Member Reviews

Did this book have to end? I enjoyed Alexandra and Dallin's journey from the beginning to the end. From the moment they met, I knew I wouldn't be able to put the book down. Never a dull moment with these two. The heartache and sorrow were written so well that it made me sad and emotional. Even the smiles and laughter was contagious. With all the emotions and added passion, this book leaves me feeling like it will be hard to get past this couple. Christi Calwell is an exceptional author that always pulls the reader into the story and falling in love with the characters. I am looking forward to more books in this series.

I received an ARC from NetGalley and Montlake Publishing for an honest review.

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Lady Alexandra Bradbury has always been curious about her eccentric neighbor’s rooftop dealings. She sneaks off to see for herself, only to encounter the eldest McQuoid son. When disaster leaves her family destitute, Alexandra agrees to a loveless betrothal to an influential yet cold marquess. However, another crisis forces her to travel with Dallin. Alexandra never forgot their magical rooftop interlude. Will Alexandra do what is expected of her? Or will she risk her family’s ruination to be with Dallin?
Lord Dallin McQuoid is the future Earl of Abingdon. He is more interested in the stars than the ton’s gossip and glittery intrigue. Dallin confronts a would-be intruder, only to discover the beautiful yet proper Alexandra Bradbury. When they are to meet again, a year later, he overhears a conversation that alters his opinion of her. However, Dallin finds himself traveling with the lady to prevent a catastrophe from happening to both their families. Can Dallin ignore his heart? Or will he risk family ruin to claim Alexandra as his own?
I could not help but empathize with Alexandra. She is a woman who has always done what is expected of her, regardless how it chafed. Alexandra knew no other way until Dallin. He and his family’s unique dynamics opened her eyes to other possibilities. I like that. What I admire the most about Alexandra is her willingness to sacrifice herself for her sisters. She wanted to safeguard their future happiness and security.
Dallin is such a love! He knows how the peerage views his family’s unconventional interests and ways. And Dallin is not bothered by it. I adore that about him! He is also fiercely protective over his large, boisterous family, even though some annoy him. What I love the most about Dallin is how he differs from other aristocratic lords. He does not look down on servants or commoners. Instead, Dallin treats them as equals and with common courtesy.
A SURE DUKE is the third installment in Christi Caldwell’s historical romance series, MCQUOIDS OF MAYFAIR. I strongly suggest reading this delightfully fun series from the beginning. The first book shows the McQuoid families’ quirks and eccentricities. The second explains what started the strife between the McQuoids and the Duke of Talbert. I practically devoured this book in two settings, even forwent sleep to finish.
I just want to say I fell in love with this Scottish family since book one. They are not your typical snobbish, aristocratic family. I cannot stress how happy I am that the author decided to write more books about them. I do hope (hint hint) that Christi will pair a McQuoid with the jilted son AND daughter of the Duke of Talbert. That would be a fun enemies-to-lovers story!

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Another story about the fun eccentric McQuoid family. What’s not to love?
Dallin is the eldest son who chafes at the restrictions of inheriting a title and all the responsibilities that go with it.
His large family is supportive and each chases their own dreams. Their rooftop is a gathering place.
Alexandra lives across the street with her stuffy aristocratic family. One night they encounter each other on the roof and lives change.
Enjoy the banter and characters as they go through their trials.
Hard to wait for the next McQuoid story.

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I really., really loved this book. I devoured it in under 24 hours because I was so engrossed in the story. Dallin and Alexandra were a wonderful couple, and the story was so heartfelt and passionate. I thought for sure this was a five star read, and then the book just…ended. We had this big momentous event, and then crickets. I really thought we’d get at least an epilogue or something that told us what happened to the couple, but nada. That was a pretty disappointing end to an otherwise wonderful book.

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From the very beginning we are imersed in such a wonderful tale of nativity, love and loyalty. I particularly enjoy it when I have no idea who my favourite character is! A lovely, lovely read. I would recommend it in a heartbeat!

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Christi Caldwell is my favorite Regency author, so as soon as I saw this ARC, I grabbed it faster than you can say "Regency."

Overall, the story is cute, on par with all her books, well-developed, likable characters, and a swoon-worthy romance. However, it felt like it lacked something: we didn't spend that much time with them as a couple, and her confession of her situation could've happened sooner to allow them to talk about it more.
The ending also felt a little rushed, and I expected to see more about the "after," even a short epilogue would've been better than what we got.

Dallin was simply perfect, charming, caring, and a fabulous leading man, with stars in his eyes just for her from the very beginning.

Thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for the ARC in exchange for an honest review.

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Thank you so much Netgalley for giving me an Arc of this book!

Set in 1815 in London, England, this novel tells the story of a love that can withhold any and all crossroads in the way.

Alexandra Bradbury and Dallin McQuoid live across from the street from each other but they've scarcely interacted over the years. When Alexandra is forced to visit the McQuoid residence by her younger sisters, Dallin believes she's there to steal. Unexpectedly, they find out that they have at least one thing in common, and feelings arise.

I think I'm getting back into my historical fiction era thanks to this book. When I tell you I devoured it, I gobbled all of it up. The beginning was a bit of a bore, but it usually happens with these historical romances. The characters WERE likable (thank God), however Alexandra did get on my nerves more than once. Dallin. DALLIN on the other hand? Chef's kiss. He's the perfect male character. Witty. Sarcastic. Charming. What I liked is that in MANY MANY ways they were opposites. She was prim and proper and he was, well not prim and proper.

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