How To Love A Duke in Ten Days

This is a great story. It is very well written. Full of romance, intrigue and suspense. An excellent book. I enjoyed reading it a lot.

When you've been away from historical reading roots for so long, How to Love a Duke in Ten Days reminds me of why I need to go back and rectify that.

While I didn't find this novel full of as much history as some others in the genre, the story was remarkable and the writing perfect for the time period. Reminiscent of Beauty and the Beast, the main characters, Piers and Alexandra, go beyond that popular tale with deep secrets of their own, one needing revenge and the other needing money for her bankrupt family.

The beginning has the biggest hook ever, which drew me in to Alexandra's everlasting struggles and the delightful company she keeps.

This was my first Kerrigan Byrne novel and certainly will not be the last.

I was captivated by Alexandra and Piers from the very start of this book. Alexandra is smart, brave and doing her best to live her life even though a dark secret haunts her. I love the strong friendships she has with her two best friends, who share the secret and support each other in everything. Piers doesn't believe any woman can look beyond his scars, but underneath he is kind and compassionate. Their relationship has an unusual start, but through the secrets, mysteries, mistrust, and someone wanting them dead they come to love each other even though it all happens in 10 days. The setting and social mores of the time are authentic, the characters very well drawn, and the happily-ever-after very satisfying.

Love, love love this books. The imagery was over the top. This is a hot, steamy romance with some dark dealings. It was so refreshing to see a strong male character. His character was well developed. He was strong, caring, and emotionally charged. I couldn’t put this book down. I can’t wait to read the next installment. Byrne is one of my new favorite authors.

Four and a half
This author writes historical romance with bite that truly sweeps her readers away from humdrum everyday existence to a world that excites and invites the reader to explore more. In this the first of what appears to be a new trilogy we meet three plucky young women who face life on their own terms. This story introduces Alexandra who at the beginning of this book experiences a horrific ordeal at the hands of her headmaster. The scene didn’t feel gratuitous and actually wasn’t one the author lingered on but it does set up for the way Alexandra conducts herself in the years that follow the attack.
Alexandra has come a long way in nearly ten years and is a respected scholar and archaeologist . She doesn’t trust men but has found a way to deal with her reactions although she’s hesitant to let any male see her as a woman and relishes her blue stocking status. When one of her dearest friends announces she’s about to get married Alexandra is both perplexed and happy for her but it’s obvious it’s no love match and funnily enough perhaps the Duke would prefer to wed Alexandra ? Piers knows he’s not every woman’s dream husband but as he’s desperate to secure an heir the quaint proposition of Alexandra actually surprises and excites him but there’s something she neglected to tell him and it’s about to make their honeymoon both memorable and very dangerous !
I note that there are several reviews that are perhaps more negative than I usually associate with this authors work and would like to state that the author does preface this with a paragraph about the me too movement so going in I knew that there would be a situation that no woman wants to experience. Abuse is never an easy subject but this story is about healing, hope and ultimately survival. It also happens to be a very sexy romance as Alexandra takes control and frees herself from a past that has held her back for too long. For this reader personally I didn’t particularly enjoy the couples dialogue and interaction at times as it seemed perhaps a little too lovey dovey but I did enjoy the overall plot with its mystery and elements of danger. This is a romance so of course there’s a happy ending but oh the author is a tricky woman as something is revealed that means the next book cannot come quickly enough !
This voluntary take is of a copy I requested from Netgalley and my thoughts and comments are honest and I believe fair

I adore Kerrigan Bryce’s work and this is my favorite next to The Hunter. I don’t know how I missed that this was a new series but I love the premise of The Red Rogues.

Alexandra is such a strong, endearing, intelligent character. I adored her verbal sparing with Piers. Alexandra experienced a horrible trauma and is keeping some secrets. Piers is scarred and feared as the Terror of Torcliff.

The story is a slow burn with a building of friendship and a slow seduction. There were several tropes but they were used well.

Kerrigan Byrne is one of my fave authors. Whenever one of her books come out I dive in and lose myself to her wonderful storytelling. Mystery, passion, intrigue and suspense. She has it all!

THAT WAS AMAZING!!!!!!! Since the moment I finished reading The Highwayman, I knew that Kerrigan Bryne was the voice I needed in the historical romance book world. She always manages to combine pieces of those good, old fashioned bodice rippers with the sensitivity of modern issues. What am I going to do with my life now?? Can I just go ahead and have Cecilia and Francesca’s stories right now? I won’t tell anyone....

Delightful and Delicious.
Emotional, sexy, tender and romantic with a side helping of suspense, this book is a delight to read. I was impressed with how sensitively the trauma experienced by Alexandra as a young girl was handled and I believed in the characters and how they reacted to each other. The story hooked me in and I was lost to family and friends for hours whilst I read. Highly recommended. Can’t wait for me next in the series.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book from NetGalley. All thoughts and opinions are my own.

How to Love a Duke in Ten Days is the first book in the Devil You Know series and what a great start!! I devoured the book in one day! Lady Alexandra Lane and Piers Atherton, Duke of Redmayne are not your cookie cutter characters. They are not perfect and have been wounded, both physically and emotionally, by events in their lives. Alexandra has survived ten years of being blackmailed for something she did while at school. What she did was in self defense, but the darkness has been her sole companion for those years. Both Alexandra and Piers carried scars, physical and emotional ones. When the past catches up to them they decide that together they can help each other.
During those first ten days of their marriage they slowly fall for each other. Alexandra saw the beauty of his soul and taught him that it was okay to gentle and not be taken advantage of. Piers was always very protective of her, sadly for a moment his trust towards her almost tore them apart. Luckily he was able to figure out the truth about what had happened to her.
Their scenes together where always a delight. The scenes where she always attempted to make him smile were adorable.
Besides romance, this book had some action too. Guns, knifes, falling artifacts, where only of the few things they survived.
An added bonus was the relationship Alexandra had with her two best friends, Cecilia and Francesca. The three of them share the most darkest secrets and help each other out,
Great ending and really looking forwards to the next book in the series!!
Highly recommended!!

Thank you to the publisher for providing the ARC through NetGalley for review.

Kerrigan Byrne shares stories that are rich of raw emotion, intense feelings, survival and love. I know that when I pick up one of her books I will be rewarded with a strong solid story, unafraid to explore the dark corners of our lives, the struggles that are faced and the healing the love can bring

Such is Alexandra’s story. The traumatic experience of a rape and murder and how it shapes her life for years to come. This is a strong, smart heroine that does not hide from a challenge, goes on to succeed professionally and yet carries this dark secret that paralyzed her world and brings fear to her close friends. She is put in a situation, selecting to help her friend and marrying Piers.

Piers is certainly swoon worthy material. The strong alpha hero that cames to you with baggage of his own yet gentle enough to slowly help Alexandra find trust and love. I was touched by the patience he expressed, but mind you it was at times frustrating that he just did not see it. The the clues where there n yet he did not see it. You wanted to grab n shake him! How dare he! How blind. Yet it was heartbreaking to read when he finally understood the whys and admire Alexandra more.

This is certainly not your glittering ballrooms and country parties kind of story. These are solid romance stories that come with a full package of love, courage, yes steamy encounters, and survival. Kerrigan never disappoints. I can’t wait for the next book.

Breathtaking, heartbreaking and toe-curling is the only way to describe what Byrne has created in this world of friendship, love and the learning of trust. This is NOT your typical regency romance. This is a story of healing and learning how to let go of the past to control your future; not allowing someone’s crimes against you ruin your life and chances at true love. One of my absolute favorite reads of 2019.

Beauty and the Beast has a new, modern twist. A beautiful Bluestocking sacrifices herself to a marriage of convenience to save her friend.
Strong female characters are well developed and take a role in their own rescue. The portrayal of the women is refreshing and realistic.
I couldn’t put it down and devoured it in one sitting!

