I'm a big fan of Lorraine Heath's books so when I saw this one, I was excited to read it. Readers should know that this book is more about espionage than romance, but the espionage is fascinating. The romance develops very slowly as the focus is on discovering who was involved in a conspiracy to kill Queen Victoria.

Marcus Stanwick was the heir to a dukedom who lost everything - title, lands, wealth, reputation - when his father was convicted and hanged for conspiring to kill Queen Victoria. Although Marcus' sister eventually married into wealth and his brother now owns a profitable club, Griff - previously heir to the dukedom - is still working at menial labor. This did not make sense to me, as he could have been working with his brother in the club, which would have put him in a far better place to hear rumors about plots against the Queen.

Marcus, like the rest of society, believed that Esme was his father's mistress. He went to her house to confront her about her relationship with his father, and to question her about his father's activities. Marcus slowly discovers that there is far more to Esme than meets the eye.

I thought that Marcus' overly dramatic confrontation with Esme when the book opens was the weakest part of the book. Esme was my favorite character. My respect for her grew as her story unfolded. She was tough, intelligent, focused, and hard to rattle.

My thanks to the publisher Avon and Harper Voyager and NetGalley for allowing me to read and review an advance reader copy of this book. These are my own opinions of the book.

In the third book of her Once Upon a Dukedom series, Heath aps up the historical take on romantic suspense with a feisty spy heroine (Esme Lancaster) and a disgraced nobleman (Marcus Stanwick) trying to recover his good name. At first, Marcus hates Esme (and hates how attracted he is to her), and sparks fly as they decide to work together to uncover a plot to kill Queen Victoria.

Both characters have their dark, twisty sides in the novel, and I love how Heath brings in technology and intrigue. It really is a spy novel interwoven with romance. The book has lots of danger and fight scenes along with some steamy sex. It weaves in characters from her previous books, but I think it could be enjoyed as a standalone as well if you like spy romances.

I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own. Thank you to Netgalley and the publisher.

I’ve been waiting for Marcus to get his story and it did not disappoint! The Return of the Duke was an adventure through Victorian England, with spies, danger, treason, and a beautiful love story woven through out. Esme and Marcus meet because of the Marcus’s father’s treason. His family lost everything and he is on a mission to expose those involved. Marcus thinks that Esme was his father’s mistress but in actuality, she was investigating him as well. Marcus and Esme team up to discover the plot and try to avoid the growing passion between each other. This book had an intriguing plot and steamy scenes and really worked for me!

Finally Marcus’s story! Return of the Duke is the third book in a series that I have indeed enjoyed very much. While not my favorite in the series, it still was a highly satisfying read.

Marcus finally gets the chance to solve his family’s mysterious fall from grace but the person who holds the key is his dad’s mistress, Esme. Esme a woman he instantly feels a powerful tug towards against his will!

I enjoyed this book. It’s always fun watching 2 strong personalities find themselves, and that’s exactly what we had here. Esme was a really strong character that was a pleasant change from a lot of his-roms.

The book also has a mystery-intrigue plot however I feel that was marred by how obvious the villain was.
Thanks to the Publishers and NetGalley for the ARC.

This was an entertaining, well-written book. It was steamy and held my interest. I didn't want to put it down until I got to the end to find out how everything turned out. This book can be read as a standalone story, though it is #3 in the Once Upon a Dukedom series. I enjoyed this book and look forward to reading more books by this author.

Everything you want in a suspenseful, intriguing and romantic story will be found in this next addition to this series!

He was determined to find the people who worked with his father in the treasonous plot against the Queen. His family had lost everything when his father was hanged and he wanted to bring the others down and hopefully restore a little honor to his family.

She was his father's mistress... or was she? But trails led to her and he started with her to give him information. But as things become clearer, they have to work together to get the information they need!

Fast paced and an attraction that cannot be denied, brings the plot full circle and pulls all together in a wonderful conclusion!

Amazing! Only Lorraine Heath can take the establishing plot points of a disgraced lord and his treasonous father's mistress and beautifully craft a love story full of intrigue, misconceptions and mystery. Heath's writing is lyrically beautiful and perfect paints the budding relationship between hero and heroine, creating a deep connection between them and the reader. This novel is well passed and plays out a mystery that the hero and heroine can work together on equal footing to solve. I have been waiting for this story for the past three books and I think Heath as done a lovely job of bringing this romance and the conclusion to the Stanwick's saga, leaving my heart full of love and respect for the characters that she has crafted and brought to live. Heath is definitely a favorite historical romance author for me and someone you absolutely must explore if you have not had the opportunity yet.

