A Duke in Time is the first book in Janna MacGregor's The Widow Rules series. I became a big fan of Ms. MacGregor when I read some of her Cavensham Heiresses books. If this first story is any indication, we're going to be in for a fun, steam-filled ride when the other widows get their turns.

Katherine "Kat" Vareck is stunned when she meets with her late husband Meri's solicitor to go over his estate and she discovers that Meri was quite busy since he left her six hours after their wedding: he has two other wives. Yes, dear Meri was a trigamist! Kat runs a successful textile business and is also in the running to be a supplier for the Royal Pavilion. If word gets out about the other wives, or if her past life is discovered, she will lose everything she worked so hard for. Christian Vareck, Duke of Randford and Meri's half-brother, has nary an idea how to help these women. He went to war to get away from his debauched family and returned as a highly decorated war hero. He doesn't want to be dragged into this, but he's most intrigued by Kat. He desperately wants to help war veterans who have returned home to no opportunities or assistance. They agree on a joint business venture that will benefit them both, and the two of them become incredibly close. But will Kat's past tear them apart?

When I read the description of the book, it sounded extremely familiar. The Three Mrs series by Jess Michaels came to mind, in which three widows discovered they married the same man and became great friends. I frankly thought this book would be a retread of that plot line; I was happy to discover that I was incorrect. The characters here were totally unique, as was the way the women dealt with the situation in which they found themselves. Kat was a great heroine in that she knew what she wanted and worked hard for it. She overcame a heartbreaking past and made a success of herself. An irritated and frustrated duke was no match for her! And then there was Christian... yes, I found myself another book boyfriend! I just adored that he was a military man and a decorated officer. He, too, overcame a troubled past and became successful despite his wayward family. I love how he cared for soldiers returned from the war and used the power of his title to help them. After an iffy start between the two, Kat and Christian were an awesome romantic pairing. When they became intimate, well, I recommend a cold shower to the reader. They were great characters, but the rest of the cast also brought charm and interest to the story. I was especially fond of Willa, Kat's companion, who was always willing to protect her friend with a dirk; she was also a talented healer. Her friendship (burgeoning romance?) with Morgan, Christian's former batman and now valet, was sweet. The other wives, Constance and Beth, were also intriguing. I can't wait to read their stories!

I received an ARC of this book courtesy of the publisher and NetGalley. I received no compensation for my review, and all thoughts and opinions expressed are entirely my own.

Meh. Everything about this book is meh, okay but no where near great. Characters and writing lack depth or any connecting qualities. Feels wooden. Instalove. I have read a lot of historical novels and this one feels like a modern day writer wrote the book. Just didn’t fit.

I wanted to read this book because of the plot. Three women find out they are married to the same man. I read Jess Michaels <i>The Unexpected Wife</i> which has a similar premise but is a much better book and series. Fyi. I just rather read other books than this one. I almost DNF this book a few times but I was hoping for it to get better. It didn’t for me sadly.

*Received via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review*

This book opens as Katherine Vareck, Lady Meriwether, arrives at the solicitors for the reading of her husband's will. What she doesn't know is that there are two other women arriving for the same purpose. The clerks were bringing them to the room where the solicitor just left Katherine, not exactly subtle. She realizes what is going on when she hears Christian, the Duke Randford, arrive and adamantly demand the solicitor 'take care of it'. One of the problems Mr. Hanes has is that they can't find any money to return the women's dowries. When she confronts Christian with his responsibilities as Meri's brother he isn't having any of it. He's cleaned up far too many of his brother's messes and he's done.

A few things happen after the Duke departs, first Katherine has a discussion with her companion, Willa Ferguson, regarding the other two wives and second she invites them to stay at her home. They're all in the same boat and they all have to wait for answers.

The Duke himself has sort of a change of heart, realizing he should help these women somehow he returns to the solicitor's to find they've already left. He gains a new employee as he recognized the man begging for coins as Phillip Reed, a talented carpenter who served under his command. The realization that others who served were out there with no means of employment struck him and he vows to help them.

The second wife, Constance Lysander, is pregnant and she traveled with her Aunt Venetia. They were expecting the Duke provide accommodations for them which is obviously not happening.

The third wife Blythe Howell, is the sister of a Viscount. She wants to avoid her brother at all costs.

All of these women need to avoid scandal and that's going to take some doing. Katherine is the only one in a relatively good position since she has a successful business and is up for a Royal contract.

There are many twists and turns in this story for each of these women, although we center on Katherine and her growing relationship with Christian.

This is a delightful tale that had me laughing out loud, sniffling and fanning myself from the heat generated by Katherine and Christian.

I can't wait to read the next installment of this series.

I am voluntarily posting an honest review after reading and advance reader copy of this story.