Wow! Kerrigan Byrne knows how to take an issue that is currently at the forefront and make it both realistic and heart-wrenching in a time when women had even fewer rights than they do today. In somewhat of a spoiler alert (not much of one, this happens in the very beginning of the book), the story's female lead, Alexandra, is raped by the headmaster of her school. While her experience cements the bond between her and her closest friends, Cecilia and Francesca, it scares all three women off of men. Ten years later, the Duke of Redmayne calls Francesca on a childhood betrothal and Alexandra offers herself instead to help protect a secret she and her friends have been hiding. While many romance novels have conflict between their characters, rarely is it as complicated and deftly managed as it is here. Piers, the Duke of Redmayne, and Alexandra are immediately attracted to one another but her experience and his mother's past leave them at odds over their feelings. In between trying to sort out their feelings for one another, they're also being threatened by threats on their lives, but which one of them is the target? I loved how real and raw Byrne made this story, and how she masterfully took a subject matter that could kill love for many women, and makes it that much better of a story for being different and reflective of an experience that despite misunderstandings, demonstrates that a women is more than some man's inability to control himself and is deserving of love and respect.

Having read all of Kerrigan's Historical Romance novels I expect an excellent experience when I read her books. They are always powerful and enthralling stories of unforgettable characters who through their extraordinary courage and perseverance survive unspeakable tragedies and come out at the end with a love for a lifetime.

The graphic description of a sexual assault that the heroine endures at the beginning of the story shapes her life in ways even she can never imagine. In the past, historical romance novels had rapes and non-consensual sex, which were not unusual and were seen as typical of the genre. Now in our new enlightened era, you can dive into the psychosocial consequences to the characters and how it affects the course of the story. No one has done it as well as Kerrigan has in this book. Both characters have had experiences that make them vulnerable in ways that they cannot foresee.

Another reason to love this book is that it really does take place in Ten Days! Kerrigan's writing pulls you into and doesn't let go until you have finished the book and leaves you wanting the next book in the series. She delves deep into Alexander's and Pier's hearts and souls and you feel what they feel, it is an amazing experience that is not to be missed. There is mystery, suspense, mind-numbing terror and a surprise that will leave you gasping!!

I cannot say enough about Kerrigan's writing! She is a force to be reckoned with in this Genre. I love everything about her writing. She hangs her characters out there and lets them loose to discover what they are capable of, which is stunning because you get to take the ride with them. I have every book she has written in the Historical Romance Genre and they are keepers that I will have to read over and over again. This is a must-read!! Do not miss it!!!

Received a complimentary copy for an honest review.

How to Love a. Duke in Ten Days
(Devil You Know #1)

Kerrigan Byrne is an author to be reckoned with. Her writing talent is unmatchable. She can reel you in immediately and never let you drop.

This book may not be for the faint of heart but definitely heart wrenching. The opening pages contain a very vivid scene you will always remember and many victims will understand.

The deeply close group of young ladies the Red Rogues share more than friendship and a deep secret.

The ladies meet Piers Atherton, Duke of Redmayne he is very broody and bears a reputation of a scoundrel. But he becomes my hero as does Alexandra.

I will not give up the plot of this story but only reveal, hold on to your hats your in for a ride.

This story begins with a Prologue in which we meet Lady Alexandra Lane who is a student at an elite private school in Switzerland. She is a young lady with two good friends. Both are red heads as she is. The have formed their own club and a very strong friendship.

When the headmaster calls her to his study late in the evening and rapes her, she manages to kill him with a razor lying on his desk. She and her friends along with a gardener who is close to one of her friends manage to bury him in the garden.

The other two - Cecilia and Francesca - also share secrets about their lives and promise to keep her secret forever.

Ten years later, Lady Alexandra has obtained a degree in history from the Sorbonne and works as an archaeologist. She is very wary and sometimes terrified by men. She is also being blackmailed over those long past events. Also, her father is going bankrupt which she fears mostly because she won't have funds to continue to pay off her blackmailer.

When she receives a note from Francesca asking for her help and telling her that she is to be married to the Duke of Redmayne, Alexandra catches a train - second class - and heads off to help her friend. There she meets the Duke of Redmayne who is also known as the Terror of Torcliff. Piers Atherton, Duke of Redmayne, has been a world traveler and explorer and is scarred from an encounter with a jungle cat in South America. Piers almost died and his fiance threw him over for his cousin while he was ill. Piers is determined to marry and have children to block his cousin from ever inheriting the dukedom.

Alexandra decides that she should be the one who marries the duke because Francesca doesn't want to and Alexandra needs his money. Of course, she is also fascinated by him though terrified of being intimate with him.

Someone, however, doesn't want them to marry. There are multiple attempts on both their lives. Both think that they are the intended target and neither is willing to confide in the other.

This was an entertaining romance with just enough suspense to add the spice of danger to their courtship.

Yay, a new Kerrigan Byrne series! We have a feisty archeologist, Lady Alexandra who along with her two best friends is hiding a secret from their school days. But someone has discovered the secret and is blackmailing her. Her family is destitute and she can no longer pay the blackmailer. That is when the idea of marrying the Terror of Torcliff becomes a good one. Evil follows Alex and Piers.
This is a great start to a new series. The meeting of Alex and Piers is a perfect start to this original plot. Ms Byrne once again kept me glued to the book only getting up to refresh my coffee. I wanted Piers to be a bit more terrifying. He was just too easy to love. I loved the independent, accomplished Alexandra. The action and adventure was pitch perfect. Highly recommended.

This book was so good! I live when romance is paired with mystery and intrigue, and this did not disappoint! The characters were flawed but lovable, and the story is a page turner. I absolutely recommend this book!

Most reviews have spoken to the opening of this book. While incredibly hard to read, for a story to begin with such horrid ugliness, to somehow unfold into a beautiful love story, speaks of the remarkable writing by Kerrigan Byrne.

This story was one of a hard fought journey toward healing for both Lady Alexandra Lane and Piers Gedrick Atherton, the Duke of Redmayne, who had his own demons to fight as well. Despite the ugliness he saw in himself, Alexandra couldn't have had a more valiant man in her corner. As she began to realize this herself, the line that summed up the feel of the story was when Alexandra reflected to herself,

"What a long road they had to travel, the two of them,
toward any kind of marital contentment. They each had
so many scars".

They were damaged and broken on their own, but together were a force like no other. Their vulnerabilities, fears and losses were no match for their ultimate strength, trust and love they shared.

This was an amazing start to a new series and has firmly established Kerrigan Byrne on my Top 10 favorite romance author 's list.

In her usual style, Kerrigan Byrne has written another deeply romantic, extremely emotional and appealingly sexy historical romance with unusual characters who are connected by a secret past. Rather than dangerous men who were the center of her Victorian Rebels series, this new series focuses on three women who now must face the challenges of their secrets being uncovered.

I enjoyed watching Alexandra and Piers meet, circle, fall in love and face the dangers that surround them. This is a sexy, emotional, dark historical romance that I can recommend highly!

(PS - but even as I enjoy this new series...I still want Morley's story from the Victorian Rebels! )

I was hankering to get my greedy little hands on this novel and for good reason!

A Kerrigan Byrne book always reminds me why I fell in love with historical romance. And Byrne is my go-to for a darker, gothic edge to the storytelling with crazy heavy sexual chemistry. The sweeping landscapes, the harrowing adventures, and the sizzling passion kept me on my toes!

Lady Alexandra is an archaeologist and adventurer. She finds more comfort in the dead than the living, and for good reason. When financial ruin threatens to expose her secret, she’s looking for a solution when one tumbles into her path--the mysteriously intriguing Piers Atherton, the Terror of Torcliff! But Alexandra’s dark past seems too large to ignore, especially when she can’t quite seem to keep her eyes off her new broody, intense husband. With enemies on their tales, Alexandra and Piers are thrust head-first into each other, battling their inner wounds along the way.

Can an adventurous but fearful Alexandra find comfort and love in the arms of a scarred and disillusioned peer or will their past sins catch up to them?

How to Love a Duke in Ten Days is a slow-to-combust romance that enraptures readers with a passion that can’t be denied, a pervasive sense of humor and charm that brings two damaged souls together, and a rollicking fun plot that will keep you flipping the pages.

Highly recommended for fans of historical romance who want plots weaved in rebuilding hope and reclaiming one’s past.

5 stars!

