From the USA Today bestselling author of The Untouchables series comes your next Regency obsession: The Spitfire Society… Meet the smart, independent women who’ve decided they don’t need Society’s rules, their families’ expectations, or, most importantly, a husband. But just because they don’t need a man doesn’t mean they might not want one.Notorious rake Marcus Raleigh, Marquess of Ripley, is … Ripley, is gracing the gossip pages for a new reason: the rumors he may have murdered his swindling cousin. His quest for answers regarding his cousin’s death leads him to an incomparable self-declared spinster, and he is—for the first time—beguiled beyond reason. Neither is what the other wants, and yet their intense mutual infatuation is inescapable.
After abandoning her philandering betrothed at the altar, Phoebe Lennox fled from London only to return an heiress who refuses to follow the ton’s rules. She won’t risk a relationship of any kind—until she meets the scandalous Marquess of Ripley. Swept into his seductive embrace, her resolve falters in the face of a pleasure she never anticipated. But when the truth about Marcus and the murder come to light, Phoebe could lose everything she holds dear, including a love for all time.
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What do you get when you pair a spitfire and a notorious libertine, nothing but fireworks. Phoebe has declared her independence. She has decided she would rather remain a spinster than marry a man like the one she was engaged. Independently wealthy, she has the financial means and good friends to enjoy her life. Enter Marcus, the Marquess who loves his life of leisure and freedom. From the moment they meet, sparks fly, and the chase began. This is another entertaining and spicy story by Darcy Burke. This is a series about fierce woman who had strained at the rules society had for the at the time. Phoebe, like the other so far, fall for men who portray a lack of care to society’s whims, but at their core are deeply caring gentleman. It only takes the right lady to spark that fire and hold their hearts forever.
Enjoyable story about a notorious rake trying to stop his cousin from swindling peers. When he joins forces with an attractive self-proclaimed spinster to uncover the cousin’s plans, they find out that the spinster’s father is the current target. Lots of intrigue and family drama. I received an ARC of this book.
4.25 Stars
Notorious rake Marcus Raleigh, Marquis of Ripley is intent on finding his swindling cousin. His quest for answers leads him to a confrontation in Hyde Park & to an incomparable self-declared spinster, and he is—for the first time—beguiled beyond reason. After abandoning her philandering betrothed Lord Sainbury at the altar, Phoebe Lennox fled from London to her great aunt, only to return an heiress who refuses to follow the ton’s rules. She doesn’t want a relationship of any kind—until she meets the scandalous Marquis of Ripley.
This is the second book in the series & is easily read on its own. A well written page turning read that engrossed me from start to finish. I loved Marcus who fell hard for Phoebe, although he has quite a reputation he acted totally as a gentleman. Whilst I really liked Phoebe, I did have a bit of a problem with her, yes she was a self declared spinster but she’d been ruined by jilting her betrothed, then she returned to Mayfair, bought a house & lived there without a chaperone. She wouldn’t have been accepted anywhere & would have been given ‘the cut direct’ by the female half of the ton. So I felt she was by far too modern for Regency times. That said I still thoroughly enjoyed the book, I particularly loved the banter & attraction between Marcus & Phoebe & how their relationship developed.
My honest review is for a special copy I voluntarily read
Marcus, Marquess of Ridley, is a rake and entangled in some rumors that could lead to some serious consequences. I enjoyed watching his rakish character being slowly manipulated by his emerging feelings for Phoebe. Phoebe Lennox has jilted her horrible betrothed and has declared her independence as a spinster. I simply loved this character. I felt her happiness, sadness, independence, frustration, embarrassment, just felt everything like she did.
Phoebe is just what he needed being kind and caring and Marcus treated her with consideration and understanding. But then there is this chemistry that they have that is so amazingly hot. I was so invested in this storyline, which hasn’t happened for me in a while, that the book flew by. And as I was glad to see everything resolved, I was sad that it was over. A wonderfully written, steamy romance full of intrigue. I received an ARC of this book and chose to post this review.
