Alexandra lost everything in one night and her life changes forever if not for her two best friends Francesca & Cecelia she would have gone mad. She knows that their lives will never be the same again but can she live with the guilt of her crime? Alexandra has gone on to have a good life but she has never allowed anyone close to her and when Francesca asks her to come to see her urgently she comes no questions asked but little does she know that danger will follow her. Piers knows that he has no choice but to marry Francesca as the marriage was agreed upon when they were very young but he finds that by meeting Alexandra everything has changed. He knows that will need to marry for duty but he wishes that things could be different. Alexandra knows that she needs to tell her friends about the blackmail and that someone knows what she did. She is scared that they will be angry with her but they just want her to be safe and they will help her pay the money. She is scared for them both so she agrees to their plan for now. But as time goes by she realizes that Piers could be her way out but can she marry him and keep her secret? Will she be able to keep her secret from Piers? He agrees to marry her but he wants to know the real reason as he has come to care for her but will she be able to share her secret without fear? A great read. Love the sisterhood that the girls share and how they never gave up on each other. I was lucky enough to receive a copy via Netgalley & the publishing house in exchange for my honest review.

*ARC recieved for an honest review*
I thoroughly enjoyed a number of things about this book. For starters, it's always so exciting to have the opportunity to read something new by [author:Kerrigan Byrne|5808498]. You're pretty much guaranteed a good time. The beginning captivated me. I was ready to sign up for the ARCs of books two and three moments after meeting the Red Rogues. I enjoyed the dark blustery mystery threaded through the book and around the characters. It was fun to wonder what comes next.
[book:The Highwayman|23723798] remains one of the best and most touching romance books I've read. There are several reasons for that. First and foremost was the connection between the characters - their shared history and experiences that gave their relationship gravitas. A hero and heroine with a childhood connection is one of my favorite things about which to read.
And this highlights the difficulty of the instant connection. The title doesn't lie - this relationship spans 10 days. Already that's a struggle for me. Of course folks can fall in love quickly, but it can be difficult to believe. Here it created an almost Paranormal Romance/Fated Mates vibes that stole from the believability of the story. Their overwhelming connection called to mind countless vampires or werewolves drawn together by biology rather than time and respect and mutual admiration.
The PR Vibe was only strengthened by the constant (and I'm not exaggerating here) references to Piers' physical presence. His "beastial" nature. His bulk. His proportions. His width. His breadth. His power. He was far more a physical presence in the book than anything else. It reminded me so much of JR Ward's Wrath that now I want to read [book:Dark Lover|42899] all over again.
The heroine's strength (man, there are some big fat trigger warnings for this one if that's your thing) and intelligence made her a likable and formidable character. And I thought the hero had some potential - but he sadly devolved into mommy issues and brute strength. Still, it's a Byrne - meaning it's 100% readable and enjoyable. And I can't wait for the next one.

4.5 stars rounded up.

Since a traumatic experience changed her life forever Lady Alexandra Lane has taken care of herself and earned a doctorate in archaeology, along with the respect of her fellow academics. No one would suspect her dark past, but with her family's newly diminished circumstances, that past may soon come to light when she can no longer pay off her blackmailer. Now she's been summoned to Redmayne Castle to attend her friend's wedding, only Alex finds herself shockingly interested in the groom despite his reputation as the Terror of Torcliff. After all, he's a terrible match for her friend and marriage to a wealthy man would solve the most looming of her problems.

Piers Gedrick Atherton, the Duke of Redmayne wants only revenge, to ensure the woman he once thought he loved never has the chance to become a duchess, so he must marry. Piers finds himself inexplicably drawn to and protective of Alexandra Lane, rather than his intended, so when Alex suggests she marry him instead of her friend, he sees no reason to disagree. However, the more time they spend together the clearer it becomes that Alexandra has secrets, potentially deadly ones, and the more determined Piers becomes to keep her safe and by his side for good.