I loved this book! I have read all of Kerrigan Byrne’s other books and really like them all, but none of them were as strong as her first book (The Highway Man) – until this one. While the title is a bit cliché, the book itself is really good. This is the first book in a new series about a trio of women who became best friends at boarding school when they were young. Each woman is dealing with different kinds of traumas in their lives but have helped each other through them. One warning, the book is pretty heavy in some regards and starts with the depiction of trauma that I thought was written starkly but sensitively, but might be hard for some to read.

Lady Alexandra Lane is an explorer who has traveled the globe but has returned to England when she thinks one of her friends is in trouble. She’s also dealing with a blackmailer who knows something dark about her past.

Piers Gedrick Atherton, the Duke of Redmayne, has invited society to his estate for his wedding – part of his plan to get back at a society that has rejected him. The two main characters are drawn to each other immediately, but have real baggage from their pasts – and problems they are currently dealing with. The characters have real chemistry with each other and you really buy in to their individual stories and their romance. I also love the friendship between the three friends – the author fleshes it out enough that it seems real and substantial. This book is the start to a very strong series, I can’t wait for the next installment.

I received a copy of this book by the publisher via NetGalley for free in exchange for an honest review.

Whenever I pick up a book by Kerrigan Bryne I know I’m in for a well written, emotionally packed, angst filled read. Characters who have been to hell and back yet in the end find their happiness. It will make you smile and cry in equal measures. Alexandra and Piers are amazing together. I loved how devoted they became to each other. Her and her group of friends are equally charming. A wonderful example of a found family.

For much of the book I admit to a bit of frustration because many of their problems could have been solved at they just communicated better. I had to remind myself they had only known each other a matter of days and Alexandra’s experiences are not easily or openly discussed.

Thank you St. Martin’s Press and NetGalley for the ARC!

How to love a duke in ten days was provided as an ARC from Netgalley. It’s a story of three women who are friends and bound by secrets and a bond that can’t be shattered. As adults they are set in revenge, survival, and making a life for themselves so when one is in trouble they all come.

Alexandra is an Earls daughter but her family is declining, add in blackmail and her best friends note to help leads her on a journey of near death, facing demons, marriage, friendship, and discovering what she really wants from life.

The Duke of Redmayne is known as a terror, a beast, and nothing more a scarred damaged man. Piers knows though he needs to marry, but who knew he would end up married to Alexandra? He has his own demons, mistrust, and secrets. Their journey is interesting and I loved it a lot. Seriously great and I can’t wait for more of the Red Rogues.

I loved this book! I read it in two sittings and stayed up past midnight to finish it. I loved the characters and how real they seemed. The plot was interesting. I love a good mystery. I didnt see the whole endibg coming which I really enjoyed! I will be reading more by this author.

This book was all that I expected and so much more. It had a lot of my romance catnips. Tortured, scarred, brutal and cold hero (who has a secret soft center), sweeping, all enduring love. Great side characters. A very endearing heroine. Vivid characters, good dialogue, fast paced story that made me unable to put it down. The storyline was intriguing, though a little bit rocky in some places. Good pacing, frankly there is very little not to like about this book.
I'm not exactly sure what it was about Alexandra's character that I liked, but I did like her. We are also introduced to some secondary characters, but in a way that fits in well with the story. The layers that exist to the main characters are revealed slowly as they get to know more and more about each other. The ending was a little sappy, but in a pleasantly amusing way.
That being said, I enjoyed this book immensely and this is likely the terrific beginning to an amazing series. It pulled at my heart strings more than once and I'm looking forward to the next one.

Famed and brilliant, Lady Alexandra Lane has always known how to look out for to herself. But nobody would ever expect that she has darkness in her past.

Piers Gedrick Atherton, the Duke of Redmayne, is seeking revenge and the first step is securing a bride.

Winning a lady’s hand is not so easy, however, for a man known as the Terror of Torcliff.
When Alexandra proposes marriage, Piers knows that, like him, trouble haunts her footsteps.

I was taken in from the first chapter. Although I am not a fan of rape scenes this one is necessary to explain Alexandra's fear and need.
Alexandra has a secret that only a select few friends know of, however someone else must know because she is paying a blackmailer. Could the blackmailer be someone she considers her friend?

Piers knows his life is in danger. Unlike Alexandra he knows the source of that danger.
Can this unlikely pair be more to each other than a source of comfort in their mutual time of need. Will ten days be enough to bring love instead of just mutual need to this couple?

I gave this newest Kerrigan Byrne book 4.6 of 5.0 stars for storyline and character development. I have seldom read anything by this author that I did not like.
The wonderful ending was reason enough to read through some otherwise unsavory scenes to finish this otherwise enthralling book.
I received a complimentary copy of this book to read. This in no way affected my opinion of this book which I read and reviewed voluntarily.

The first book in the new series by Kerrigan Byrne is as the British say "Brilliant". The characters are flawed and scarred both physically and emotionally, but none the less they continue to live life treating others with the kindness that had not been shown to them. The writing is superb, keeping the reader guessing to the very end. But it does end with a HEA and cliff hanger for the next book.

In a girls school in France, Lady Alexandra Lane, Francesca Cavendish and Cecelia Teague share more than just been redheads, but ideas, wants and desire, so formed a private club, the Red Rouges Society. However, their activities, including pilfering, came to the attention of the headmaster, who decided that the perfect punishment for her was- rape. To defend herself, she grabbed a razor from the headmaster's desk and killed him. Her friends take care of her and the ground keeper buries the body. But someone else saw and instead of coming to her aid, starts to blackmail her. The three decide that they will never marry, so it is a surprise ten years later, when Francesca summons her friends to Castle Redmayne to be her bridesmaids. Alexandra is now Dr Lane, with a doctorate in archeology from the Sorbonne. She comes to warn her friends about the blackmail. At the train station, she comes upon a magnificent man, who it turns out to be Piers Gedrick Atherton, the Duke of Redmayne, Francesca's fiancee. Their fathers had promised them to each other a long time ago, but once both father's were dead, they had ignored the contract, until Pier's fiancee betrays him and he requires a heir and Francesca's quest to find who murdered her parents, leads her to the Castle. Before the engagement can even take place there is an assassination attempt- but who was the intended victim? Alexandra and Piers are clearly made for each other, and for the first time in her life Alexandra is attracted to a man, so offers herself as a stand in for Francesca. But intrigue and danger follow them and Alexandra's fear to share her secret with Piers causes painful conflicts until he finally puzzles it out for himself. She seems to have forgotten from the romance novels that they read as girls, that secrets always come out and the hurt that they were kept, rather than what they are, is what puts the relationship and in this case the people in danger.

I received a free ARC from NetGalley.com. This is my unbiased and voluntary review. I highly recommend it and hope to read the next book in the series once it is released.

Kerrigan Byrne doesn't disappoint. From the first moment, I was enthralled. By the end of the dedication I was riveted. Yes, the dedication, by the end of the first chapter, I was bawling, and in shock. Kerrigan is a master at fleshing out characters who are real, and emotions you can feel, and relationships you get lost in. I loved that Alex had a girl squad. They supported each other, they listened to each other, they were there for each other. I loved that Alex had so much strength, as well as vulnerability. I loved the care and comfort she found first with her friends, and then with Piers. Piers was also a great character. Reclusive, haunted, yet he had a sense of humor, and honor, and integrity. Watching Alex and Piers get to know each other, and come to love each other, kind of felt like a privilege. I am seriously looking forward to the next book, and to many nights of rereading this one. It was that good.

Phenomenal. Outstanding. Breath-taking. There are so many words I could use to describe this book! I have read several of Kerrigan Byrne's novels, but this one takes the cake. I was absolutely drawn in from the first few pages, and could not put it down until I had finished! I always love Byrne's flawed, imperfect characters, and these two didn't disappoint! The dynamic pull between the two was obvious from their first meeting, and I loved watching it grow throughout the novel! I HIGHLY recommend this book to anyone who loves a steamy, unconventional, historical romance. You will not be disappointed. I CAN NOT wait for Byrne's next installment in the series!!

