So this one started out SUPER cute and fun and on the bonkers side. Meg Stredwick is taking a tour of the continent with her sister-in-law's aunts*, but on the way they stop at the Duke of Merleton's estate. There, they steal a dessert recipe, meet the duke, and then take off. The same evening, the duke loses a precious book and he assumes that it was stolen by the fetching young lady, whereupon he sets out in pursuit.

From then until about the halfway mark, the book is a romp of a road trip romance. The duke finagles his way into traveling with the ladies; Meg embraces the role of seductress; really, all goes swimmingly for a charmingly bonkers romance.

Until. Until a true villain appears, our lovers are separated for TWO. YEARS., and a whole bunch of lying and miscommunication commences. Look, we understand that when you write a book with a ton of Arthurian references, it can be fun to embrace the mythos. On the other hand, why does such a sweet book have to go a little on-the-nose with the antagonists?

We're still giving it four stars, because it was super entertaining and (mostly) really fun. We just wish we could have loved the whole thing as much as we did the first half.

Vivienne Lorret's The Mating Habit's of Scoundrels series has been one that I have absolutely adored. Never Seduce a Duke is the fifth installment in this series and this one took me for a ride and I was definitely invested throughout and loved the little twist in the middle which left me a bit shocked. Lorret's writing is fun, well paced and accessible. Her characters are interesting and relatable. If you are looking to check out Lorret's writing I think this is a really fun place to start and this book can definitely be read as a standalone.

Our heroine Meg, has been jilted for the last time, and she decides to let herself take her own happiness into her own hands. I love that we see Meg decide to make the best out of her situation. She embraces her more bold and flirtatious side with joyful abandon, and I absolutely adore her for this. The hero, Lucien is a bespectacled and studious and quickly endears himself to me. These two might start out with a little misunderstanding around the thief of his family heirloom, but they soon can't keep their hands off each other. Lorret really builds their chemistry and relationship through charming and fun interactions. I loved watching these two fall in love with each other. Their physical relationship is sensual and sexy and really shows the depth of their feelings and how quickly they sparked. I love that together these two really seem to balance each other out and as they learn to work past misunderstandings it can be seen that a strong root will hold them together. This novel has some fun and intrigue which I will not allude to so you can enjoy the excitement on your own.

I would highly recommend this novel, I really enjoyed everyone moment and I loved our hero and heroine to pieces! Vivienne Lorret is a must read author for me and you will not be disappointed!

I had a lot of issues with this one. But sadly, I still saw enough potential here that I decided to overlook my 2023 resolution that when a book just wasn't doing it for me I would just DNF it and move on.

To begin with, seperately these characters were okay. I found Meg to be a bit annoying in that she constantly complained that the man she was in love with married someone else, even though it was obvious that not only did the man not love Meg in the slightest, but she was almost infatuated with him than she was in love with him. However, I did enjoy watching her attempts at flirtations with Lucien (even if she does come across more of an accomplished flirt than she actually is). I also ejoyed how analytical Lucien was in his manner of speaking (although seriously? For someone as smart as he was supposed to be he really was quite obtuse when it came to the matter of Lady Avalon).

When you put them together however? My goodness, I wanted to shake them both. Their entire relationship (if you can call it that as I never bought into them actually having feelings for each other beyond lust), was build on lies, misunderstandings and half-truths. I mean for crying out loud the only reason he persued her in the first place was because he believed she had stolen something from him. Meg was no better, she played into the role he cast her in making it so that even when she told him the truth, she did it in such a way that she knew he wouldn't believe her.

Then their two year seperation happened. And when they were reunited? Meg continued to keep a huge secret from him. Something she should have told him about immediately. It made me dislike her (and their so-called relationship) even more.

All in all, while this one didn't work for me, I can see where it may appeal to other readers. If this book sounds like something you would enjoy, then I encourage you to give it a shot!

DISCLAIMER: I received a complimentary copy of this novel from the publisher. This has not affected my review in any way. All thoughts and opinions expressed in this review are 100% my own.

I really wanted to enjoy this but sadly I have to give up. This book was difficult to read, there were multiple times throughout the book when I couldn't focus, my attention was wandering, and I would forget chunks of what I was reading. It didn't help that I wasn't invested in the characters or the plot. The plot wasn't as fun as I thought it would be and was quite boring. Our heroine Meg also felt flat, and I was confused why she was enamored with the Duke. Now the Duke? He was incredibly boring, stubborn, and a know it all. Maybe he's not my type of hero but I was getting to a point where I couldn't stand him.

I wish I could have enjoyed this more than I did but sadly I did not. I do want to give this author another try because I did like another book in this series.