First off, this book was heavy. Both main characters have difficult pasts, most especially the heroine, and serious issues they have to work through. Seeing them learn to trust and come to love one another and then fight together for their future was fabulous. Piers is one of the most well-drawn sensitive-yet-strong alpha heroes I've read in quite awhile. I'm very much looking forward to the rest of this series.

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

*ARC from the publisher via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review*

This is the first time I've read Kerrigan Byrne and I fell in love with her beautiful writing and clever plots right from the Prologue. It has captured my attention immediately, even though it was the toughest chapter of the whole book to go through. This book features Lady Alexandra Lane (aka Doctor Lane, a Sorbonne-trained archeologist, and one of the three Red Rogues ladies), and Piers Atherton, the Duke of Redmayne.

My heart cried out for Alexandra and all the burdens that her past secrets had weighed in on her. She was a brilliant and dedicating scientist, a compassionate and loyal friend, and a sweet and caring lover. Yet, the traumatic experience at the age of 17 had forever left a scar in her soul and a fear for physical intimacies.

Then we have Piers, a beastly duke with facial scars left by a jaguar. He was magnificent, intelligent, and fearsome. Witnessing his unfaithful mother and being betrayed by his former fiancee, Piers was especially guarded when it came to women. Yet, he was always kind, respectful, gentle, and patient with Alexandra.

Their marriage started off as of convenience. Within the short amount of time, Piers had helped Alexandra to overcome her traumatic past and to be able to enjoy the intimacies between them, and her loyalty had gained absolute trust in him. I was delighted with the witty banter between the characters, the inseparable friendship among the ladies, how the story started strong, and ended even stronger with surprised elements.

Definitely a 5-star read, it's a beautiful, emotional story of survivor and healing, of strong and independent heroines, and I'm looking forward to the love journeys of Cecelia and Francesca, the other two ladies of the Red Rogues.

*Content warning: sexual assault*

I absolutely adored this book but it is not a light read. I always try not to have any spoilers in my reviews but I think for this particular review, before I even get into it, it is important to give a content warning. So if you are not looking for any spoilers please do not read ahead.

The heroine has a history of being sexually assaulted as a teenager. If this is a subject that you do not care to read about please do not read this book.

Now coming back to my review of this book. As soon as I read the first chapter from this book, I was in tears but also knew that I would not be able to put this book down for a single second. And so it was no surprise when I read this one through the night. Mind you on a weeknight, nonetheless. I highly encourage you to read this book on a weekend with no other plans as you will not be able to put it down. This author always packs a punch with all her characters. They are so complicated but underneath everything, I absolutely adore them. I felt the same for Alexandra and Piers in this book. The pain and devastation that Alexandra goes through is unbearable and it is credit to the author where I could feel it through the pages of the book. It was almost as if Alexandra's soul was whispering to mine through the words. Her bravery, her love for her best friends and her inherent sweetness made me just love her character. I also just adored Piers, his kind and loving heart behind the rugged exterior, his love and respect for Alexandra. I adored him because he didn't even blink when he is introduced to her as an archeologist and plans a surprise archeological dig trip for her without a second thought. There is almost a sweetness in the interaction in between the Piers and Alexandra. Even through the emotional story and all the angst, you cannot miss the beautiful relationship that is developing in between both of them. The author also focuses on the beautiful bonds in between the three best friends, Alexandra, Cecelia and Francesca. I cannot wait to read Cecelia and Francesca's stories in the upcoming books in the series.

This is the first book in The Devil You Know series.

* I received this ARC from NetGalley and the publisher for an honest review*

I really enjoyed this dark, suspenseful, intelligent love story. It is very well written and a great, captivating, read. Wish there were more books about the Red Rogues!

I loved this book. I really felt like the characters were so well developed & interesting. Alexandra & Piers are very complicated & have many layers they have to peal away to get to know each other. The back & forth between them is riveting. The storyline is superb. Highly recommend this book.

I received an advanced reader’s copy of this book.