Good. Lord. Kerrigan Byrne knows how to bring it to historical romance. This is only my second book by this author, but I have now come to the realization that I probably (must) go back and read more of her previous works.

How to Love a Duke in Ten Days was addicting, and I could hardly put it down. I wanted to devour and savor this book at the same time.

There were so many things to love about this book.

Alexandra was a strong, intelligent, adorably nerdy woman who suffered and survived a traumatizing experience as a very young woman (trigger warning).

Piers was delicious. A scarred, gruff, unconventional aristocrat, he was the perfect complement to Alexandra. I adored their chemistry and connection as well as their daily interactions.

The Red Rogues were a lovely, tight-knit band of friends who maintained their friendship and loyalty to one other over many years. I truly enjoyed that.

Throw in a little suspense and intrigue along with a touch of drama, and it's the perfect romance.

I can't wait for the other two Red Rogues to get their HEAs.

***I voluntarily read and reviewed an Advance Reader Copy generously provided by the publisher via NetGalley.***

This being the 8th book I have read by Kerrigan Byrne, she continues to surprise me with her masterful storytelling, complex characters and how she evokes such powerful emotions through her writing. Like holy crap this book was amazing!! I didn’t think I could love a book as much as her Victorian Rebels series but I sure did!

I totally cried when reading this book because it does deal with trauma and our main heroine, Alexandra has suffered in a way no person should ever have to. With that pain, humiliation and suffering, she confides in her friends, Cecelia and Francesca, who have secrets of their own and their friendships become even more reinforced in their sisterhood. I love seeing strong female friendships because these ladies would do anything for each other and it is a beautiful thing to witness.

We have Alexandra that offers to marry the Duke of Redmayne to save herself and her friends with the power and influence only a duchess could have married to a powerful and imposing duke. Redmayne has his own scars, literally, and has a strong distrust of women that Alexandra has of men. Over the span of yes, about 10 days they learn so much about their past pains and learn to be understanding, compassionate and heal in the arms of one another. Their romance and love is so wonderful I could totally start to cry again. They deserve all the happiness this world could offer them.

The suspense was driving me insane. I had so many ideas but couldn’t pinpoint the exact answer to the many mysteries that guided this story to the end. I was right in the end but I definitely was not sure until the very end. Oh it was so good! Hints are dropped and I was so engrossed from beginning to end. I didn’t want to sleep since I would have to stop reading.

Kerrigan Byrne writes about people who have suffered in one way or another in the past or present and writes about healing with the love, support and understanding of friends and family (family by blood or by bonds) and I love her for it. She always handles delicate subjects with everything you hope an author would. I seriously appreciate and I am in awe of her talent to write romance while dealing with serious issues, never writing such things as trauma without respect and understanding.

Overall, just wow, wow, wow what an amazing book!
I’m ecstatic to read Cecelia’s story next and then Francesca’s. I can’t wait to see what type of love is in store for these two. They deserve it for damn sure!

What a powerful book! The prologue was packed with such intensity that I knew the book was going to be riveting, and it was. For those who can’t handle a woman being raped, this book might not be for you. However, it is warranted as the heroine must endure challenges to overcome her vulnerabilities. It was chocked full of action and mystery. A fitting ending that left me anxious for the next installment in the series. Book provided by NetGalley.

How to Love a Duke in Ten Days is the first book in Kerrigan Byrne’s Devil You Know series. I have been a big fan of her Victorian Rebels series for a few years, so needless to say, I was very excited about the opportunity to read an ARC of this book.

Even if you’ve only read one Byrne book before, you already know that the prologue is intense, and this book is no exception. Content warning: Alexandra, the heroine, is raped by the headmaster of her school, and she ends up killing him in self-defense. Her best friends help her bury the body, and they go on to live their best lives.

Flashforward ten years, and Alexandra is traveling to Castle Redmayne to meet up with her friends for a wedding. She doesn’t realize that it’s going to be *her* wedding, but she finds herself married to Piers- the Terror of Torcliff, an enigmatic duke who has inherited a title he was never supposed to possess.

Alexandra has neglected to tell her friends that she has been receiving “I know what you did last summer” style notes, and that she has been paying for the blackmailer’s silence. But when there’s an escalation to actual physical danger, it seems as though long-buried secrets are coming back to plague Alexandra.

This was a wonderful book. I love feisty heroines, and Alexandra is both spirited and intelligent- she’s an archaeologist with a doctorate, and she has spent most of the last decade out of the country working on ancient sites.

There was one plot element that was slightly problematic, but I understand both characters’ positions and motivations. However, I have never been disappointed by Byrne, so I proceeded with an open mind, and I thought the resolution was perfect.

Alexandra and Piers have excellent chemistry together, and it’s important to note this marks the first time that she has been interested in pursuing a relationship after her previous trauma. For what it’s worth, Piers has a prolific sexual history, but Alexandra is the first person he feels like he can be genuine and vulnerable with.

The mystery was satisfying, and kept me guessing until the big reveal. Granted, the list of suspects wasn’t huge, but I was still surprised by the big reveal- especially since it was more complicated than I expected the climactic moment to be.

I would absolutely recommend How to Love a Duke in Ten Days. This is an excellent beginning to a new series, and I love the way the next book was hinted at in the epilogue. Nobody writes Victorian historical fiction better than Byrne, and for that matter, nobody writes angsty historicals better than her either. I’m already looking forward to the next book, but since that is not arriving until next spring, I am going to have to content myself by re-reading the Victorian Rebels series while I wait.



I received an advanced copy of this book from Netgalley/the publisher in exchange for an honest review.

Bravo! I could not put this book down and will be re-reading it over and over again. This is my first book by Kerrigan Byrne and it did not disappoint. Full of intrigue, a brooding hero, a brave heroine, a great cast of characters, and an overall outstanding, sit-on-the-edge-of-your-seat storyline. The author has a very distinct writing style, one that creates pictures and uses words beautifully. You really get a sense that the character speaking has come alive and that you are going on the adventure in real time with them. While I don’t want to give any spoilers, I felt that the past history that happened to make Alexandra the way that she is was handled with sensitivity and really allowed the reader to gain perspective about how others may feel having gone through similar situations. I thank Ms. Byrne for not tippy-toeing around the issue but making it an integral part of the story. Yes, there is a lot of thinking or internal monologue done by the characters however I found it was needed and fit into their characters nicely.
My cons- The reveal of the villain fell a bit flat for me and then the subsequent pages left me thinking (as did Piers), who else wants to come down the tunnel and join us in this farce? It read to me like an Indiana Jones movie and was a bit over the top and unbelievable. And the other was that I didn’t care for the title of this book. While I get it, I don’t think it maybe was the best title to use for this adventure. In fact it actually set me off with the wrong mind set when I started this book and I would not have been attracted to this book if I saw it on the shelf based on the title.
It is a quick read, I managed it in three days, a few hours each night and I would recommend it highly. I cannot wait to explore Ms. Byrne’s other’s books. My thanks to the author and to St. Martin’s Press for an ARC e-book in exchange for my honest review.

How to Love a Duke in Ten Days is the first book of the Devil You Know series and a wonderful start of the series. This author is one of my favorites so I was so excited to read it. I loved all the characters, but this book was Piers and Alexandra’s story. Piers, the Duke of Redmayne, needed to get married and have an heir, so he decided to honor a childhood betrothal. Lady Alexandra arrived at his estate after receiving an invitation from one of her best friends, Francesca. The Red Rogues (Francesca, Cecelia and Alexandra) were close friends from school and had bonded over childhood secrets. Francesca was trying to avoid marriage to Piers. Alexandra is being blackmailed and decides to marry Piers in order to have his protection. There are several mysteries happening in the book with lots of unexpected twists. It kept the reader’s attention throughout the book. I can’t wait to read Francesca and Cecelia’s stories. I voluntarily read and reviewed an ARC of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.

WOW! Suspense,secrets and amazing friendships. A dazzling romance story very well written. I was on the edge of my sit the whole time. Strong wonderful characters make this book a must read.

A sad and yet powerful story about overcoming your past and realizing what a beautiful future lies ahead.

I received this book from NetGalley in return for an honest review.

