I’ve absolutely loved this series about the Bumgarten ‘dollar princesses’, four American sisters making their way and meeting their matches in Victorian high society. This one is the story of Sarah, the youngest sister, an animal-loving girl just as strong-willed as her older sisters, and Arthur, Duke of Meridian, the man her eldest sister Daisy was supposed to marry in the first book of the series but ended up with his brother Ash instead. Arthur left to go travel the world and find himself, but things didn’t go the way he expected and he endured a great deal of hardship and privation by anyone’s standards, never mind that of a sheltered English lord.

Reeling from rejection by the man she hoped to marry, Sarah’s taken refuge at the ducal residence. Arthur is thought dead and Ashton and Daisy are living in New York, so she has free run of the place - the locals even call her ‘the duchess’. There’s trouble in paradise with a gang of troublemakers terrorising the locals, though, and when a handsome man turns up on her doorstep with a bullet hole in his shoulder, she can’t turn him away.

I was a little confused about why exactly Arthur didn’t announce himself the minute he arrived home, a choice which left an opening for his weasel cousin George to plant doubts in Sarah’s mind and which for me was never adequately explained. He had no cause to hide himself from Sarah; there was no external danger so far as he knew at that point, and waiting felt like something of a plot contrivance.

Nevertheless, Sarah and Arthur’s romance felt real and charming, with Sarah showing Arthur by example who he needed to be in order to be a duke for his people. She’s wonderfully indomitable, refusing to back down no matter how much danger she finds herself in, but her animal helpers Nero and Fancy are the true heroes of the story. Arthur’s drawn into her orbit inexorably, helpless against her charm.

Five stars for a delightful conclusion to this series, and I can hardly wait to see what Betina Krahn will write next!

This is an engrossing tale of promises, rejections and the joy of finding exactly where, and with whom you belong.

Once upon a time there was a duke, Arthur, who was promised to an American heiress, Daisy. Daisy jilted Arthur for his brother, Ashton. After the wedding, Arthur left the country on a grand adventure. The happy couple move to America even though Ashton is supposed to assume the title if his brother doesn’t return after 5 years. Sarah, Daisy’s sister, had her hopes of marriage crushed in London and retreats to the ducal estate to lick her wounds. An heiress in her own right, in Ashton’s absence, Sarah funds repairs and cares for the ducal estate. The townsfolk call her “Duchess”.

When the Arthur returns, six years later, no one knows who he is, and they definitely don’t recognize him as the missing duke. He got more than he bargained for on his grand adventure. He was captured, imprisoned, escaped, and returns big, tattooed and bleeding. The shire has been under attack by ruffians who’s destruction and thievery are escalating. As Arthur and Sarah join forces to combat the danger facing the town, hard truths are revealed, stakes are raised and hearts are claimed. It’s pretty great!

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

When American Sarah Bumgarten is rejected by an earl, she decides she's had enough of the marraige mart for now. She decides to goes to an estate that is in her brother in law's family, with the current Duke of Meridian being absent for several years.
Relieved to be away from the Ton, she and her wonderful menagerie of animals, decide to make improvements to the country estate. But not everyone is happy about her being there and when a stranger shows up who gets injured, he ends up recooperating at the manor.
Then the journey begins! Arthur, the Duke who has been away has suffered a lot of heartbreak but after being away many years. He has come back to take back his life and he finds Sarah in his home.
I have to say, this story had a little of it all! Humor, heartache, suspense, romance, wonderful secondary characters and of course a hero I could not help but love with a strong heroine. Just adored this story!

This was a well-written, entertaining book. Sarah experiences an embarrassing rejection and leaves town to take refuge at the country estate of a relative of her sister's husband. One day she encounters a group of ruffians and a stranger jumps in to defend her. The story develops in an interesting way and the story held my interest. I enjoyed this book and would read other books by this author.

I thoroughly enjoyed this story so much! It had every thing I love in a historical. Great character growth and development, a sweet slow burn, and a touch of suspense. Arthur and Sarah are just so perfect together and compliment each other. I love them both separate and together. And then all the secondary characters really enriched this story. It had so much depth and feeling. I wish there were more stories like this.