The magic word is recipes. The Parrish sisters collect recipes, even if they have to steal them. Visiting the home of the Duke of Merleton, Caliburn Keep, Meg Stredwick and the Parrish sisters search for recipes down in the kitchen. At the same time, someone steals the family's most prized possession, a cookbook hundreds of years old, illuminated with gold and encrusted with precious gems. Accusations that Meg is the thief known as Lady Avalon, and a trip through the continent, bring the duke and Meg to a night of passion. But the book stands between. An enemies to lovers romance that turns into flames and a long, weary journey of the duke's constant accusations against Meg.
Heat level 3.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book.

I reviewed this title for Fresh Fiction. My full review can be found at this link: https://freshfiction.com/review.php?id=81494

Meg and Luc are meant to be together. A bespectacled duke and a young lady who wants nothing to do with marriage. This is the way of this book.
A young lady engages in a steamy flirtation with a bespectacled, studious duke while on holiday, only to return with more than just memories...
After being jilted, Margaret Stredwick has sworn off men and marriage. What she needs is a holiday. But a detour along the way takes a surprising turn that leads Meg to him. And soon she starts to wonder if she should indulge in one grand flirtation before she’s firmly on the shelf.
The instant Lucien Ambrose, Duke of Merleton, finds a strange woman touring the halls of his ancient estate, he knows the minx is up to something. So, when a family heirloom is stolen, it’s clear who the culprit is. She may tempt him beyond reason, but he isn’t about to let her get away, even if he has to chase her across the continent.
I received this book from the publisher and NetGalley. This in no way affects my opinion of this book which I read and reviewed voluntarily.

Ok I struggled with finishing this book. Too many secrets, misunderstandings and drama. The characters were interesting and I wanted to like the aunts, but just found them annoying.

I really enjoyed Margaret and Lucien's story! I was fun watching these two match wits and of course and great aunts are always fun!!

I always enjoy Vivienne Lorret as a writer, but after wanting to give the first half of this book 4 1/2 stars, the second half was a bit of a 3 ish star letdown, so I'm averaging my rating to 4 stars.

The set-up is what attracted me. There's a mistaken identity plot, two mischievous aunts, and a grouchy hermit of a duke, Lucien, who is mystified by the outspoken MFC, Meg. Meg is on holiday with her aunts as a last hurrah before she formally enters spinsterhood, with no expectations to marry after having had her heart broken years before. She ends up taking an impromptu tour of Lucien's home due to the machinations of her matchmaking relations, and bumps into the pedantic duke. Lucien becomes convinced that she has stolen a treasured family heirloom, a collection of recipes tied to Arthurian legends, and doggedly tracks her around Europe in an attempt to retrieve it.

Of course, what he really wants is to get closer to Meg, he just doesn't realize it.

The first half of the plot moves along lightly and breezily, with plenty of humor and smart banter between the MC's. Lucien is a quirky MMC, seeming to be somewhat on the spectrum, and his bond with Meg starts as more cerebral and friendship-based than steamy. I enjoyed the slow-burn aspect of their relationship, as well as the teasing quips between Lucien and his more worldly cousin, who definitely is aware of the burgeoning romance. The scenes and dialog feel vivid and fresh and it's fun seeing the relationships unfold.

Unfortunately, the second half of the book isn't as charming. I was hoping that the writer would be talented enough to steer clear of the "hidden baby" (one of my least favorite tropes) pitfalls. Such is not the case. Two years pass after the first half of the book, and the tone of the second half is darker and more angsty. The baddie is exactly who you expect, and I found myself wanting to shake both Lucian and his cousin for not being sharper on the uptake, as well as Meg for not having the backbone to be honest at two key points in her life. You have the typical too-pat coincidences and misunderstandings, and even though Lucian grovels quite nicely at the end, he and Meg never quite regain the sweetness they had in the first part of the book. Plus, you have the re-introduction of Meg's old flame, which serves no purpose; he's honestly not a very sympathetic character.

Overall: Vivienne Lorret is a talent, and so much of the first half of this works, but eventually the plot relies too much on standard tropes and not enough on the strength what could have been a unique, charming romance.

Steam level: 3.

I read an advanced reader 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.

Amazon review sent 2/26.

Many F-words in and to describe “Never Seduce a Duke” by Vivienne Lorret… such fun!!

Miss Margaret Stredwick aka Meg goes on a grand tour with her twin aunts-in-law after being jilted, and she decides to have a grand flirtation before spinsterhood. First, they stop over at an ancient estate in England, she gets separated from an aunt when sneaking around, and she meets the bespectacled Duke of Merleton.

Lucien Ambrose obsesses over his family’s ancient book of recipes, especially keeping it safe and secret. However, after the mouthy encounter with Meg, he discovers the book gone and replaced with a note from Lady Avalon. There are only three strangers who toured the estate recently and he goes on a grand mission to get his family’s recipe book back.