This book was not what I expected from the title, but wow did it hold my attention. Two messed up people (no spoilers allowed) find each other and slowly repair what damage was done to each of them. Great story line and I feel that the heroine was written in a way that showed how women become stronger and not the helpless female we read about. I strongly recommend this book.

NOBODY does historical like Kerrigan Byrne! I was sucked into the story from the very beginning and stayed there the whole time. I am not a fan of the mystery/intrigue but Byrne does it so well I don't even notice. Alexandra was so amazingly strong and admirable. Actually, all 3 of the ladies are amazing. Piers was equally fantastic. I was so invested in this couple, I was mentally castigating Piers for not seeing the signs of what happened to Alexandra sooner. Once he go out of his head, his reaction was fierce and satisfying. SOOOO looking forward to Cecilia and Francesca's books.

First, let me say that these views are solely my own and Kerrigan Byrne was kind enough to allow me to read her book in advance on NetGalley.

I loved this book. Kerrigan has a unique style of writing that is the perfect blend of romance and mystery. I love the story and especially, love the hero.. However, this book isn't just about the hero and heroine. It's about friendship.

Kerrigan also tackles difficult subjects without flinching and for that, she had my five star review!

I loved this book! Kerrigan Byrne writes some of my favorite historical fictions and this one was just added to that list. I cried with Alexandra and I raged with Piers. I was and still am so emotionally attached to these characters. I will not go into what happens because I think it's something you need to read. But it's deep and Byrne does it in a way that makes it feel real and she just wrote this book beautifully. I read it in one sitting. My eyes are killing me but it was all worth it.

I can't wait to read about the other two ladies!!

This is a hauntingly evocative romance that I did not want to end.
Lady Alexandra and, her two best friends, grew up in a school for girls that was run by a vicious headmaster who abused and, molests many of the girls. Lady Alexandra and, her friends find a tunnel and cave that goes from the dormitory to the headmaster's office. They spend as much time as they can, reading, drinking and, dreaming about what their lives will be when they finally get out of this horrid school. Unfortunately, the headmaster finds out what Francesca and her friends have been doing and, decides to punish her in the worst way. Things end in the worst way and, Alexandra and her friends end up killing the headmaster and, burying him on the grounds of the school.
Now, Alexandra has been paying a blackmailer for 10 years and, her family is now destitute. She travels to the upcoming betrothal of one of her friends to Piers, the Lord of Redmayne. Alexandra has never told her friends that she has been blackmailed for 10 years and also, doesn't understand what these strange feelings are that only occur when she is in close proximity of the Earl..
Piers has no interest in his soon to be fiance. He does, however, have extreme interest in her friend, Alexandra and, ends up marrying her.
The road begins with a lot of bumps along the way but, will these two bitter, fearful people ever realize that the feelings they have are not just lust?
Do Not Miss This Book!!!!!

Wow!! This book had me on a roller coaster of emotions. It started with the Prologue – which gave me a pit in my stomach, a feeling of hate, wanting revenge and the love of friends. I love romance books, but this was more then a romance book. Piers was a very understanding, patient and had a protective instincts you have to admire. Alexandra was very strong women who went thru so much in her life. This book will keep you interested the whole time you are reading.

Kerrigan Byrne writes so well I felt like I was in the story feeling all the emotions of each character.
This is the first book I have read by Kerrigan Byrne, and now she will always be on my to be read list.
I can not wait for the next book.

I received a free copy from Netgalley for a honest review.

“If there is a battle to fight, a villain to face, I beg you to allow me the honor. Because the cruelest thing you could do, is sentence me to a world without you in it.”

Haunted by an unspeakable crime and bonded with secrets they vow to take to their graves, Lady Alexandra Lane and her two dearest friends make a pact to never allow a man power over them. Years pass, and Alexandra is shocked to receive a notice that she has been invited to a wedding…as well as a cry for help.

Piers Gedrick Atherton, Duke of Redmayne and known as the Terror of Torcliff, has been tasked with procuring a bride. So no one is more shocked than he when Lady Alexandra offers herself to him.

What starts off as a wedding for vengeance turns into an epic adventure filled with secrets from the past, blackmail, murder, and perhaps, dare we say, love? Can Alexandra find it in herself to trust a man again? Will Piers forget the wrongs of his own past to allow his tortured soul to love and be loved? Ten days can feel like an eternity…depending on one’s perspective.

I am beyond in love with this book!!!! Kerrigan Byrne has written an amazing story of how two broken people find a way to heal each other...even when some scars can't be seen. How to Love a Duke in Ten Days is a beautifully written historical romance that was impossible to put down and left this reader with a book hangover for days! Did not want it to end! 5+ Stars!! Highly recommend!

I have voluntarily read and reviewed a copy of this title given to me via NetGalley. How To Love A Duke in Ten Days is the first book in new Devil You Know series and I loved getting to meet Lady Alexandra Lane and Piers Gedrick Atherton. This book was just so easy to get lost in and I felt so much for these characters. I had so much fun learning more about each character and all they had gone through. I can’t wait to see what’s next for this author.

There are numerous things about this book I love! The Red Rogues, the Terror of Torcliff and Dr. Alexandra Lane are just a few!

This book hooked me from the prologue. It wasn’t an easy prologue to read, but it definitely stays with you throughout the book and after. Kerrigan has an amazing way with words and did a great job writing difficult subject matter.

Alexandra and Piers have a remarkable relationship. I love everything about the way they meet and their interactions afterwards. They are perfectly suited for each other.

I just finished the book and I already miss the characters and want to go back and read it all again ❤️ I can’t wait to see what the Red Rogues get up to next!!

I wasn't sure what to expect when I saw the dedication (which I don't always read). But this book is unlike any of it's genre that I've ever read - and I've read hundreds of titles in this historical romance genre.
Even now, more than a week after I finished reading, I'm still struggling to come up with the words to describe the one-two punch that was this book. It will take your breath away: things will not happen along typical lines, these are not your typical characters or stories. Alexandra and Piers: I wish more authors wrote people like this with all their complexity, both good and bad.
It's not very often that a book takes my breath away and leaves me thinking about it for weeks afterward. But this one did.
Congratulations Kerrigan Byrne, you've knocked me out of my romance complacency. And I humbly thank you.
I'll be recommending this author (and in particular this book) to friends.
And I'll be on the lookout for more work by Kerrigan Byrne.

This story starts out very darkly and the next few chapters are murky and fraught with danger, intrigue and possible betrayal. Having said that, the story grips you and without realizing it you are so caught up with the romance and the intrigue that you really can’t put it down. The romantic aspect of this story is beautiful, the blossoming and healing that takes place was so very sweet. Conversely there is a fair amount of violence and some highly unsavory characters that are woven in the story, but all in all I really enjoyed this book!

From the moment the bearded and scarred duke met Alexandra on the platform of the train station, I was hooked. The main characters make this book sing. They’re well-rounded and people most readers would love to meet in person. A secret from her past drives the heroine while the Duke of Redmayne is also propelled by tradition and the constraints of his position. He intends to marry and beget an heir with one of the heroine’s best friends.

There are suspense and drama aplenty with a blackmailer and several near-death experiences as Alexandra and Piers dance around each other. Finally, the pair come to understand they’re better together than apart.

As I mentioned, I adored the characters. Along with the angst, there were several laugh out loud moments too. The language and story flow beautifully, and I devoured How to Love a Duke in Ten Days. One thing though—there should perhaps be a trigger warning since this story starts with a rape scene.

If you’re a historical romance fan, I dare you not to fall in love with the Duke of Redmayne and his bride. Highly recommended.

When I began this book I was extremely hesitant. So, so, so hesitant. Books that use sexual assault as a tragic back story for the heroine are normally an instant do not finish for me. This book though? It was different. The event actually impacted her as more than just a reason to be afraid of men, the trauma felt real and while her healing was over the course of a short number of days due to romance conventions it was shown that this healing was a continuing process and wasn't just done.

Very good Historical romance about Priers and Alexis ,
Good suspense ,mystery, drama ,actions and romance,
really great read.
Voluntarily reviewed.

Holy Friggerroly…that was bloody AWESOME!!