Marcus Stanwick was stripped of his future after his father was charged with attempted murder of the Queen, and he has spent the last year searching the darkest corners of London to unmask any hidden secrets that might bring respect back to his family name. In order to gain more knowledge Marcus must align himself with the last person he would want to-Esme Lancaster, a notorious harlot and supposed mistress to his late father. But Esme is shrouded in secrets and also has her own reasonings for wanting to discover if the plot to assassinate the queen is still underway.

I am in love with every aspect of this novel. I love our hero, he is smart, bold and strong. He has had to leave his life of privilege and learn how to navigate the wild streets of London, and this only makes him a more stronger and capable person who has a deeper understanding of the important things and relationships in life. Esme is the perfect heroine for Marcus, she is cunning, mature, intelligent and the perfect temptress to show Marcus what he truly wants out of life. I love that Marcus and Esme are both on equal footing, they are both more than capable to rescue themselves or the other, I love that they both can be serious when needed but also learn how to have fun and tease in moments of lightness. Watching their relationship develop out of misunderstanding into a strong and trustful relationship is so beautiful. Heath is the perfect word smith to show the deepness of understanding that Esme and Marcus build for the other. Heath also creates a delightfully steamy and sensual relationship between these two, Marcus and Esme are fire together and their physical relationship and small touches only helps to prove the depth of their true feelings towards the other (even before they fully admit to them).

Heath will definitely take you on an emotional journey that is highly fulfilling. Her heroes and heroines always feel like the perfect soul match to the other, and she takes the time and care to craft the characters in the world around them that provide them with support and love. I have absolutely adored her Trewlove series and this trilogy spin off has been the perfect extension of that world.

This book is a must read for me! Lorraine Heath is a must read author! You will definitely not be disappointed and your will be left with a heart full of love for the characters that have finally discovered their happily ever afters!

Lorraine is a go to author for me. She always gives us great characters, amazing writing, and all the emotional tugs to our heartstrings! This book had a lot going on and getting us to the end of a mystery and redemption our former titled hero was looking for. Marcus was the next in line to the title of Duke but when his father goes against the crown, everything is stripped from their family. Marcus than is on a hunt to find out the truth. I think he was a good hero & is better at being tilted than not. Esme is our undercover heroine who is also searching for those who want to kill the Queen. So Marcus and Esme decided to work together while hoping to avoid the lust and chemistry between them. I think this was a good story but honestly not my favorite in the series. I’m not big in spy romances but that’s just me personally. I’m sure fans of the series and Lorraine will enjoy this addition! Looking forward the the Chessman next!

I really hated the first chapter of this books and nearly quit there. I'm so glad I didn't though as this just got better and better. Full of mystery and intrigue was very entertaining and while the romance was a slow burn with little steam until about 60% point I liked this as it showed they were serious about solving the mystery and proved she wasn't a harlot. I would have given it 5 stars if not for that first chapter which nearly put me off the whole book. This is my honest review is for a special copy I voluntarily read

3 1/2 stars I can't quite round up. I like Lorraine Heath and this is one of those reads that should be right up my alley; I love spy/espionage plots, especially worked in with historical romance. If you're squeamish about the H getting together with his husband's former mistress, don't worry, her identity and role are cleared up around the 20% mark.

