It was my biggest hope that Britton would return to the Isle of Synne for her newest series and she has — with an all-new group of women who will no doubt find their plans of remaining spinsters waylaid by the possibility of romance. One of my favorite things about any marriage of convenience romance is when the actual marriage kicks off SUPER early in the book — 20% or earlier, just to really get the ball rolling — and that was the case here for Ash and Bronwyn. (I think he proposes to her around the 15% mark on what has only been their second meeting?) In spite of some of the external obstacles to their relationship — her meddlesome parents, the secret he's withholding about his wards' true parentage — this was actually a fairly low-angst book, with lots of emotional moments that were more heartwarming than sad. Overall, this one has established Synne as one of my favorite non-city settings in a historical, and I'm really looking forward to the rest of Britton's series (and all of Bronwyn's friends getting their HEAs)!

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

This is such a fantastic book. Its so well written and I adore all the characters. Now besides the fact that Ash is a gaming hall owner as well as a Duke which is one of my favorite types of male historical characters he is so amazing. Ash needs someone to look after his words while Bronwyn needs a way to get away from her family. They decide to have a marriage of convenience. It’s so fun to see how their relationship develops as they begin to fall in love with one another. The wards interactions with both Ash and Bronwyn and just add to the enjoyment of the story. All in all this is a magnificently written historical romance.

Ash Hawkins, the Duke of Buckley, has no interest in marrying and carrying on his father’s tainted title. He’d be content to just run his gaming club, but he has the responsibility of three young girls as his wards and their open rebellion is becoming more than he can manage on his own. A marriage of convenience would be ideal if he could find a logical, intelligent woman who would stand to gain from such an arrangement as much as he would. On a madcap trip to the Isle of Synne in pursuit of his runaway wards, he just happens to stumble across the perfect woman for his plan.

Bronwyn Pickering has faced her parents ridicule her entire life because she prefers her entomological studies to furthering their social climbing efforts through an advantageous marriage. She’s managed to avoid marriage for a few years, but now her parents are threatening to banish her from her beloved Isle until she comes around to their way of thinking. When she meets Ash, Bronwyn knows he’s hiding quite a bit, but since his proposal of a businesslike marriage would give her the freedom she needs to pursue her research, she accepts, all the while trying to keep in mind that their arrangement is purely for convenience, not a matter of the heart.

Though the pacing of this book was a bit slow at first and it took me a while to get into it, I think that was more down to the busyness of the holidays than anything else. Ash was frustrating with his insistence on believing in his unworthiness, but I loved seeing how Bronwyn gradually brought him out of his self-imposed isolation while he in turn gave her the opportunity to stand up for herself and what she wanted. I very much loved that she finally stood up to her parents, though I would’ve liked possibly a couple more pages on what happened with them after being told off.

The writing is so lush and, even though sometimes I absolutely wanted to shake Ash, you have to give props for such a good conveyance of emotions. I loved the found family aspect here, especially as it was really a solidification/admission of feelings that were already in existence, but which Bronwyn was able to bring out into the open with a gentle influence. I also appreciated that this book was a bit higher in steam than this author’s previous works, especially since that physical connection was also very important to these MCs connecting on a deeper level emotionally. Overall, this book tackles some pretty heavy themes and does a good job with them. I look forward to further installments in this new series.

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

This was a really sweet and fun story. I loved the characters and marriage of convenience is my FAVORITE trope, so I had a great time reading this. I love the combination of button upped man convinced he can’t love anyone and an outcast bluestocking; Ash and Bronwyn were just *chef’s kiss*

I loved seeing them come together so sweetly and her growing into herself a little more with his support. I do wish the kids had been a little more involved in the story, I feel like there could’ve been some fun shenanigans with the younger two. BUT seeing them with Bronwyn and grow closer with Ash was one of my favorite parts.

I feel like Bronwyn’s friend and the interactions she had with Ash were a *little* over dramatic and we’re probably my least favorite parts.

Overall, loved Some Dukes Have All the Luck! Definitely recommend for historical romance lovers.

I thought I might enjoy historical romance, as I enjoy historical fiction, but this was too much like my mom's romances.
I just couldn't get into it, and while I think the writing is done well, the character building didn't give me any connections for feelings for anyone, really.

I would definitely read another by this author, maybe it was just me and my preconceived notions on the novel, sadly it just wasn't for me and that's okay.

4.5 stars!

Bronwyn is a spinster, nursing a long-broken heart. She dreams of becoming an entomologist, but her melodramatic parents have other plans for her. Rather than lose herself, she accepts a marriage of convenience from a handsome stranger named Ash. Ash is content to let her study insects, as long as she takes care of his wards. He's got some skeletons in his closet, so putting someone else in charge of the three young girls in his care is the perfect way to keep anyone from getting too close. But Bronwyn's and Ash's broken hearts are drawn to each other, and find a way to fill in the cracks as they fall for one another.