I saw a post on Twitter the other day that made me a little sad. No book or author was mentioned but a reviewer was disheartened and ready to give up reviewing after she’d been targeted and harassed because of a negative review. That bothered me, but then, I was also upset by a comment that was further down in the post. Another reviewer was complaining about all the OTT fangirling reviews.

Hmmm…

Now, how am I going to convince you to read this awesome story that is my absolute favourite from Kerrigan Byrne (since her last release) without sounding OTT fangirling? Well, friends and fellow readers, I just can’t. Sorry, you’ll just have to grin and bear my fangirling tendencies because I LOVE THIS AUTHOR and I LOVE HER HISTORICAL ROMANCES!!

Seriously, Kerrigan Byrne can do no wrong in my eyes. Well, maybe she could do wrong if I knew her in real life, but writing-wise, she is a BLOODY MASTER at her craft. How to Love a Duke in Ten Days was amazing and kept me enthralled from start to finish. As soon as this story loaded up on my Kindle, I HAD to start. I squirmed with glee at the turn of the first page and sighed in contentment with every page turned after that. Ms Byrne’s words…worlds…characters are my happy place and I’m sad to say goodbye at the end.

I absolutely love Kerrigan Byrne’s ability to capture my attention at the beginning with a scene that was thought-provoking and a little heartbreaking. This author sucks you in by showing us the heroine at her most vulnerable. We then get to see her survive, grow and eventually conquer the demons that made her vulnerable. To be honest, that squirmy, uncomfortable, icky feeling she leaves me with is something I look forward to. Isn’t that weird? I guess the appeal is in knowing that this character WILL win in the end. If that win is just in love, then I’m fairly satisfied. If that win also happens to be from conquering a fear or getting past a barrier, then I’m ecstatic.

When I met Alexandra and her Red Rogue friends Cecilia and Francesca, I knew that I was meeting new friends. When I met Piers, the hero, I knew I was meeting my next favourite HERO!!! This man made my heart flutter. Big, broody and bossy…just the way I love them. So, on meeting him I was fluttery, by the end, I was swooning, sighing and squirming with delight. He’d fallen and he’d fallen hard…I love it when the hero falls hard for his heroine.

How to Love a Duke in Ten Days left me extremely satisfied, but I can admit that at times it was hard to read. Alexandra had a horrible thing happen to her at a young and vulnerable age. If she hadn’t had the support and love from her two friends, there’s a good chance she may not have survived. While the journey was a little rocky at times, I was never in any doubt that Piers and Alexandra would work through their problems together. I knew that Piers would be thoughtful and understanding. He cared about Alexandra's feelings and while Piers knew it left him vulnerable, showed her how much she meant to him.

Yes, I have written a very positive review, but I know this book will not be for everyone. For starters, if you’re not a fan of sexy stories, this is probably not for you. If a wee bit of mystery, a touch of angst and a smidge of secrets, lies and betrayals make you run for the hills, then maybe avoid this one. How to Love a Duke in Ten Days does touch on some sensitive issues but I never felt overwhelmed and thought the author handled it very well.

From the first page to the last, I was captivated. Piers and Alexandra’s love story was exactly what I’m looking for in my historical romance reads. I smiled, sighed, sniffled and squirmed throughout this story and I loved every minute of it. If you haven’t read a Kerrigan Byrne historical romance yet, this start to The Devil You Know series would be a fantastic introduction. But be warned…once you start, you won’t be able to stop.

Stacey is Sassy, received an advanced copy of this story. The copy provided is not the final copy and may be subject to edits and changes.

holy shitballs, batman
TW: assaults, trauma, rape, death

i had no idea what to expect from this book. i would've been fine reading a run-of-the-mill, still very good, historical romance. so i was more than pleasantly surprised by what ended up happening.
there is a rape scene, which was kind of graphic and could be quite triggering for people, but if you skip the prologue or first chapter, it's not touched on in too much detail.
i think other reviews will be able to be more coherent than i could ever be, but there were so many things that made me enjoy this book.
it's short; most of the action takes place within roughly two weeks, but i won't discount the love that the characters grow to have, because it seemed authentic to me, and not sudden. there's a girl group, who stick together through it all, babes!! they bury a body together!!
yes, i did guess the mysterious blackmailer, but i don't think that was supposed to be a big secret, because there was another, underlying mystery that was good, if a bit abrupt.

when this book actually releases (woo, eARC) i'm interested to see what other people's response to the fact that alexandra didn't tell piers about her assault, even after he discovered she wasn't a virgin. there's no time limit on when you can, should, and want to tell someone about your trauma, and it's a fine line to walk when someone has a partner. i've done a lot of research, been through a good amount of therapy, to try to figure out when the "right" time to tell someone about it is. i don't know, i think this resonated a lot with me, because i related to alexandra a lot, which isn't something i tend to do. :)

*this book was provided in exchange for an unpaid review from netgalley.com all thoughts are my own

"Thank you Netgalley and the publisher for the advance copy of this book, in exchange for an honest review."

Loved this book very much. It had just enough sweet, sexy romance and the storyline was great! I highly recommend!

Oh gee I just love the writing of Kerrigan. Byrne and as usual could not stop reading this great new book in a new series. Just loved the way she introduced the next characters in the next book. Excellent.

I loved, loved How to Love a Duke in Ten Days by Kerrigan Byrne, who is quickly becoming one of my favorite authors. No, not just favorite historical romance authors, but favorite authors. Full stop.

This is the second book from Kerrigan Byrne in a row that I've loved, and I think it's time to just suck it up and buy her whole backlist. This book was unputdownable.

Sometimes, I think I'm too harsh of a reviewer. I have trouble feeling enthusiastic about mediocre romance, and with over 1500 romances under my belt, I got bored easily. But then a book like How to Love a Duke in Ten Days comes along and knocks my socks off.

I loved almost everything about this story. I loved how it addressed the main character's (Trigger warning) (view spoiler) with sensitivity and understanding. I knew going in that the book would have something to do with sexual assault from the #metoo at the author's dedication section, and I think the author did an excellent job balancing everything.

I also have a HUGE weakness for a scarred male MC, and his gruff, masculine, scarred face was giving me allllll sorts of good vibes.

The book was an excellent blend of female friendship, mystery, sensuality, sensitivity, romance and pain. I practically read it straight through in one sitting. I simply couldn't stop reading.

For those of you who want something compulsively readable, something to shake up your reading slump, look no further. Kerrigan Byrne will wow you with this one.

*Copy provided in exchange for an honest review*

Impressed, awed, entangled, absorbed, love, all words to describe how I feel about this book. How to Love A Duke In Ten Days is a magnificent historical romance by Kerrigan Byrne. Ms. Byrne has provided readers with a book that will suck them into this story and keep them guessing. This story is well-written and a smooth read. Kudos to Ms. Byrne for the stellar cast of characters she has created, I loved them! Alexandra is raped but kills her attacker. With help from her friends and a servant, they bury him but now she's being blackmailed. Piers is the Duke of Redmayne, scarred and fierce. Piers and Alexandra's story is packed, cover to cover with drama, action, steamy sex, suspense and humor. A solid 6 star read for How To Love A Duke In Ten Days, I can't wait to read more from Kerrigan Byrne. How To Love A Duke In Ten Days is book 1 of the Devil You Know Series but can be read as a standalone. This is a complete book, not a cliff-hanger.

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

Alexandra and her two friends survived their teen years in school run by a nasty headmaster by depending on each other...keeping each other's secrets...no matter what.
She came to attend Francesca's wedding ten years later, the one Francesca had declared would never be, along with Cecilia.
Then things changed, Alexandra became the bride, and found a happy ever after ending.
That's the quick summary, the tale is full of suspicion, intrigue, blackmail, murder attempts, close friends, a sexy hawt groom, the Duke of Redmayne, the blue stocking bride, and multiple romantic steamy sensual scenes between the newlyweds.
Piers, Duke of Redmayne, is the sweet Alpha male many women dream of. It's a wonderful place to spend some time.
I requested and was granted an ARC from NetGalley for my perusal, and recommend it for those who like their historical romances with intrigue and a bit of heat,

What a great book! I’ve never read one of Kerrigan Byrne’s book before but I will now. The moment I started reading “How to Love a Duke in Ten Days “ I became immersed into the characters and story. Alexandra experienced trauma and Piers emotional pain. Both have to learn how to trust and heal while being in danger. I highly recommend this book.

