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Horsemen of the Apocalypse #1
The Duke's Tattoo
Librarian note: an alternate cover for this edition can be found here.
First comes revenge then comes love and marriage in The Duke’s Tattoo, a historical romance set in Regency England.
After being grievously wounded at Waterloo, Jeremy Maubrey returns from war to find his new life as the tenth Duke of Ainsworth painful, dull and full of obligations. That is, until he wakes to find himself indelibly decorated in a mortifying place and mocking manner.
Though he cannot recall much of the hellish night when he was abducted and tattooed, he cannot forget the waif-like villainess responsible or her haunting eyes. Ducal duties must wait till he finds the culprit and takes his revenge.
Miss Prudence Haversham, Bath’s only female apothecary, knows she has a problem. A big, broad shouldered problem. At least she will have, if the tenth Duke of Ainsworth ever discovers she is to blame for tattooing him. Unfortunately, she meant to have tattooed the previous Duke of Ainsworth, who tried to debauch her and disgraced her with his lies. Worse yet, she learns this duke is one of four infamously implacable cavalry officers known as ‘The Horsemen of the Apocalypse.’
No sooner has the vengeful duke traced his abductress to Bath, than Prudence Haversham overturns the duke’s every expectation and intention. In turn, the duke proves himself an honorable and surprisingly forgiving man who earns the wary apothecary’s love.
First comes revenge then comes love and marriage in The Duke’s Tattoo, a historical romance set in Regency England.
After being grievously wounded at Waterloo, Jeremy Maubrey returns from war to find his new life as the tenth Duke of Ainsworth painful, dull and full of obligations. That is, until he wakes to find himself indelibly decorated in a mortifying place and mocking manner.
Though he cannot recall much of the hellish night when he was abducted and tattooed, he cannot forget the waif-like villainess responsible or her haunting eyes. Ducal duties must wait till he finds the culprit and takes his revenge.
Miss Prudence Haversham, Bath’s only female apothecary, knows she has a problem. A big, broad shouldered problem. At least she will have, if the tenth Duke of Ainsworth ever discovers she is to blame for tattooing him. Unfortunately, she meant to have tattooed the previous Duke of Ainsworth, who tried to debauch her and disgraced her with his lies. Worse yet, she learns this duke is one of four infamously implacable cavalry officers known as ‘The Horsemen of the Apocalypse.’
No sooner has the vengeful duke traced his abductress to Bath, than Prudence Haversham overturns the duke’s every expectation and intention. In turn, the duke proves himself an honorable and surprisingly forgiving man who earns the wary apothecary’s love.
252 pages, Kindle Edition
First published March 31, 2012
About the author
Miranda Davis
5 books274 followersMiranda Davis has loved Regency romances since Mr. Darcy won Elizabeth Bennett’s heart. (Not that Miranda is 200 years old.) Miranda’s mother must take responsibility for her daughter's love of Georgette Heyer.
Her current Austen favorite is Persuasion. It bumped P&P out of the top spot because the author's tart social commentary is completely brilliant.
At various points, she earned degrees from Smith College and Harvard University and worked at everything from scooping ice cream to big time advertising. When she’s not busy with family along the Old Santa Fe Trail, she’s happily dreaming of Regency England or reading about it. Or knitting. Or cooking, with mixed results.
Another important individual contributed to her efforts. Though he didn't read (that the author knew of), her hulking, brown, part-gargoyle dog graciously agreed to appear in The Duke’s Tattoo under a different name.
Her current Austen favorite is Persuasion. It bumped P&P out of the top spot because the author's tart social commentary is completely brilliant.
At various points, she earned degrees from Smith College and Harvard University and worked at everything from scooping ice cream to big time advertising. When she’s not busy with family along the Old Santa Fe Trail, she’s happily dreaming of Regency England or reading about it. Or knitting. Or cooking, with mixed results.
Another important individual contributed to her efforts. Though he didn't read (that the author knew of), her hulking, brown, part-gargoyle dog graciously agreed to appear in The Duke’s Tattoo under a different name.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 249 reviews
November 18, 2016
"Damn her eyes!"
This was such a lovely read, and quite refreshing, I don't think I've ever heard of a plot like this one
The story
The famous war hero, tenth Duke of Ainsworth, wakes one morning with a terrible headache. And a terrible itch, down there
On closer inspection, he finds he has been shaved and his maleness tattooed
He can't really remember what happened to him, only that it hurt like hell. Still, he was able to remember one detail - the eyes of his devilish female fiend!
That devilish female fiend is Miss Haversham, a spinster apothecary, bent on revenge to the Duke of Ainsworth. Too late she finds out that the duke that done her wrong was the current duke's late brother.
Well, the damage was done, the only thing she has to fear now is going to prison for assaulting a peer
After some months, "The Mayfair Stallion" finds a clue to who his fiend might be, and he starts to plot his revenge
"His friends certainly considered him untemperamental, tolerant and willing if not eager to find the good in others. In general, he treated others as he would have them treat him.
His enemies, however, found him implacable. And the spiteful female who went about randomly, whimsically and permanently defiling a man’s privates was his enemy.
Miss Haversham’s personal Waterloo was only a few days away."
Jeremy Maubrey, the tenth Duke of Ainsworth aka 'The Mayfair Stallion'
Jeremy is one of the four 'Horsemen of the Apocalypse', officers known for being invincible and fearless. Also known as the 'Stallion', I think no explanations are necessary
After the foul deed is done, he can't seem to get those mysterious eyes out of his mind, and that soon turns into an obsession. When he learns who his tormentor is, he decides to take his revenge :D Jeremy buys her house and store, and evicts her
and comes to Bath just to torment her some more with his pressence
Love those scenes! He has such a fantastic sense of humor, and is sometimes the typical uptight gentleman.
There is a scene when he tries to write the heroine a love letter, and "pours his heart out" (his words)
This is just the letter, but him trying to write it, ahahah just couldn't stop laughing XD
Miss Prudence Haversham
Disgraced by the late Duke of Ainsworth, Prudence now works as an apothecary in Bath. She constantly regrets taking vengance on the wrong man, but the situation is as it is. The only thing she fears is James recognising her, once he appears in town. She treats his shoulder injury, and gets to know him better, and soon she realises she has fallen in love
Best scenes between them were James climbing into her room
Each time there was something new between them and they just fell in love more and more :) “I’m a woman of seven and twenty, I’ll have you know.”
“And you look away when I remove my boots,” he retorted. “You blush fire red when I take off my waistcoat and,” he added with growing exasperation, “you would have spasms if I were to remove my breeches, Miss Haversham.”
“I would not,” she retorted, feeling her traitor cheeks heat up.
“Fine, then breeches off,” he barked and rolled to sit up, his hands on the top button of his bulging falls.
“Your Grace!” She threw up a hand to cover her eyes. “You are no gentleman!”
Two things that bothered me. A lot!
The first is the fact that there is a big, and I mean B-I-G part of the book that the H/h are apart.
I wanted to see them together more, and that apart thing was just annoying. They first meet at 25%, and they grow apart at about 62%. There are few scenes near the end where they are actually together in the same scene and that was funny and lovely, but I just wanted more. Yes, I'm a greedy b*tch
The second thing - at about 60% of the book and untill the end, every single sentence the H/h said was misinterpreted.
He said one thing, she thought it was the total opposite, and vice versa. And so it went. Not just with those two, his brave friends, the three remaining 'Horsemen' totally misinterpreted everything Jeremy did or said, and they decided to help him in a way that would ruin absolutely everything
That said, this is just what bothered ME, I personally don't like these situations in ANY book I read.
And again, that said, all those scenes that were annoying because they were apart or angry for the wrong reason were written so superbly, it was very very funny and that's what made me like it all
So, my advice is to grab this book, enjoy some great writing, humor and romance, an unusual plot, stick through the apart periods because they're still interesting and funny, and join me in line for the second book in this series
January 25, 2016
4,5 Stars
Starting from a decidedly unusual, or better, a decidedly outlandish premise, Miranda Davis has managed to remind me of all the right reasons why I've always loved the Regency genre so much. In just one book. And a debut, no less.
Only Miss Prudence Haversham's allure could turn a vengeful Duke of Ainsworth into an ivy-climbing Romeo and with all the charm and mood of an era encased in the eccentric twists and turns of the narration and the phrasing, the author deftly weaves us a sparkly tale of manners and romance, of moonlight madness and lovers skirmishes, of camaraderie and teas.
Sweet and naughty, often irreverent or hilarious, and happily swinging between enthusiastic homage and gentle fun poking, it's a book that reads as a smart lighthearted romp and where the gusto is to be found in the story as much as in the whimsical and outrageously inventive word-choices, which I kept savouring and anticipating together with, if not even more, the unfurling of the plot.
A remarkable beginning for a talented new voice, combining an amused, and amusing, nod to tradition with a very original and personal "modern" touch denoting a deep understanding and knowledge of the genre's unique quirks and staples. Needless to say, I will soon be delving into the next title in the series.
