Will her scheme to save her father be her ruination…

There is nothing worse for me than having a book awaiting on my shelves and knowing I can not touch it until I have read the stack set before me.
But here I am, finally!

I so love à sortir when the heroine has to personify a man to make ends meet.
Sure, the difficulty for the author is to render it believable. Even more when the heroine’s appearance is one of a slip of a woman. How to pass her for a man.
So here, everyone is well aware Jules is no man representative, he is tiny, reserved, bookish and shrieks like a banshee. Why it was even more fun when Martin, the Duke decides to awaken his manly side.
Julia is too good a daughter, having dealt with her reduced mean, tried everything she could to salvage her father’s estate and now to pay his debts, she is taking on a man post because the pay is better and might help her to settle them quicker. She had to say goodbye to her dreams of a family of her own knowing by following this course she is ruining her any remaining chance of a possible match.
It does not render blind to the attractiveness of her new employer, but what can she do when she stands aside posing as a man.
Martin had sown his wild oats for some years until he was called back home on his father’s last days. Now he must clears the way and find his own pace as the new Duke of Dunscaby. Thus his need for a new stewart. And whatever surprising his man of affair’s choice is, the fellow is skilled and a hard worker. But so lacking all the semblance of a man’s appearance. So to hunting and boxing he will introduce the young man.

I laughed at the difference in behavior, men show when they think there is no women around, cruder language, attitudes …
I was a bit surprised Julia did not run ragged when she plays the two roles of a stewart and a lady, in many ways she was foolish to play this game and knew it was doomed. But who when offered a bit of fresh air after months of drowning would have let it pass.
In all a fun entertaining lighthearted romance which gives some insights of what is to come with the seven other siblings awaiting their own tale.
4.5 stars

𝗦𝘁𝗲𝗮𝗺 𝗹𝗲𝘃𝗲𝗹 onscreen foreplays and lovemaking scenes.

I have been granted an advance copy by the publisher Oliver Herber Books, here is my true and unbiased opinion.

This book has the plot of cross-dressing heroine. The heroine dresses likes a man and takes a job as a steward to a duke who has recently come into his title. The hero was a Marquis before being a duke, so he is used to all the nuances of his station. But he needs a good steward to make sense of his books. He hires the heroine, who has run her fathers property and money for the past 5 years. But the heroine's father spent money recklessly and even borrowed money from a money lender at 5%. The heroine is trying to make up past due payments and doesn't have the funds. The money lender offered her to take a job in his brothel and she refuses. She dresses as a man, brings the duke's books up to date and makes sure all of the salaries are equitable and plans to go around the estates to make sure the tenants are being cared for and that each estate is running properly. But the duke keeps interrupting her plans to do things he thinks will make his steward more manly.
There are times when this type of plot is really a good backdrop for a good story. Unfortunately, this story was not a good story. The author started out good, but when she made the heroine a slight, effeminate man with too big feet, it just didn't make sense. The author describes the steward as a woman dressed in men's clothes. It was as if the author didn't take into account that this story has been done by many other authors (Emily Murdoch has a brilliant story like this). It is really a shame because this is one if my favorite plots. The author also tempts the reader with minor plot threads, but they go no where. I was very disappointed. I would give this 3 stars and suggest to read at your own risk. You have been warned, it is meh.

A little hidden identity, much more social commentary

Julia is forced by her father's wastrel habits to find employment that will pay enough to keep their estate functioning. Her only option is to work as a ducal steward, a position only available to men. I certainly understood her desperation and her commitment to maintaining her masculine persona, even though it was constantly challenged by her employer's efforts to make more of a man out of his effeminate steward.

Martin is a man's man through and through. He appreciates the diminutive steward's work ethics and no-nonsense attitude and is willing to accept that not all men are like himself. Their working relationship is a precarious teeter-totter of heroic as well as hilarious scenes, but there's a mutual respect that is a great foundation for the future growth of their friendship.

Of course things go off the rails once they're back in London and Julia finds both her personas in great demand while Martin is trying to figure out why he's so attracted to Lady Julia and why she seems so familiar to him.

There's a dastardly villain who forces Julia's hand whenever she starts to feel too complacent. His particular serving of justice was satisfying, but I wouldn't have minded if it had gone a bit further. Still, it was plenty enough to ensure a solid HEA for Julia and Martin and I rejoiced with them as they found their future together.