How to Love a Duke in Ten Days ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️.5

Famed and brilliant, Lady Alexandra Lane has always known how to look out for to herself. But nobody would ever expect that she has darkness in her past―one that she pays a blackmailer to keep buried. Now, with her family nearing bankruptcy, Alexandra strikes upon a solution: Get married to one of the empire’s most wealthy eligible bachelors. Even if he does have the reputation of a devil.
LOVE TAKES NO PRISONERS
Piers Gedrick Atherton, the Duke of Redmayne, is seeking revenge and the first step is securing a bride. Winning a lady’s hand is not so easy, however, for a man known as the Terror of Torcliff. Then, Alexandra enters his life like a bolt of lightning. When she proposes marriage, Piers knows that, like him, trouble haunts her footsteps. But her gentleness, sharp wit, independent nature, and incredible beauty awakens every fierce desire within him. He will do whatever it takes to keep her safe in his arms.

Kerrigan Byrne is absolutely one of my favorite historical romance writers. All her books pack a powerful punch, with fully developed characters and plots.

From the gut wrenching prologue to the very last page of the epilogue I was lost to the world of Alexandra and Piers, a steamy version of Beauty and the Beast. Both deeply flawed and hiding secrets.

What a great start to another series of books. This book can be read as a stand alone but I can’t wait to read the others already.

I received this ARC for free in exchange for my honest review. This does not affect my opinion of the book or the content of my review. Thank you NetGalley, Kerrigan Byrne and St. Martins Press

Okay, I’m not sure if I’ve read anything by Kerrigan Byrne in my book library of “to be read” but this was one fantastic story that had my absolute attention from the beginning pages to its ending. This the first in this series of the Devil You Know.

How to Love a Duke in Ten Days started off a bit tragic and was not what I was expecting, however the author’s writing style capture my attention and a little heartbreaking for Lady Alexandria, the heroine of the story. It shows her vulnerability as well as her strength to overcome the affliction that torments her every day. Nonetheless, she survives her circumstances and becomes a woman who has to overcome the demons that tries to conquer her life. She’s not alone with living with secrets…her closest friends Cecilia (Cecil) and Francesca (Franc) have their share of demons too.

The Hero of the story, Piers, the Duke of Redmayne is a bossy internally handsome hero. Although he is not quite handsome on the outside…with scars marking his face, his inner beauty flourishes the brooding austere that has painted him the Terror of Torcliff. He was patience, thoughtful and understanding with Alexandria when she was not forthcoming with what had happened to her as a young girl. Both characters fell in love at first sight. Their love gradually deepened for one another as they uncovered little by little things in their past that would dictate the outcome of their future together.

There are times within the story that your heart goes out to Alexandra, who became a victim of rape by a despicable man who was head of the school and one who took advantage o the young girls under his charge. I loved the friendship and support that the Red Rogues had for one another, especially the love they shared in helping one another out no matter what the circumstance. Piers was the epitome of a gentleman in disguise who really cared about Alexandra’s feelings and he at every chance showed her that intimacy doesn’t have to hurt.

The author has a well-written, wonderful plot and enjoyable characters that make this novel well worth the read. It has its positive sides, as well as negative sides but they are there to make each character a bit stronger and have the ability to overcome the obstacles that are hindering from moving forward with their lives. I truly loved Piers and Alexandra through all the obstacles they had to confront. The story had its share of twists and suspense and I found myself second guessing who the villains were near the end. Oh what a touch of angst, secrets, lies, betrayals and mystery. Although the story touches on sexual abuse against young women, I never felt overwhelmed by that fact and thought the author did a good job with handling that part of the story.

If you’re looking to start a new series, this is one I highly recommend for your historical romance read. The H/h will draw you into their world. You will find your heart tugged and eyes teary from time to time. I loved this story and would love to take a stab at an audiobook version with one of my favorite narrators (i.e., Anne Flosnik, Rosalyn Landor, Braden Wright…just a few). Highly recommend this read.

I thank the author and St. Martins Press for allowing me to receive this ARC from NetGalley in exchange for a fair and honest review. All opinions are my own.

5-Stars

Review by 2shay……….🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟……….

Every now and again a book comes along that is so good, so relevant to today’s events, that calling it historical is a misnomer. There are events in this book that scream #metoo. It just goes to show that the more things change, the more they stay the same.

Ms. Byrne’s style is reminiscent of the elegant prose of the past, while remaining true to more modern tastes. It’s lovely. From the prolog, we know that Alexandra is brutally raped at boarding school when she was seventeen. By the headmaster. The events that unfolded afterward form an even stronger bond between her and her two best friends, Cecilia and Francesca. They vow to keep this secret forever. Cecilia and Francesca have secrets of their own.

Ten years later, Alexandra is surprised to be invited to a wedding for her friend, Francesca, to the Duke of Redmayne. The girls had sworn not to marry, and were considered “spinsters” and beyond marriageable age. But, life goes on and things change. The biggest change for Alexandra, is her financial situation. Her father’s impending bankruptcy has left her with no means to pay her blackmailer. Now, in retaliation, her blackmailer is trying to kill her.

In my opinion, men…all men…should read this book. Piers Gedrick Atherton, Duke Of Redmayne, agrees to Alexandra’s proposal, because, for him, any wife from a titled family will do…much to Francesca’s relief. He then proceeds to make every possible mistake a man can make with a woman with Alexandra’s past. I cried for her. How he fixes things while dealing with the mystery of the blackmailer leads to the most stunningly seductive sex scenes I’ve ever read. Sensitively and intimately written, brilliant.

If you are sensitive about explicit sex, this may not be the book for you. If so, I’m sorry for you. You’ll miss a great story. Pick up a copy and…

Enjoy!

ARC graciously provided by St. Martin’s Press and NetGalley for an honest and voluntary review.

I wasn't sure what to think about this book when I read the first chapter, but it's very important to the book. Three young ladies, Alexandra, Cecelia and Francesca become close friends in a private school, but the rape of one of the girls and it's consequences is a secret they all carry for ten years. Francesca has been betrothed to Piers, the Duke of Redmayne for many years, but they don't like each other. Alexander is attracted to Piers and approaches him to marry her instead, but she carries a terrible secret that she's being blackmailed for. With the marriage she can pay the blackmailer, hopefully for the last time. Ten days for their honeymoon will give them both a chance to build trust, but someone wants one of them dead. Greed, jealousy, a terrible secret and misunderstandings come into play to make it difficult to trust each other. Byrne makes it all work to keep you reading faster than you did before. Fantastic read!
A free copy from Netgalley for an honest review.

This is a wonderful beginning to a new series by Kerrigan Byrne named “Devil You Know”. This first story, “How to Love a Duke in Ten Days” was fast paced and filled with heartache, revenge, plots, steamy romantic pages and a well done HEA.
Alexandra Lane, daughter of an Earl, has a school incident days before finishing that will set the course of her life along with her two closest friends that no man is worth the griefs they cause. Her sisters, though not by blood, are her family that will keep the secrets they each share and will protect each other no matter what the cost.
Some years after attending the graduating the Sorbonne in Paris and leaving society behind Alexandra has made a name for herself as a accomplished scholarly archeologist and linguist. She also had been paying a blackmailer who has somehow found her secret and threatened to expose her friends and her but cannot continue to do so as news of her family’s financial decline.
As fortune would have it one of her friends is summonsed by a Duke of the realm to a family arranged marriage. Knowing her friend does not want to get married, Alexandra proposes to the Duke who is the only man she has felt would protect her, that she finds fascinating and at the same time she would be providing for her family.
Piers Gedrick Atherton, Duke of Redmayne, the Terror of Torcliff named so after a hunting accident that left him scarred, only wants revenge against his fickle ex-fiancé who married his cousin who was next in line for his title when they thought he would die of his wounds. He figures no woman would take him and his scars anyway so why not go ahead with the arranged marriage that would accomplish all his goals.
Only Piers comes to realize he is immediately taken with Alexandra the very first time he met her when she jumped into action to save a mother and her children at the train station from a stallion that escaped during its off loading.
And so the story quickens pace with an attempted assassination, only was it to end the Duke, Alexandra or one of her friends. There is a wedding between two strangers within just a short time of meeting each other. More attempts on who knows whose life, blackmailers revealed, and secrets that could not remain secret. All within ten days of Alexandra and Piers meeting and falling in love.
If the other stories in this series is anything like this one, all I can say is I cannot wait for the next offering.