February 23, 2013
4 1/2 Grinning Like Mad Stars! Boy was that fun! I never expected to enjoy this book as much as I did.
Smart, witty, fun, a wonderfully crafted historical romance. Amazing dialogue with some great one-liners that had me laughing out loud. A unique storyline, with charming, endearing characters that owned me throughout the book. I loved Ainsworth and I adored Prudence, aka Your Grace and Miss Haversham, Jem and Nymph or Mr. Procrastinator and Miss Independent! In other words, the PERFECT couple!! Loved all those rag-tag, in your business, secondary characters, especially Jem's friends, I can't wait to read about them. Last but not least, Atilla, the only one with any sense! The epilogue was priceless, just priceless!! I love me a man with a tattoo!!
Congratulations to Miranda Davis on her brilliant debut book!!
Thank you Jill for encouraging me to read this, it was just what the doctor ordered!
May 28, 2013
"His erection swayed with each step, his heavy sac hung pendulous between his thighs."
Disgraced many years earlier by the Duke of Ainsworth, Prudence Haversham has resigned herself to living as a spinster, but she's not averse to exacting her revenge on the man who sullied her reputation. Her co-conspirators drug and kidnap him and put a ribald tattoo on his private parts.
The Duke of Ainsworth is determined to track down the culprits and exact his own revenge, but the only clues he has are Prudence's startling blue / green eyes which he saw through the opium haze and a jar of medicinal cream.
When he finally tracks her down he sets his plans to ruin her into motion, but she isn't at all what he expected and as they clash wits he comes to value her and then love her. But his carefully laid plans are coming back to haunt him one by one.
I don't really read historical romance. I've tried a few times and I just can't get into them. Until now. This book is great fun...it works on nearly every level. I even started to enjoy the language which admittedly took a little getting used to. It's a game changer, one of those books that can introduce people to a new genre of fiction.
(Oh...sorry about the quote. I just thought it was funny)
November 6, 2021
This was a refreshing read after being in a book slump. The story flowed well and had plenty of humor. The book was very predictably and the mystery was easy to solve but I didn't care bc it was such a fun, light read. Sometimes that's all you need!
Problem: I might have given 4 stars but the h's stubbornness in the end was irritating and went on too long.
Problem: I might have given 4 stars but the h's stubbornness in the end was irritating and went on too long.
July 16, 2023
This book was published in 2012 so it has been around for a while. It was a fast easy read that I did skim some parts. I enjoyed the start of the romance between the H/h but the misunderstandings became tedious. The "he can't really love me because I am not worthy" and the brother and sister-in-law feeding into it seemed unnecessary and unrealistic. The reason for the tattoo was a bit weak. Yes, this was a nice way to spend a Sunday afternoon. If not for the tattoo this plot has been written many times.
October 12, 2012
Chapter 1
In which our mortified hero has no one but himself to blame. Yet.
London, August 1815
The Morning After
"Bollocks, sir!" Smeeth exclaimed. "Beg pardon, Y'Grace."
It was not at all like the duke's valet to stare at a man's apparatus with such squinty-eyed concentration. This made His Grace all the more uncomfortable, if that were possible.
How do you NOT have to keep reading a book when it begins like that?
A unique (and hilarious) premise, witty prose and clever dialogue that engages the reader throughout, a sigh-worthy Hero and a strong heroine, again written with humour and charm, are enough to have me recommending this first book by Miranda Davis to every one of my Goodreads friends.
I haven't done this since I read Scandal by Carolyn Jewel.
The Duke's Tattoo begins with a case of mistaken identity. Or should I say, mistaken drugging, abduction and tattooing of nether parts. The Mayfair Stallion, as the new Duke comes to be known, embarks on a quest to find the perpetrators of the heinous assault upon his person. Once he does, he falls in love with his tormentor. Their story is absolutely delicious.
A couple of minor points niggle, but not enough to bring down my rating. The Big Mis goes on a bit too long, but as it begins with a chapter titled "In which there is an unfortunate case of "he said, she heard", I was charmed in spite of myself.
The romance itself was not as steamy as I might have expected but this in no way detracts from the book. In fact, it probably gives Ms. Davis' novel a broader appeal. :) I mention this only in case folks who now exactly how steamy I like things would look for that here.
My GR friend Catherine has a way of recommending books to me in a way that makes me laugh out loud every time she does it. I'm sharing it with you all here because The Duke's Tattoo definitely merits it:
read it. Read it. REEEEEAAAAAAAAD IT.
5 stars.
October 29, 2012
I have loved many of the books that I’ve read, but it has been a long time since I can remember being as flat out
delighted
as I was when reading this book. I finished it and just wanted to squeeze it to me and bask in its awesomeness. (Not quite comfortable when it’s an ebook you’re reading) It was so frickin’ adorable!
Ainsworth and Prudence have a…unique start to their relationship. One night, while out enjoying himself on the town, the duke is nabbed and drugged by Prudence’s well-meaning servants in order to bring to life a revenge she’s spent years plotting. Of course, Prudence would have never gone through with the plan on her own, but since her servants/friends already had him there, why not? Is it her fault that the title recently changed hands and they didn’t realize it until it was too late? Surely he won’t be that upset about the tattoo they forced on him. And if he is…well, he was drugged and won’t remember them, right? Right?!?
Of course, they’re not that lucky. Ainsworth does not take it at all well. He can’t exactly go to the police and start a manhunt because then he would have to admit what happened, but he has no plans of letting this go. It drives him nuts that he doesn’t know why someone did this to him, but he will find them no matter how long it takes and he will have his revenge. Luckily for him he remembers some things from that night, despite being drugged, and he has the clue (of sorts) that Prudence couldn’t resist leaving with him out of guilt.
You can see why I was sucked into this story, can’t you? How unique and fun! I absolutely loved the writing style used. The tone is completely matter-of-fact, but it is so matter-of-factly absurd that you can’t help but giggle. Hilarious events are treated as completely rational and each little absurdity adds up to a wonderfully fun romp of a story. This book reminded me so much of the air of fun that I find when reading a Loretta Chase or Kate Noble story. I prize that quality so I’m thankful I’ve found another author that can deliver.
I loved watching Ainsworth and Prudence fall in love. The shenanigans they got up to had me in stitches but the genuine friendship and love that developed is really what invested me in them. There was such genuine care between them, despite being an unlikely pair on the surface. I also loved that the story spanned such a significant time span. I rarely get that in the HR’s of today so that was appreciated. The last story I can remember reading that, like this, had a good chunk of time covered was Wulf’s story, Slightly Dangerous, by Mary Balogh. Why is that so rare nowadays?
A misunderstanding and inability (or refusal) to communicate crops up toward the end of the book, which might irk some, but for me it just added a layer of further fun to an already delightful courtship. Watching Ainsworth bumble around love and having his friends come to investigate the situation made the whole thing that much better. I didn’t quite understand the motivation of Prudence’s brother and his wife, but that was such a small niggle that it barely bothered me. Who cares about her brother and sister-in-law when the rest of the characters fix your attention so firmly their way? I read the sneak peek for the author’s next book with Ainsworth’s friend, Lord Clun, and it looks F-A-B-U-L-O-U-S. I wish it were already out!
The writing was solid (which I greatly appreciate in a debut author), the characters intelligent, and the dialogue witty. Honestly, this book hit all my sweet spots and has me wishing the author had a backlist for me to glom. If you’re on the fence about this one, consider this: it’s only $2.99 for the ebook right now. How can you go wrong? That’s one heck of a deal for a story this delightful.
Favorite Quote:
Ainsworth and Prudence have a…unique start to their relationship. One night, while out enjoying himself on the town, the duke is nabbed and drugged by Prudence’s well-meaning servants in order to bring to life a revenge she’s spent years plotting. Of course, Prudence would have never gone through with the plan on her own, but since her servants/friends already had him there, why not? Is it her fault that the title recently changed hands and they didn’t realize it until it was too late? Surely he won’t be that upset about the tattoo they forced on him. And if he is…well, he was drugged and won’t remember them, right? Right?!?
Of course, they’re not that lucky. Ainsworth does not take it at all well. He can’t exactly go to the police and start a manhunt because then he would have to admit what happened, but he has no plans of letting this go. It drives him nuts that he doesn’t know why someone did this to him, but he will find them no matter how long it takes and he will have his revenge. Luckily for him he remembers some things from that night, despite being drugged, and he has the clue (of sorts) that Prudence couldn’t resist leaving with him out of guilt.
You can see why I was sucked into this story, can’t you? How unique and fun! I absolutely loved the writing style used. The tone is completely matter-of-fact, but it is so matter-of-factly absurd that you can’t help but giggle. Hilarious events are treated as completely rational and each little absurdity adds up to a wonderfully fun romp of a story. This book reminded me so much of the air of fun that I find when reading a Loretta Chase or Kate Noble story. I prize that quality so I’m thankful I’ve found another author that can deliver.