Darcy Burke has done it again, fed my addiction to historical romance! A Duke Is Never Enough is an outstanding treat, well-written and loaded with spectacular characters. Marcus, Marquess of Ripley gives his cousin a swat in front of bystanders. When his cousin goes into hiding, the rumor circulates that Marcus has murdered him. Phoebe helped Marcus stop the bleeding after his tussle with his cousin. Marcus and Phoebe’s story is packed with drama, humor, sexy bits and suspense. I enjoyed reading this book and look forward to the next book by Darcy Burke. A Duke Is Never Enough is book 2 of The Spitfire Series but can be read as a standalone. This is a complete book, not a cliff-hanger.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book that I received from Bookfunnel. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
Darcy never disappoints and she outdid herself with this story of the rake with a heart of gold and the firebrand spinster. I would never put these two individuals together but somehow they fit perfectly. Neither of them are looking to wed, perfectly satisfied with their life as it is. But when they meet it’s fireworks and there is nothing but needing to be together.
Phoebe Lennox is almost a social outcast after jilting her betrothed at the altar. Her great aunt left her a fortune she can now live in her own house close to her best friend Jane Pemberton. Both are tired of trying to be married off by their parents to someone distasteful with a title. Phoebe left Earl Laurence Sainsbury at the after he almost raped her before their marriage. She also caught him kissing someone else close to their wedding. Realizing their marriage would be a series of battles she would never win she fled London to her great aunt. Thankfully her great aunt provided her a choice.
We’ve met Marcus, the Marquess of Ripley from Darcy’s other books. He’s a known libertine who makes no commitments to anyone and has no mistress. Underneath his rake lifestyle beats the heart of a kind man who looks out for his friends. When he finds out his estranged cousin Archibald Drobbit has been swindling some of his friends in an investment scheme losing them fortunes he vows to stop it. The confrontation end up in a fight with Drobbit injuring him with a rock thrown at his head. Phoebe stops to help him but refuses to give him her name or a kiss as thanks. Intrigued Marcus promises to return her handkerchief to her personally. He discovers quickly who she is and starts on a journey of puzzling out independent Phoebe and how to stop his cousin’s activity. Phoebe intrigues him with her independence, intelligence, kindness and desire to never wed. They strike up a friendship and quickly becomes love in spite of their plans not to ever do so. Phoebe provides clues to Marcus regarding his cousin. Ultimately she gives Bow Street Runner Harry Sheffield the evidence to clear Marcus of the murder of his cousin. Marcus gains Phoebe’s trust enough to help her heal from Sainsbury’s abuse.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced readers copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
Marcus Raleigh, Marquess of Ripley is a scoundrel of the first order. He runs from commitment, not interested in marriage. He is interested in stopped his cousin and his swindling venue, especially since one of the victims was a close friend of his. An argumentative encounter with his cousin in the park leads to Marcus meeting Phoebe Lennox, a self proclaimed spinster. For probably the first time Marcus is intrigued by a woman. Is Phoebe likewise affected by Marcus? Will Phoebe be able to unload the burden of why she broke off her engagement to anyone? When his cousin is murdered will Marcus be declared the murderer? As with other Darcy Burke reads, this is a very nicely told romance with a little humor and mystery thrown in. It was a pleasure to catch up on characters from previous books, the Untouchable series and the previous book in this series. I love when authors do that, it seems like you are meeting with old friends. I received this eBook from the publisher for an honest review.
After reading the love story of Arabella and Graham, you will love to meet them again and be introduced to the person who caused so many bankruptcies.
Marcus Raleigh, marquess of Ripley, was furious with his cousin, Archbald Drobbit, after discovering that Arch was to blame for so many people having been duped in a business scheme.
Upon meeting Arch in Hyde Park, the two end up arguing, and that leads to a punching fight, which becomes a show for many at Fashionable Hour.
In a cowardly way, Arch hits Marcus in the back with a stone and runs away.
Bleeding, Marcus is helped by a passing lady, Lady Phoebe Lennox.
Their timing is fast, but she left a positive impression on him.
Because Phoebe originally considered herself a spinster, leader of the Spitfire Society, she didn’t want to say her name to Marcus, but in less than 24 hours, he not only find out who she was, but where she lived.
From the beginning, Marcus has made clear his interest – to be a lover, not a husband – for Phoebe, but she resists. They make a wager. He was sure she would be begging for his kisses at fortnight, or he would donate a hundred pounds to the location of her choice. She counters by saying that if she really did that, she would donate two hundred pounds.
Marcus was known for his beauty and charm, but he wouldn’t count on luck alone. He had a plan in place to beat Phoebe, and he would use the wedding of their mutual friends, Arabella and Graham, to get it.
But in the meantime, Marcus learns that his missing cousin, Archbald, had been found murdered. And after their fight in public, Marcus was the prime suspect. There was even a witness to prove his guilt.