Janna MacGregor had me so very involved in this story. The characters are interesting but it's the plot that had me. I've never read a historical romance about a trigamist. Never thought about it in this time period but how easy would it be for some rotten rogue to pull it off. No phones, no pony express, no telegraph. Meriweather got away with it, until he died, karma got him. An amazing thing happened in regards to the three women, you'll love it. Anyway, the Duke is Meri's older half brother and he's done cleaning up the mess. Until he sees Katherine. The sun comes out, the birds sing, & he's in a lot of lust. Good thing it turns into love. Convincing her to get involved with him, much less marriage, is tough. We have secrets and untruths on the part of everybody.. Just so happens the duke has 2 single friends of good standing. Imagine that. The other two "widows" are getting their turn at an HEA thank goodness. Bring on the next widow, I'm waiting.

#JannaMacGregor #ADukeInTime #TheWidowRules #Netgalley #St.Martin'sPaperbacks #historicalromance #romance

This is the first in a new series centering around three women who find out they were all married to the same man after he dies in a riding accident.

The first story centers around Katherine, the only one of the wives who has a profession - she creates and sells fine linens. Initially she wants nothing to do with the other wives, but after discovering they are without anywhere to go - and facing major scandal - she has them move into her home. The three quickly form a strong friendship as they contemplate their next moves.

Their former 'husband's' brother, Christian Vareck - the Duke of Randford, similarly wants to wash his hands of anything to do with his family, including the unfortunate women who fell for his half-brother's charms. His conscience spurs him to get involved with helping the women, and as a result he and Katherine discover an attraction that will not abate. Rest assured, they get their HEA, but not without a good deal of hand wringing.

This was a great start to a new series, and I look forward to seeing how the characters develop with the next installments.

Katherine Vareck is in for the shock of her life when she learns upon her husband Meri's accidental death that he had married two other women. Her entire business, along with a once-in-a-lifetime chance to be a royal supplier, is everything she's been working for and now could be destroyed if word leaks about the three wives. Meri's far more upstanding brother, Christian, Duke of Randford has no earthly clue how to be of assistance. He spent the better part of his adult years avoiding Meri and the rest of his good-for-nothing family, so to be dragged back into the fold is…problematic. With a textile business to run and a strong friendship forming with Meri's two other wives, Katherine doesn't have time for much else. But there's something about the warm, but compellingly taciturn Christian that draws her to him. When an opportunity to partner in a business venture brings them even closer, they'll have to face their pasts if they want to share each other's hearts and futures.
The first book in a new series & I thoroughly enjoyed it. I loved Kat who had made something of her life after being orphaned, yes she had secrets, which were gradually revealed & could have upset the apple cart but the lovely Christian saw the real Kat. Yes I loved Christian too, a war hero who wanted to raise the standing of the duchy. Together the pair were formidable & I loved how their relationship developed. I also loved the humour especially the things Meri had bequeathed in his will, these were an eclectic mix from statues to tigers. The secondary characters were also delightful & I look forward to the other two wives stories. I also loved that there’s mention of characters from the author's previous series. A well written interesting & engrossing start to the series
My honest review is for a special copy I voluntarily read

Great start to a new series!

Katherine and Christian find themselves teaming up to solve a problem left behind by her late husband who was his half brother. And they also find themselves falling in love with another.

I loved Katherine’s confidence and compassion as well as the fact that she was uncompromising about her talent and career. Christian’s immediate support of Katherine combined with his willingness to show his own vulnerabilities made him perfect for her. Willa and Morgan were adorable and I loved Aunt Vee. I can’t wait to for Constance and Beth to get their HEAs!

I received a complimentary review copy of this book but all opinions are my own.

This was my first time reading a book by this author and I’m very impressed! The premise caught my eye right away. I can’t wait for the rest of the series!

I read this entirely for the plot. This sounded amazing when I read the premise. Three widows and one husband. I don't know if I've ever read anything like this in the historical romance. I couldn't wait to have this in my hands.
The first chapter is wonderful. It sets everything up and does it in a spectacular manner. It completely sucked me in. The writing is enjoyable but I wanted more from the plot and characters. I felt that some things were thrown in at the last moment and the romance was a bit insta-love for my tastes.
Overall a very intriguing read and interested to see what happens in the next book.

