happens to be the lucky one to catch a duke's eye. All the choices she makes are with her younger sister's best interests in the front of her mind, but she isn't too proud to admit to herself that she's attracted to Griffin. She's never had a Season of her own and you can often hear whispers of the young, romantic girl she used to be in her reactions to Griffin. She is infatuated enough to cling to things he says that, taken in a different context, would be highly romantic instead of practical. But at the same time, she's old enough and wise enough to keep her fantasies to herself and act professional around him. That might work, except that Griffin isn't interested in keeping things purely professional. Griffin isn't the rake he once was, or that Society sees him as, but he's still alluring, and possibly dangerous. As we learn about the past scandal that's come back to haunt him it's much easier to see him as a slightly wild youth than a villain out to harm innocents. Now that's he's grown he still may bend the rules when it suits him, but it always suits him to protect those under his care. He follows his instincts and, while he has his moments of male stupidity, is still a great leading character.

A few of the possible side stories of Last Night didn't get as much play as I would have liked. We keep hearing about the conflict between Esmeralda's mother and brother, and how Esmeralda won't go to the family for help because she expects to be treated the way they treated her mother. But nothing ever follows through on that and it becomes just a bit of gossip instead of a resolved issue. Whether the family chose to accept Esmeralda and Josephine or cut them the way Esmeralda imagines would have been interesting to resolve and added an additional layer of drama and conflict. The rumors of ruining Griffin's sisters started out as the impetus for Griffin to hire Esmeralda, but then became more of an afterthought thrown in occasionally than a major problem. By the end it's more of an anticlimactic issue than the relationship between Griffin and Esmeralda. Which both worked (there's only so much that can fit well into one book) and didn't quite work (you keep waiting for something serious to come up with the sisters). But there's enough chemistry and drama between Griffin and Esmeralda to keep everyone happy.

A good start to a new series from the author of Mistletoe, Mischief, and the Marquis. Can't wait to delve deeper into the other Rakes of St. James!

4.5 Stars as reviewed at Roses Are Blue (and Goodreads)

When Benedict Mercer, Duke of Griffin, was a younger man, he and his friends pulled a prank which society took great exception to, and never let them forget. Years later, his twin sisters are about to make their debut, and gossip is circulating that someone is planning to ruin them or their season in retaliation for the long ago misdeed. Griffin plans to escort them to all the evening functions and keep a sharp eye out for any trouble, while their aunt was scheduled to chaperone and watch out for them during the daytime social activities. Unfortunately, Aunt has taken very ill, and won't be able to leave her sickbed for quite some time. It seems like providence that Griffin happens to be passing an employment agency, and decides to hire a chaperone on the spot. When Griffin enters, he overhears a lady advising and coaching one of her distraught employees. He's so impressed with her dialogue and the manner in which she handles the situation, that he decides she is the perfect one for the job.

Esmerelda is administrator of the employment agency, and is currently dealing with one of her governesses who is distressed over her current charge's behavior. Esmerelda is the granddaughter of a viscount, but her mother's family disowned them when she married against their wishes. Now, with her parents and stepfather dead, Esmerelda has no choice but to work to support herself and her young half sister, Josephine. Esmerelda is more than happy to supply a chaperone for the handsome duke, but it seems that he wants her for the job and no one else will do. Though she argues that she does not take on jobs herself, he is insistent. When he finally agrees to allow her to bring her younger sister and her dog, to supply new dresses, and to pay a handsome salary while she lives in his home for the length of the season, Esmerelda gives in.

Griffin doesn't try to delude himself - he knows he's attracted to Esmerelda. He also knows that his own honor prevents him from having any relationship with someone in his employ and thus, under his protection. However, when the season is finished, well, that's another story. Esmerelda and the twins, Sara and Vera, get along fabulously. She's determined to watch out for them and avoid any potential mischief. This is a bittersweet scenario for her, as she would have been making her debut and enjoying a season if her circumstances hadn't changed drastically. Still, she enjoys herself and the time spent with Griffin, and her sister is flourishing with having room to play. I love that she accepts her lot in life with determination, and without bitterness.

The desire that Griffin feels is definitely not one sided, Esmerelda feels the strong chemistry as well. Though they try to be circumspect, they do indulge in a few steamy kisses and caresses. Griffin is seduction personified - just hearing him say, "I'm here for you," sent my temperature soaring. And he says lots of things like that. I don't know how Esmerelda could possibly resist him. And while he is confident and determined, he's also kind and courteous. LAST NIGHT WITH THE DUKE focuses on the romance that develops daily with a hero and heroine that I loved, and who have a sizzling attraction. Griffin, who seemed perfect up to this point, shows that he does have flaws by his actions late in the story, but he redeems himself in fine form. I adore this book, which has the perfect blend of love and steam. I just devoured it, and recommend it highly.

Esmeralda and Griffin have different personalities and, yet their intelligence and throwing challenges to each other made this novel intriguing and the same time exciting.

I like how Griffin is protective, caring and demanding. He is a great brother and a duke that would do anything for the people whom he loves.

I salute Esmeralda for being serious, strong-headed and independent. She knows where she stands that why she is an awesome protagonist.

Lady Vera, Lady Sara and Josephine were superb addition to the story. I couldn't wait for the two other dukes to find their match!

Thanks St. Martin's press and netgalley for this ARC.

Lovely historical romance full of danger, passion, and almost missed opportunity.

