Thank you NetGalley and Kensington Publishing for an ARC of this book. All opinions are honestly and my own.

I’ve been reading historical romances, including novels by Sabrina Jeffries, since I was in 8th grade.

And for reference, I am 36 years old now… so I’ve been an avid fan of the genre (and this author) for a LONG time.

I loved the premise of this book. I have read books set in the Napoleonic time period before, but I didn’t know much about the detenus. I thought this was a great concept for our cast of characters.

I also really loved the FMC in this book. Tory is smart, loyal, and passionate.

However, I didn’t love the MMC (Jon) who came across as quite staid.

The dialogue, especially during the intimate scenes, also came across very forced.

We were also promised that the characters would be thrust into danger, and unfortunately I felt like this didn’t live up to that promise. I love a looming villain or danger to keep the plot moving in a romance book.

Overall, while I was so excited to read this book, it didn’t have quite the same pizazz as her previous books.

However, some of the side characters were extremely interesting, especially Scovell, so I am looking forward to reading the upcoming books in the series.

SUGGESTED SNACK PAIRING: plum cake

Triggers: sexual content, injury detail, death, birth trauma, sexual assault, imprisonment, PTSD, stalking

There is nothing wrong with a classic regency romance! In these types of stories a lot of half truths and miscommunication can become tiresome but I think the author gave a good amount of detail to keep the reader intrigued as to what was coming next. There was defiantly a lot of “Will they? Won’t they?” throughout the book. Our main characters were both keeping secrets from one another that eventually came out which was done in a satisfying way. I was not expecting the spice to be as hottt which was a pleasure surprise!!! Overall very good read!

Hazardous to a Duke’s Heart is the first book in Sabrina Jeffries’ Lords of Hazard series.

Lord Jonathan has been away from England for over a decade, having been detained in France during the Napoleonic Wars. He returns home to find he has inherited a dukedom. He is also grieving the death of his tutor and friend, having lost him just before being free to leave France. He is determined to do right by his tutor’s daughter. He’s surprised to learn she has been governess to his sister. Victoria has some secrets of her own and is also an artist. She wants to set up her own art school, however Jon is determined to follow through on the promise he made to her father and help her marry.

This book captured my attention from the very beginning. I liked the initial setup of the book (and series, I imagine) and the characters were great.

I’ve read a fair amount of regency romance books, but this is the first I’ve read that include the détenus, British citizens who were in France when Napoleon came to power and were forced to remain in France, some for many years. What a fascinating time in history, not to mention the perfect setting for our returning hero.

Thanks to NetGalley and Kensington Publishing for making this book available. All opinions are my own.

I thought I was picking a clean regency romance to read, but I wasn't! This book has a good plot, but there are several holes and parts of the story that didn't match up to me. The characters started to get interesting but then they fell flat. The intimate scenes were awkward and didn't fit the story, the characters or the time period. The graphic sexual scenes really ruined the book for me. I will not be reading any more books by this author.

Thanks to Kensington Books and NetGalley for the advanced reading copy of this book.

I love Sabrina Jefferies books and this one did not disappoint!! I enjoyed reading this book and thought it was a great start to a new series!! The book was very heart warming, emotional and entertaining. It was interesting reading about what detainees went through during the Napoleonic Wars and how they had to adjust to life once they returned home.

I instantly liked both Jon and Tory and loved reading how they got their happily ever after!! The secondary characters were absolutely wonderful and really added to the entertainment of the book. I am looking forward to the next book in the series and highly recommend this book!!

Hazardous to a Duke's Heart by Sabrina Jeffries has been on my radar for sometime, and I greatly enjoyed this brief preview of the prologue and first two chapters. It begins in April 1814 when Jon, a détenu trapped in France for the past decade, is finally freed and able to return home to England. Upon arriving, he discovers that he is now the Duke, following his father and two elder half-brothers' deaths. It's an unexpected role he's stepping into, and he has the added tasks of finding husbands for both his younger sister Chloe and his late mentor's daughter Victoria (Tory), who has actually been working as Chloe's governess. Both young women are against the idea of marriage, and yet Jon and Tory certainly have an instant connection upon meeting.