I loved this story so so much!! This is the first book I read from this author and is definitely not going to be the last one. Her writing is really good.
Katherine Vareck is in for the shock of her life when she learns upon her husband Meri's accidental death that he had married two other women. Her entire business, along with a once-in-a-lifetime chance to be a royal supplier, is everything she's been working for and now could be destroyed if word leaks about the three wives.
Meri's far more upstanding brother, Christian, Duke of Randford, spent the better part of his adult years avoiding Meri and the rest of his good-for-nothing family, so to be dragged back into the fold is…problematic. Even more so is the intrepid and beautiful Katherine, whom he cannot be falling for because she's Meri's widow.
With a textile business to run and a strong friendship forming with Meri's two other wives, Katherine doesn't have time for much else. But there's something about the warm, but compellingly taciturn Christian that draws her to him. When an opportunity to partner in a business venture brings them even closer, they'll have to face their pasts if they want to share each other's hearts and futures.
Christian is just perfect. Sweet and passionate, he is every girl’s dream. Katherine is smart, hardworking and brave. Together they are stronger and really work as a team, what I really enjoyed. Even though he is a Duke, he listens to Katherine and respects her opinions. All the sexy times are beautifully romantic and memorable. And hot! This book is just so sweet and romantic! It was an amazing experience reading it.
I loved the side characters and I´ll be waiting for Constance and Beth stories.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

A must-read for historical romance. I loved Kat and Christian. Their reluctant partnership blossoms into more but secrets from Kay’s past threaten to tear down their carefully built relationship. I can’t wait to hear more from the other wives of Lord Meriweather! 5 stars!!

THIS WASN'T BAD... I JUST DIDN'T LIKE ANYTHING ABOUT IT 😅

Actual rating: 2.5 ⭐

You ever get that feeling? There's plenty of things you can find wrong with a book, and yet it isn't a total bust? That's how I felt about this book. I can name several things that I didn't like and no things that I did like and yet I was still okay with this book. So strange...

👎 What I Disliked 👎

POVs: At first I couldn't pinpoint why I often felt confused while reading. Often I just felt like something happened that made me lose it. But then it suddenly occurred to me. MacGregor would change POV constantly and willy-nilly. Several times during a chapter with no pre-ample or warning, we'd suddenly jump from Katherine's head into Meri's. It threw me off, at first without me knowing it, and later because I became hyper aware of it whenever it happened.

Historical: I don't dislike historical romance novels that take a slightly modern twist, as long as it still reads largely as a historical novel. This book, I felt, strayed way too far into the modern realm and often I could easily forget that this was supposed to take place during the Regency period.

Twists: Several times this story took a twist that just felt... weird. Just, wrong, strange and out of place. It just felt like a strange way to create some drama even though it didn't fit the story or make any sense.

Secret: Katherine has a secret that she is ashamed of and wants to hide. And honestly, once that secret was revealed, I really didn't understand what the big deal was. Again, it was more drama than it was worth and just didn't make sense.

Katherine, Lady Meriwether, Constance, Lady Meriwether, Blythe, Lady Meriwether
and Lord Meriwether (Meri). Hmmm.....
three wives/three widows. When these three ladies meet with the solicitor concerning the will, it's not good news. In walks Christian Varcek, Duke of Ranford, half-brother to Meri and a war hero. His first thought... it's not his problem, but Katherine stands up to him demanding her dowry. The the other ladies need theirs. too. What's a Duke to do? Katherine stays in his space and Christian likes it. Soon the two of them are working together, but there are more surprises to come. Laugh out loud witty banter and a sexy, swoon-worthy Duke who knows what he wants. One widow happy, two more to go.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book..

This book is romantic and unexpectedly suspenseful with both keeping the trigamy out of the rumor mill and Katherine's past in danger of blowing up everything she's accomplished.
I love how MacGregor takes the idea of how easy it used to be to trick women into getting married, taking their dowries, and then running off to do it again. It's such a great plot element and I've honestly never seen it used, which made the fact that MacGregor used it so expertly that much more impressive.
I enjoyed both Katherine and Christian as individual characters and even more when they're together, and they aren't the only characters with fully developed stories engage with. This is a story full of great ideas employed expertly to create a world where you're invested in the charcters and the story despite several elements being somewhat out there.
This one definitely gets added to the recommend list.

Extremely happy thanks to NetGalley and St. Martin's Press for the early read!

Thank you to NetGalley and St Martin's for the chance to read an early copy of this book!

This historical romance is delightfully cozy. I found it refreshing and soothing, though people who like angst and conflict might deem the book low energy. I loved the connection between Christian and Katherine, and how they were so respectful of each other (no giant blow-up to move the plot along, huzzah!) and both sought to make the world a better place by creating jobs for single women and former soldiers who were being passed over by society. Some of the story beats seemed a little forced or pacing off -- why did he only talk to her and not the other widows at the beginning? why did it take 5 chapters for them to convey a crucial decision to an interested party? (avoiding spoilers, but it was something that nagged me) -- and it seems odd that there's a diversity of class but not race in this world. However, overall this was an enjoyable read with some surprisingly steamy scenes.

The other two pairings are very clearly set up in the book, and I am excited to read more since it seems like there are still some threads to be tied up (standalone sticklers, beware). This was just the soothing read I needed after a stressful week, and I'm delighted to have spent my evening with such kind and loving characters.

