The Infamous Duchess audiobook

Originally posted on Smitten by Books Reviews blog3.5 StarsUnconventional, high stakes, low angst/conflict are the words I would use to describe Barnes latest historical romance. Out of these there were many likable elements to this story, though the characters and plot were not earth-shattering.To start I enjoyed the unconventional elements of the story. Our heroine, Viola is a duchess, but eschews the life in favor of using her money and limited to influence to run a hospital that provides free care to any and all patients (no matter their station in life). A widower who comes into money under questionable circumstances is always a fun tale. The hero, a Henry Lowell, a known rake, is the man avoiding marriage for no other reason than waiting to meet the right woman. Rather refreshing since normally hero’s are motivated to stay free of the bounds of marriage for other reasons.Additional reasons I enjoyed the story included the heroine’s job as a physician. Though not formally trained she is allowed to practice doctor work in a limited capacity. The villain is truly a piece of work, in the form of Viola’s stepson. Ensuring he got us just desserts was a primary motivator for me to keep reading, though I feared he would not get the punishment he deserved.As for why this book ranked a bit lower for me had to do with the high stakes, but the lack of urgency amongst the characters. Viola has her entire future in jeopardy through most of the book and though our hero is assisting I found the lack of more work in certain areas disturbing. The hero seemed to be at his best distracting the heroine instead of fighting for a win to help her win against her vile stepson. Secondly, certain events in the book felt disjointed and not cohesive with the rest of the story and to me this affected the pacing. Though I hesitate to provide specifics because they might be spoilers.Overall, this book works as a stand-alone novel. I was able to get immersed in the story without feeling like I missed something. There is a good deal of references to history and highlights of the changing times from females in medicine to aristocracy owning business ventures. Finally, if you’re enjoy historical romance with a little less heat, then this book is perfect for you.~ Landra

After her elderly husband dies within days of their marriage, Viola Cartwright is labeled a grasping con artist along with her new title of Duchess of Tremaine. Though she is not a social person, she finds solace in her work running St. Agatha's Hospital. When the notorious rogue, Henry Lowell, winds up on the operating table after a duel went badly, Viola is surprised to find herself attracted to him, but she reminds herself of his reputation and not to fall for him.Henry has cultured his fictional rakish reputation in an effort to avoid marriage minded ladies who are after the title he is heir to, that of Viscount Armswell and eventually Earl of Scranton, but he is intrigued by Viola and might actually consider settling down with her. She definitely makes him regret the idea to soil his reputation.When Viola's stepson returns from years spent abroad and contests her inheritance from her late husband, Henry sees his chance to prove his worth to Viola. In the newly returned Duke of Tremaine, Henry recognizes little of the man he once considered a friend. The Duke is determined to ruin Viola and paint her as a manipulative social climber, but this image doesn't match with what Henry knows of the kindhearted woman.Though Viola has a fairly low opinion of Mr. Lowell, her loyalty to his half brother and her colleague, Florian, the Duke of Redding, keeps her defensive of him. But she's been fooled by a man before and therefore she is determined to avoid them now and maintain her independence, despite the threat her stepson poses to that. She certainly won't be risking her heart again, and certainly not with a notorious rake, and yet everything she is coming to know about him controverts what she thinks she knew. Regardless, she knows she can't risk getting close to or trusting any man ever again. Right?I really loved the idea of a "fake rake" with a completely contrived and utterly terrible reputation. Both of our main characters learn that the other is not what they've been led to expect. The attraction and sexual tension between them ignites almost instantly but their actual relationship is a bit of a slow burn. Henry and Viola spend time getting to know each other, but Viola is terrified of being hurt again and hesitant to give up the bit of independence she has found. Henry is patient with her and tries to help her gain confidence and get over her insecurities.This is a well-written book with quite a bit going on. It's a combination of several different plot devices that I don't believe I've ever read in conjunction before and I liked it. This one isn't very steamy with scenes occurring but mostly glossed over and the focus mainly on the growing connection between the couple. These two faced difficulties mostly due to Viola's fear and insecurities, along with her enemies, and Henry was great for sticking by her and supporting her. There was also quite a bit of medical description in great detail that, although perhaps a bit tedious at parts, demonstrated the author's research and showed more of Viola's character. The plot gets just a little discombobulated toward with end with a bit of a lull before the final climax. This couple kept hitting setbacks and I was ready for them to just get to be happy already, but I suppose that was rather realistic. The ending for our couple felt a bit abrupt for me, with the final chapter setting the stage for the next installment in the series, although now I'm looking forward to that story. Overall I enjoyed this one and found it quite refreshing.I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.