Marcus had little time to prove his innocence, and discover the real culprit, and who would win with that.
5 stars
Ah, just what I expect from Darcy Burke. Lively dialogues not without humor, a heroine somewhat resistant to wooing, a hero who is surprised he has met his match and some steamy scenes.
Very much enjoyed this fast paced story.
I read a free advanced copy; the thoughts are my own.
The Rake and the Spinster.
Phoebe jilted her bridegroom on his wedding day and only because she is wealthy has she not been totally shunned, as it is invitations are not precisely flowing. However that doesn’t concern Phoebe, who delights in being a spinster and not caring what Society thinks. When she meets the notorious rake Marcus Raleigh, Marquess of Ripley she does have some qualms though, any association with him will rip what remaining reputation she has into shreds. But, oh it is so pleasant to flirt with him!
Neither Marcus nor Phoebe have any intention of marrying but their attraction to each other leads to scandalous behaviour behind closed doors – reader you have been warned! Recommended read.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book from NetGalley. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
This one by Darcy Burke doesn’t disappoint. I love stories where the main characters buck society’s expectations and forge a path of their own and both Phoebe and Marcus are such characters. That they manage to find each other makes for a fun and raucous story. I liked these two people immensely and watching them navigate their stifling society and take a stand on how they want to live their lives was so refreshing. Great characters, humor, steamy heat and a lovely HEA … perfect! Highly recommend 🙂
I received an ARC of this book and am voluntarily providing my honest review.
I loved this book. I loved the two main characters, Marcus and Phoebe. I felt their chemistry from the first time they meet. There is a little mystery in this book, but not too much to take away from the love story. Marcus and Phoebe’s love scenes were hot, and I will admit my heart beats a little faster for Marcus. I think I fell a little in love with him. This is the second book in the Spitfire Society Series, but you do not need to read the first book to enjoy this book. I can not wait to read the next book in this series. I am never disappointed in a Darcy Burke book.
I enjoyed this 2nd Book in the Spitfire Series & the chemistry between the main characters was sizzling hot.
Marcus Raleigh, Marquess of Ripley leads a happy life, with many different women, has a few good men friends & no mistresses, as that would be a commitment, but he enjoys life & doesn’t care what society thought about him. However; he has discovered that his estranged cousin had ruined Marcus’s friend, Graham, the Duke of Halstead in an illegal investment scheme. He has a public altercation with his cousin in front of many people on Rotten Row – when Marcus turned to leave, his cousin threw a rock & hit him on the temple. He mounted his horse, not wanting anymore gossip today, & would find his cousin the following day. When Marcus stops to take care of his wound, a lady appears to give him a handkerchief to aid him.
Phoebe Lennox is a self-proclaimed spinster, she had jilted Laurence Sainsbury on their wedding day last season but was not completely ruined in society’s eyes but they hadn’t forgiven her either. Phoebe doesn’t care what society thinks as she has wealth inherited from her aunt, owns her own home & is independent. Phoebe mends Marcus’ head & he is strangely fascinated by her but she won’t give her name so he must discover who she is so he may return her handkerchief.
The friendship that grows between Marcus & Phoebe is a wonderful one that grows to much more plus there is fraud, murder, arrest for crimes not commited & lovable secondary characters. I highly recommend this read & Darcy Burke always has characters that you love & stories to keep you turning pages.
I was gifted the Advanced Reader Copy of this book & all opinions are my own & have been voluntarily given.
“A Duke is Never Enough” by Darcy Burke
Another delightful story in the Spitfire Society Series. I thoroughly enjoyed my time with Marcus aka ‘Rip’ and the spinster Spitfire Lady Phoebe. Yes this story has some spice, but not overly done, and also endowed with some mystery touches to keep you turning those pages. I received an ARC copy with the request for an honest review. So, honestly if enjoy 1800’s England romance stories as much as I do, I am sure you will enjoy this story, too. Happy Reading ! !
This is such an absolutely delicious story and although I have loved all of Darcy Burke’s stories, this one just seemed to be extra special.
Phoebe is more than happy to be a self declared spinster, have her own home and not really caring what the ton thinks. Marcus is a rake in the first degree and he’s more than happy with the life he’s leading. When the two meet, it’s instant attraction and the steam level is very high….whewwwww, fanning self!! Friendship, though, is what they decide upon but that doesn’t last very long! lol I just loved the passion between them.