Arthurian and food themed, what a great combo!! This appeals to those who know and watched anything about a sword in a stone. Plus, there are real references to the legend such as Avalon, yes, I did some research. Also, this book appeals to foodies in a unique way. I love how each chapter begins with food!

The banter and chemistry between Meg and Lucien is entertaining! Lucien being analytical and Meg being free-spirited, we never know if his social awkwardness will prolong or halt her flirting practice.

Their journey to happily ever after is slow, even though this is not a slow burn romance. It is unexpected, but it makes the twists and mystery reveal more delicious, heartbreaking, and wild!

If you enjoy reading about fate, flirting, food, legends, opposites attract, road trips, and who-dun-it to name a few, then I highly recommend this fantastic book!!

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

Margaret is traveling with two of her sister in laws aunts and is determined to have one memorable flirtation before officially becoming a spinster aunt. Due to a case of mistaken identity, Lucien believes Margaret is Lady Avalon, a notorious thief, who has stolen his family's famous book. Margaret decides to let Lucien believe she is Lady Avalon and get her flirt on!

I loved every second of this book. They two MCs have great banter (and chemistry) and I loved being in on Maragret’s acting. SPOILER: I was so surprised when the book did a time jump about halfway through. I feel like that doesn’t happen very often and I was pleasantly surprised how it worked out! If you haven’t bought this book yet, do it now!

The book started off slow- the story of Lucien, the Duke of Merleton, who incidentally meets Margaret while she is touring his home with her 2 elderly aunts. Margaret is found in a part of the house that is off limits to tourists and soon after, a family heirloom, a jeweled book of recipes is stolen. Lucien thinks Margaret is the eponymous Lady Avalon and chases her across Europe to retrieve his family's recipe book. The book gets much better midway, as Lucien and Margaret are mutually attracted to each other and eventually give in to their attractions. Lucien's stepsister Morgan and cousin, Pell come along for the ride and a mystery surrounding the recipe book unfolds. I really enjoyed the book despite the slow start. I will look forward to the next installment from Mrs. Lorrett.

I received an ARC from Netgalley and I am voluntarily leaving a review

When an heirloom disappears, duke Lucien immediately suspects the mysterious, beautiful woman he discovered in an off-limits part of his ancestral home. To get it back, he follows her on a tour of the continent. But Meg and the aunties are only searching for family recipes, not priceless illuminated manuscripts. Can she convince him that she's not the culprit?

The characters in this novel are fascinating, and the story is as well. It's not a typical romance novel—more a mashup of romance/mystery/domestic thriller. It's also got a secret baby storyline and a two-year time jump. Lucien is something of a "Sherlock" character and the dynamic between him and Meg is fun. The audiobook narration by Justine Eyre was well done.

Thanks, NetGalley, for the ARC I received. This is my honest and voluntary review.

Not my favorite. The writing style was fine and the plot was ok. I disliked that it was stretched out over such a long stretch of time. I understand why it was necessary for the plot but just not my style. I tend to read these because I need something fluffy where I know everything is going to be ok at the end. Jumping 2 years at that point in the plot was a little hard for me and this particular tale was a little bit darker than the others in this series (which I have also read). Not a bad read, just not one of my favorites.

This was an entertaining, well-written book. It was fun, steamy and held my interest. I wanted to find out what was going to happen. I enjoyed this book and look forward to reading more books by this author.

This one was so fun! I can't help but love a duke in HR> They are so stuffy and self-righteous that it's so fun to see the fall for the mischievous and naughty lady! This one was all about her being naughty and him pointing the finger! I loved it so much!

Since the man she loved married someone else, Margaret Stredwick has decided marriage isn’t for her. To nurse her wounded heart, Meg goes on holiday and after meeting a surprisingly intriguing man, she wonders if she should have one grand flirtation whose memories will carry her through her spinsterhood.

Lucien Ambrose, the Duke of Merleton, is instantly suspicious when he encounters an unknown woman in his ancient home. When a family heirloom turns up stolen on the same day as the stranger’s visit, Lucien immediately suspects her. He may find her inconveniently tempting, but he’s not about to let her get away, even if it means following her on a tour of the continent.

Meg never dreamed she might be mistaken for a scandalous thief and seductress, but she’s thrilled enough to play along, up until she realizes she’s falling in love with a man who doesn’t know her true identity. Unfortunately, when the holiday is over and Meg is settling back into her routine, it quickly becomes apparent that she’s brought something back from Italy that means she won’t be able to keep her flirtation a secret for long.

There is so much going on with this book that I don’t quite know where to begin, but I did appreciate the completely bonkers plot and found the continental road trip setting of the first half of the book to be quite interesting. The aunts, Maeve and Myrtle completely stole the show for me with their matchmaking, recipe thieving antics as well. I’ve been looking forward to Meg’s story for quite some time and this was just not quite what I was expecting/hoping for her.