I loved watching Ainsworth and Prudence fall in love. The shenanigans they got up to had me in stitches but the genuine friendship and love that developed is really what invested me in them. There was such genuine care between them, despite being an unlikely pair on the surface. I also loved that the story spanned such a significant time span. I rarely get that in the HR’s of today so that was appreciated. The last story I can remember reading that, like this, had a good chunk of time covered was Wulf’s story, Slightly Dangerous, by Mary Balogh. Why is that so rare nowadays?
A misunderstanding and inability (or refusal) to communicate crops up toward the end of the book, which might irk some, but for me it just added a layer of further fun to an already delightful courtship. Watching Ainsworth bumble around love and having his friends come to investigate the situation made the whole thing that much better. I didn’t quite understand the motivation of Prudence’s brother and his wife, but that was such a small niggle that it barely bothered me. Who cares about her brother and sister-in-law when the rest of the characters fix your attention so firmly their way? I read the sneak peek for the author’s next book with Ainsworth’s friend, Lord Clun, and it looks F-A-B-U-L-O-U-S. I wish it were already out!
The writing was solid (which I greatly appreciate in a debut author), the characters intelligent, and the dialogue witty. Honestly, this book hit all my sweet spots and has me wishing the author had a backlist for me to glom. If you’re on the fence about this one, consider this: it’s only $2.99 for the ebook right now. How can you go wrong? That’s one heck of a deal for a story this delightful.
Favorite Quote:
”Over and over, I’ve bared my soul to her.”
“You told her you loved her?” Percy persisted.
“Not precisely in those words, Percy,” the duke snapped. “Why must you harp on that!”
November 30, 2012
Here is what happens: the Duke of Ainsworth wakes up one day with a massive hangover, little memory of what happened the night before and a tattoo on his.., well, down there. I’m tempted to leave this review at that, because what else can I possibly say to top the awesomeness of this first sentence. Seriously, that’s all you need to know. It’s like the movie Hangover meets historical romance (therefore I immediately casted Bradley Cooper as the Duke of Ainsworth).
There is revenge upon revenge, lots of sex, a case of mistaken identity, a sexy spinster, loads of wittiness, and what have you. I’d rather wished our hero didn’t forgive Miss Haversham quite so soon. Honestly, I’m not sure I’d be happy to forgive and forget if someone ‘beautified’ me that way, even if it was Mr Darcy himself and apologising profusely. I say the Duke of Ainsworth could be easily realistically mad at the heroine well past the middle of the book. As it was, to keep them apart for another however many pages, the author had to have her hero and heroine both develop serious cases of idiocy. As one of the older, sane characters summarised:
“I shall say no more. Apparently you won’t be satisfied until you’ve made yourself thoroughly miserable. I’m tempted not to help either of you.”
But don’t worry. They recover.
Towards the end another character appears on the scene, a certain Baron Clun, and you can tell that Miranda Davis is grooming him to be the hero of the next book. I was sold on him the moment he opened his mouth and happily read the teaser chapters at the end of the book and then joyfully proceed to amazon to buy it and spend the next day reading it, even though I should be busy writing my own novel, but I decided it could wait a day or two until I finish reading The Baron’s Betrothal. It was then when I learnt that this book wasn’t even going to be released for months!
Oh, how angry I was, how angry. I was so angry I could just go and tattoo someone’s private parts! (My boyfriend has been sleeping in another room and locking his door since then). I was quite vocal about my disappointment and sent a message to the author demanding the book, pointing out the impending world end on the 21st of December. She appeased me with two more chapters. She is so nice, that Miranda Davis.
Anyway, the food that will accompany this review is the strawberry tarts that the Duke of Ainsworth was eating when thinking of his revenge on Miss Haversham.
“Gesturing at the sideboard with the pastry, Ainsworth said, “Please thank Cook for another delicious breakfast. I enjoyed these strawberry tart things especially. Is this my fourth or fifth?” “Fifth, Your Grace,” came the echoed response from both men. “Delicious,” he concluded and popped it whole into his mouth with a smile.”
And here they are. I used Channel 4 recipe which could be found here http://www.channel4.com/4food/recipes... . What can’t be found, however, is good strawberries at this time of the year, so I mixed frozen ones with some cardboard tasting imported ones.
I think I'm getting better at photographing food, if I do say so myself.
By the way, if you want to make them be warned they take hours, especially if you follow the recipe to the letter, so start making the cream as soon as you put the dough in the fridge.
There is revenge upon revenge, lots of sex, a case of mistaken identity, a sexy spinster, loads of wittiness, and what have you. I’d rather wished our hero didn’t forgive Miss Haversham quite so soon. Honestly, I’m not sure I’d be happy to forgive and forget if someone ‘beautified’ me that way, even if it was Mr Darcy himself and apologising profusely. I say the Duke of Ainsworth could be easily realistically mad at the heroine well past the middle of the book. As it was, to keep them apart for another however many pages, the author had to have her hero and heroine both develop serious cases of idiocy. As one of the older, sane characters summarised:
“I shall say no more. Apparently you won’t be satisfied until you’ve made yourself thoroughly miserable. I’m tempted not to help either of you.”
But don’t worry. They recover.
Towards the end another character appears on the scene, a certain Baron Clun, and you can tell that Miranda Davis is grooming him to be the hero of the next book. I was sold on him the moment he opened his mouth and happily read the teaser chapters at the end of the book and then joyfully proceed to amazon to buy it and spend the next day reading it, even though I should be busy writing my own novel, but I decided it could wait a day or two until I finish reading The Baron’s Betrothal. It was then when I learnt that this book wasn’t even going to be released for months!
Oh, how angry I was, how angry. I was so angry I could just go and tattoo someone’s private parts! (My boyfriend has been sleeping in another room and locking his door since then). I was quite vocal about my disappointment and sent a message to the author demanding the book, pointing out the impending world end on the 21st of December. She appeased me with two more chapters. She is so nice, that Miranda Davis.
Anyway, the food that will accompany this review is the strawberry tarts that the Duke of Ainsworth was eating when thinking of his revenge on Miss Haversham.
“Gesturing at the sideboard with the pastry, Ainsworth said, “Please thank Cook for another delicious breakfast. I enjoyed these strawberry tart things especially. Is this my fourth or fifth?” “Fifth, Your Grace,” came the echoed response from both men. “Delicious,” he concluded and popped it whole into his mouth with a smile.”
And here they are. I used Channel 4 recipe which could be found here http://www.channel4.com/4food/recipes... . What can’t be found, however, is good strawberries at this time of the year, so I mixed frozen ones with some cardboard tasting imported ones.
I think I'm getting better at photographing food, if I do say so myself.
By the way, if you want to make them be warned they take hours, especially if you follow the recipe to the letter, so start making the cream as soon as you put the dough in the fridge.
October 15, 2012
“You’re bare as a babe and bloody well savaged all around yourself!”... Ainsworth followed his man’s gaze downward to discover the source of Smeeth’s wonderment. Now he too stared agog.”
... “On the deeply mottled skin of his taunt lower abdomen, a tattoo bracketed the duke’s membrum virile” as if to glorify his generative organ…..
And so begins Miranda Davis’ debut novel, The Duke’s Tattoo. Who could resist reading more? Thanks to my GR friend, Keri, this little gem came under my radar. Intrigued, I had to have it. Thinking only to read a chapter or two, I soon found myself not wanting to put this one down.
The hero, Jem Maubrey, the Duke of Aisnworth, is one of four Army heroes known as The Four Horsemen of the Apocalypse and he is utterly delicious! Prudence Haversham is compassionate, smart, self-sufficient and serves as the local apothecary in nearby Bath. Her personality and character traits are one of the highlights of the book.
The tale begins around That Night with Aisnworth’s vow for retribution. He’s dedicated to finding the culprit and the reason behind his inking. Prudence has her reasons but soon we learn the tattoo was placed on the wrong man! It’s not long before Ainsworth tracts down “the author of his defacement” and puts into play his plans to torment her. Ahhh, but he didn’t plan on Prudence and those eyes!
This book is ingeniously written and the banter between these two is refreshing. The witty dialog had me laughing out loud. It is unique, engaging and centered around two very lovable characters. There is chemistry and a few intimate love scenes but the focus wraps itself around their relationship and the blissful feelings of falling in love. The secondary characters are just as appealing and the ending came with a fantastic epilogue making this a pleasure to read.
Congrats Ms. Davis on a winning debut that I highly recommend. It was loads of fun and I look forward to the next installment.
... “On the deeply mottled skin of his taunt lower abdomen, a tattoo bracketed the duke’s membrum virile” as if to glorify his generative organ…..
And so begins Miranda Davis’ debut novel, The Duke’s Tattoo. Who could resist reading more? Thanks to my GR friend, Keri, this little gem came under my radar. Intrigued, I had to have it. Thinking only to read a chapter or two, I soon found myself not wanting to put this one down.
The hero, Jem Maubrey, the Duke of Aisnworth, is one of four Army heroes known as The Four Horsemen of the Apocalypse and he is utterly delicious! Prudence Haversham is compassionate, smart, self-sufficient and serves as the local apothecary in nearby Bath. Her personality and character traits are one of the highlights of the book.
