These loveable characters, this gorgeous book! We've got Selina, who is everyone's manager/coordinator/matchmaker and just wants to be truly needed by someone. In comes fish-out-of-water American duke: Peter! This cinnamon roll might be the most delicious, breakfast pastry to ever be GONE for the heroine! So much swoon. But in order for Peter to gain custody of his half-siblings, he needs a bride with a flawless reputation and Selina has a secret that makes her a scandal waiting to happen--she runs an erotic circulating library for women!!

• I love that Selina's passion is sexual health/education!
• I die at: wait, is she proposing to me right now, better just say yes to whatever she says just in case! (She was not, but Peter is very much politely down bad for this woman at all times)
• Selina and her efficient scandal management. She's amazing.
• I love the letters and quotes at the start of each chapter! Will, her brother 🥺🥰 I hope he gets his own book!
• Peter's half siblings are so precocious and loveable and add plenty of humor without being over the top. Lu and her rapier, demanding satisfaction from the world--you'll love them even if kiddos in romance novels aren't always your thing!
• Peter's like, Sorry everyone, but there will be no third act conflict between Selina and I. I simply refuse! (👏👏👏)
• The whole cast of characters are fantastic and I cannot wait CANNOTWAIT for the next book!

Thanks so much Netgalley and St Martin's Press

This was a fun, swoon-worthy romance. I loved both main characters, as well as the children (Lu is so relatable). One of my favorite things was the gender-role reversal compared to so many romance books. The female lead having the scandalous secret business? Having to protect her husband from said scandal and trying to run away to save his reputation? Excellent.

NE’ER DUKE WELL is one that surprised me. I put off reading it and I honestly am unsure why because this is the best historical romance book I’ve read in a while. I stayed up to read this because I was so invested in the story. From the characters to the story to the writing, this book is a must read.

I loved every part of this book. I found the characters, Selina and Peter, to have amazing chemistry, while also fully flesh out their own personalities. Selina is a fixer who uses her privilege to run an erotica bookstore in the 1800s to support other women by providing them knowledge. And Peter, the American duke just wants to gain custody of his siblings (who are a highlight of the book, especially Lu) while also unintentionally being a walking scandal. They have witty banter and fun high jinx. The plot itself also lends itself well to these concepts, moving along at a great pace. I honestly didn’t know where the book was going and that was fun for someone like me who reads a lot of romances.

I also found the writing to be well done. The spicy scenes were spicy, but they were intermixed with a great balance. All of the scenes, the dialogue, and the tension was perfect, and can be hard to do in a romance novel sometimes.

Overall, this was a great book. If you’re looking for your Bridgerton fix, want a story with well fleshed out main characters, fun banter, drama, developed side characters, a good plot, and well written, pick this up immediately.

Thank you to St. Martin’s Press and NetGalley for a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review!

I have read Alexandra Vasti's novellas before, and have absolutely loved them, so I was so excited to read her first full length novel. And it did not disappoint! This book is hilarious. I laughed out loud so many times while reading. The banter and wit the characters have is top tier. I absolutely loved the characters in this book. Peter and Selina 's romance was everything. I absolutely loved the way they love and support each other, in all things. The way Peter wouldn't give up on Selina was especially swoonworthy! The children in this book were also fantastic. I adored Lu, especially. Her fierce heart was my favorite. I also adored all the side characters in the book. I cannot wait to read their stories in the future!

I had read this authors previous novella and enjoyed them and Ne’er Duke Well felt very similar to those. It was a cute, spicy historical romance. There was a lot going on but the drama didn’t feel super high stakes. It’s an easy and enjoyable read, just not very memorable. Which is fine with me and I’ll be looking forward to her next book.

Regency romances can be hit or miss, especially when involving characters from southern US states during slavery. However, this book not only delivered an MMC who is a staunch abolitionist, it also blew my expectations out of the water and is easily a new favorite of mine.

With Peter being a new duke after inheriting a title and estate and Selina being the undercover owner of an explicit library catered to women, it's a fun match from the start. Peter is trying to solidify his reputation to gain custody of his half siblings who have been in care of different relatives and Selina decides to help him find a wife so that the local government finds him to be a steady and reliable guardian who is ready to settle down and care for a family. Despite trying to find him a wife elsewhere, Peter only has eyes for Selina and she can't help but give in and marry him. The drama that ensues when Selina's library's ownership comes to question as Peter fully supports her is a fun and adorable adventure.