Although ANYONE BUT A DUKE is the third story in the Sin and Sensibility series I wasn’t in the least bit lost and completely enjoyed my time in this world – enough so that I’ll go back to the beginning to get the stories I originally missed. (Sometimes stepping into a series out of order works out well in the end)

After her expected romantic entanglement turned embarrassing due to nothing she did, Sarah has left London for the estate of her sister and brother-in-law far from the humiliation and the gossiping tongues of the ton. Here she’s made a place for herself with purpose as she begins the task of bringing the estate back to its former beauty and usefulness. Yet not everyone is happy with her presence or her actions and Sarah will soon face danger from several fronts. An unlikely rescuer arrives just in time – and with far more knowledge than he should have about her and this particular estate.

I liked Sarah and Arthur both together as a couple and individually. My heart broke for “Art” as we slowly uncover what has happened to this man since he left home years ago. He is not the same man who left, and the man he is today couldn’t have happened if he hadn’t gone through so much and grew, not letting circumstances defeat him. Their romance is a slow burn with an underlying sizzle as they work their way toward a happy ending. Yet there is danger to be faced, a villain to reveal and truths to be told before that can happen for this couple – getting to their future was an enjoyable, emotional adventure. One that I completely enjoyed and would recommend for any Romance reader who enjoys a strong plot, believable characters, a touch of danger, a bit of mystery, and a love worth fighting for.

*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.*

The youngest of four spirited American sisters, Sarah Bumgarten has studiously avoided her mother’s attempts to find her a titled husband among London’s aristocracy. Now, after an earl’s very public rejection, it seems her ideal mate will be anyone but a duke, a marquis, a baron, or a viscount .
Sarah takes refuge at Betancourt, the country estate of the Duke of Meridan. Its rightful owner, Arthur the Duke of Meridian, sibling to Sarah’s brother-in-law Ashton, has been absent for years. Accompanied by her bevy of beloved animals, Sarah delights in refurbishing the once-grand property. But even a self-assured frontier heiress needs help when greedy tenants are threatened by her presence. Out of nowhere, a stranger jumps into the fray when ruffians attack in the local pub. Nothing about “Art,” the roguish interloper—now recuperating in the ducal bedchamber—smacks of nobility, with his brazen sensuality, worldly knowledge, and deeply seductive voice. Yet could he be the errant duke?
This is the third & final book in the series & my favourite of the three, we last saw Arthur in the first book of the series when he left to travel following Ashton & Daisy’s wedding. Over five years have past & Ashton has assumed the duchy. I loved the animal loving Sarah who was strong, feisty, caring & loving. I also loved Arthur who had suffered so much in his time away which was gradually revealed throughout the book. I loved how their relationship developed, a lovely slow burn wakening to their feelings. It was pretty obvious who the villain was & his motives but it didn't spoil the suspense & he did get his just desserts . I absolutely adored that women acted together & wielding pots, pans & pokers. An engrossing read that I found myself loath to put down
My honest review is for a special copy I voluntarily read

This is the final story in a series about a group of spitfire Nevada-born sisters who came to England to join the upper reaches of the Ton after a failed bid for joining society in New York. At this point in the overall story arc, Sarah is the last and youngest unmarried sister. We meet Sarah as she is hoping to reconnect with a suitor who had recently inherited an earldom. The newly minted Earl promptly ditches Sarah for a family-approved Italian heiress in front of her mother and the Ton at a ball. embarrassed and heart broken she leaves London and moves to her brother-in-law's estate.

As unlikely as this scenario sounds, even in 1890s England, Sarah (by herself, without any chaperone or other family) effectively takes over the management of the estate and brings it back from being in disrepair due to neglect. She is basically snow white with medical training. She fixes up the estate and develops her own little hoard of animals - that she sings to and talks to. Like I said - she's snow white. Some time into her sojourn at Betancourt, some troublemakers have moved in to the area and are causing trouble. When they threaten one of her beloved dogs one day, a stranger steps in to help. That stranger turns out to be her brother-in-law's brother, the lost duke.