I loved how this story also let us get to know most of Martin's seven siblings, and I loved how the cotton mill plan was perfect both in the story and for the story. It appears that this new series will focus on these siblings and I'm greatly looking forward to reading them all. I voluntarily reviewed an ARC of this book.

I received an Advance Reader Copy from the publisher, via NetGalley. This in no way impacted on my view.

When her father turns to drink and loses just about everything the estate has, Lady Julia St.Vincent, daughter of the Earl of Brixham, has to become a steward for the desperate Duke of Dunscaby, hiding out on his remote Scottish estate, masquerading as a man. She's been her father's steward in all but name for years now, and nowhere else to turn to pay off the vicious moneylender, Silas Skinner, especially when her father turns ill. But Julia never expected that the new duke, Martin, would be hands on, or that they would soon become close friends. Martin needs all the help he can get to transform the Dunscaby legacy back into greatness, especially as his sisters are on the cusp of their debuts, and his brother's rely on him. The new steward, Jules Smallwood, is perfect for this, and someone he can turn to for advice and friendship. However, when Martin encounters Lady Julia in London, after dragging Jules there for the season, he is enthralled, and it seems as if Julia is falling just for the man she can't have.

This is another Scottish themed book I've read recently, and I loved it. The characters that Amy has created are so funny and witty, and their relationships with each other perfect for the book. I really felt for Julia and the situation she found herself in. She needed someone to care for her, especially when her father clearly couldn't, and had to step up time and time again to help. The friendship between herself and Martin, when she was 'Jules', was really warming to see, and they opened up to each other in a way they never had done before. The book was lighthearted for the most part, but there were some dark moments, especially those involving Silas, but I think everything was just right for the romance playing out here. I can't wait for book 2, Her Unconventional Earl, which I think is Charity, Martin's sister's, story.

4.5-5 Stars! Loved this book! First book in ‘the MacGalloway’s’ series and can be read as a standalone. I really enjoyed Julia/Smallwood and Martin’s story. It may have been a bit unbelievable but it was funny and it IS a fictional book, so, there ya go. At times the book would drag on a bit but it was still an entertaining read. Humor, adventure, mystery, danger, a bad guy, a good guy and a non-guy(a.k.a- a lady) all make up this interesting book! Definitely recommend reading this one and I can’t wait for the next book in the series!
*I received this book at no charge & I voluntarily left this review.*

I absolutely adored Martin and Julia/Jules in this delightfully entertaining book. They were lovely, lovely people – both separate and together. While Julia’s plight is a dire one, there is no angst or poor-pitiful-me involved. She accepts whatever is thrown in her way with intelligence, resilience, determination, good humor, and good grace. The writing is excellent, the story is well-plotted, and I liked everything about it.

Lady Julia St.Vincent, daughter of the Earl of Brixham, is desperate. Her father has drunk and gambled his entire fortune away and is deeply in debt to the vile moneylender, Silas Skinner. Not only is there no money left, but her father also is gravely ill, and the deed to their only remaining property, Huntly Manor, is in Skinner’s hands as collateral. With no marriage prospects and no living family, it is up to Julia to save them. Since she’s been acting as her father’s steward for the last five years, she’ll just ‘become’ a man and seek a position. So, Julia becomes Jules Smallwood, a very astute and capable steward to the Duke of Dunscaby. At least this will allow her to make payments on the money her father owes Skinner – and to pay for her father’s care.

Martin MacGalloway, Duke of Dunscaby, has led a carefree bachelor life in London until his father died. Now, it is up to him to grow the family fortunes and assure that his siblings have the wherewithal to support themselves in the future. His first order of business was to acquire a new steward but he definitely didn’t know what to make of the one his Man of Business sent him. He is a tiny, effeminate little man, but he is quite good at his job and Martin can and will toughen him up. He’ll just take him hunting, and maybe drinking, boxing, and skirt-chasing, that will definitely toughen the little fellow up.

Jules is an outstanding steward and Martin is very satisfied with the job he does. Jules has even come up with a way for Martin’s brothers – Gibb, Andrew, Philip, and Frederick – to assure a solid financial future. Everything goes smoothly for Jules – until the duke decides to go to London and take Jules with him. Even that would have been okay – except – there was this masquerade ball and Julia did so love dancing. What can one evening dressing as herself hurt? Uh-Oh. Martin is also at the masquerade and becomes entranced with Julia. How can she play both Julia and Jules?