Alexandra goes through a traumatic event at the start of the story from which no one ever recovers. Her past impacts her daily life and decisions. She is also being blackmailed and is having to pay someone who knows what happened. With her family bankrupt, she needs money to continue to pay the blackmailer. She proposes marriage to Piers, the wealthy Duke of Redmayne who agrees.

One is taken on an emotional journey with Alexandra as she has to face her fears and panic when being around men. She makes progress and experiences setbacks. Through it all she maintains her courage to move forward.

I loved seeing Piers and Alexandra interact and how his treatment of her helps her in her healing.

The story has a mystery/suspense element as well and there is enough happening to keep the reader turning pages until the end.

This is a great beginning to a new series. I love Kerrigan Byrne’s writing. She creates strong characters that engage the reader from the start.

A exceptionally superb book. I was totally blown away by this book. While I like this author I did not have any expectation that this book would be one that would keep me awake through the night until I finished it. However it did and I did! Then I wanted the next one immediately! Every time I read a story, I look for so many different things, this one had them all. So I reread it! Each time it was just as good! My escape into this world was wonderful, exciting and a little adventure. I loved the characters, the plot the way it unfolds. I adored the writing and imagination shown. I like the layers within the story giving added depth. Each step of this book was absolutely wonderful. A total five star buy it now and a keeper book. I was given this arc but all opinions written here are my own. BUY and enjoy this wonderful book. Regards, Anna

Bryne has managed to perfectly weave in dark, heart-wrenching situations with red hot passion and tenderness in the first book of her new series, Devil You Know. I was caught by surprise by the vicious scene in the prologue. Admittedly, the dedication reading #metoo should have been a giant caution sign for this reader. I took a short break to read a couple of books before returning to Alexandra’s story. I fell in love with the dark, brooding Piers and his swoony combination of tender understanding and red-blooded passionate male. Doctor Alexandra Lane is the intelligent bluestocking we love to admire with two incredibly loyal friends.

I think one of the more impressive aspects of How to Love a Duke in Ten Days is that Bryne managed to expertly juggle the core romance storyline while still including the important side stories like Alexandra’s blackmail mystery and Piers’ unfortunate past. I did find my attention drifting a bit during the longer inner musings but that seems to be a naughty reading habit of mine. Overall, this book was engaging and a true pleasure to read. There is enough action and mystery to keep the story moving even when the romance stalls due to male idiocy.

As much as I loved this book, I did find it difficult to read. Alexandra’s trauma and secrets play a significant role in this story. I do feel like Kerrigan Bryne found the perfect balance between giving the gravity of a topic like rape and yet not allowing the intensity to overpower the true story of love, trust, and vulnerability. Even with the care Bryne took with the topic, this book contains triggering content and may not be for all readers.

I am already wishing I had my mitts on Francesca and Cecilia’s books. This is the sort of series that is perfect for binge reading. Kerrigan Bryne truly has a gift for writing and has joined the (illustrious) ranks of auto-read authors for historical romance for this reader. Now I need to circle back and makes sure I’ve read all her backlist books! Do yourself a favor and add this to your TBR with a healthy dose of caution from one #metoo survivor to another. It is worth the discomfort to read a book that ultimately is a testament to Alexandra’s strength, intelligence, and desire to live life fully.

**Full review will be posted on Dream Come Review on 30 Aug as part of the blog tour.
**Abbreviated Reviews have been posted to Goodreads (link provided) and Bookbub
**will post abbreviated reviews to amazon on release day

Wow! What a great story!
Coming on the heels of the Victorian Rebel series, this book has big shoes to fill and it does it admirably. It has all the characteristics of a signature Kerrigan Byrne novel we’ve come to expect. Deep, dark well developed characters and a storyline that will keep you glued to the pages until you’re done.
My heart hurt for both characters. They’ve gone through so much individually yet they still had a hard road ahead. That road is paved with fear and suspicion but also trust and love.