This preview was a joy to read, with history and twists in what the characters are facing. I do love historical romances with a governess, too, and can't wait to see what happens next in this novel. It's also the first in a series, and I suspect that two of Jon's friends may get their stories in subsequent installments.

While the premise was promising and the pace didn't lag by any means, the chemistry of the main couple just weren't there. The banter had it's good moments but ultimately the whole package just didn't work for me.

Thanks to Kensington Books and NetGalley for the advanced reading copy of this book.

While the story managed to hold my interest, the romance aspect fell a bit flat. Jon and Torie, the main couple, weren’t as engaging compared to some of the other characters in the book.

The plot begins with Jon, our main hero, his mentor, and two other future main characters (a captain and an earl) being detained in France by Napoleon. They eventually return to England after a botched escape plan that leaves Jon’s mentor unable to make it back. Before his mentor’s unfortunate fate, Jon promises to look after his family.

Upon returning to London, Jon unexpectedly inherits a dukedom and must navigate the intricacies of high society while grappling with his growing feelings for his mentor’s daughter, Torie. The story touches briefly on Jon’s PTSD, but it feels underexplored, leaving room for deeper emotional feeling.

For me, the standout character was Jon’s sister, Chloe. Her interactions and the potential romance with Captain Scovell, who might eventually become a marquess, were far more intriguing. I’m especially looking forward to future books that could explore potential matches like Giselle and Heathbrook, or Chloe and Captain Scovell.

Sabrina Jeffries kicks off her new series with a charming story following Lord Jonathan Leighton, who returns from years as a French captive to discover he's inherited a dukedom. He's determined to fulfill a promise to his late mentor by finding a match for the mentor's daughter, Victoria—except she's far more interested in establishing a school for women artists than finding a husband. So the initial set up definitely leads the reader to know there's 1) both a lot at stake for both of the main characters, and also 2) that they have completely different goals so there's going to be some tension playing out as they both try to get their way!

I absolutely loved watching these two go back and forth. They're both super sharp and their banter is just "chef's kiss". Sure, Jonathan's whole guilt thing feels a bit much sometimes (like, dude...or should I say duke,,,, it's really not that serious!), but honestly, I was having too much fun watching him and Victoria match wits to care too much about it.

The mystery element throughout the story worked really well too, especially that twist with the female character at the end. Don't worry, I won't give it away in my review.

The only real downside is that now I'm totally invested in all these side characters and their stories, and I have to wait who knows how long for the next book to come out! Still, if you're into clever heroines who know their own minds and heroes who need to get out of their own way sometimes, you're going to eat this up.

I really enjoyed this book. So often historical romance can be predictable and route. This had some nice additions of discussing something I wasn’t aware of before- the Detenues of the war. I also loved the mention of a special needs child and the acceptance into the Duke’s family. Sadly, in actuality, these children were shipped off and hidden away in most cases. I recommend this book 1 of a new series and look forward to reading the ones to come!

Our hero and many of his comrades have been detained in France. This aspect of the Napoleonic wars has not often been written about. Anyone who could possibly fight for England against his reign was captured often including their family. At first it wasn’t awful, but as time went on, it became dreadful and many died. These detainees were held for over eleven years until Napoleon was defeated for good. When they finally came home, it was to a changed country. Alliances made in the prisons became even more important as those who were not held could not possibly grasp the after effects. Love blossoms, but there are still intrigues. More intense than most romance novel, but definitely worth reading. Looking forward to the next books in the series.

Jon spent years imprisoned in France missing his family and his own youthful life slipped away.
Now home, he is a Duke with a secret that makes him feel guilty.
He meets his sister’s governess/companion Tory and becomes instantly attracted to her.
Tory has her own secret and a reason to never marry.
As they slowly come together, they need to resolve their past before they can move forward with their future.
A beautiful love story with good character development.
Unique premise in the storyline.
Highly recommend.