The tale begins around That Night with Aisnworth’s vow for retribution. He’s dedicated to finding the culprit and the reason behind his inking. Prudence has her reasons but soon we learn the tattoo was placed on the wrong man! It’s not long before Ainsworth tracts down “the author of his defacement” and puts into play his plans to torment her. Ahhh, but he didn’t plan on Prudence and those eyes!
This book is ingeniously written and the banter between these two is refreshing. The witty dialog had me laughing out loud. It is unique, engaging and centered around two very lovable characters. There is chemistry and a few intimate love scenes but the focus wraps itself around their relationship and the blissful feelings of falling in love. The secondary characters are just as appealing and the ending came with a fantastic epilogue making this a pleasure to read.
Congrats Ms. Davis on a winning debut that I highly recommend. It was loads of fun and I look forward to the next installment.
January 20, 2016
4 1/2 fun stars for me.
This was an absolute giggle worthy read as Jem, the Duke of Ainsworth wakes up to a hazy drugged filled nightmare to find that someone evil has shaved his neither regions and tattooed his "memberum virile"! (sorry couldn't type it without chuckling again.) Once he he has found this vile culprit he will release all the power behind his dukedom down on their head. They will feel his wrath. After all he isn't one of the Four Horsemen of the Apocalypse for nothing!
For her part, Ms. Prudence Haversham, an "on the shelf" young lady, as well as a local Bath apothecary, has deep feelings of sorrow and regret for the tattooing incident, especially as it was the wrong Duke of Ainsworth and all. Too bad she didn't make the discovery before the tattooing had commenced What is a girl to do, but pack for the goal. What does one take with oneself to prison?
So began the strange but fun romance of Jem and Prudence, as Jem sets out to make Prudence pay in ways only a man in love can mete out. I love Jem and Prudence and loved the colorful side characters that they both had in their households. I read the book in one sitting and didn't want to stop, because I had to know what the tattoo was, which was the big reveal of course at the very ending. Very satisfying read and will certainly be getting the next one as it appears that Lord Clun has evidently sold himself into bondage via a marriage contract to a dried up old prune. ;-)
If you are looking for a historical slightly hysterical romance off the beaten path then you might give this little gem a try.
This was an absolute giggle worthy read as Jem, the Duke of Ainsworth wakes up to a hazy drugged filled nightmare to find that someone evil has shaved his neither regions and tattooed his "memberum virile"! (sorry couldn't type it without chuckling again.) Once he he has found this vile culprit he will release all the power behind his dukedom down on their head. They will feel his wrath. After all he isn't one of the Four Horsemen of the Apocalypse for nothing!
For her part, Ms. Prudence Haversham, an "on the shelf" young lady, as well as a local Bath apothecary, has deep feelings of sorrow and regret for the tattooing incident, especially as it was the wrong Duke of Ainsworth and all. Too bad she didn't make the discovery before the tattooing had commenced What is a girl to do, but pack for the goal. What does one take with oneself to prison?
So began the strange but fun romance of Jem and Prudence, as Jem sets out to make Prudence pay in ways only a man in love can mete out. I love Jem and Prudence and loved the colorful side characters that they both had in their households. I read the book in one sitting and didn't want to stop, because I had to know what the tattoo was, which was the big reveal of course at the very ending. Very satisfying read and will certainly be getting the next one as it appears that Lord Clun has evidently sold himself into bondage via a marriage contract to a dried up old prune. ;-)
If you are looking for a historical slightly hysterical romance off the beaten path then you might give this little gem a try.
January 25, 2015
For the longest time, I've been meaning to change my review to a unqualified FIVE PLUS STARS!
READ THIS BOOK! It's a great bargain, at only $2.99 on Amazon.
This first-time author read my (and others') reviews on Amazon and rewrote parts, addressing all of the little things that I complained about. It is now just about perfect, and it gives me great joy to see that so many others on Goodreads have enjoyed it. And don't forget to add The Baron's Betrothal: An On-Again, Off-Again, On-Again Regency Romance, coming in 2013, to your TBR list.
Original Review from 12 June 2012:
I happened across this book when one of my GR friends added it as a “to read.” It’s a cheap ($2.99), self-published Amazon Kindle book, and it sounded intriguing. But what really convinced me to read it was looking at the reviews on Amazon (4.6/5 stars). This first-time author has taken the trouble to respond to several of the reviews, thanking the reviewers (gasp!), and agreeing with some of their criticisms (gasp! gasp!). What a refreshing contrast to some other authors whose well-publicized, shameful attack on GR reviewers has been much discussed of late.
Well, Miranda Davis has written a very good book here. I commend her for wanting to make it even better, and it’s in that spirit that I offer this review. First of all, she’s come up with an original enemies-to-friends/revenge plot. Jeremy (“Jem”) Maubrey, tenth Duke of Ainsworth, finds himself kidnapped, drugged, and left with a tattoo in a most personal and private place. And he has no idea why. Eventually, he traces the cause of his misfortune to a female apothecary in Bath, Miss Prudence Haversham. Setting his man of business to work, he buys her shop and her home, intending to turn her out into the streets with nothing. But first, he travels to Bath to witness her comeuppance.
Prudence is horrified to learn that her revenge has been carried out on the wrong duke; her actual target was the now-deceased ninth duke, Jem’s brother. Ten years earlier, he had attempted to debauch her, causing her odious brother to turn her out of the house in disgrace. Ever since, she has lived quietly in Bath and become a successful and well-respected apothecary. The duke likes her and comes to regret his plans for revenge. Eventually, he realizes that he’s fallen in love with her, but misunderstandings complicate their path to a happy ending.
What I Liked
• As mentioned, the plot is original and lively. Things move along briskly, and we get both the hero’s and heroine’s perspectives.
• Jem is a delicious hero – handsome, gallant, and a bit embarrassed by the notoriety of being one of the group known as the Four Horsemen of the Apocalypse.
• The other three horsemen are worked into the story quite well. Some authors tend to litter their stories with sequel-fodder, but this author did an excellent job of making them part of this story. It’s actually quite funny when they dash off to Bath to “rescue” Jem from the clutches of this conniving nobody.
• Prudence is an engaging bluestocking spinster heroine – smart, witty, industrious, and not inclined to dwell on the misfortune that brought her to Bath. (Her revenge on the duke had been nothing more than a silly dream until her devoted servants took matters into their own hands.)
• There are several well-drawn secondary characters, in addition to the Four Horsemen: the duke’s war-scarred butler and valet, Prudence’s servants, her friend Lady Abingdon, even the duke’s pack of rescued mongrels (one of which plays an important role in reuniting the couple).
• The dialogue is sprightly and fairly true to the period. I was not distracted by anachronisms, although there may have been some.
• I very much enjoyed the chapter titles – for example, “Chapter 10: In which our hero sallies forth while our heroine beats a hasty retreat.”
• The epilogue, where we finally learn what the tattoo looks like, was quite funny.
What I Didn’t Like
• There’s really only one major thing to criticize here, and it’s something the author is already addressing. The last third or so of the book revolves around the Big Misunderstanding, brought about largely because of Jem’s inability to discuss his feelings but also by Prudence’s reticence. In fact, there’s a great chapter title: “In which there is an unfortunate case of ‘he said she heard.’” This goes on too long, however, and the story really bogs down. Jem leaves Bath and plans the “perfect proposal,” but he procrastinates for reasons not clear to me and leaves Prudence in despair.
• Prudence’s brother, Sir Oswald Dabney, and his wife are what passes for villains in this story, but they are so thinly sketched as to be unbelievable. Why did Sir Oswald turn on his sister so viciously after her encounter with the ninth duke? Why did he so casually sell her out of house and home? Did he hate her? Was he merely greedy? Perhaps he was just the pawn of his grasping, jealous wife? And when Jem asks for her hand in marriage, why would he even hesitate? I would have expected him to be thrilled at the prospect of such a close connection with a powerful duke, no matter how the marriage came about.
What Bugged Me
• Sir Oswald Dabney is a baronet; therefore, he should be referred to as “Sir Oswald,” never “Sir Dabney.” His wife is “Lady Dabney.” For some reason this American is a stickler for proper usage of titles. I mean, if an author is going to write historicals set in England, the names should be correct. Wikipedia explains it all quite nicely.
• Some grammar nits: “affect” rather then “effect;” “just desserts” rather than “just deserts;” “discrete” rather than “discreet.”
• “Nymph.” Sixty-three times.
• Lady Jane Babcock. She sort of comes out of nowhere, makes a little mischief, and disappears. Why did she think Jem was even interested in her?
Conclusion
I give the first two-thirds or so of this book an unqualified five stars, but the final third disappoints. Although the book is not technically considered a work-in-progress, the author has stated that she’s rewriting parts of it and will post a new version (free) on Amazon. Her gracious, even eager, acceptance of readers’ suggestions, as well as her undoubted talent, prompt me to give The Duke’s Tattoo: A Regency Romance of Love and Revenge Though Not in That Order an enthusiastic four stars! Definitely recommended.