Arthur had left England to travel the world the day after his brother married Sarah's sister Daisy (the subject of which is a prior book), six years earlier. Since that time, Arthur has had nothing but trouble. He was captured and held prisoner multiple times - and basically couldn't get home. No one wanted to assume he was dead, but Arthur had left instructions that if he was gone more than 5 years everything should pass to his brother.

What a mess. Arthur hides is identity for some time (really way to long in my opinion - tho I got the idea, it just didn't work for me). And once he reveals himself there is DRAMA because he looks and sounds different from when he left. He also has FEELINGS about what happened both to him and while he was gone.

There is also drama with a relative trying to move in to take control of things - and steal any money associated with the estate. Overall - that plot, I think, could have been completely missing from the book and I wouldn't have minded. I think there was quite enough to be getting along with without it.

I liked Daisy a lot - she was definitely modern and AMERICAN and capable. I actually thought, to a certain extent, her level of capability in all things was somewhat unbelievable. I am willing to uphold my disbelief that a young, unmarried, upperclass, woman in the 1890s would be alone on an estate for 18 months, but that she is immediately and totally capable of all things - including be a doctor, basically a vetrinarian, and estate manager - perhaps not. I also didn't really get Arthur's personality. I think a lot of his history would have been more clear if I had read the first book in the series - but I'm not sure I really understood who he had evolved into as a person either. I think Sarah's overarching capableness - maybe cast a shadow over Arthur? Not that I wanted to take away from him, but she truly didn't seem to need him for much. Sex and bay making - but otherwise, he kind of seemed like he would weigh her down instead of lifting her up. He did seem like he was content to let her shine - which I appreciated. But, I don't think Arthur really came to terms with who he is other than that he loved his estate. I have a feeling that as the years go by, he might disappear somewhat behind the force of nature that is Sarah.

I liked a lot about this story - if you are a fan of historicals set in the 1890s with fun Americans trampling all over controlled british sensibilities - you will definitely enjoy this one!

I received this as an ARC from NetGalley, but these opinions are my own!

Want to read more of my reviews? You can find me at http://thisbookthatlife.com

Sarah is the youngest of four American sisters. The story opens with her having her heart stomped on and she vows to leave London and find somewhere to belong away from the aristocracy. She flees to the estate of her sister and brother-in-law, though they are in America. The country home of the missing Duke. The mysterious, missing Duke, no one knows what happened to him. He's been gone for 5 years. When a friendless, tanned, tattooed man shows up, everyone wonders who he is. Named “Art” he forms a relationship with Sarah while recovering from a gunshot wound.

This book started out so strong for me. All I wanted to do was read it. I was sneaking it into the bathroom and hiding from my kids. Alas, about 1/3 of the way in my interest started to wane. This is my second try with Betina Kahn and I felt similar about the first one I tried. There just tends to be a lot of plot going on, mystery, action, and the characters get a little lost for me. I want more time spent on their relationship and the feels of the relationship. I think if you like your books fast paced with a hint of mystery and action you would like her writing. There's definitely a few parts that are funny.

I'd also like the say, even though this is book 3 in the series, it's fine as a standalone. Series are usually better in order, with knowing who is who and the character depth of seeing the family members, but you definitely won't be lost with just picking up this book. (I love series like this, it's nice to just pick up a book and read it and not have to hunt down everything else first.)

Such a fun read, with great cast of characters. I love Sarah and how she draws everyone to her. Nero is great, I want a Nero.
It was good.to revisit old characters. Some of the things Uncle Red says, just make you laugh out loud.
Can be read as a stand alone, but recommend reading the others too

Sarah Bumgarten has traded society balls and such for the quiet country life. It all came about when she realized the man she thought she would marry became engaged to another. Heartbroken, Sarah just wants to forget everything for a bit. That is how she found herself managing her brother-in-law's estate, Betancourt.