Thank you NetGalley for the ARC of Hazardous to a Duke’s Heart

This was my first Sabrina Jeffries and I thoroughly enjoyed reading it and staying up into the late hours of the night to finish it. This book included a bit of history with our MMC being a prisoner of The Napoleonic Wars and returning home to face all that he’s had to leave behind for the past decade as the war ends. Also, he has to fulfill a promise to a fellow friend and POW upon his death which is to make sure his daughter marries well and is taken care of. The FMC is likable and endearing. I think fans of pinning, strong-minded FMCs, and emotionally wounded MMCs will love this story. I’m excited to read the next book in the series when it is written.

Regency with a bit of mystery. Great characters with spirit, compassion and heart. They have really good chemistry and challenging banter that was comical at times and always entertaining. The story started a bit gloomy and once that foundation was laid, it was difficult for me to shake it. I love the plot focus and the suspenseful moments added intrigue. I also enjoyed the supporting characters.

As an avid reader and seasoned reviewer of historical romance, I can confidently say that Hazardous to a Duke's Heart by Sabrina Jeffries is the hottest book of 2025. It’s been a while since a story has delivered on every single element I crave in a love story, and this one nails it.

While many tales repeat the familiar trope of two love interests, this book dives straight into the soul of the connection between its characters, making it fresh, vibrant, and utterly captivating. Sabrina Jeffries has outdone herself, crafting a romance that is equal parts passionate and heartfelt, a reminder of why she’s a master of the genre.

This isn’t just another historical romance—it’s a story that sizzles, surprises, and stays with you. A fantastic read that sets a high bar for 2025! Let’s see if any author can rise to the challenge of topping this masterpiece.

Many thanks to Netgalley and the Publishers for this advanced reading copy of Hazardous to a Duke's Heart for my comments and review.

This book will appeal to both romantic and historical readers. The historical aspect and background refers to the Napoleonic Wars during which time any English person of any profession, those on the “grand tour” (as was popular at the time), enlisted persons and those who found themselves in France for whatever reason were detained on Napoleon's orders. Families and children were included, although Napoleon did release boys under the age of sixteen but often parents elected to have them remain with them.

Détenus, as the prisoners were referred to were usually assigned to stay in a town other than Paris, and so, in this read three compatriots and one mentor, Dr Isaac Morris found themselves living in Verdun, a small town in the north east of France, a town that in years to come became the horrific site of the WW1 Battle of Verdun. The protagonist in this read Lord Jon Leighton and his compatriots even though they have relative freedom decide that they will try and escape from France, however, their plans are reported to the authorities, they are caught and sent to the citadel prison of Bitche. Dr Morris injured his leg during the escape attempt and it is further wounded whilst in Bitche. Sadly, his condition worsens and he dies just on the eve of the end of the war with Napoleon abdicating. Jon carries a great burden of guilt for the death of his mentor along with the promise to him that he will ensure a good future and marriage for his daughter Victoria.

Jon returns to England some time after his two other compatriots having buried Dr Morris in France. Arriving in England he is informed that his half brothers are dead through an accident. He is now the Duke of Falconbridge, something never contemplated, being the “spare” son.

Jon now carries a great amount of responsibility including that of his promise to his mentor. His exile and imprisonment has left him bereft of societal manners and etiquette to the embarrassment of his mother, sister and her tutor/companion, Victoria. His sister Chloe is now a young woman and for which society dictates that she participates in the season of festivities in order for her to find a husband. Tory (Victoria) on the other hand, no title nor dowry, while employed as a tutor for Chloe has an uncertain future. However, with his promise to his mentor, Jon puts into action a plan to ensure that Tory does have a dowry. The one thing Jon didn't count on was his strong attraction to her. The read follows on with passion and sensuality between Jon and Tory even with the personal complications they both hide. Tory, strong willed, refuses all suggestions of marriage, her secret hidden from all. Jon carries the guilt of his mentor's death for which he is unable to resolve within himself along with his secret manipulation of the codicil to the Will and the surprise visitor from France that changes all aspects of Tory's life.