READ THIS BOOK! It's a great bargain, at only $2.99 on Amazon.
This first-time author read my (and others') reviews on Amazon and rewrote parts, addressing all of the little things that I complained about. It is now just about perfect, and it gives me great joy to see that so many others on Goodreads have enjoyed it. And don't forget to add The Baron's Betrothal: An On-Again, Off-Again, On-Again Regency Romance, coming in 2013, to your TBR list.
Original Review from 12 June 2012:
I happened across this book when one of my GR friends added it as a “to read.” It’s a cheap ($2.99), self-published Amazon Kindle book, and it sounded intriguing. But what really convinced me to read it was looking at the reviews on Amazon (4.6/5 stars). This first-time author has taken the trouble to respond to several of the reviews, thanking the reviewers (gasp!), and agreeing with some of their criticisms (gasp! gasp!). What a refreshing contrast to some other authors whose well-publicized, shameful attack on GR reviewers has been much discussed of late.
Well, Miranda Davis has written a very good book here. I commend her for wanting to make it even better, and it’s in that spirit that I offer this review. First of all, she’s come up with an original enemies-to-friends/revenge plot. Jeremy (“Jem”) Maubrey, tenth Duke of Ainsworth, finds himself kidnapped, drugged, and left with a tattoo in a most personal and private place. And he has no idea why. Eventually, he traces the cause of his misfortune to a female apothecary in Bath, Miss Prudence Haversham. Setting his man of business to work, he buys her shop and her home, intending to turn her out into the streets with nothing. But first, he travels to Bath to witness her comeuppance.
Prudence is horrified to learn that her revenge has been carried out on the wrong duke; her actual target was the now-deceased ninth duke, Jem’s brother. Ten years earlier, he had attempted to debauch her, causing her odious brother to turn her out of the house in disgrace. Ever since, she has lived quietly in Bath and become a successful and well-respected apothecary. The duke likes her and comes to regret his plans for revenge. Eventually, he realizes that he’s fallen in love with her, but misunderstandings complicate their path to a happy ending.
What I Liked
• As mentioned, the plot is original and lively. Things move along briskly, and we get both the hero’s and heroine’s perspectives.
• Jem is a delicious hero – handsome, gallant, and a bit embarrassed by the notoriety of being one of the group known as the Four Horsemen of the Apocalypse.
• The other three horsemen are worked into the story quite well. Some authors tend to litter their stories with sequel-fodder, but this author did an excellent job of making them part of this story. It’s actually quite funny when they dash off to Bath to “rescue” Jem from the clutches of this conniving nobody.
• Prudence is an engaging bluestocking spinster heroine – smart, witty, industrious, and not inclined to dwell on the misfortune that brought her to Bath. (Her revenge on the duke had been nothing more than a silly dream until her devoted servants took matters into their own hands.)
• There are several well-drawn secondary characters, in addition to the Four Horsemen: the duke’s war-scarred butler and valet, Prudence’s servants, her friend Lady Abingdon, even the duke’s pack of rescued mongrels (one of which plays an important role in reuniting the couple).
• The dialogue is sprightly and fairly true to the period. I was not distracted by anachronisms, although there may have been some.
• I very much enjoyed the chapter titles – for example, “Chapter 10: In which our hero sallies forth while our heroine beats a hasty retreat.”
• The epilogue, where we finally learn what the tattoo looks like, was quite funny.
What I Didn’t Like
• There’s really only one major thing to criticize here, and it’s something the author is already addressing. The last third or so of the book revolves around the Big Misunderstanding, brought about largely because of Jem’s inability to discuss his feelings but also by Prudence’s reticence. In fact, there’s a great chapter title: “In which there is an unfortunate case of ‘he said she heard.’” This goes on too long, however, and the story really bogs down. Jem leaves Bath and plans the “perfect proposal,” but he procrastinates for reasons not clear to me and leaves Prudence in despair.
• Prudence’s brother, Sir Oswald Dabney, and his wife are what passes for villains in this story, but they are so thinly sketched as to be unbelievable. Why did Sir Oswald turn on his sister so viciously after her encounter with the ninth duke? Why did he so casually sell her out of house and home? Did he hate her? Was he merely greedy? Perhaps he was just the pawn of his grasping, jealous wife? And when Jem asks for her hand in marriage, why would he even hesitate? I would have expected him to be thrilled at the prospect of such a close connection with a powerful duke, no matter how the marriage came about.
What Bugged Me
• Sir Oswald Dabney is a baronet; therefore, he should be referred to as “Sir Oswald,” never “Sir Dabney.” His wife is “Lady Dabney.” For some reason this American is a stickler for proper usage of titles. I mean, if an author is going to write historicals set in England, the names should be correct. Wikipedia explains it all quite nicely.
• Some grammar nits: “affect” rather then “effect;” “just desserts” rather than “just deserts;” “discrete” rather than “discreet.”
• “Nymph.” Sixty-three times.
• Lady Jane Babcock. She sort of comes out of nowhere, makes a little mischief, and disappears. Why did she think Jem was even interested in her?
Conclusion
I give the first two-thirds or so of this book an unqualified five stars, but the final third disappoints. Although the book is not technically considered a work-in-progress, the author has stated that she’s rewriting parts of it and will post a new version (free) on Amazon. Her gracious, even eager, acceptance of readers’ suggestions, as well as her undoubted talent, prompt me to give The Duke’s Tattoo: A Regency Romance of Love and Revenge Though Not in That Order an enthusiastic four stars! Definitely recommended.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Shelved as 'dnf'
June 28, 2021This became such a drag for me. I made it to 40%, I guess I could see it being entertaining, but I did not find it engaging or compelling. Maybe wrong timing for me. I do think humor needs to be somewhat unexpected for it to be humorous or it just falls flat. Hype can be a real killer.
November 28, 2021
The author writes beautifully. Truly - so much so that I enjoyed the writing as much as the story, maybe even more so. The humor is understated and oh so witty. I enjoyed it so much that it didn't matter that the h/H do not meet till chapter 11.
The book flows engagingly till the 60-70% mark and then I started losing interest. The author seems to go out of plot ideas and gives an unreasonable separation (he stays on in London when he should've been dying to get back to Bath) and this obviously steers the story towards a misunderstanding - most frustrating.
The book flows engagingly till the 60-70% mark and then I started losing interest. The author seems to go out of plot ideas and gives an unreasonable separation (he stays on in London when he should've been dying to get back to Bath) and this obviously steers the story towards a misunderstanding - most frustrating.
June 22, 2015
I have mixed feelings about this one, but in general, it's a fairly enjoyable début romance with a unique plot. The author is clearly talented. I might read book 2 when it comes out.
The good stuff: I liked the humor and dialogue. Some parts were poignant, some witty, and some jolly good fun...a nice mix. I appreciated the minimal use of introspection and rumination. When things went south for the heroine she stayed strong, playing her cards with no self pity and no guilt tripping. I loved the handicapped Waterloo survivors serving as butler and valet -- there are several nicely developed secondary characters -- a big plus! I also liked the fact that the heroine is an apothecary. Her career, along with the tattooing, increased the novelty value of this book. Loved the dogs, especially Attila. Also, I felt sympathy for both the duke and the apothecary at various points in the story.
The epilogue was ....hmmm...questionable (the part with the little boys). But cute.
Three quibbles: 1) Separation and poor communication weakened the experience for me. The H and h don't have a conversation until 25% into the book. Then, they are separated for another 13% of the book, from 59-72%. (I wasn't entertained by that whole series of well-intentioned misunderstandings and communication gaps, with the duke taking his motto of "action, not words" to the nth degree.) Once they meet again, they engage mostly in arguments and misunderstandings, to the extent that Prudence avoids her duke, increasing the total number of pages spent in separation. Pacing bogged down during the misunderstandings and separations. I skimmed, frustrated.
2) Personally, I didn't like the explicit sex scene between the Duke and some minor character, early in the book. Sex is okay, to illustrate the duke as a "stallion" but it didn't need to be explicit. She wasn't important enough.
3) Between the H and h, the first kiss dovetailed directly into oral sex and then into full lovemaking -- all on the same night. I like the intimacy spaced out, with mounting sexual tension and chemistry.
Content: Several explicit sex scenes, no violence, minimal cussing or profanity, a few typos.
The good stuff: I liked the humor and dialogue. Some parts were poignant, some witty, and some jolly good fun...a nice mix. I appreciated the minimal use of introspection and rumination. When things went south for the heroine she stayed strong, playing her cards with no self pity and no guilt tripping. I loved the handicapped Waterloo survivors serving as butler and valet -- there are several nicely developed secondary characters -- a big plus! I also liked the fact that the heroine is an apothecary. Her career, along with the tattooing, increased the novelty value of this book. Loved the dogs, especially Attila. Also, I felt sympathy for both the duke and the apothecary at various points in the story.
The epilogue was ....hmmm...questionable (the part with the little boys). But cute.