I don't think Alexandra knows what to make of her man at times, “is it too much to hope that you were so overcome by my masculine appeal and erotic prowess that you couldn’t stand to live another moment without the pleasure of my touch?” Alexandra gaped at him, rendered momentarily speechless." I liked this book, I fell in love witj Piers.

This is a wonderful mix of romance and suspense. Loved the larger than life, brooding hero facing an intelligent and capable heroine. The story was everything I wanted: romance, deep friendships, suspense, great dialogue and a perfect conclusion!

First in a new series; this series follows the Red Rogues, a trio of red heads who share a sisterhood of unconditional love, support, and secrets that could ruin them all. Kerrigan once again took me on an emotional roller coaster with this book.

This book does have a huge trigger warning, as Alexandra is a rape survivor and the story really revolves around this, including a mystery surrounding the ten year old crime, her feelings as she tries her hand at her first ever romantic interludes, and the emotional reveal to her husband and his feelings regarding this secret...especially since he originally misunderstands many of the clues surrounding her odd behavior with him.

Beautiful story of strength and resilience, and just what you’re willing to sacrifice to keep those you love safe.

I was hooked right from the beginning. I had to find out what happened to the girls. The story was great and not drawn out. Fast paced! Can't wait for the next book!!

I received an arc copy of this book from NetGalley and St Martin’s Press for my honest review. At 17 Lady Alexandra’s life was full of potential, unfortunately she learned that not all people are true and honorable forcing her to make a terrible decision and scarring her soul in the process. She carries her scars inside while Piers the Duke of Redmayne carries his on his face for all to see, but he too struggles to trust after being deceived one to many times. While their initial meeting seemed to be accidental they soon find a compatibility that brews into more than just liking one another, but first they must survive their own mysterious circumstances and hope that their love will overcome their damaged hearts. This book had humor, adventure , mystery and a nice soft romance that showed great empathy. What a nice start two a new series and I wish book two would come sooner as I can’t wait to hear more about these characters. 5 stars

How to Love a Duke in Ten Days is an exceptionally well written and captivating historical romance. One that stands out from the rest and demands to be read.

I’m speechless and awed. This is without a doubt one of the best historical romances I’ve EVER read.

With an incredible, out-of-this-world romance, a dash of mystery and suspense, and memorable characters, this book eclipsed everything and anything I was doing.

This could or may very well be a unique and spectacular retelling of Beauty and the Beast. A retelling that has included everything I did not know I wanted and more love and devotion than I could have ever forseen.

Alexandra is such a strong and smart woman. Her character is well written. You understand her as well as her motives. You feel her distress, her pain and her fear. But you also see strength and a survivor.

Piers, aka the Duke of Redmayne, was the most perfectly written book-boyfriend to date. His character is so well fleshed out and so real. His character is not perfect by any means but he is perfectly imperfect. He has a short temper and is quick to judge but the way he takes care of and is with Alexandra is heart-melting and swoon-worthy. He is guaranteed to burrow himself into your heart.

I am more than eager to continue this series.

How to Love a Duke in Ten Days is A MUST READ! One-click today! NOW! Go, go, go!

I received an ARC of this book via NetGalley. All thoughts and opinions are my own.

Kerrigan Byrne delivers another powerful story of two scarred people-one on the inside and one on the outside. Alexandra has her doctorate from the Sorbonne and as an archioligist, she travels the world working on digs. Piers is the Duke if Redmayne. He travels the world seeking new adventures. When the two meet, it is an interesting tale and their ten days are filled with suspense, mystery, and secrets., and love!

YESSS!!!! Great, start for first book in a new series! Oh gosh and that Prologue! Kerrigan sure knows how to write a tragic scene. I also loved how the title actually coincides with part of the plot in the story. This is a slight part Beauty and the Beast retelling and how Piers and Alexandra meet was so vivid and detailed, I'll never forget it! This also was more of a slow burn romance but the story is still a page-turner. I can't wait for the other ladies books! Kerrigan sort of left us a tease for Cecilia.

I received this book at my request and have voluntarily left this unbiased review. This does not affect my opinion of the book or the content of my review.

I received an ARC in return for a honest and fair review.

I have been a huge fan of Kerrigan Byrne since the very first book in the Victorian Rebels series and this book continued to show why I love her stories so much.

Alexandra and Piers are amazing and instantly likable characters from the moment they're introduced. Alexandra is relateable and I never found myself rolling my eyes at her actions, but understanding them and finding myself thinking that I would have made the same choices in her position. You quickly find yourself rooting for her from the very onset on the book.

Piers is another tortured, dark hero that Kerrigan loves as her leads but it was refreshing to read a hero who isn't quite as vicious and blood thirsty, but still fiercely devoted and protective of his lady. I do wish that we had more back-story and details about him and his family life but Alexandra and her story took up a lot of space and adding more would have made the story too cluttered. However I due feel that the climax of the book was a bit overcrowded by one surprise thrown in there.

My favorite part of the story however was Alexandra and the interactions with her two friends. At points in the book I was more interested in their interactions with each other than with her and Piers. I'm excited to read their upcoming books and <spoiler> if you're familiar with Kerrigan's writings there's little hints to the hero is in the next book that is confirmed in the epilogue and some eagle eyed readers may have gotten a hint as to who the hero in the third book will be.</spoiler>

I love it Kerrigan Byrne has started a news series. The story is about Piers Gedrick Atherton, the Duke of Redmayne, and his purpose is too get revenge. In order to get revenge he will have to attain a wife. Lady Alexandra Lane has a secret. If she will marry the Duke than he will protect her. But she is worried he will change his mind when he finds out what she her secret is. I really enjoyed this story and I can't wait for the next book.

There is one reason...
And one reason only, that this reviewer can and does drop everything when presented with the chance to read the latest book by Kerrigan Byrne.
In fact. It happens to be the same reason that said reviewer finds herself awake and penning this review at the ungodly hour of 4 a.m.
While still basking in the afterglow of Ms. Byrne's first offering of the Devil You Know series. Entitled How To Love A Duke In Ten Days.

This book may be a Historical Romance at its core. But it is delightfully so much more.
Including:
1. A sisterhood built upon shared life altering childhood secrets.

2. Murder, mayhem, a marriage made by money.

3. One very, very, contrary bluestocking, Lady of a Doctor, Miss Alexandra Lane.
Determined to ply her mantra of head over heart against the ferociously tempting Duke of Redmane. One Piers Gedrick Atherton.
While doing her best to keep more than a few of the afore mentioned life altering secrets.
One of which could end up costing one or both of them their lives.
And one so horrid that its revelation could cost her the chance of a lifetime with a man that she never thought that she could bring herself to desire.

But wait...
It gets better.
Because it seems that the Piers has a few deadly secrets of his own.
Which threaten the already beleaguered couple just as doggedly as those of his leading lady.

Leading readers chomping at the bit to know.
Whose secrets will be the ones that toll the death knoll for both this couple and their future?
And...
Will one of both of them be brave enough to trust the other with the spectors that haunt their tortured souls?
And most importantly...
Who wants Alexandra and Piers dead so badly?
And why?

To unearth (pun intended) the answers to these, and many more questions. While enjoying a happily ever after custom tailored to highjack any beating heart.
Don't miss How To Love A Duke In Ten Days. Or as this reviewer likes to call it. How To Devour A Book In One Sitting.

I would like to thank Netgalley and St. Martin's Press for granting my the privilege of reviewing such a wonderful book. The opinions found within this review have in no way been influenced by the publisher, its author, or any agents thereof.