2.5 stars. This book is so hard to rate because I absolutely LOVED the first half. It starts with a shocking rape and killing, and a sworn oath between three young women. It has everything! Secrets, blackmail, friendship, humor, sexual tension! The writing style was very dramatic, but in such a delicious and satisfying way.

But it all went downhill for me when we got to the big misunderstanding between the heroine and hero.

SPOILERS AHEAD:


We have some major myths about virginity and women's bodies being propagated in this book. Alexandra was raped when she was 17, and thus is no longer a virgin. Her new husband, Piers, the dije if Redmayne, discovers this fact when he fingers her and apparently deduces her sin because he notices her lack of hymen. Ignoring the fact that even if she had had sex willingly his attitude is hypocritical given his proclaimed sexual prowess...

ARE YOU KIDDING ME?

Alexandra is 27 years old, and this is just not how hymens work: https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/blog/all-about-sex/201103/the-hymen-membrane-widely-misunderstood

I know this is a long-standing trope in romance novels from back in the day, but it's 2019 and this is not what I'm here for. He very well could, being uneducated in female anatomy himself, have come to the conclusion that she wasn't a virgin even if she hadn't ever had sex, but that never happens in these books, which gives the impression that there really is some incontrovertible physical evidence of female virginity, which there is not.

After his discovery, Redmayne is horrified that his bride is not a virgin, and refuses to have sex with her until she has her period, so he knows she is not pregnant, because he would "hate the child for not being his." This is what the titular "ten days" refers to, as that is how long he intends to wait. He also becomes insanely jealous of any other man who looks at Alexandra at this point, in a way that I suspect is supposed to read as "alpha," but to me just seemed insecure and weak.

Naturally, he eventually realizes the truth and is apologetic and caring, but I'd already soured on their relationship by that point, and it was too little, too late to make up for how much of a dick he'd been earlier.

I just hated the way this whole ridiculous conflict was handled, and I think this book would have been stronger without the "misunderstanding" plot.

/SPOILER

So it's hard to know whether to round up or down, given that I loved part of the book and felt salty and disgusted during another. I did really enjoy the writing style and loved a large chunk of the story, but the misinformation about women's bodies, plus Redmayne's petulant jealousy really soured me on the story. I do however want to read the next book--the author did so many things well, and I want to see how things play out for Cecilia and Francesca. But this one was disappointing, especially given how much promise it showed in the first half.

What a different bodice ripper! It is an erotic Beauty and the Beast story. She is living in fear years after the rape while is school. She and her friends are never going to marry. At a time when women were nothing, she gets a degree and becomes successful in her field. Yet years later she steps in to save a friend from marriage with the beast. And from there the story becomes a steamy relationship with a bit of mystery too.
I liked the book.

Absolutely thirlling! I devoured this book! Historical romance is one of my favorite genres and this one entertained me to no end!!

Scarred hero,flawed heroine and a lively tale that moved swiftly along .Historical romance with good characters and an unusual story.

As a young girl, Lady Alexandra was forced to defend herself against her lecherous headmaster. His murder was a secret that was guarded closely between Alexandra and her friends.
But someone saw her that night and has been blackmailing her ever since.
When Alexandra runs into the Duke of Redmayne, they both share sizzling chemistry. Alexandra has no need for a husband however she does need money which is something Redmayne has plenty of.
It isn't difficult for the two of them to agree to a marriage of convenience.
However it isn't long before unusual accidents start happening around the newlyweds. Somebody wants one or both of them dead.
I haven't really been feeling historical novels recently (too much of a good thing?) but I absolutely devoured this one.
I read "How to Love a Duke in Ten Days" during every spare minute I could possibly find. I loved the suspense. It added a nice touch to the romance.
Lady Alexandra and Redmayne have amazing chemistry and all I wanted from their very first meeting was for the two of them to be together.
This book is magical. Read it!

Lady Alexandra Lane has some secrets to keep. The Duke of Redmayne is looking for a wife. Can these two match up without disaster happening? The Ten days serve as chapter headers, and the book has it moments of levity and romance.

