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Debutantes of London #1
The Duchess and the Wolf
Susannah Fletcher has everything a young lady could desire: wealth, the attentions of well-to-do duke, and a reputation as spotless as an angel’s petticoats. Yet, she would throw it all away for one opportunity to perform her music on stage–scandalous as that may be. Which is precisely when the rich and menacing “Wolf of Mayfair” makes her an offer she couldn’t possibly refuse…
Born on the streets of London, Rafe Winters knows only ruthless ambition. But he’s missing one respectability. It’s within reach… if he can draw the polished aristocrats to his establishment with a classically trained musician, and just a soupçon of mystery—like the flame-haired Susannah. Of course, he’ll have to make it worth her while. After all, he’s not a complete beast.
Now Susannah performs in a red cloak as the enigmatic “Red Duchess,” and all of London is entranced—along with Rafe. He promised her he’d do everything to protect her reputation on stage. But off-stage, the wolf is waiting for Susannah to stray from the path and into his arms. No matter the risk…
Born on the streets of London, Rafe Winters knows only ruthless ambition. But he’s missing one respectability. It’s within reach… if he can draw the polished aristocrats to his establishment with a classically trained musician, and just a soupçon of mystery—like the flame-haired Susannah. Of course, he’ll have to make it worth her while. After all, he’s not a complete beast.
Now Susannah performs in a red cloak as the enigmatic “Red Duchess,” and all of London is entranced—along with Rafe. He promised her he’d do everything to protect her reputation on stage. But off-stage, the wolf is waiting for Susannah to stray from the path and into his arms. No matter the risk…
292 pages, Kindle Edition
First published September 18, 2023
36 people are currently reading
277 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 160 reviews
September 9, 2023
This is a well-written, entertaining, steamy historical romance novel. It has a likable, engaging female protagonist, a hard working, ambitious, male protagonist, wit, humor, family and relationship drama, sizzling chemistry, a fairy tale romance, music, the perfect present, and a happily ever after ending. Characters from the first entry in this series, "Cinderella and the Duke", make an appearance, but this novel can be read as a stand alone. Many thanks to Entangled Publishing, LLC, Ms. Lydia Drake, and NetGalley, who kindly provided me with an ARC of this wonderful novel. This is my honest opinion.
December 19, 2023
The Duchess and the Wolf was an excellent read featuring a romance between a club owner and a woman with a dream to perform her music on stage.
Susannah Fletcher seemingly has it all: wealth, the attention of a duke, and a spotless reputation in society. But all Susannah wants is to play her music on stage and she's willing to give up everything to do it. So when the Wolf of Mayfair offers her the chance to have the one thing she's always wanted, she can't say no. Rafe Winters started from nothing and he's determined to have it all. But in order to acquire the property he needs to further his goals, he needs to bring some respectability to his club and Susannah is the answer to his prayers. As Susannah performs as the cloaked “Red Duchess”, Rafe finds himself falling for her along with the rest of London.
Susannah and Rafe have a great connection right from the start. There's a lot of great banter and they challenge each other in ways they haven't been before. It's also clear they're obviously attracted to one another but it does take a bit for them to act on that attraction. The fact the two are from such different worlds is the biggest obstacle to their relationship. Rafe finds it hard to believe someone of Susannah's caliber would be interested in him and Susannah struggles with the decision to blow up her life to go after what she wants. I was so happy when Susannah finally came clean to her family and loved the scene where she goes and professes her love to Rafe.
I was intrigued by the premise of this one, Susannah agrees to play as the "Red Duchess" for one month, and I was curious to see how the pair would manage to keep Susannah's identity a secret. The reason behind Rafe needing to bring respectability to his club is that he wants to expand his business but the owner of the building doesn't want to sell to Rafe with his current reputation. I thought his idea to have Susannah play classical music was a good one but I loved that she really began to be appreciated after she began playing her own pieces.
Overall The Duchess and the Wolf was fantastic and I would highly recommend it if you're looking for a great historical romance.
**I received an advance copy of this book from Netgalley and the publisher in exchange for an honest review.**
Susannah Fletcher seemingly has it all: wealth, the attention of a duke, and a spotless reputation in society. But all Susannah wants is to play her music on stage and she's willing to give up everything to do it. So when the Wolf of Mayfair offers her the chance to have the one thing she's always wanted, she can't say no. Rafe Winters started from nothing and he's determined to have it all. But in order to acquire the property he needs to further his goals, he needs to bring some respectability to his club and Susannah is the answer to his prayers. As Susannah performs as the cloaked “Red Duchess”, Rafe finds himself falling for her along with the rest of London.
Susannah and Rafe have a great connection right from the start. There's a lot of great banter and they challenge each other in ways they haven't been before. It's also clear they're obviously attracted to one another but it does take a bit for them to act on that attraction. The fact the two are from such different worlds is the biggest obstacle to their relationship. Rafe finds it hard to believe someone of Susannah's caliber would be interested in him and Susannah struggles with the decision to blow up her life to go after what she wants. I was so happy when Susannah finally came clean to her family and loved the scene where she goes and professes her love to Rafe.
I was intrigued by the premise of this one, Susannah agrees to play as the "Red Duchess" for one month, and I was curious to see how the pair would manage to keep Susannah's identity a secret. The reason behind Rafe needing to bring respectability to his club is that he wants to expand his business but the owner of the building doesn't want to sell to Rafe with his current reputation. I thought his idea to have Susannah play classical music was a good one but I loved that she really began to be appreciated after she began playing her own pieces.
Overall The Duchess and the Wolf was fantastic and I would highly recommend it if you're looking for a great historical romance.