All seems to be going well until Marcus is suspected of murder and I really enjoyed the twists and turns the story takes. Very well written, kept my interest throughout and definitely recommending this book.
I was given an ARC of this book and am voluntarily leaving an honest review.
Marcus is a rake and I love him in this story. He makes no bones about it and takes no shame in what is said about him. Maybe he is not all that bad. He does have a heart and when it comes down to doing what he feels is the right thing to protect others he has my heart. Phoebe is definitely a woman who knows what she wants and does not take no for an answer. The friendship between Marcus and Phoebe is sweet but as we all know it turns into something more. Marcus being surprised was quite humorous. I thought the story was fun and flirty and a wonderful read.
I received a complimentary copy from the author.
Since abandoning her betrothed a few days before the wedding Miss Phoebe Lennox is a confirmed spinster. Luckily for her an aunt left her a very good inheritance so she is independent. She and her friends style themselves as the “Spitfire Society”, young women who prefer lead their lives as they want. Even so, being seen alone with a known rake would not be good for her reputation.
Marcus Raleigh, the Marquess of Ripley has found out his cousin is defrauding people and it’s his responsibility to put it all right. He just needs to find out all the victims.
This is a hot historical romance with independent, strong minded characters. We have a murder mystery to solve as well.
Great fun, I can’t wait to read the next in the series.
This is second book in “The Spitfire Society “. This society is for independent women who mock the rules set for young ladies. They live on the outside of the tons rules and society.
Marcus Releigh is very happy with his life, he is a rake of the first order. He is known to be a lover of many women never staying with any more then a night. He has no mistress as that would be to much of a commitment. He is rich beyond measure, and has a few really good friends what more could he want. Ever thru he is a rake, he can’t stand people who defrauds others, causing them to lose their homes, and sometimes their life. He has found out his only living family member, a distant cousin is doing just that. Some of the people he has hurt are friends of Marcus.
He finds his cousin in Hyde park and instead of talking a fight breaks out between them with a lot of the ton watching. Marcus is hit by a rock and wounded. When he rides away he is stopped by a lovely young women who offers to help stop the bleeding. Marcus is Intrigued she is beautiful but refuses to give him her name. He tells her he will track her down and does by nightfall.
So starts a friendship between a Rake and a Independent spitfire, with many secrets.
As their friendship builds into something much more for both, others are out to cause problems .
When Marcus’s cousin goes missing then turns up dead, he is a suspect in his murder.
As they act on the many feelings between, the secret’s from Phoebes past, her father’s problems
and Marcus having deep emotion for the first time in his life their is a lot of twist and turns to work out.
Sometimes doing what you think will save others is the worst choice of all. It takes a women in love to straighten everything out for all.
This is not a book for the faint of heart, it has a lot of steamy love scenes, well written but a Hugh part of this story.
I can’t wait for the third book, I can’t see how it could be better them the first two have been.
Please read them in order, you will get so much out of the characters.
I reveived and ARC of this book and what to thank the Author.
This is my honest opinion and am voluntarily leaving my review.
Such a delightful, heartwarming romance!
Marcus takes on his swindling cousin, determined to protect his family’s name and reputation. He’s nearly completely sidetracked by the beautiful yet unavailable Phoebe, a woman who revels in her spinsterhood and has no use for a man, much less a husband. That is, until Marcus eloquently describes what a kiss should be – and let me assure you, reading that paragraph alone is well worth the price of this book.
Intrigued, Phoebe starts to let her guard down just as Marcus begins to make headway on stopping his cousin. Everything comes to a screeching halt when the cousin is found murdered, Marcus is the prime suspect, and Phoebe is his only alibi.
This was a delightful, charming story, captivating right from the start and filled with an abundance of humor, heat, and heart. The author skillfully weaves all the various story threads together into a surprising conclusion and triumphant HEA. An absolute masterpiece that I highly recommend. I voluntarily reviewed an ARC of this book.
What a terrific book! The main character, Phoebe Lennox, is strong, whimsical, and determined to take matters into her own hands. Marcus Raliegh, the Duke of Ripley, is the one man who can show her how life should be lived. The only problem is he is facing a murder charge for killing his cousin. If you like drama, intrigue, passion, and romance, you will love this book. I wouls like to thank Mrs. Burke for the ARC. I thoroughly enjoyed the book and read it in one sitting!