Three quibbles: 1) Separation and poor communication weakened the experience for me. The H and h don't have a conversation until 25% into the book. Then, they are separated for another 13% of the book, from 59-72%. (I wasn't entertained by that whole series of well-intentioned misunderstandings and communication gaps, with the duke taking his motto of "action, not words" to the nth degree.) Once they meet again, they engage mostly in arguments and misunderstandings, to the extent that Prudence avoids her duke, increasing the total number of pages spent in separation. Pacing bogged down during the misunderstandings and separations. I skimmed, frustrated.
2) Personally, I didn't like the explicit sex scene between the Duke and some minor character, early in the book. Sex is okay, to illustrate the duke as a "stallion" but it didn't need to be explicit. She wasn't important enough.
3) Between the H and h, the first kiss dovetailed directly into oral sex and then into full lovemaking -- all on the same night. I like the intimacy spaced out, with mounting sexual tension and chemistry.
Content: Several explicit sex scenes, no violence, minimal cussing or profanity, a few typos.
December 2, 2014
This isn't a romance. So sorry, but I want the bitch of a heroine behind bars instead of getting a HEA with the man she mutilates. How anyone can think this is even vaguely funny is beyond me. This was an age when tattoos were forever. How anyone can condone that such a kind of revenge is taken out on someone, in such a completely haphazard manner to boot (so it hits the wrong person!), is beyond me.
How the author can believe she can come even halfway close to retribution for the bullshit her heroine committed I dont understand. I'd like to see her horsewhipped around London, and pilloried for a while. Maybe then she'd be nearer to atoning. What a silly, childish bitch. Apparently the author thinks that just because the victim is a man, and just because the mutilation is to his genitals, that--har, har, har--this is immensely funny to women. Well, sorry, but only to those who've a distinctly misandrist streak, or those who fail to see the mutilation as what it is. But then, it's easy to simply consider how oneself would react to having the own vulva and mound tattooed against one's will with something noxious--and walk about with that forever...
No. It's not funny. It's not in the slightest funny. Especially not having one's own sons end up seeing this. So not funny.
Apart from that it also doesn't read like a realistic depiction of the era, never mind all the fact-surfing the author has done. This biddy of a toxic heroine is straight from some modern contemporary, the rest feels like tapestry.
How the author can believe she can come even halfway close to retribution for the bullshit her heroine committed I dont understand. I'd like to see her horsewhipped around London, and pilloried for a while. Maybe then she'd be nearer to atoning. What a silly, childish bitch. Apparently the author thinks that just because the victim is a man, and just because the mutilation is to his genitals, that--har, har, har--this is immensely funny to women. Well, sorry, but only to those who've a distinctly misandrist streak, or those who fail to see the mutilation as what it is. But then, it's easy to simply consider how oneself would react to having the own vulva and mound tattooed against one's will with something noxious--and walk about with that forever...
No. It's not funny. It's not in the slightest funny. Especially not having one's own sons end up seeing this. So not funny.
Apart from that it also doesn't read like a realistic depiction of the era, never mind all the fact-surfing the author has done. This biddy of a toxic heroine is straight from some modern contemporary, the rest feels like tapestry.
October 23, 2012
The tenth Duke of Ainsworth Jeremy wakes up to discover he has required a tattoo on a most sensitive and private place, after a night of...well…he can't quite remember. Prudence has harbored a grunge against the Duke of Ainsworth for ruining her reputation as a teenager. Not Jeremy but his older brother Phillip. When presented with the opportunity to revenge herself, unaware that Phillip has died, she snares the wrong man. "Bollocks!" When Jeremy plots his revenge for the tattoo, things turn in the opposite direction.
Let the fun and games begin! This is a wonderful, witty, engaging, and downright hilarious read. I was literally "squealing" with delight in parts and laughing out loud. Not to mention the chapter titles are delightful, the secondary characters are colourful and full of life, and guaranteed to leave a smile on your face.
This really is a little gem and should not to be missed.
Let the fun and games begin! This is a wonderful, witty, engaging, and downright hilarious read. I was literally "squealing" with delight in parts and laughing out loud. Not to mention the chapter titles are delightful, the secondary characters are colourful and full of life, and guaranteed to leave a smile on your face.
This really is a little gem and should not to be missed.
July 21, 2012
I have to say that when I read the "blurb" for this book which detailed the initial premise, I wasn't convinced this would be a book I'd like, principally because it sounded too implausible for my taste. But I read other reviews (all of them pretty good) and given it's selling for less than two quid on Amazon, I thought "why not?"
I'm pleased I gave it a go, because Miranda Davis is clearly a talented writer. Despite the rather odd circumstances that lead to the meeting of the hero and heroine (she arranges for his nether regions to be tattoed as revenge for his having disgraced her years before - although unfortunately, she's mistaken him for his older brother!) - this is an enjoyable, if somewhat predictable story (once you get past the events of That Night!) that's well-told with a light touch and plenty of humour.
If I have a complaint - and it's really just a niggle - I think that the second half of the book failed to live up to the promise of the first half, as the story then settled into a rather well-trod path, with the Duke having fallen head-over-heels for Prudence, but neglecting to inform her of that fact. As a result, we're in "big misunderstanding" territory, where both protagonists long for each other, but her pride won't let her marry a man she believes doesn't love her, and he can't understand why she's not chomping at the bit!
That said though, it's all handled with humour and consistent characterisation, so I can forgive much!
The Duke's Tattoo is the first in a series of four, and I will definitely keep an eye out for the next one.
I'm pleased I gave it a go, because Miranda Davis is clearly a talented writer. Despite the rather odd circumstances that lead to the meeting of the hero and heroine (she arranges for his nether regions to be tattoed as revenge for his having disgraced her years before - although unfortunately, she's mistaken him for his older brother!) - this is an enjoyable, if somewhat predictable story (once you get past the events of That Night!) that's well-told with a light touch and plenty of humour.
If I have a complaint - and it's really just a niggle - I think that the second half of the book failed to live up to the promise of the first half, as the story then settled into a rather well-trod path, with the Duke having fallen head-over-heels for Prudence, but neglecting to inform her of that fact. As a result, we're in "big misunderstanding" territory, where both protagonists long for each other, but her pride won't let her marry a man she believes doesn't love her, and he can't understand why she's not chomping at the bit!
That said though, it's all handled with humour and consistent characterisation, so I can forgive much!
The Duke's Tattoo is the first in a series of four, and I will definitely keep an eye out for the next one.
September 27, 2013
4.5 stars
A new favorite!
The impression I had when I closed the book was that I'd just read a mashup of all my favorite aspects of Loretta Chase's Carsington series (a beloved set of books on this reader's favorite shelf) but with some delightful new keen and clever bits this author brings to the writing table.
Review in the works.
I really mean it this time as this book is too delightful to not praise more appropriately.
A new favorite!
The impression I had when I closed the book was that I'd just read a mashup of all my favorite aspects of Loretta Chase's Carsington series (a beloved set of books on this reader's favorite shelf) but with some delightful new keen and clever bits this author brings to the writing table.
Review in the works.
I really mean it this time as this book is too delightful to not praise more appropriately.
November 30, 2019
HALLELUJAH!!!!!!
There comes a moment while reading a book by a new to me author that I realize I have struck gold. In the case of this book, that realization came about the first page! I've read MANY historical romances (they are my heart and soul) so it can be difficult to find new material that knocks off my socks but when I do, I feel it is my obligation as a member of romancelandia to spread the word.
So, here it is.……...READ THIS BOOK!!! NOW! Don't pass go. Don't collect $200. Don't do anything except BUY THIS BOOK. That's it. You won't be sorry. I promise.
I highlighted so much of this book and as soon as I can figure out how to do it, I'm going to add them to this review. It might taken me some time because I'm starting the next book immediately,.....
“She chuckled, “I, too, find formality relieves awkward social situations.” “Courtesy is the universal social lubricant,” he replied in kind.”
There comes a moment while reading a book by a new to me author that I realize I have struck gold. In the case of this book, that realization came about the first page! I've read MANY historical romances (they are my heart and soul) so it can be difficult to find new material that knocks off my socks but when I do, I feel it is my obligation as a member of romancelandia to spread the word.
So, here it is.……...READ THIS BOOK!!! NOW! Don't pass go. Don't collect $200. Don't do anything except BUY THIS BOOK. That's it. You won't be sorry. I promise.
I highlighted so much of this book and as soon as I can figure out how to do it, I'm going to add them to this review. It might taken me some time because I'm starting the next book immediately,.....
“She chuckled, “I, too, find formality relieves awkward social situations.” “Courtesy is the universal social lubricant,” he replied in kind.”
January 30, 2015
WOW! I loved this book! It was refreshingly different and brimming with humour. I’m sure it wasn’t perfect, as other reviewers will no doubt attest to, but it was so entertaining that I didn’t really care.
I was totally swept away by Miranda Davis’s unique writing style. To give you a flavour, here are a few of my favourite quotes:
Hers was a full-blown, snot-discharging, eye-swelling and nose-reddening deluge of despair.