I’m pretty torn about this book because there were a lot of aspects that I liked but also tons of things that annoyed me to no end. Firstly, this story was extremely long and began to just feel drawn out. There were a couple of places that seemed like natural conclusions for the story and then I’d look down at the percentage on my kindle and realize I still had lots of book left to go. I think for me there was a bit too much detail about Meg and the aunts’ travels and interactions during them between Meg and Lucien in which their relationship doesn’t really change. It’s mostly a lot of Lucien accusing Meg of theft and refusing to see her beyond the assumptions he presupposed. Meg’s reasons for not being wholly truthful with Lucien and allowing his misapprehension to continue were pretty flimsy and this part of the book just felt drawn out and didn’t hold my attention well. There just seemed to be a lot of superfluous book here and lost opportunities for this to be so romantic if Lucien had abandoned his wrongful assumptions and set out in a genuine pursuit of Meg.

Our poor hero, Lucien, bless him, is so erudite that he winds up being completely obtuse most of the time. He spends all this time with Meg, getting to know her despite this pseudo secret between them, though it’s only even a secret because he refuses to believe her, and yet much of these interactions and quality time between them occurs off page. I was also a bit thrown off by the two year jump forward in the timeline. This seemed like a very unnecessarily long separation, especially a few months would’ve sufficed just as well for the plot. It was also frustrating that despite this separation, once Lucien and Meg are reunited, he almost immediately goes right back to accusing her of thieving the book. It’s as if no time has passed, but not really in a good way and it made me feel a bit like I was rereading something I’d already seen in previous chapters, just with the addition of the secret baby element, which only made for another secret that was drawn out longer than necessary. That last frustration, however, could also just be because I’m not a fan of the secret baby trope.

Lucien just cannot see the forest for the trees, and it takes him entirely too long to figure it out so when they do come back together, the story is still plagued with frustrating miscommunication and there’s still way too much being left unsaid. Lucien’s persistent refusal to listen to reason just made him seem like a petulant child after a while. Though the villain was a bit obvious, I did like that aspect, though I wish this plot device had been enacted sooner.

Despite the length of this book, the ending somehow felt simultaneously drawn out and rushed. Lucien could’ve done much more apologizing to Meg for how much time was wasted thanks to his willful obliviousness. The villain was dealt with quickly and the ultimate resolution there was never revealed on the page, leaving it as a loose end I remain curious about even now. However, for all my complaints and frustrations, I did absolutely adore Meg’s family and their treatment of her. They gave her nothing but support and didn’t try to force her into anything she wasn’t ready for or that would possibly bring her unhappiness. It was especially refreshing to see this supporting dynamic from her brother even after he’d learned who had fathered Meg’s child. Though some logistics were left a bit open for interpretation as far as their daughter, I did like seeing Meg and Lucien finally come together to create their own family, as well as him and his family being welcomed into the fold by hers. I found that aspect of the story to be quite heart warming and I’m glad to have read this story and seen a satisfying conclusion to this utterly unique series.

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

Wild romp of a book. I've come to expect this from Lorret's books, and this one certainly didn't disappoint. Who knew I needed a thief hunt, fake seductress, holiday flirtation, secret baby, Arthurian legend romance? And somehow it works. I enjoyed the first half of the book, where they travel across Europe flirting and falling in love. But I *really* loved the second half of the book, where they're both coming together and learning how to be a family despite all the mistrust between them. Both characters read as neurodivergent to me, and they definitely struggled with their trust problems. Both naturally trust easily, but are very wary and uncertain of themselves because they've been hurt by this before. I despised the villain for using this to manipulate Meg and Lucien both, and my heart ached for them. I think my only real complaint was how obvious the villain was.

This book was a total riot! I thought the author (who is one of my favs) has written a fabulous, witty, highly entertaining book full of surprises and secrets. I just adore Margaret Stredwick who has sworn of men because she was jilted. She has decided to tour anything that interests her along with her two aunts who are very batty at times. They stop at the grand estate of Lucien Ambrose, the Duke of Merleton to get a look see inside the home. While there Meg meets the Duke and is instantly smitten, but then she remembers (no men) but flirts anyway.
Lucien is not sure if the woman is in his home is for real or up to something. He decides to play along and find out the truth. When the women leaves, Lucien later on, finds that his secret recipe has been stolen. The culprit is the woman and he intends to get it back!
Oh, the fun begins and he's off on a holiday of romance with a beguiling minx who is a seductress who has cast a spell on him.
I really thought the characters were fully developed with thoughts and feelings of their own. And the story was full of excitement to the very end.
I appreciate Net Galley for this ARC title in which I gave an honest review.