Arthur "Art" Michael Randolph Graham, the 6th Duke of Meridian, has returned to claim what is his. He left home for adventure, and got a little more than he bargained on. Having suffered some terrible plights, Art has come back to heal. Upon arriving, he runs into a true spitfire, Sarah. Together, they work to bring his estate back to it's former glory. Art is slowly, but surely, falling for Sarah. When her life is threatened, can he save her before it's too late, or is he cursed to always lose that which he loves?

Author Betina Krahn's SIN AND SENSIBILTY series comes to a close with ANYONE BUT A DUKE. This is the youngest Bumgarten, Sarah's, story, and d we finally get to see what happened to Ashton's older brother, Arthur. Sarah and Art are both kindred spirits... sensitive, caring and compassionate. They are truly a match made in Heaven. ANYONE BUT A DUKE is just heart-warming. I am so glad these two found one another and began the process of healing. For the full efffect, I recommend reading this series in order. It consists of three books, each one as compelling as the next, A GOOD DAY TO MARRY A DUKE, THE GIRL WITH THE SWEETEST SECRET and ANYONE BUT A DUKE.

When a long-lost duke reappears, what will do the woman who have taken the mantle of managing his estate...

This is my first read by Mrs Betina Krahn, and despite this book being the last in a series, I never felt lost.
At first I wondered during which period the story was set, thermometers and stethoscope plus train, I knew we were probably during the Victorian area, then a note of the author by the end of the book, settles the action in 1890, which explains more easily the different advancements in science.
I just loved this tale, nothing was rushed, and even if the novel is essentially from the main couple’s point of view, it has some insights from side characters.
The tension in the story is brought slowly, the author takes her time to introduce the different protagonists, then she sets everything in motion.
It was not a lust-charged romance, Arthur and Sarah get to know one another, then learn about each other before being able to give their truth.
When a round of events bring them on the same path, from this point they will have to work together before they might believe they can count on the other.
Sarah has sought shelter at her brother-in-law’s estate, she is clever and not afraid of hard work why it is there she found a true new direction for her life, slowly she is rebuilding her sister’s husband holdings, and there she felt at her right place. Here, she feels she is more than tolerated, she has been accepted as part of their own.
Yet things are not quiet and all is not rosy, danger and greed lurk in the corner.
And It is this threatening menace that brought Arthur at her doorstep.
Arthur left his home and country heartbroken, and from there, he was bond to bad luck, accumulating issue after issue. My heart rooted for him with everything he endured before he was able to regain his freedom. He payed a heavy price during his six years of estrangement, it shaped him in a very different man, his errors and pains made him grow. Now back home, he is no longer the young confused lord he once was, unaware of his duty, he learned the value of hard works and now is ready to prove his worth to be accepted in the bosom of a clan.
It is a spirited and delightful tale of a second chance at life and love, with two peoples who work hand in hand to revive a country’s land, and in the process come to view the other as an asset for their own life.
Up to them to fight their own demons and go for what or who really matters.
I just loved they do not let miscommunication nor misconceptions ruin their relationship, they are able to discuss and express their fears and doubts. And they are reasonable when it is shown to them they were on a wrong path. They do not let anger or worry damage their link.

5 stars for this astonishing tale of two resilient persons whose love and care for all the lives around, pet or human, shows their true color.

I was granted an advance copy by the publisher on Netgalley, I also purchased my own.
Here is my true and unbiased opinion.

Sarah Bumgarten left London to avoid scandal. Living at her brother in law's estate of Betancourt, she's made a miraculous change in it's upkeep and profitability. A stranger in the village is hesitate to reveal who he is. After he's shot, he recovers at Betancourt under Sarah's care. The more bits and pieces he reveals, the more it seems he may be the missing Duke of Betancourt, especially when he steps in to catch the men trying to destroy the estate. A sweet, laugh out loud, romantic love story. I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book.

I loved this book. It had everything I like in a romance- great characters, a wonderful plot full of intrigue, deception, and suspense, and a romance that will curl your toes. Although, I wish that Ms. Krahn would write more stories with these characters. I wouldn't mind a story about Sarah's mother!?! I received an advanced reader's copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.