Unfortunately, there are a few elements that brought this down from 4 stars for me:
--The "superwoman" h, which is becoming more and more common in historical romances. I love strong, intelligent women, but the Superwoman can be overdone. Esme is sooo worldly (although, of course, she's only had a very few lovers), knows everyone and keeps tabs on everyone, is uncannily observant with a great memory, and is an expert with a gun as well as a rapier. Oh, she's also fabulous at sparring and wrestling, as demonstrated in a silly scene between her and the H, Marcus, around the 30% mark. They're both recovering from stab wounds they incurred while being attacked, but decide that a friendly grappling competition is in order. (Yes, I did roll my eyes). Esme might not have bothered me so much if she hadn't come across frequently as snide and smug, with little vulnerability or nuance. I got tired of Marcus apologizing to her for the anger he'd felt toward her before he had any idea of who she really was. SPOILER ALERT.........................................And the way Esme abandoned Marcus at the end, while still surreptitiously stalking him, irritated me. She should have apologized at least a bit for that. And speaking of Marcus...
--I'm not into alphas, but I don't mind an H with an edge. I liked Marcus in the previous book. Here, as the plot unfolds, he becomes more and more beta to the point it annoyed me. I felt like it worked against their chemistry.
--The lull in the middle of the plot, and the 2nd twist at the end. I thought the first plot twist worked. I don't want to give away any spoilers, but I didn't like the impact the 2nd twist had on Marcus's social status and future. The 2nd twist also brings up the question of why this whole operation relied so much on a conversation Esme overheard in a garden. Marcus even questioned her about it at the beginning--and she blew him off. It seemed pretty contrived.

Overall, I enjoyed some of the banter and the steamy scenes, but just didn't feel that Esme loved Marcus. To me, you have to believe in a couple's bond to believe in their HEA..

I read an advanced copy of this book and this is my voluntary review. Opinions are my own. Thanks to the author, publisher, and Net Galley for this opportunity.

I enjoyed this book. The tension and chemistry were easy to feel, and the story kept me engaged and entertained. Animosity, a quest for vengeance, secrets, twists, drama and emotion are blended into an enticing brew that left me satisfied.

I really liked Esme overall. Female spy?? Working for the queen? Yes please! However…

I could have done without this line…. “Yet, still, she was so well toned that not one aspect of her sagged or drooped out of place.” Oh thank goodness her boobs and skin don’t sag when she’s not in her corset, even though she’s ancient (in her thirties).

Also, I don’t really understand why she just…up and decides to trust him and let him take part in her efforts? It was so abrupt. A seasoned spy isn’t just going to give that up so easily.

I kinda hate that she talks about herself as sniveling when she discusses crying as a child…why so mean to your younger self? You have a lot of healing to do, Ms Esme.

It’s a little creepy that our dude is jealous of the time his father got to spend with Esme. That just gives everything weird vibes.

I did like the Queen in this one, especially a queen who thinks and acts for herself.

Overall, an interesting plot, but the writing left a lot to be desired.

The Return of the Duke
Once Upon a Dukedom Series - Book 3
By Lorraine Heath

Avon - July 2022

Historical Romance


Marcus Stanwick had been born, educated, and raised for one purpose. To become the next Duke of Wolfford. When his father was executed for treason, the family had also lost all their possessions, and the title had reverted to the crown. They had been temporarily imprisoned and questioned before being released. He had watched his mother die, and he, and his two siblings, had learned to fend for themselves in the murky underbelly of London.

While things had worked out well for both his brother and sister, who were both happily married, Marcus was still on a mission. He intended to identify the others involved in the plot to kill the queen. And he knew who he needed to see. His father's mistress.

Marcus obviously had a bit of animosity for the woman who had brought his mother and family so much sorrow. But as he works with Esme, he discovers a woman that regardless what their investigation yields, Esme is a woman he does not wish to live without.

Esme Lancaster had a knack for observation and learning secrets. Her father had taught her well, and she needed all her skills in the profession she had chosen. But she too had been caught in the aftermath of the treacherous plot. She too had been questioned. Marcus might have come to her hoping for answers, but it was only if they worked together that they might find a way to discover who truly had been the mastermind.

The Return of the Duke unites two individuals who have their own reasons for uncovering the truth. Ms Heath deftly weaves their stories and lives until they form a cohesive unit investigating the truth of Marcus's father, and his involvement in the plot. But it is their discovery of how perfect they are for one another that is the true gem. It was enjoyable to also revisit previous characters, and see some who I hope to read about soon.

Kathy Andrico - KathysReviewCorner.com

The initial connection between the main characters is cringey! However, the truth brings relief to the sloppy situation then you will not be able to put “The Return of the Duke” by Lorraine Health down!

Mr. Marcus Stanwick was stripped of his dukedom before he inherited the position. He visits the Ice Princess, Ms. Esme Lancaster, seeking information that may lead him to the mastermind who aided in his family’s downfall.

The twists in this book are great! Esme is not who she seems. You will continue to question who can be trusted throughout the book, keeping you in suspense. I enjoyed that more secrets are revealed after the threat is captured.