Loved reading the engaging and captivating historical romance story. When Katherine discovers upon her husband's death that he has two other wives, she is shocked, offers for both women to stay with her, and asks the new Duke of Randford, Christian, for help. The more Christian learns about Katherine, the more he is intrigued and interested in her. Read the highly recommended, wonderfully written, and a must read love story.
I reviewed a copy of the story through NetGalley.

A Duke in Time is the first book in the new The Widow Rules series by Janna MacGregor. It was fast-paced and drew me in from the beginning. It was well written and hard to put down. The characters were charming and lovable. Katherine Vareck was shocked when she learns Lord Meriwether “Meri”, her husband, had married three women before he died. Meri had left right after his and Katherine’s wedding dinner and never returned. She knows they must act fast before the scandal gets out and ruins them all. Christian Vareck, Duke of Randford, had just returned to London to discover his half-brother Meri had married three women before he died. Christian had given up on Meri a long time ago and he wanted nothing to do with the wives. He had his own duties to take care of now that he is back in London. He wants to help the men he fought with that came home to nothing by setting up a business to give them jobs. As he realizes how insightful Katherine is, he asks her for help setting up a business that would help them. I enjoyed reading this book but there were several things that were not believable and bothered me. I loved how strong the three wives were and how they took everything in stride. But the wives becoming best friends at the beginning with no animosity between them was hard for me to believe. Also, I never felt or say any grief from any of the wives, who were only worried about their reputations. I was very surprised by the ending and even though this was not my favorite book by this author, I would love to see what happens with the other two wives. I look forward to the next book and hope to learn a little more about Meri and his reasoning.
I received an ARC and am voluntarily leaving a review. All thoughts and opinions are my own.

This is a book to be truly savored. Like a finely aged bottle of whiskey the story is elegant and smooth. Janna MacGregor enchants with characters that are wonderfully daring and will remain with you for sometime. The plot is unique and astounding. Katherine discovering her life has been turned upside down does the unexpected. Johnathan is a Duke and a war hero who doesn’t want to deal with his brother’s disaster. Throughout the story we see how each character grows and changes as they discover more of themself and each other. This is definitely a story to keep for your library and pull out and read over the years as it will bring you enormous joy to see the skill of the writer and enjoy the gorgeous characters.

An enjoyable light read.

The conflict is pretty easily resolved, which made for a quick read, but was also frustrating.

A little bit of ~spice~

*Thank you to the publisher for this eARC.

Reviews by the Wicked Reads Review Team

Erica – ☆☆☆☆☆
A DUKE IN TIME is the debut in a new series, The Widow Rules. Janna MacGregor is a new-to-me author, and I'm eagerly anticipating the next in The Widow Rules series, as well as reading more from the author's backlist.

The novel opens with a bereaved wife awaiting the reading of her witless husband's will, only to discover she is simply the first wife of three, all married within the same year. This comes as a shock but not, considering her husband left her directly after their wedding breakfast, never to be seen again. In actuality, their marriage was all of six hours old.

Katherine has known hardship, but she has also known familial love. Mature, strong, intelligent, with a fierce will to survive, Katherine isn't worried over her future, simply her reputation and that of the two other wives. As an entrepreneur, Katherine needed her husband's last name to get her foot in the door, using the second son of a duke (now the younger brother of the current duke) to get the peers to purchase her wares. Terrified the news that her husband's deception will ruin all she's worked for, Katherine is willing to do anything to keep this under wraps.

Christian is fresh from battle, only to have the dukedom dumped into his lap. After cutting off his father, his father's mistress turned second wife, and his childish baby brother, Christian is in cleanup mode, only to have his brother die in a ridiculous accident, leaving a string of wives behind.

Katherine and Christian are of similar personalities. Strong and stable, able to take the punches and keep moving forward. They're both kind and compassionate, charitable and selfless, yet aching for connection to family and friends, not truly believing they deserve romantic love. Usually it's opposites attract in romance novels, but it truly worked this time around – the male and female equivalent of one another, the hero and heroine were a perfect balance to act as a cohesive team for the betterment of all those around them.

Set to the backdrop of illegitimate marriages, fear of ruination, gossipmongers, and ravenous opportunists, Katherine builds her own family, which causes Christian to truly grieve for his lost brother.

A fresh breath of humor to chase the melancholy and betrayal away... In a way, Meri is on the pages, a specter of a ghost that refuses to be ignored. A gift that keeps giving, Meri's purchases to his brother keep pouring in, almost his way of saying an I Love You and I Miss You from the grave. More childlike than childish, completely ridiculous in his nature, it's hard not to enjoy Meri's antics, even if it put many lives in total upheaval.

It's easy to see that wives two and three will be the next installments, along with their prospective love interests revealed. I cannot wait to see what happens next, as well as hoping the reader could get some idea as to why Meri purchased what he did.