I loved finding out that the books referenced from the Venus catalog are real publications from the time period and the attention to detail the author put in. It was well researched and based on real characters and books, even with the many liberties taken. I adored Peter's character and how he worshipped Selina. They certainly brought the heat and this was easily one of the spiciest regency romances I've ever read. I loved all of the side characters and how everything came together at the end, even the dramatic court scene that is a microtrope I've come to enjoy since first watching the one in "Legally Blonde".

I really enjoyed this book and will be looking into the author's backlist as this was a fun and memorable read. Any fan of regency romances, particularly those with some spice, will absolutely love this book!

4.75 stars!

This was an arc I put off reading for so long and now I'm kicking myself for it. It was absolutely stunning! If you're devestated by the fact that Bridgerton S3 is already over then pick this book up! It's sexy, romantic, and hilarious. Of course there's romance and lots of spice, but it also has a geat plot with just the right amount of dramatic flair.

SYNOPSIS:
Peter, an American, has just become the new Duke of Stanhope. He asks Selina for help gaining custody of his two younger half-siblings as his reputation is not up to the ton's expectations. Selina's solution? Get him married to a respectable woman, of course. The catch? Selina is his perfect match, and they both know it. The problem? Selina owns and operates a library with a secret line of books exclusively for female educational purposes (*ahem* erotic novels). And if her secret is revealed, it would destory any chances of Peter gaining custody of his siblings.

REVIEW:
Peter and Selina were some of the best romance heros/heroines I've read in awhile. Peter was absolutely adorable and oh so awkward. He had such a knack for getting himself into scandalous situations without even trying. I love how smitten he was with Selina from the very second he saw her. And Selina was a superior mfc. Girly pop decides to run a whole ass erotica library in the 1800s? We love to see it.

I was super nervous about how quickly the romance was developing in the book but it WORKED. Having plot that wasn't just about the romance is something I appreciated immensely. The only reason it's not a full 5 stars for me is because I listened to the audiobook and wasn't a fan of it. But when I switched to e-book only I was way more invested.

TROPES:
Single Guardian
American MMC
English MFC
Historical Fiction (Bridgerton vibes!)

Loved it! What could be more unique than a good natured American duke born in New Orleans of an English peer and a French heiress? That is our sweet, impulsive Peter Kent. Selina is wondrously organized and who better to help him gain guardianship of his half-siblings, Lu and Freddie? His inability to act ducal is a stumbling block, as is his inexperience with children and his unmarried state. Trust Selina to throw potential brides at him. This is a lovely story with so much humor, good intentions, and love.

This was kinda slow for me in the beginning but it really picked up in the second half. I liked that the stakes and the conflict didn’t feel over the top, as they often do in historical romances. The two main characters were definitely a highlight. I’d read more by this author.

Thank to SMP for sharing this ARC (via NetGalley) with me.

I simply adored Ne’er Duke Well. It was an absolute delight from the get-go. It was impossible not to fall in love with Peter and Selina. While they had known each other for years, witnessing them see each other with a different focus was pure magic for me. Add to the mix two orphaned siblings and you have a brilliant story.

I want more from this world. The supporting characters are so good, they must have their own books! Lydia, Georgiana, Iris, Gabe and the characters, that are spoken of, but never seen - Selina’s brother Will and her dear friend Ivy.

Vasti’s full-length debut is sure to delight Halifax Hellions fans. I loved the main characters in this: Selina, the serious, type A, get it done person and Peter, a bit of a chaos demon but exactly the type of sunshine that Selina needed. I enjoyed the discussions of politics and the large cast of characters in this book, who brought a wide variety of experiences and ethnicities to the table. Loved that Peter was from New Orleans! It’s not every day you get to read about an American duke. Lol.

Thank you St. Martin’s Griffin, Alexandra Vasti and Netgalley for the chance to read and review Ne’er Duke Well ahead of its publication, in exchange for an honest review!

This was such a fun, fast paced, and heartfelt debut historical romance! I was intrigued from the moment I first saw the cover and am so happy to say that it did not disappoint. I will be happily picking up the second in this series.