Last Night with the Duke is book 1 in Amelia Grey’s new series, The Rakes of St. James. I received an invitation from the publisher via Net-Galley to read and review. The book description sounded enticing, so I accepted.

This novel is a sweet story, one that put a smile on my face. The pacing is steady and so the story moved along well. The characters are very likable, especially Josephine and her little dog Napoleon. My heart ached for the child at times. She had a difficult time, and the little dog helps her heal from losing her beloved father.

Esmeralda Swift has a lot to contend with, between keeping her twelve-year-old sister safe, a roof over their heads and her business running smoothly while earning their livelihood. When the Duke of Griffin comes to her agency to hire a chaperone to square his twin sisters around society, she is excited until he tells her he wants her to personally do it. How can she keep her business running if she accepts his financially adventitious offer?

The Duke does not take no for an answer. When he sees something he wants, he pursues it relentlessly. Esmeralda is perfect for his sisters, so he gives her an offer she cannot refuse, even when she makes a few outrageous demands of her own, thinking to discourage him.

Now that he has her ensconced in his home, he needs to keep her at arm’s length. After all, he is a gentleman and must not dally with an employee, no matter how tempting. Can he keep his desires in check for the delightful Miss Swift, or will he crumble beneath the overwhelming attraction for her?

Esmeralda is an endearing heroine with many redeeming characteristics. She is loyal to her sister, determined to protect her charges from rakes and near-do-wells while holding the charming duke at bay. Her attraction to him is fierce, but her integrity keeps her from giving into her desire. I loved the tender care she shows for her mischievous little sister. For me, that part of the story was the most enjoyable.

Griffin is a great hero, a reformed rake, trying to do right by his irascible twin sisters and his elderly great-aunt. I enjoyed his struggle to rein in the amazing attraction for Esmeralda when all he wanted to do was bind her to him. I enjoyed to camaraderie he has with his two friends as well.

Now, what did not work for me? The romance was not the true central focus of this novel. While there is chemistry between Griffin and Esmeralda, it takes too long to heat up. They don’t even kiss until around 67% of the story. For me, I would have liked more stolen kisses between the hero and heroine much sooner in the story.

If you enjoy traditional Regency romance with endearing characters and a sweet storyline with several enchanting moments, then you will enjoy Last Night with the Duke. If like heat with your romance, then this might not be the book for you. Nonetheless, I did enjoy many aspects of this story and will probably read the next book. Happy reading!

Reviews by the Wicked Reads Review Team

Erica – ☆☆☆
3.5 stars

I need to preface this review by stating my current mood wasn't favorable for this genre. Explanation: you know how when you read a bunch of books back-to-back and they all start sounding similar? While the first few, you were in deep love with the genre, the premise, eager for more of the same, but then you get burnt out on the same tropes. That's how I felt reading Last Night with the Duke. This doesn't mean it's a bad book. If this had been the first in a string of historical romances, I would be raving about it. That's not fair to the book or the author. So I'm going to state what's within the book, and leave my skewed personal opinion out of it.

What's in the book: Esmeralda is the granddaughter of a viscount, but after the actions of her mother, their branch of the family was disowned, so she has to work her way through life. She oversees a governess and chaperone business.

Griffin is a Duke who is seeking a chaperone to help pave the way for his sister's debut – this sets up how the two love interests meet. He has a past, and he fears it tainting his sister's future.

If you're looking for a book featuring a scoundrel (our duke) who butts heads with his sister's chaperone, one who doesn't want to marry a commoner, where we discover Esmeralda (being the granddaughter of a viscount) is exactly what he's looking for, which leads to a happily ever after between the pair.

Last Night with the Duke was written well, the flow fluid, as Amelia Grey is a good writer. The characters were engaging, with mystery, closed-door-fade-to-black romance, and added banter/humor. The pacing was on the slow side, without much occurring until the final climax.

As I stated at the start of this review – this is on me. The book was a solid historical romance, with all the elements needed, but I couldn't help feeling as if I've read this all before, many times over. Maybe I'm burnt out on the genre. Maybe I'm looking for an original take on historical romance.

Recommended to fans of Amelia Grey and historical romance, especially those who love the tropes that have stood the test of time. This is a clean romance, solid writing, with a guaranteed happily ever after.

For those looking for a book that stands out from the crowd, has a different take on the culture in historical romances, more heat, I'd suggest you download the sample.

I found Last Night With The Duke to be a good story – I didn’t love it, didn’t hate it but I certainly had trouble connecting to either main character. I don’t mind in the least to use my imagination with some couples, believing in the.. “Okay, maybe that could happen” type of reading logic. Griffin and Esmeralda simply didn’t spend enough time getting to know even a bit beyond the surface, and I simply could not stretch enough to see them as a couple falling in love in spite of the circumstances they each find themselves in.

I did something I don’t normally do which is check out other reviews of this book. I don’t like to do that until after I post my review – but I really wanted to know if it was just me that wasn’t getting this couple. I found mixed reviews – some loved it, some hated it and some were like me, in the middle.

It comes down to a simple fact that I couldn’t believe in the relationship of this couple enough to see them as in love or having a happy ever after. I wish I felt differently – but I don’t, and that does make me feel badly. It’s obvious there is an audience who loved this story – so you’ll need to make up your own mind on this one. After all, a review is just one person’s opinion. I’ll stick with my feeling of a good book and leave it at that.

*I received an e-ARC of this novel from the publisher via NetGalley. That does not change what I think of this story. It is my choice to leave a review giving my personal opinion about this book.*