I received an ARC of this book to read through NetGalley in exchange for a fair review. Anyone But A Duke by Betina Krahn is the third and final book in her delightful Sin and Sensibility Series. I do think you should read the first two in order to understand and enjoy this book completely. Sarah the youngest of the Bumgarten sisters heartbroken when she discovered that man she thought she would marry had returned from a trip to Italy with a fiancé. Wanting to escape London society she has retreated to Betancourt, the estate of her brother-in-law the new Duke of Meridian and has taken on the task of caring for the estate as it was becoming run down in the absence of the Duke. Arthur Michael Randolph Graham the 6th Duke of Meridian long presumed to be dead has returned to England after a series of harrowing adventures and not quite sure is he will be welcomed gives his name as Michael Grant when he is shot in the shoulder and brought to Betancourt to be treated by Sarah who also acts as a medic for the estate and the village. As they work together to help save the village and estate from a band of roving thieves and he deals with the machinations of his nasty cousin they become friends and perhaps something more … but she’s afraid that he still loves her older sister and he knows that she would rather anyone but a duke for a husband. A thoroughly enjoyable read. Medium Steam. Publishing Date November 26, 2019 #NetGalley #AnyoneButADuke #BetinaKrahn #KensingtonBooks #ZebraRomanceNovels #Bookstagram #HistoricalRomance

This is Sarah Bumgarten and Arthur, the Duke of Meridian’s story; 3rd Book in the Sin & Sensibility Series. A standalone, happily ever after, no cheating, historical romance with action, intrigue and some heat.
Beautifully written, with a spirited heroine and a reluctant hero. This story captured my attention from beginning all the way to the end.
All the characters were well developed along with the romance between Sarah and Arthur with a little bit of heat.
I look forward to more from this author.
I received a copy of this story through NetGalley for my honest opinion.

Sarah has gone to Betancourt, a duke’s seat, after being humiliated in London. There she is thriving, as is the estate. The Duke, has been missing and presumed dead. He left for adventure after his brother had married his first love, Sarah’s sister. Arthur has had adventure but spent most of the time in captivity. He escaped and has made his way home. What follows is Sarah and Arthur finding their way together, a dastardly cousin trying to take over, tragedy, and finally a HEA. A good read.

After she's humiliated in a London ballroom, Sarah retreats to her brother-in-law's country home to enjoy some solitude. She discovers a neglected estate in need of some repair, and takes on the project, soon earning the nickname "Duchess" with the locals. The duke has long been absent, possibly dead overseas. When a mysterious man arrives in town, calling himself "Art", Sarah doesn't suspect at first that he might be Arthur, the long-lost duke she met many years before. This man certainly looks different, tanned and scarred, and he doesn't act like the gentle nature lover who left to see the world. But he seems to know a lot about the title, the family, and her.

This was an enjoyable read, but the characters were sometimes very frustrating. Sarah is supposed to be sensible and organized, but she decides to charge off headlong on multiple occasions, instead of asking for help. Some secondary characters behave in inconsistent ways, too, and we don't get enough insight into why they act as they do.

This is the third book in this series, I however started with the second which I loved! This is Sarah's story the youngest of the Baumgarten. Sarah who a little different and didn't really fit in with the ton and she was also American. She felt like she had a friend and love interest in one of the young men, but he was sent away was finally back and she knew that he was going to be hers she had a gift for him and all because she truly missed him, but when he came back he came with a wife and she was not very nice. Heartbroken Sarah moves to her sisters husband home and started taking care of it since her sister and her husband the now duke because his brother passed where still in America. But, Arthur, the real duke was not dead after all, and now we have lies, betrayal, some danger and a love where they don't expect it..I normally do not like reading stories of guy now falls for the sister of his previous love, but I was ok with this one..

This book was good though I will say it lost some of its momentum towards the end. I enjoyed the characters, but the love triangle was smothered what felt like far too quickly and easily when we finally had everyone all together. All in all it was a fun read I just felt it could have been even more. I wished there had been more details and plot reveals in the end instead of the drawn out beginning and short end we received.