This was a good book. I enjoyed it. Great Narration by Carolyn Morris (audible review)I really liked Viola, she was very smart. I liked Lowell too. They made a good match. There was some mystery thrown into this romance. The chemistry between the two was great. They actually got to know each other throughout the book and it as not full of any angst. So that was a bonus. There was a lot of good dialogue too.It was a bit long and could have been shortened a little but all in all a really good story.As for the narration it was great. I am a big fan of Carolyn Morris. She does such a great job on all the voices and has such a nice reading voice. Always a pleasure to listen to her.

Viola is ‘infamous’ for one simple thing: her brief marriage to a man who was a contemporary of her father, and the fortune he bestowed upon her. Unfortunately for her, the marriage was very brief and left her looking like a mercenary social climber, all of which is untrue – and her continued refusal to perform for society as a Duchess should has left her a source of speculation. But she’s not been idle – sinking most of her money and her not inconsiderable brains and determination into a hospital that has had great successes in treating the population. Her work and position have brought her close to Florian, a physician who has become both a teacher and a friend, and given her some small moments of friendship and society with his wife and sisters in law. Viola is a bit of a law unto herself: her father was a physician and refused to deny his very intelligent daughter the availability of books, education or opportunities that would further her education – in short, he treated her much as he would have treated a son. And while the unconventional upbringing didn’t bring her many difficulties – she was betrayed in her search for love – led on by the man who is now her stepson. Henry is the new Duke and half-brother to Florian, with a reputation that would have him listed in the most infamous rakes of all time. And a duel over, of all things, clothing choices, have him in Viola’s care after Florian removed the troublesome bullet from his shoulder. Instantly intrigued by Viola, and wholly undeserving of the reputation that precedes him – Henry wants to know her better – and actually thinks that she may be the solution to his very real, and pressing need for a wife and heir. But – there are many things to overcome, not the least of which is Viola’s inheritance from her husband, and the son and current Duke of Tremayne’s determination to both ruin her and reclaim money he feels were owed him. A story that is entirely about Henry and Viola coming to grips with (and understanding) one another’s histories, learning to trust in one another and simply allowing their feelings to grow and develop. No one who knows the two well are actually concerned that they aren’t good for one another – all of the questions come as a result of those who only know the ‘stories and gossip’, and the actual friendship offered to Viola shows the esteem and regard in which she is held by those who had the experiences of working with her, or benefitting from her forward thinking and heart. Each one of the books in this series explores another person (or couple) who were not ‘of the norm’ for the society of the day, and as such have a unique perspective and approach as they work to build a future for themselves that quietly affirms their experiences and beliefs, while leaving readers with a smile. I received an eArc copy of the title from the publisher via Edelweiss for purpose of honest review. I was not compensated for this review: all conclusions are my own responsibility. Review first appeared at I am, Indeed

Branded a money-hungry con artist for marrying the elderly Duke of Tremaine days before his death, Viola Cartwright has found refuge in her work at St. Agatha’s Hospital working alongside Florian. No one must know the painful reason behind her marriage. She steers clear of attachments until Henry Lowell, heir to the Viscount Armswell & Florian’s brother, lands on her operating table after a duel. Charming and wickedly handsome, Henry is one of London’s most inveterate scoundrels. Posing as an unrepentant rake has helped Henry avoid women pursuing him only for his title. Now that duty has finally called on him to marry, he finds himself entranced by the mysterious, independent-minded Viola. Then her late husband’s son Robert returns from overseas, contesting Viola’s inheritance. It took me a little time to become engrossed, however the more I read the more I was drawn in & read the second half of the book in a long sitting as I had to find out what happened to Viola & I so wanted Robert to pay. There were multiple threads to the story but overall they worked well to make for a captivating read. The book was very well written & the characters extremely well portrayed. I instantly loved Henry – sigh. He was not only gorgeous to look at but he was so caring, protective & honourable, he was immediately smitten by Viola & his feelings deepened from raw attraction & lust to liking her & very soon to loving her. I liked the complex Viola from the start & as the story progressed came to love & respect her. Whilst this book is part of a series it could easily be read on its own, I liked that the next book in the series was ‘set up’ in the final pages & can’t wait to read itMy honest review is for a special copy I voluntarily read