Delicate laces effervesced at swanlike ivory throats. Dyed ostrich plumes erupted from fanciful spoke bonnets. Sable and cream muffs cosseted delicate, pale hands sheathed in thin, pastel kid gloves. The women floated along Bond Street like bits of brightly dyed eiderdown.
So salubrious to relax under the Tuscan sun half potted on Chianti and fully stuffed with the local proscuitto ham.
He kissed her back lightly and struggled to stay calm. Unfortunately, the crazed timpanist in his chest took up his mallets and began to flail away.
Ms Davis’s winning blend of witty dialogue and funny scenes made the romance between Jem and Pru a pleasure to follow. I enjoyed seeing Jem’s plans to reap his revenge on the “vicious little harridan” start to unravel. At first, he enjoys toying with Pru “like a cat with a shrew” but gradually finds himself irresistibly drawn to her and can’t keep away. One of the funniest scenes is where he climbs the ivy vine up to her bedroom to propose for a third time and, for his troubles, finds the window slammed in his face and his ducal backside landing in some “damned vicious roses” Ouch!
Another favourite, laughter-inducing scene is when Jem is trying to compose a love letter to Pru.
…so the Man of Action Not Words very reluctantly opted to write Prudence a love letter.
Composing this letter made Ainsworth suffer greatly. Indeed, it couldn’t have pained him more if he’d used his own blood as ink and gouged it from his arm with a rusty fork.
The duke sat at his massive desk in a state of inert agony. Resting his chin on stacked fists, he glared at the blank sheet of crested stationery before him. Words, where were the blasted words? He sat. He thought. He questioned his thoughts. The longer he sat, the more his inarticulate misery compounded itself.
As you can tell, Jem has problems putting his feelings down on paper and, if you want read those romantic words he sweats blood over, then I’m afraid you will have to read the book!
There is such a diversity of secondary characters who enrich this story:
Jem’s stalwart but interfering friends, the Hon. George Chase Percy, William Tyler de Sayre, Baron Clun & Lord Burton Seelye who add to the fun with their jocular banter.
The redoubtable Dowager Countess of Abingdon , “as majestic as a frigate under full sail and in similar proportions”, Pru’s godmother and staunch supporter.
Pru’s “spineless, pudgy chucklehead” of a brother, Sir Oswald Dabney and his “malicious termagant” of a wife who I didn’t feel were as well developed as the other characters but that’s only a minor criticism.
Last but not least, Jem’s one-legged valet, one-armed butler and his motley pack of mongrels. I loved the scene where Jem takes Attila, his placid but brutish looking mastiff, to a meeting with Pru in the hope of terrifying her, but things don’t quite go to plan!
To Ainsworth’s undisguised disgust, Attila leaned into her hands, closed his eyes and drooled ecstatically.
I think the book titles themselves are hilarious and I love the clever chapter headings which summarise the plot so succinctly: Chapter 11 – In which adversaries skirmish over scones and clotted cream
My love of a charming Epilogue was more than fulfilled and The Duke’s Tattoo is finally revealed in all its glory!
I can heartily recommend this book. In fact, I enjoyed it so much that I just had to start reading the next one, The Baron’ s Betrothal: An-On-Again, Off-Again, On-Again Regency Romance, straightaway.
REVIEW RATING: 5/5 STARS
Horsemen of the Apocalypse series to date (click on the book cover for more details):
- expected 2015
This review is also posted on my blog:
https://rakesandrascals.wordpress.com...
I was totally swept away by Miranda Davis’s unique writing style. To give you a flavour, here are a few of my favourite quotes:
Hers was a full-blown, snot-discharging, eye-swelling and nose-reddening deluge of despair.
Delicate laces effervesced at swanlike ivory throats. Dyed ostrich plumes erupted from fanciful spoke bonnets. Sable and cream muffs cosseted delicate, pale hands sheathed in thin, pastel kid gloves. The women floated along Bond Street like bits of brightly dyed eiderdown.
So salubrious to relax under the Tuscan sun half potted on Chianti and fully stuffed with the local proscuitto ham.
He kissed her back lightly and struggled to stay calm. Unfortunately, the crazed timpanist in his chest took up his mallets and began to flail away.
Ms Davis’s winning blend of witty dialogue and funny scenes made the romance between Jem and Pru a pleasure to follow. I enjoyed seeing Jem’s plans to reap his revenge on the “vicious little harridan” start to unravel. At first, he enjoys toying with Pru “like a cat with a shrew” but gradually finds himself irresistibly drawn to her and can’t keep away. One of the funniest scenes is where he climbs the ivy vine up to her bedroom to propose for a third time and, for his troubles, finds the window slammed in his face and his ducal backside landing in some “damned vicious roses” Ouch!
Another favourite, laughter-inducing scene is when Jem is trying to compose a love letter to Pru.
…so the Man of Action Not Words very reluctantly opted to write Prudence a love letter.
Composing this letter made Ainsworth suffer greatly. Indeed, it couldn’t have pained him more if he’d used his own blood as ink and gouged it from his arm with a rusty fork.
The duke sat at his massive desk in a state of inert agony. Resting his chin on stacked fists, he glared at the blank sheet of crested stationery before him. Words, where were the blasted words? He sat. He thought. He questioned his thoughts. The longer he sat, the more his inarticulate misery compounded itself.
As you can tell, Jem has problems putting his feelings down on paper and, if you want read those romantic words he sweats blood over, then I’m afraid you will have to read the book!
There is such a diversity of secondary characters who enrich this story:
Jem’s stalwart but interfering friends, the Hon. George Chase Percy, William Tyler de Sayre, Baron Clun & Lord Burton Seelye who add to the fun with their jocular banter.
The redoubtable Dowager Countess of Abingdon , “as majestic as a frigate under full sail and in similar proportions”, Pru’s godmother and staunch supporter.
Pru’s “spineless, pudgy chucklehead” of a brother, Sir Oswald Dabney and his “malicious termagant” of a wife who I didn’t feel were as well developed as the other characters but that’s only a minor criticism.
Last but not least, Jem’s one-legged valet, one-armed butler and his motley pack of mongrels. I loved the scene where Jem takes Attila, his placid but brutish looking mastiff, to a meeting with Pru in the hope of terrifying her, but things don’t quite go to plan!
To Ainsworth’s undisguised disgust, Attila leaned into her hands, closed his eyes and drooled ecstatically.
I think the book titles themselves are hilarious and I love the clever chapter headings which summarise the plot so succinctly: Chapter 11 – In which adversaries skirmish over scones and clotted cream
My love of a charming Epilogue was more than fulfilled and The Duke’s Tattoo is finally revealed in all its glory!
I can heartily recommend this book. In fact, I enjoyed it so much that I just had to start reading the next one, The Baron’ s Betrothal: An-On-Again, Off-Again, On-Again Regency Romance, straightaway.
REVIEW RATING: 5/5 STARS
Horsemen of the Apocalypse series to date (click on the book cover for more details):
- expected 2015This review is also posted on my blog:
https://rakesandrascals.wordpress.com...
April 27, 2013
Psssst let me tell you a scandalous secret. (In case you haven’t read the book)- The Dukes Tattoo is below the belt and in a very um, “manly” area!
When we start this book we find Jeremy Maubrey the Tenth Duke of Ainsworth is just waking up, with a terrible hangover, little memory of the previous night and most disturbingly his private parts have been shaven and tattooed.
The master mind behind this humiliating plot is Miss Prudence Haversham and her motive is revenge. But little does she know that she has not exacted her vengeance on the man who ruined her 10 years ago, because he is dead. Instead she has drugged and accosted his brother who is completely innocent as well as a famous war hero!
I have read literally thousands of Historical Romances and this has got to be one of the most original plots I have ever read. How refreshing. I also loved the writing style. It was intelligent and witty with a touch of eccentricity that really appealed to me.
Yes this book did fall into the romance cliché of bad communication causing most of the couples problems, but that is a pretty standard tool in these historical romances and I am willing to over look it. This was a fun romantic and original book and I will definitely be on the look out for the next instalment in the series.
P.S. I’m not going to tell you what the Duke’s tattoos is of, you will just have to read the book and find out for yourself! But it's pretty funny!
When we start this book we find Jeremy Maubrey the Tenth Duke of Ainsworth is just waking up, with a terrible hangover, little memory of the previous night and most disturbingly his private parts have been shaven and tattooed.
The master mind behind this humiliating plot is Miss Prudence Haversham and her motive is revenge. But little does she know that she has not exacted her vengeance on the man who ruined her 10 years ago, because he is dead. Instead she has drugged and accosted his brother who is completely innocent as well as a famous war hero!
I have read literally thousands of Historical Romances and this has got to be one of the most original plots I have ever read. How refreshing. I also loved the writing style. It was intelligent and witty with a touch of eccentricity that really appealed to me.