Sabrina Jeffries’ The Duke’s Secret Love is an irresistible mix of sharp wit, sizzling tension, and intriguing family drama that has me captivated. The banter and chemistry between these two are absolutely electric, Jonathan’s rigid sense of duty and guilt clashes beautifully with Victoria’s free-spirited nature, creating a romance that’s as complicated as it is heartwarming.
Plus, Jeffries’ writing is rich with the perfect balance of historical detail, emotional depth, and humor, and she doesn’t shy away from exploring the complexities of duty, ambition, and desire. I absolutely adore this one!

Sabrina Jeffries is back with the start of a new Regency romance series, and "Hazardous to a Duke’s Heart" sets the stage beautifully. If you’re a fan of slow-burn romance, historical intrigue, and complex characters navigating life post-Napoleonic wars, this one’s for you!

Jonathan Leighton, recently freed after years as a prisoner in France, returns to England to find his world completely upended. Not only has he inherited a dukedom, but he’s also burdened by a promise to his late mentor: to find a suitable husband for the mentor’s daughter, Victoria (Tory) Morris. (Side question: Would "Tory" really be a likely nickname given its political connotation in the UK?)

Here’s the catch: Tory isn’t exactly keen on the idea of marriage. She’s focused on her passion for art and her dream of opening a school for women artists. Oh, and she’s also employed as the governess to Jonathan’s sister—a setup ripe for tension, misunderstandings, and just the right amount of scandal.

I liked that Jonathan isn’t your typical perfect hero. He’s grappling with survivor’s guilt, adjusting to his new role as duke, and trying to make amends for past mistakes. Tory is equally compelling—a talented sculptor who knows what she wants and isn’t afraid to challenge societal norms. Their chemistry feels authentic, and their journey from guarded allies to something more is satisfying to watch unfold.

One of the standout features of this book is how it weaves lesser-known history into the plot. The concept of “detenus” (British civilians detained in France during the Napoleonic wars) adds a unique layer of depth, setting this apart from other Regency romances.

While the book has a lot going for it, there were moments where the pacing felt uneven. Some sections leaned heavily into setup for the rest of the series, which, while intriguing, occasionally pulled focus from Jonathan and Tory’s love story. A bit more time spent fleshing out their emotional connection could have taken the romance to the next level. Additionally, while the subplot involving Tory’s art is refreshing, it sometimes felt secondary to the main plot.

Can’t wait to see what comes next in this series—I’ll be keeping an eye out for the stories of Jonathan’s friends!

Thank you to the publishers and NetGalley for the opportunity to review a temporary digital ARC in exchange for an unbiased review.

3.5 stars ✨

I enjoyed this story and I loved the complexity of some of the characters.

Jon, and 2 of his friends are released from a prison in France after Napoleon abdicates. One of their friends died in prison and Jon makes it his mission to uphold his dying wish- to look after his wife and daughter. Trying to navigate England and society again and learning what happened while they were away for over a decade, Jon finds out that the daughter, Tory, actually works in his household as his sister’s governess.


I hope we can find out more about Chloe and Jon’s 2 friends in the future.

I recieved an eARC from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.

I was fortunate to receive an ARC of Hazardous to a Duke's Heart via Netgalley. All thoughts and opinions are my own. This is the first book in the new Lords of Hazard series written by Sabrina Jeffries. Lord Jonathan Leighton, third son to the Duke of Falkonbridge, finally returns to England after eleven years of captivity and detention in France, only to learn that he is now Duke, after the death of his father and also his two step brothers. His imprisonment has changed him, and he feels lost in the homeland he was born in. His mentor (who was imprisoned with him) makes a dying wish that Jonathan finds his daughter a good husband. As it turns out, Miss Victoria Morris is now working as a governess to Jonathan's sister. She is the only person who seems to ground him and make him feel something more than overwhelmed. Jonathan's guilt over how his mentor died and his attraction to Victoria play against his emotional upheaval. I enjoyed reading this story but felt it was missing the electricity that Ms. Jeffries' books often and almost always have. I wish there were more about how he was betrayed in France and his persistence to find the culprit.