The Infamous DuchessDiamonds in the Roughbook 4by Sophie BarnesThis is Viola’s and Henry’s story and let me tell you it was riveting! Viola has been scorned and labeled a money and title hungry woman who married an elderly dying man for the money and his title. She finds solace in realizing her father’s dream of establishing a hospital. Being the daughter of a physician she’s able to assist Florian with a gun shot patient .....where she first meets Henry. Henry’s first impression of Viola although hazy is that of an angel. But this angel isn’t swayed by Henry’s flirtatious manner that he’s very well known for. Their relationship evolves when the heir to the dukedom threatens Viola with contesting the inheritance her late husband left her. Henry’s attention and caring towards Viola have her realizing that he’s not the man the ton believe him to be. Henry and Viola have some hurdles to go through when secrets are exposed before they reach the very much deserved happily ever after.Sophie Barnes has another winner in this series. The story was well written and I loved the dialogue and Henry’s wooing of Viola I’m also anticipating the next book which will be Guthrie’s story which I can’t wait to read!I received a complimentary copy from the author via Edelweiss. This is my honest unbiased opinion.

I am just in love with this entire series! That is all!

Viola Cartwright is a very complex character. She has survived losing everyone she loved, some by death and one by deceit. Her story is as complex as her character. She is facing losing everything she has worked for and finds that she must trust even though it is very hard for her. This plot just kept getting more complex as Viola both looses and gains as the story progresses. I loved Henry Lowell and how he worked to overcome a past he invented to keep safe from marriage. Seems it was coming back to haunt him. Look for a interesting characters whose story will come up next. Love how this series just keeps moving in unusual ways. I also enjoyed hearing about the medical history that Barnes adds as an afterwards.I received a free copy of the book in return for an honest review.

Book four in The Diamonds in the Rough is another wonderfully stunning love story from Sophie Barnes. I have to say that I loved the first three books in the Series but this is my favorite! Henry Lowell is a perfect gentleman with a mischievous sparkle in his eyes, handsome as sin with a smile that can make a lady weak in the knees. Henry has a reputation as a libertine who has as the story opens participated in a duel that has landed him in his brother Florian's (Hero in The Illegitimate Duke, Book 3) operating room at the hospital he helps fund with the woman who built and runs the hospital, Viola Cartwright, Duchess of Tremaine.Viola Cartwright is not your typical Society Duchess. She doesn't attend balls or dresses like a lady of Quality. She is the daughter of a doctor who taught her everything she knows about medicine. When her father passed away she was taken in by a patient of her father's, an elderly Duke. He gave her a home and protection and he married her so she could inherit his money to continue her father's work and build a hospital to help the poor. Now the Duke's son is back in the country and intends to take Viola to court to get his hands on her hospital. Viola would never give him the satisfaction of showing how frightened she is that he could take away her life's work. Enter Henry Lowell, who is immediately attracted to her and will do anything to help her defeat the man who is threatening all she holds dear. Henry is perfect for Viola. He wants to court her. He knows how incredible she is and wants her to feel the same about him. He won't push her, he is a patient man and knows that she is worth the wait.Viola has been betrayed once by a man and is slow to trust. Can Henry convince her that he is sincere? What I love about Sophie's writing is that you can literally feel the emotions that Henry and Viola are feeling. Sophie is a master at crafting what her characters are feeling which makes her love stories exceptional. I love her sense of humor and her witty repartee. "Viola flattened her lips. "Then I shall have Dead from unnecessary cause and too stubborn to listen to reason engraved upon your headstone."I also appreciate the research that goes into Sophie's stories. I always learn something when I read her books. Do not miss this one!! I highly recommend it.