You’ll love the lighthearted and entertaining story – even during the rare times when it isn’t. The interactions where Martin is trying to make a man of Jules are priceless – and the interactions where he is drawn to Julia are heartwarming. The supporting characters – mostly Martin’s sisters – Charity, Grace, and Modesty – were really fun additions to the story.

I highly recommend this book and cannot wait for the next one in the series, Her Unconventional Earl, that features Charity and will release next January. I hope you’ll read this book and love it as much as I did.

I voluntarily read and reviewed an Advanced Reader Copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.

A Duke by Scot is a wonderful story to start the new series of The MacGalloways. Well written characters with Martin MacGalloway the Duke in question and a rake and Lady Julia make an interesting journey to their happily ever after.

This is a sweet romance. Lady Julia is in a desperate situation. Her father is I'll and is no longer able to function as Earl. He has gotten himself indebted to a nasty loan shark. Julia must get a job to pay the debts off. So she poses as a man and applies for the position as a secretary to a Duke.
Martin, a lord new to his responsibilities as a Duke, is so glad for the help he is receiving from Jules.
Several months later, Julia runs into an old friend, who insists Julia attend her masquerade.
This is where Martin and Julia meet fir the first time as themselves. There is an instant attraction between them.
Julia is recognized by Martin's sister as being Jules and Julia but not by Martin.
The relationship blooms from here but is destined to explode.
I enjoyed this story but it was a little predictable.
4 stars ⭐⭐⭐⭐

Thanks Netgalley for a arc copy of this book for a honest review..  


I know your not suppose to judge a book by it's cover. I couldn't help it this cover was beautiful the yellows that standard out. A Duke by Scot was a very enjoyable read I love everything about this book looking forward to reading her other books. 5 star read 🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟








Happy Reading Lisa 📚

In a time when a woman can do little without an escort, Julia dons a mans wardrobe and takes a job as a Dukes steward to save her home from a dastardly moneylender. Her father has placed her in a horrible position, gambling away all including the deed to their home. Upon meeting the Duke, the sparks are instant. A friendship is created between the Duke and his Steward allowing him to see the whole of Julia’s personality and character. In a time where courtship consists of chaperones and public events, this is rare indeed. Watching Julia juggle 2 life’s after netting the Duke at a ball as Julia, is intriguing and beguiling. Seeing this rake insanely drawn to this woman keeps the story lighthearted while providing plenty of heart pulls. I cannot wait for Charity’s story in book 2.

A very enjoyable read.
Loved the story.
Julia pretends to be a Man to save her home she takes a job as steward to the Duke.
Oh what complicated situation begins.
Great romance with heart,humor and a little angst.
Voluntarily reviewed.

This book was excellent! I've enjoyed books by this author in the past but this book is even better than what I remembered.
Amy Jarecki takes on a tired old trope (a woman disguised as a man meets the man of her dreams) and makes it fresh and new. The dialog is witty and the heroine gets herself into many amusing scrapes. The hero Martin has several brothers and sisters who will undoubtedly get stories of their own at some point.
Add in a loyal butler and an evil moneylender and it makes for a highly enjoyable read.

A woman. Julia, masquerades as a man in order to earn money to pay off her dying father’s debts. Martin, a duke, hires her to be his steward. When she is found out, the duke must get over his embarrassment of being duped and acknowledge his feelings for her. I can’t wait to read the next in the series! I received an ARC from NetGalley and Oliver Heber Books for my honest review.

I received an ARC from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.

This was silly, escapism entertainment. Was it the best recency romance I've ever read? No. But it was a good time.

I was given a free copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.

This is a sweet little rom-com masquerading as historical fiction. When I say sweet, I mean a quaint world where a pair of glasses makes Superman unrecognizable. No, this is not a superhero story. It is a story based on the idea that wearing pants makes you look male even when you look exactly the same in a dress and are considered beautiful. Naive-ville. Still, the characters are likeable even if they're clearly dimwits. This is the first book in a new series. Hopefully, the second book is focused on the one intelligent character in this story, Charity.

An excellent story from Author Amy Jarecki — she never fails to amaze me with her creative plots, fun characters, historical context, and romantic endeavors that she weaves together to create masterpieces. This story is full of moments that will have you laughing one moment and longing the next as you watch these two perfect characters fall in love.

I cannot wait for the next book in the series!!