Yes this book did fall into the romance cliché of bad communication causing most of the couples problems, but that is a pretty standard tool in these historical romances and I am willing to over look it. This was a fun romantic and original book and I will definitely be on the look out for the next instalment in the series.
P.S. I’m not going to tell you what the Duke’s tattoos is of, you will just have to read the book and find out for yourself! But it's pretty funny!
April 17, 2013
Really enjoyed this story!
Prudence was AMAZING!
Loved her sass, wit, strength, and intelligence.
Jem.... ah, Jem. You were lost, and now your found... too bad you had to go about it the hard way.
All I want to say to Jem is, COMMUNICATION!!!
Nicely done Ms. Davis!
Favorite Quote:
"Prudence watched him approach from under the covers. His erection swayed with each step, his heavy sac hung pendulous between his thighs. His cock preened under her avid gaze. His veined shaft thickened, its foreskin receded and the head swelled. She stared transfixed as if his virility fascinated her, which made his member strive harder to impress"
Prudence was AMAZING!
Loved her sass, wit, strength, and intelligence.
Jem.... ah, Jem. You were lost, and now your found... too bad you had to go about it the hard way.
All I want to say to Jem is, COMMUNICATION!!!
Nicely done Ms. Davis!
Favorite Quote:
"Prudence watched him approach from under the covers. His erection swayed with each step, his heavy sac hung pendulous between his thighs. His cock preened under her avid gaze. His veined shaft thickened, its foreskin receded and the head swelled. She stared transfixed as if his virility fascinated her, which made his member strive harder to impress"
May 22, 2013
I would have liked this one if not for the over-the-top stubbornness of Prudence. When Jeremy tries to talk to her toward the end, she runs away and refuses to listen, locking herself in her house and only responding to him through an open upstairs window.
I guess it's supposed to be humorous...? I just found it infantile and worthy of more than a few eye rolls.
I guess it's supposed to be humorous...? I just found it infantile and worthy of more than a few eye rolls.
April 7, 2021
This is a first time read by Miranda Davis, a new author to this reader.
The Duke's Tattoo was a delightful and charming story. I thought the chemistry between the hero and the heroine was nicely written, however I don't know if I could be that forgiving when someone mistakenly tattoo ones most virile anatomy 😊. I also like the array of sub-characters that add a little extra to the personalities of the H/h. There is humor and a bit of banter that at times I caught myself smiling.
Never read a historical romance where a tattoo was the revenge for a ruination but where it was p!aced made this story so intriguing and interesting. I believe this is a debut by this author and if it was, I enjoyed it. Recommend.
The Duke's Tattoo was a delightful and charming story. I thought the chemistry between the hero and the heroine was nicely written, however I don't know if I could be that forgiving when someone mistakenly tattoo ones most virile anatomy 😊. I also like the array of sub-characters that add a little extra to the personalities of the H/h. There is humor and a bit of banter that at times I caught myself smiling.
Never read a historical romance where a tattoo was the revenge for a ruination but where it was p!aced made this story so intriguing and interesting. I believe this is a debut by this author and if it was, I enjoyed it. Recommend.
October 18, 2012
My review for this book needs to start with a note: I believe this is the first novel of a self published author. For that reason, I find myself wanting to give extra stars, and rate this between and 3 and four star. Well done! I sincerely enjoyed this story. It is definitely an original work, which in this day and age of fanfic knock offs, I must admit I appreciate.
The story begins with the events of "That Day", written in infamy - as well as in the Duke's skin, in the form of an indelible tattoo. We quickly find out the villain of the piece is an unlikely source: a spinster apothecary with no "known" association with our hero. Make no mistake Jem, the Duke of Maboury, IS our hero. Not only has he survived many years in the battle against the French, he has championed many veterans who otherwise would have been relegated to begging. (Hmm, how far have we really come?) Anyway, we discover fairly early on, that our "villain" has mistaken this Duke, with his older but now deceased brother. Bother. She is filled with remorse. He is filled with ire and is determined to find his "attacker" and get his just revenge. What follows is a delightful tale in which the author's humour shines as these two unlikely but complimentary characters dance a duet of cat and mouse.
There are a few notable secondary characters which (quite obviously) will require their own stories, notably Jem's compatriots, the "Four Horseman", and Attila, (yes I love dogs) the brindle coated mastiff who nearly steals the scenes as well as Prudence's champion's: Lady Abington, and her assistants in the apothecary, Murphy and Mrs. Mason. I loved the witty exchanges and misfires, but would have one criticism: that the "big misunderstanding" was a tad bit overplayed and the pacing somewhat uneven.
That being said, I look forward to this author's next work. I am reminded of some author's who's beginning work was later eclipsed by enchanting work has become best selling and expect the same here. Please, if you are looking for an Original Work, give this one a try.
The story begins with the events of "That Day", written in infamy - as well as in the Duke's skin, in the form of an indelible tattoo. We quickly find out the villain of the piece is an unlikely source: a spinster apothecary with no "known" association with our hero. Make no mistake Jem, the Duke of Maboury, IS our hero. Not only has he survived many years in the battle against the French, he has championed many veterans who otherwise would have been relegated to begging. (Hmm, how far have we really come?) Anyway, we discover fairly early on, that our "villain" has mistaken this Duke, with his older but now deceased brother. Bother. She is filled with remorse. He is filled with ire and is determined to find his "attacker" and get his just revenge. What follows is a delightful tale in which the author's humour shines as these two unlikely but complimentary characters dance a duet of cat and mouse.
There are a few notable secondary characters which (quite obviously) will require their own stories, notably Jem's compatriots, the "Four Horseman", and Attila, (yes I love dogs) the brindle coated mastiff who nearly steals the scenes as well as Prudence's champion's: Lady Abington, and her assistants in the apothecary, Murphy and Mrs. Mason. I loved the witty exchanges and misfires, but would have one criticism: that the "big misunderstanding" was a tad bit overplayed and the pacing somewhat uneven.
That being said, I look forward to this author's next work. I am reminded of some author's who's beginning work was later eclipsed by enchanting work has become best selling and expect the same here. Please, if you are looking for an Original Work, give this one a try.
March 23, 2013
Absolutely loved it. Can't wait to read the rest of this clever, witty and thoroughly engaging series.
This one is going on my KEEPERS SHELF!
This one is going on my KEEPERS SHELF!
July 24, 2012
This book was aggravating because it had some pretty good bits, but it also had some pretty annoying bits. I'll start with the good - the romantic leads meet when she has him kidnapped and tattooed in his nether regions, which is an unconventional start. They also had some amusing conversations, and the writing had bits of sparkle, such as: "with breath so inflammable he might've spontaneously combusted had they started a fire to warm the room. It was August, however, so he was safe from accidental immolation." The chapter titles are witty foreshadowing statements, so you know the author was just trying to have fun.
But the annoying... this is a pet peeve of mine, but the size discrepancies! He is so large, the largest of all his friends, I can't believe furniture doesn't crack every time he sits down. And she is so petite, two of her hands can fit in one of his, his hands can span her waist, etc. I just don't find such a difference very attractive, but maybe it's me. However, compounded with his size, in the second half of the book his awkwardness with words becomes something of a plot point. He seems dumbfounded every time he's in her presence, and slowly I got the impression of a big dumb oaf, which I'm sure was not the author's intention. Add to that, she's prideful, stubborn, and misinformed, leading to cliched arguments that further emphasize his Hulk-ness and her slap-upside-the-head cluelessness. They spend most of their time arguing, and very little time making up. I know that's kind of standard for romance but I still don't like it.
Finally, this sentence, which you can take as laughingly awesome or shudderingly absurd: "Oh, the taste of her, he groaned, slick as butter and as delicate as tears!" You know what he was tasting. Slick as butter. Delicate as tears. I should dock a star just for that! But instead I'm going to work that into conversation.
But the annoying... this is a pet peeve of mine, but the size discrepancies! He is so large, the largest of all his friends, I can't believe furniture doesn't crack every time he sits down. And she is so petite, two of her hands can fit in one of his, his hands can span her waist, etc. I just don't find such a difference very attractive, but maybe it's me. However, compounded with his size, in the second half of the book his awkwardness with words becomes something of a plot point. He seems dumbfounded every time he's in her presence, and slowly I got the impression of a big dumb oaf, which I'm sure was not the author's intention. Add to that, she's prideful, stubborn, and misinformed, leading to cliched arguments that further emphasize his Hulk-ness and her slap-upside-the-head cluelessness. They spend most of their time arguing, and very little time making up. I know that's kind of standard for romance but I still don't like it.
Finally, this sentence, which you can take as laughingly awesome or shudderingly absurd: "Oh, the taste of her, he groaned, slick as butter and as delicate as tears!" You know what he was tasting. Slick as butter. Delicate as tears. I should dock a star just for that! But instead I'm going to work that into conversation.
October 17, 2012
4.5! Great writing and a fun story. Thanks Tammy for the recommend! ;-)
(full review to come)
(full review to come)
November 25, 2012
3 1/2 stars (rounded down to 3 stars because I didn't like the amount of time the H/h spent apart from each other)
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