I love that this book has dangerous characters and situations, and going into dangerous areas. This book is historical romance, but action-packed too. Esme and Marcus gets physically hurt and it leads to a favorite trope, close proximity. I love that a VIP played a role in the story because there are hilarious moments during the dangerous situation.

I love Esme and Marcus’s connection and how much they want the best for one another. I love that they had a break from each other which they both knew would happen because it allows for another grand gesture.

If you enjoy close proximity, difference social class relationships, fake relationships, mystery, and redemption stories, I recommend this book!

Thank you to Net Galley, Avon, and Harper Voyager US for the ARC in exchange for a honest review.

I just loved this latest book by one of my favorite author. Ms Heath writes with lots of heat in her historicals and had me at first chapter. This is a part of a series, but can be read as a stand alone. The characters were fully developed with thoughts and feelings of their own.
Marcus Stanwick is the son of the Duke of Wolfford. His father was hanged for trying to assassinate the Queen of England, Victoria. Even though his family was stripped of everything, he has returned to find who was responsible. Nothing and no one will get in his way to avenge his father's name.
Marcus will track down the players who acted dishonorable and expose them.
Esme Lancaster is also involved to find out the plot and the men who are hiding behind their status.
When Esme and Marcus find each other looking for the same thing, the sparks fly between them.
Marcus doesn't really trust Esme and her moniker "the heartless harlot". His dealings with her go way back but the lust is still there. Esme thinks Marcus can melt her heart with passion but love will be the key to her soul.
I appreciate Net Galley for this ARC title in which I gave an honest review.

"There's just something about you that can't be ignored."

The hero in this book makes this statement about his heroine; however, the very same can be stated about the book itself. I could not put this down. While Lorraine Heath's stories tend to overlap here and there, this book is the third in the Once Upon a Dukedom series. It can be read on its own but is so much better for having read the previous two. Here, we see Marcus finally get his HEA. Ever since his father, the Duke of Wolfford, was hanged for treason, Marcus has been looking for answers. He cannot fathom his father plotting to kill the Queen and knows he couldn't have been working alone. His search finally leads him to the doorstep of what he believes to have been his father's mistress.

Esme has known that Marcus would eventually shown up. She doesn't trust him but also can't forget about him after their first meeting. As the two work together for the same goal, they become closer. I love the perfect match found in Esme and Marcus. Both have past experiences that left them edgier and more calculating. Both are smart and lethal in a fight. I love a strong heroine and Esme is just that. These two are a perfect blend of good and dangerous which lends to an engaging story. The chemistry is great and the writing so well done. Any fan of Sarah MacLean or Kerrigan Byrne would love this book. It's so much fun to see how Heath's world builds and expands with each book. I loved seeing past characters and cannot wait for more in the future. Highly recommend!

I’ve been reading (and listening to) Lorraine Heath’s books for some time now, since I discovered her, belatedly, with the previous book of this series, but she never fails to amaze me. When I read The Duchess Hunt, I looked forward to Marcus’s story because he really stood out as a strong character and it was even better than I thought. Marcus and Esme are two outstanding characters who live and love with all that they are. They’ve both suffered and it shows, but they are stronger for it. I loved Heath’s emotional writing and I quite enjoyed the spy plot, which is good, well built, but not too complicated and it intertwines perfectly with the love story. I also enjoyed the author’s notes, that I found very, very interesting, and I look forward to the next book about the captivating Chessmen!
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.

I think this book is the best in the series. I wasn’t sure what to think of Marcus as in past books he was really distant and didn’t treat his siblings very well. This book explains what was driving him and his regrets regarding his family. And Esme is kick ass! She is an amazing character and totally Marcus’, and really any man’s, equal. She doesn’t put up with crap from anyone and can protect herself, thank you very much. Together, they try to find the group of peers who are trying to assassinate the Queen. I liked how there were real historical events regarding the Queen woven into the story.

Return of the Duke is the third book in the Once Upon a Dukedom series by Lorraine Heath. I could not put this book down. The pacing was perfect, the characters were well fleshed out, and the romance was sizzling!

I will have to come back to this book at a later time when life isn't busy. I did want to read it though and will sometime in the future. I'm sorry work is busy with deadlines.

For now it's a will come back to later.