In case you couldn't tell, I LOVED this book. The setting, primarily on a beautiful island (part of England), was beautiful. The book actually starts with a map of the isle, which I found really refreshing. The setting is practically a character all its own! I was also impressed by the author's writing when it came to things like carriage rides. I felt like I was along for the ride, experiencing the feel and sounds of the carriage. (I've read many historical romances before, but haven't ever experienced some of the careful descriptions created by the author.)

The characters in this book really felt real. I got to know the girls in Ash's care, as well as the quirky friends of Bronwyn, known as "The Oddments". Feminism is woven throughout the story, which was great! The chemistry between the two characters, and the way Bronwyn propositions Ash, was hot!

Bronwyn and Ash both have secrets, and the biggest mystery, which was revealed towards the end of the book, had me reeling! The emotion in the final chapters had me whooping for joy and definitely shedding a tear or two. Ash could be a little frustrating in how long it took him to come around, which is why this book lost a half star for me, but otherwise, it was near perfection! Emotional, heartfelt, deep...a beautiful romance!!

Trigger warning: references to sexual assault, and assault

This is the first book in the Synneful Spinsters series, and I was so excited to get in on the ground floor! I'd like to thank Netgalley and Forever Publishing for providing me an eARC of this book. All opinions are my own...including the declaration that I'll definitely be reading the rest of the books in this series! :o)

Bronwyn's parental situation made me so, so sad. Although they both needed each other for different reasons, they also realized how much they *wanted* each other as well. Loved it!

Bronwyn is more attracted to bugs than men in 1820s London. The spinster loves to study entomology.
Ash is a busy man as the Duke of Buckley, part owner of a gambling establishment, and caring for three rambunctious wards.
When the younger two go missing of their own accord, the man who had no interest in marriage decides to seek a wife to wrangle the young women. Wouldn’t a nanny suffice?
I didn’t feel a genuine spark between the couple as their journey into a marriage or convenience began.

This book was wonderful. The writing was well done and you could picture yourself on the Isle of Synne. I loved Bronwyn and her strive for independence. Her love of science is something we share and her determination to continuing to study it in that time period is admirable. I also enjoyed her friends and the meetings of the Oddments. The Oddments added a safe space for Bronwyn's character to grow.

The Duke of Buckley, Ash Hawkins was a bit of a peculiar character. I liked him, but I was also trying to figure out his secret for a part of the book. He is a Duke, but owns a gambling hell and seems to have no connection with his family. He also has 3 wards that were the grandchildren of a friend to his mother. It's unique that he cares for them, when they share no blood relation. I liked that we were given pieces of his background throughout the story.

The romance between these two is fast paced and starts as a convenience to them both. Their time together is the bulk of the book, and I think they help each other grow and come out of their shells.

I thoroughly enjoyed this return to the Isle of Synne!! Bronwyn and Ash are truly a memorable couple. From the unexpected way in which they met to the much anticipated happy ending, I was enthralled. These two characters, though opposite in nature, fit perfectly together to make this story and absolute delight to read.

My favorite aspect of this particular story is the notion of chosen family. Neither Brownyn nor Ash could escape the unfortunate natures of their genetic relatives. It is a miralcle that either of these two were able to discern the true meaning and value of family. It is even more miraculous that they were able to combat familial dysfunction to create a beautiful and happy family with each other.

I loved the non-traditional way Ash supported Bronwyn in her academic and scientific pursuits. I adore the way Brownwyn was determined to help Ash and his wards become the loving family they deserved to be.

Christina Britton's non-traditional characters, the way she creates a world in which they lovingly embrace each other's eccentricities, and the way they unflinching fight to see each one experience the happiness they deserve, make The Synneful Spinsters Series one of my new favorites.

I love a nice light-hearted read like this. It is great to see fate bringing two people together and everything just works out between them. I also loved the relationship between the wards and the heroine.

I would totally recommend this to people, especially those who are newer to historical romance.

Thank you to NetGalley for an advanced copy of "Some Dukes Have All the Luck" in exchange for an honest review. This book was a lovely regency romance. The plot was more realistic with just the right amount of drama and the characters were enjoyable. I greatly enjoyed this book, reading it in one sitting. This is the first time I have experienced this author and upon finishing the book, I sought out her other ones. This is a perfect read for fans of Julia Quinn, Lisa Kleypas, Eloisa James, etc.

London - 1820

Ash Hawkins, Duke of Buckley, is partners with Augustus Beecher in a gambling club in London. Ash has never wanted to get married after his father’s terrible treatment of his mother, but now he feels he needs to consider it. He has 3 wards, Regina, Eliza, and Nelly. They have given their governesses a hard time in the past. Now, he feels if he has a wife, she can care for them and corral them into better behavior. When Eliza and Nelly run off to Ash’s home, Caulnedy Manor located on the Isle of Synne, he and Regina head off to bring them back.