This story follows Peter Kent, an accidental Duke with the goals of abolishing slavery and gaining custody of his younger half-siblings. He enlists the help of his friend Selina Ravenscroft, who owns a secret library dedicated to educating women on romance and sex. I loved how unique and modern both characters felt while still having the Regency charm I pick up historicals for. It made for an engaging story but also felt really sentimental as well.

I loved the found family element, not just with Peter’s siblings but with Selina’s family and friends and how they all come together. I will be excited to read from the perspective of Selina’s friends in future books. I also found the intimate scenes refreshing because Selina is educated about sex and owns her sexuality, which is always fun to read in a historical setting!

While I enjoyed the pace of the book and was surprised by the plot several times, I do wish there were some moments that hadn’t happened so quickly. Namely, I would have liked a little bit more of a slow burn between Peter and Selina, but I still enjoyed their dynamic a lot. I also wish that the author had done more to explore Peter’s political goals because I loved the idea of a duke wanting abolish slavery, but it didn’t seem to have much weight in the story besides being an obstacle for Peter to get custody of his siblings, since he’s seen as a political radical.

Still, I would highly recommend and hope any Regency romance lovers pick up this book this summer!

Ne’er Duke Well was a funny and light-hearted historical romance that dealt with many things not usually talked about in this era like female pleasure and conception. I loved that the FMC, Selina, started her library for women because she found out about things that no one ever tells women like how to get pregnant and about mistresses. She thought women should know these things so they can take charge of their own life and not just let men run it.

Our MMC, Peter, is literally one of my favorite heroes in a book. He never wanted to inherit the title or money, but now that he has, he just wants to take care of his siblings who he just found out about. I love the banter and chemistry the two main characters had with each other and how much they helped each other throughout the book even before they were married.

My favorite scene was at the end when there was a confrontation in the bookstore where everyone was supporting Selina against someone’s father and she could feel the love and support she had from everyone in her life . I really really hope that someone (sadly, I can’t say who because spoilers!) gets a book because her story seems so interesting!! READ THIS BOOK WHEN IT COMES OUT JULY 23RD!!

Audiobook/Ebook tandem read
Story: 5⭐️
Narration: 4⭐️

Peter’s title might be ‘Duke’, but let’s be real, the man is actually a prince. This might be my new favorite historical romance. It was so much fun to read while also having a lot of emotional depth. The chemistry between Peter and Selina was excellent. There were times I laughed out loud over some of the situations they found themselves in, both together and with others involved as Selina tried to find Peter a bride who was not her.

I loved Selina’s covert library operation and admired her drive to educate and care for people, specifically women, in ways that were desperately needed and most often denied.

Peter was the most standup of men. His love for his siblings and earnest effort to do whatever was needed to bring them into his home permanently. His support of Selina was swoonworthy. He also knew how to take care of her in ALL aspects. The steam was STEAMY in this one.

Mhairi Morrison narrated all parts of this book. Overall, I enjoyed the narration. There were times it felt stilted in some of the dialogue, but there was never any part of the performance that took me out of the story being told in the novel.

This whole book was a delight. Thank you to NetGalley, St. Martin’s Press, and Dreamscape Media for the eARC/ALC in exchange for an honest review.

This was a cute Regency romp - not my favorite of the genre, but worth picking up. Our leading lady has a secret sure to scandalize the ton if (when) it comes out. The male main character has strong golden retriever energy to me, but is trying to do right by his half siblings throughout the book - even if he manages to mess it up on occasion. The characters and plot were good with a bit of development throughout. Overall, I would recommend to my friends and family that really like this genre, though I probably wouldn’t start a newbie here if I wanted to get them hooked.

I received an ARC from NetGalley for my unbiased opinion.

This was my first Alexandra Vasti book but definitely not my last. This feels like the beginning of a series, and I will happily devour each book as soon as I can.

Selina is prim and proper on the surface and runs an erotic lending library behind the scenes. She wants women to be more educated about their bodies and their futures than society sets them up for, and I loved the way she took that into her own hands. She has a lovely relationship with her family and tries so hard to help everyone in her life. But maybe what she needs is to let people share her secrets and burdens with her and accept help from them in return.

Peter was so the opposite of the stuffy, staid regency men we are so often. He’s new to high society and chafes at the rules, but must follow them to gain custody of his siblings. Of course this quest draws him and Selina together. She aims to find him a wife, but the chemistry between them is swoony and palpable. Their scenes are sweet sometimes, steamy sometimes, but always heartfelt and full of banter.