I tend to read a lot of shorter works by self-published authors. Often, this means reading a relatively short work that may or may not have character development or detailed plots. This book was so different than my normal reading because it starred a complex hero and heroine in a story that allowed their characters and relationship to grow and evolve. I thoroughly enjoyed watching them and their relationship change over the course of the book.Viola is the Dowager Duchess of Tremaine. Her husband's final wish before he died was that she open a hospital to help take care of London's poor at no cost to them. So for two years--while tracking down the new Duke--she has been doing just that. She even helps with procedures and patients. As she is the daughter of a physician herself, she came to this role having some knowledge and experience.The book starts off with a bang as a man is brought in suffering from a shoulder gunshot received during a duel. It just so happens that this man happens to be the brother of the chief physician of the hospital, Florian. The man, Henry Lowell, is saved by his brother but must convalesce for a few days in the hospital. During this time, he gets to know Viola, though she is wary of him because of his reputation.So much happens in this book! Viola and Henry get to know each other gradually and come to understand each other in a way that feels organic and natural. Henry, of course, is not the man of his reputation. Viola has a long and complicated past that is revealed slowly through the book. She married the Duke at the age of 19 when he was 70. He did this because he wanted to protect her, as he promised her father (his friend). Once the new Duke of Tremaine is back, Viola’s life is thrown into turmoil, as the new Duke believes she stole what was rightly his.Aside from the romantic plot, there's also a plot about the new Duke trying to get back at Viola both personally and through the courts. There is a side plot about the new Duke’s past; there are also a few colorful secondary characters, one of whom looks like will get his own book. The love story was beautifully done. You could understand the fears and the motivations of each character, and it was lovely to watch everything unfold slowly. My only issue with the pacing of the book is towards the end, where the speed of the plot increased dramatically. While the courtship was slow, everything accelerated around the time of the trial, and I found it a little jarring after the previous gentle pace.As a registered nurse who has studied microbiology--including the history of it--I do take issue with the way medicine is portrayed in this book. Despite the author's note at the end of the book stating her justifications for having Florian insist on handwashing and soaking instruments in alcohol (as well as the use of morphine), understanding of the transmission of disease during the Regency era would not have made these the normal precautions of even a progressive doctor. The miasma theory of disease transmission was still firmly held at this point; bad air is what was believed to caused disease, so any person in a locale of such could become ill. Handwashing was not common even after Ignaz Semmelweis’ realization in the 1840s of the harm caused to pregnant women by physicians who worked on them with the muck of the dead and prior patients still on them; surgeons in the 1800s were known, too, to take pride in being blood spattered as they moved from patient to patient, seeing such as a mark of their office and skill. The germ theory of disease didn't take hold until the later 1880s to 1890s, well after the work of Pasteur and the findings of Semmelweis. Even Dr. Joseph Lister, who pioneered the use in the 1860s and 1870s of what we would now call antiseptics and is now called the Father of Modern Surgery, was believed to be to progressive and radical in his ideas and practices even by the esteemed medical journal, the Lancet, that published his initial findings on the topic. I think it adds nothing to the book to have these anachronistic bits. Unfortunately, I have seen this recasting of the past quite often in stories, where the author wants to give modern sensibilities and knowledge to people who simply wouldn't have had them. That being said, I still found this to be a very good read because of the character exploration done earlier as well as a very likable, very human hero and heroine.If you enjoy well-written Regency romance, you will most likely not be disappointed by this book. I did receive a free advance copy of this, but this did not affect my review.

This is the fourth book in Sophia Barnes "Diamonds in the Rough" series. I thought the overall plot was very good. I don't think that you have to read the prior books in this series to know what is going on. But I would recommend that you would so given how this book ended. For me, I just have to get used to Sophia Barnes writing style. I liked the pairing of Henry/Viola. Henry is seen has a reputation of being a rake. Though as you read this- you will get a different view of him. I don't think I buy his explanation as to why he made the choices that he did. Another great character in this was Robert. I mean he is good villain, over all he is crappy human being as far as I'm concern. But when an author creates a villain and you actually hate that character, I think that needs to be commended. I really liked this story, I'm definitely going read the prior books in this series.

Widow Viola Cartright shuns Society so they can't shun her for marrying an infirm and wealthy duke the day before his death. She has spent her fortune on building London's best hospital. But she might be about to lose it all when her wayward stepson returns to ruin her life. Henry Lowell wants to help her - and love her, if she'll have him - but he has his own reputation and she's been hurt before.I was pretty much sold from the premise! I've had a soft spot for both Viola and Henry from the previous books, so I was delighted to see them in a story together. I thoroughly enjoyed The Infamous Duchess and the villain was so wonderfully detestable. I was so desperate to finish this book because I had to know how it all turned out! I look forward to completing this series, though I also dread it since I've enjoyed it so much...

Never try to take what's not yours!Viola meets Florian's brother, Henry Lowell, when the latter is brought to her hospital. Henry is immediately taken by Viola and is determined to make her his. But she's leery of men due to an earlier meeting with her late husband's soon many years earlier. Now that soon is coming home and is determined to destroy Viola's life as much as possible. Needless to say, he doesn't succeed, although Henry does! A great follow up to Florian's story. Can't wait for the next installment.