Isle of Synne

Miss Bronwyn Pickering has no desire to get married even though her parents are exasperated at her about it. Instead, she loves to study arthropods and hopes to submit a scientific paper on them one day. She has several friends who all feel the same way she does and they call themselves the Oddments.

When Ash and Regina arrive at Caulnedy Manor, they see that Eliza and Nelly have made friends with Bronwyn and the girls enjoy learning from her. On impulse, he proposes a marriage of convenience to her only asking that she care for the girls and he will support her studying. When her family learns he is a Duke, they immediately agree and with Bronwyn intrigued by this handsome man, they marry. But how will this marriage of convenience work when Ash and Bronwyn are so attracted to one another?

I liked Ash and Bronwyn as they have not only passion, but compassion, for one another. Ash’s background is a sad one and he is a good man to carry on with his mother’s duties. This is a good story of how people who have never really known love find it and it completes them. Enjoy!

Copy provided by NetGalley in exchange for a fair and honest review.

Some Dukes Have All the Luck by Christina Britton
Synneful Spinsters #1. Historical romance.
Bronwyn has been a naturalists for years studying all types of bugs and insects. Her parents have forbidden this type of endeavor and insist she marry. She must find a husband or be shipped off to her strict brother.
Ash Hawkins can’t believe his two youngest wards have run away to Caulnedy Manor. Chasing them down, he finds them enamored with a young woman that seems to be somewhat able to control them? Before he can think twice, he’s proposed to Bronwyn and she’s agreed to take over raising his wards.

It was charming to follow Ash as he falls in love with Bronwyn and gets to know and care for his wards. He is tentative because of his past but all the females get under his guarded facade.
Her parents on the other hand, definitely need a set down.
Steamy and heartwarming, it’s a story of a family falling in love.

I received a copy of this from NetGalley.

I had such a delightful time with Bronwyn and Ash in Some Dukes Have All the Luck which begins the Synneful Spinsters series (a spin-off series from the Isle of Synne). I’m not a big fan of bugs, but Bronwyn certainly is and because of that fascination with insects she’s put herself on the shelf never believing that love could be in her future. Her parents don’t really care about the love part, she will marry or they will find a husband for her. Ash has need of a wife, one who is logical, not prone to take up his time, and certainly not one that he’d fall for in any sense of that unlikely emotion of love. No, he has three wards who need someone to watch over them as he has no clue how to… and Bronwyn will do nicely. Just as long as he doesn’t do the one thing he’s vowed not to… fall for a lovely woman for a true lifetime of wedded bliss.

Some Dukes Have All the Luck quickly drew me into a story full of laughter and tears, triumphs and failures, some nasty people, definitely sizzling moments, and two people who really worked as a couple in spite of their vast differences. The story drew attention to some darker subjects and treated them with respect, it also showed us the lighthearted moments in a relationship which is what keeps me coming back for more from this author time and time again.

If you love a romance that delves beneath the surface of the time addressing timeless situations with compassion, a couple who while far different can meet on the way to love, some shenanigans from youngsters, and a love that feels very strong from the start, then this one is perfect for you. Now comes the wait for the next title in the series to be released. I loved returning to the world of Synne, and I believe you’ll enjoy your visit as well.

*I received an e-ARC of this novel from the publisher via NetGalley. That does not change what I think of this story. It is my choice to leave a review giving my personal opinion about this book.*

Loved this story! Bronwyn is the perfect, beautiful, studious nerd who bucks against society's view of marriage and spinsterhood but is losing the battle.

Ash is the grumpy, heartbroken Duke who is straddled with 3 young orphans that he can't control.

They both come together for what they think they need but end up finding so much more. Loved the characters and the found family.

Great read!

This was my first Christina Britton book what a treat! A smart heroine and a seemingly cold and tortured hero... what's not to love? I normally do not really enjoy having children a part of the historical romances I read (I stand in my truth) but I didn't mind the kids in this story, which is saying a lot. I love heroines with weird quirks and Bronwyn's interest in bugs was a fun part of her character. I'm looking forward to her next book and getting caught up on her back catalog as well!

Many thanks to Forever and Netgalley for the ARC.

I will be spending the holidays with Christina Britton! No seriously I will be cracking into her backlist ASAP. This was my first and I just adored it, I am a sucker for historical romances with wards/kids involved in the storyline. I also cannot wait to read about the other spinsters finding love.

A great Regency romance with the marriage of convenience tropes. Of course, a happily ever after ending and great spicy scenes. Such a easy to read moment and I felt connections to every single character. Can't wait for more books by this author!

I enjoyed this one a lot. It was a very feminist take on making a name for yourself even as a women in a time when that sort of thing was not a normal practice. I loved how the main character was able to bring the family together even though there had been so much pain and guilt between them for so long. I also love that her husband was the kind of man who encouraged her in her passions and hoped she would pass them on to his wards and those around her.