Will Peter get custody of his siblings? What happens is Selina’s secret is revealed? And can they help each other through it? Such a fun ride finding out

I’ve been a fan of Alexandra Vasti’s work since I first read the Halifax twins’ novellas, so I was ridiculously excited to get an arc of her first full length novel, Ne’er Duke Well. 😭👏

Ne’er Duke Well follows Peter Kent, Duke of Stanhope, as he attempts to decipher the ways of English society all while trying to gain custody of his two younger half-siblings. The problem is, Peter is an outsider. He was raised in New Orleans, he’s a vocal abolitionist, and he’s caused quite the stir in London. Trying to gain favor with the public and the Court, Peter enlists the help of the most brilliantly clever woman he knows, Lady Selina Ravenscroft.

Lady Selina Ravenscroft is the perfect society lady. She’s charming, elegant, beautiful, and amazingly efficient in every matter. However, she secretly runs a scandalous lending library that provides educational (erotic) materials to women. If her secret gets out, she’ll be ruined!

Selina decides to find Peter the perfect wife, one above reproach. Unfortunately, this becomes quite difficult when their feelings for each other grow. ❤️

Immediately, it’s clear that Peter and Selina have feelings for each other, or at the very least, a strong attraction. The two of them begin growing closer as they hunt for Peter’s perfect duchess. Selina finds herself slightly upset over Peter courting the ladies she’s chosen for him, and Peter can’t stop thinking about Selina. It’s delicious! 🤤 The tension between the two is palpable, and boy, does it pay off! Whew!! The spice! 🥵🔥

Peter’s younger siblings were clearly dear to him, but they were hesitant to trust him after so many disappointments. Peter also had trouble connecting with them due to his past, luckily, Selina was there to help him confront his feelings. Selina’s family and friends were amazing and a large part of their story. I loved the peeks we got at Selina’s childhood through Thomasin and Aunt Judith, and of course, the snippets of letters sent to her twin brother, Will. Honestly, I hope we get more of the Ravenscrofts in future books! 🥰

I was slightly worried there was going to be a third act breakup, but thankfully, it didn’t happen! Once Peter and Selina finally admitted to their attraction and feelings for each other, they worked at communicating and being honest. It isn’t an easy road, but with a bit of help from Selina’s wonderful family and friends, they get their happily ever after! 👏

Spicy historical dual point of view mf romance. I enjoyed all the characters (but could maybe have a few less side characters lol). The leads were fantastic and I especially loved Peter. This was a fun read and I will be looking for more from this author.

In this captivating Regency romance, the author delivers a masterfully written tale filled with vibrant characters, humor, and undeniable chemistry. The story revolves around Lady Selina Ravenscroft and Peter Kent, the newly minted Duke of Stanhope, whose journey from acquaintances to lovers is a delightful, steamy romp that keeps you engaged from start to finish.

Lady Selina is a formidable heroine, embodying intelligence, wit, and a hidden daring side that makes her immensely relatable. Her secret venture of running an erotic circulating library for women adds a unique twist to her otherwise impeccable reputation. Peter Kent, with his radical politics and scandalous past (the sheep incident is particularly memorable!), is a refreshing hero who brings a mix of American charm and noble responsibility to the table. His quest to become respectable and guardian to his half-siblings forms the crux of the plot, leading him to seek Selina's help.

The author's depiction of the Regency era is vivid and authentic, enhancing the reader's immersion into the period. The dialogue is sharp and often humorous, and the chemistry between Selina and Peter is palpable, making their slow-burn romance both satisfying and thrilling. Their interactions are charged with tension and desire, culminating in a relationship that feels both inevitable and hard-won.

The subplot involving Peter's rambunctious siblings adds another layer of depth and entertainment, with their antics providing a charming counterbalance to the main romance. The scenes are well-paced, with just the right amount of intrigue, humor, and passion to keep the pages turning.

In conclusion, this book is a triumph of Regency romance, featuring a strong, intelligent heroine and a roguishly charming hero. Their journey to love is filled with unexpected twists, scorching chemistry, and heartwarming moments. It's a story that will leave you smiling long after the last page is turned. Highly recommended for fans of historical romance who appreciate well-drawn characters and a bit of steamy escapism.

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