5 Stars ⭐️| 4 Flames 🔥

Lady Julia St. Vincent is desperate to pay off her ailing father’s debts. She knows the only way to earn enough money to do this is to pose as a man, so she pretends to be Jules Smallwood and takes a job as a steward to Martin MacGalloway, the Duke of Dunscaby. The more time Julia spends with Martin, the more she falls in love with him, but she knows she must not reveal her feelings or she will lose her job and the money she needs to help her father. When Martin attends a masquerade, an enchanting encounter with Julia piques his interest, and he determines to learn more about her. How can Julia keep up the ruse as Jules Smallwood, and how will Martin react when he learns of her secret?

Julia is intelligent and quickly proves her worth as Jules Smallwood, the young steward. Martin has a lot of respect for Jules and his capabilities, but he has no idea that Jules is really a woman. As a newly appointed Duke, Martin finds the adjustment from his old life to his new one difficult. However, he puts a lot of trust in the people who work for him, and he shows a willingness to learn from and receive assistance from others, which says a lot about his character.

Martin takes Jules under his wing and includes Jules in activities that will toughen him up. Boxing, hunting, and other pursuits are comical as Julia tries to keep her identity a secret. These scenes are great – awkward and comical and so entertaining! Whether Jules or Julia, the chemistry between her and Martin is undeniable. These scenes also contribute to the character development, and I feel like I learned a lot about both Martin and Julia. They are both likable, good-natured, and loyal people who will do anything for family and those they care about.

Martin, of course, is clueless about Jules and his real identity, which makes for some entertaining scenes. Poor Martin! He’s so savvy in some regards, but in others, he can’t see what is right in front of him. When Martin meets Julia at the masquerade, for example, Martin is smitten. He has no idea that Julia is, in fact, Jules, and his determination to connect with Julia shows how strong his feelings are and how clueless he is. His pursuit of Julia is so romantic, and their chemistry is fantastic.

In addition to the challenges of keeping her identity a secret, Julia also must deal with the lecherous and malignant man who lent Julia’s father money. His unsavory desires and constant pressure to repay the debt create even more obstacles for Julia. This money-lender is such a despicable man, and his interactions with Julia become increasingly dangerous and frightening, which adds to the intrigue of the story.

Other characters, especially Martin’s family and other people in his life, are also quite compelling, and I’m eager to learn more about them in future books in the series. Martin’s sisters have big personalities, and I believe Charity is the focus of the next book, Her Unconventional Earl. I’m also curious to learn more about Martin’s brothers and have a feeling they will have more prominent roles in subsequent books.

Amy Jarecki never disappoints and is one of my auto-buy romance authors. The first book in The MacGalloways series, this is an entertaining story for readers who like historical romance with a slow-building, secret identity/woman-disguised-as-a-man love story. I’m so thankful to Oliver Heber Books, Amy Jarecki, and NetGalley for providing me a copy of the book. All views are my own.

Martin MacGalloway, Duke of Dunscaby, is finding carrying the responsibilities of being duke much more than he anticipated. When he hires a new steward, Jules Smallwood, he's pleased that the quiet and slight man is excellent at his job. Martin takes Jules under his wings and tries to toughen him up a bit with hunting and boxing lessons, but what Martin doesn't know is that Jules is actually Lady Julia St. Vincent. Julia's father has racked up significant debts and the only way she can pay them off is to pose as a man. What she doesn't anticipate, however, is falling for the big Scottish duke. What will happen when Martin finds out about her deception?

I really enjoyed the premise of this book and many of Martin's antics as he tries to toughen up Jules were very funny. Ms. Jarecki does a good job of teasing out all the details of Julia's father's overwhelming debt to a gaming hell owner and what that man demands of Julia as repayment. Some of the book dragged a bit, but picked up again toward the end. I was happy to see these two finally got their HEA. I'm looking forward to reading Charity's story next.

Thoroughly enjoyed reading this Regency romance. Lady Julia St. Vincent is left to pay off her ailing father's debts and determines that she must dress as Jules Smallwood to take a job as a steward. The disguise takes her to Scotland and the home of His Grace, Martin MacGalloway. As a man, Jules quickly becomes an asset and friend to the new Duke. As a woman, Julia finds herself in situations that no noble lady should be caught in. When Martin meets Julia at a masquerade, he is instantly drawn to her.

Julia has to help her father so after five years as his steward she dresses as a man and becomes Jules the steward to a Scottish duke. All goes well until they head to London for the season. Martin seems the last one to realize he is really a she. The story has a lot of humor in it which makes it a fun read. Did I forget to say, there is romance in there too. Thanks NetGalley for the opportunity to read the story.