Very hot segment of an intricate series featuring a group of friends and a buried secret from their school days--heroine and hero are well matched, heroine is an adventurous archaeologist and the hero gets with the program and supports her, misunderstandings are reasonable and the hero is justifiably worried rather than just an overbearing asshole.

I absolutely fell in love with this book! Alexandra is meeting her friend for a ball where the Duke of Redmayne will announce their engagement. She has a harrowing escape from being trampled by a horse with the clever use of her umbrella and the animal handler from Redmayne’s stables. He happens to be the Duke himself. Get ready for the ride of your life. These girls are hiding some huge secrets. This is the best retelling of Beauty and the Beast ever! 5 amazing stars

Oh my gosh! What a heartbreakingly beautiful story! There is no doubt this author poured her heart and soul into this book and I felt it in every word.

This begins with a very intense, dark moment in Alexandra Lane’s life. A moment that changes her forever. And while it leaves devastation in its wake, it is also the event that leads her to suggest marriage to the Terror of Torcliff, Piers Atherton the Duke of Redmayne.

Scarred, arrogant and a bit of a barbarian, rumors abound concerning Piers.
”Whatever lurked in his blood, whether the Viking warrior, the fabled were beast, or fearsome demon, it was undeniable that something sinister and sinful rippled beneath the ducal bearing. Something ferocious and ancient that might have earned him a pagan’s grave upon a day.
He did not belong in the age of gentility.”

Even as he embraces the privacy the title of monster gives him, in his heart he’s lonely. When an incident at the train station brings a young woman into his life, he fantasizes about what a simple life with her would look like. And then he sees her again. But she is not a simple villager’s wife, she is his fiancée’s best friend.

This was an absolutely amazing read! Once started I could not put it down! I immediately felt a connection to Alexandra, my heart torn to shreds at what happened to her, at how she was forced to deal with it, and how she carried the burden every day.
”Sometimes, though, I fear the weight of my sins will pull me into the abyss. I hope if God exists, if we are to stand judgment, that justice is more compassion than vengeance.”

I loved this heroine. Despite being broken, she was so strong. She had to be to continue on. But she doesn’t just flounder through life, she bulldozes it down by becoming one of among a few female archeologist in her time, and a highly sought after one at that. Watching her grow, as well as learning to overcome her fears and to embrace hope, was so perfectly beautiful. I’m all about the hero, but Alexandra and her quiet strength, innate sense of loyalty, and courage moved her into a top favorite heroine.

There is no denying that Piers is the type of hero I look for. He has his own issues to deal with but in spite of their problems he was always protective and possessive.
“If Alexandra were ripening with child, every man who’d dare to look upon her would know he’d put it there. Would understand she was taken. Claimed.”

I have never read a scene like the one where Piers learns the truth of Alexandra’s past. He was devastated and this author allowed him free reign to react as only the Terror of Torcliff could.
”A Redmayne’s revenge was slow. It would be wet. It would be messy. Methodical. And ultimately lethal.”
I raged and cried for both Alexandra and him. This scene is reason alone to read this book. As I said, heartbreakingly beautiful.
”Reaching, but not touching. Aching, but not speaking. Because language hadn’t yet invented words for this sort of pain, and therefore neither had it words for comfort.”

Together, Piers and Alexandra were imperfectly perfect! Their chemistry sizzles, their banter is engaging, and their emotions are constantly evolving into something more. I’m not sure I’ve ever read a hero and heroine who deserve a happy ever after more than this couple.

There are layers upon layers within the pages of this book and with each new layer I fell further into this world and these characters. This is a high angst read, filled with drama, danger and mystery. It is also interlaced with wit and fun as well as secondary characters that add a richness to the overall story. I cannot wait to get the next book in this series.

HIGHLY RECOMMEND!!!!

I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book provided by NetGalley and St. Martin's Press. All thoughts and opinions are my own.