**I received an advance copy of this book from Netgalley and the publisher in exchange for an honest review.**
February 28, 2025
Something was lacking. However, I enjoyed it more than the first book in the series because I like the forbidden romance between a non-aristocratic hero and a heroine from the ton. I wish the three drunk noblemen got their comeuppance for
September 12, 2023
Fairy tale retellings are a staple of historical romance, but this is the first time we've read one with Little Red Riding Hood as its base! Here, we have self-made man/gaming hell owner, Rafe Winters, the "Wolf of Mayfair," paired with sweet but stifled debutante Susannah Fletcher. (Susannah was also the "evil" stepsister in the Drake's Cinderella and the Duke.)
Susannah is all but engaged to a duke, but like many heiresses (at least the ones in historical romances), she doesn't have access to her money and feels hemmed in by her family. When Rafe encounters her playing the piano like a virtuosa during a masquerade at his hell (she in a red cloak and he in his wolf mask), he makes her a deal: she'll bring in a more highbrow crowd with her playing, and he'll pay her five thousand pounds that she can access now without having to marry anyone.
At first this feels like a basic HistRom, with all of the characters going through their expected paces. They slowly grow closer as she spends more time at the hell! He trusts her enough to disclose his sad story of a difficult childhood in the London stews! She's keeping her double life a secret from her family and almost-fiance!
But there are some elements of a deeper story here, as well. Susannah's fraught relationship with her mother is explored as the reason behind the decisions she struggles to make. When Drake seems to set up a major Misunderstanding, Rafe and Susannah talk it out. And, in one of our favorite power moves, she proposes to him. There's a lot to love here.
This objective review is based on a complimentary copy of the novel.
Susannah is all but engaged to a duke, but like many heiresses (at least the ones in historical romances), she doesn't have access to her money and feels hemmed in by her family. When Rafe encounters her playing the piano like a virtuosa during a masquerade at his hell (she in a red cloak and he in his wolf mask), he makes her a deal: she'll bring in a more highbrow crowd with her playing, and he'll pay her five thousand pounds that she can access now without having to marry anyone.
At first this feels like a basic HistRom, with all of the characters going through their expected paces. They slowly grow closer as she spends more time at the hell! He trusts her enough to disclose his sad story of a difficult childhood in the London stews! She's keeping her double life a secret from her family and almost-fiance!
But there are some elements of a deeper story here, as well. Susannah's fraught relationship with her mother is explored as the reason behind the decisions she struggles to make. When Drake seems to set up a major Misunderstanding, Rafe and Susannah talk it out. And, in one of our favorite power moves, she proposes to him. There's a lot to love here.
This objective review is based on a complimentary copy of the novel.
January 3, 2024
3.5 stars. I felt like the ending was bit of a let down because I thought he would grovel and make the big declaration of love. I also thought she would pursue her dreams as well. Overall, still a solid story.
November 21, 2023
The Duchess and the Wolf is super sexy and filled with plenty of steam! Rafe is a working class hero and a bit of a bad boy. Susannah just wants to play her piano and find her way in the world. They were amazing together, and their love was scorching hot.
This was my first book by this author, and I can't wait to read more!
I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are my own.
This was my first book by this author, and I can't wait to read more!
I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are my own.
September 21, 2023
Rating: 2.5 stars
I want to start off by saying that I LOVED Lydia Drake's first book. I was really looking forward to reading this one. However, by the time I got around to reading it, I was not in the mood to read historical romance. But since it was releasing, I pushed through. I am honestly a little disappointed that I did because I might have liked it more if I would have waited. However, I think this book had one fault that kind of prevented me from loving it. It felt like SO MANY scenes were cut from the book. It just felt like so much was taken out and then what was left was the shell of a romance. I didn't get that connection with the characters that I needed. I wanted to see the small little interactions that built up between them to show how they fell in love, and that was missing from this book. I'm not sure if that is because the publisher decided that it needed to be shorter so it was edited our, or what, but it just felt like a lot of scenes were missing and I wanted to see them. Saying this, I am still so excited for her next book and already have it preordered.
I want to start off by saying that I LOVED Lydia Drake's first book. I was really looking forward to reading this one. However, by the time I got around to reading it, I was not in the mood to read historical romance. But since it was releasing, I pushed through. I am honestly a little disappointed that I did because I might have liked it more if I would have waited. However, I think this book had one fault that kind of prevented me from loving it. It felt like SO MANY scenes were cut from the book. It just felt like so much was taken out and then what was left was the shell of a romance. I didn't get that connection with the characters that I needed. I wanted to see the small little interactions that built up between them to show how they fell in love, and that was missing from this book. I'm not sure if that is because the publisher decided that it needed to be shorter so it was edited our, or what, but it just felt like a lot of scenes were missing and I wanted to see them. Saying this, I am still so excited for her next book and already have it preordered.
September 1, 2023
"I love you. I adore you. You're mine now."
3 stars
Unfortunately, this novel fell flat for me. I found it difficult to connect with the characters and never really felt invested in their romance or their storyline. Both Rafe and Susannah could be a bit ridiculous at times in how they reacted to their unfortunate circumstances. For me, the romance felt forced between the two MCs, and I had a hard time understanding why they actually fell for one another. Overall, this one just wasn't for me, but other readers may enjoy the whimsical quality to it.
*ARC provided by Netgalley, and I voluntarily reviewed it*
September 27, 2023
This is my first Lydia Drake book, but it won't be my last. I know I plan to read the first book, and the next.
This book had a unique plot. The hero Rafe Winters, born in a brothel, raised on the streets, is the titular wolf. He owns a gambling establishment called the Wolf's den. Susannah Fletcher visits one night at a masked ball, ends up playing the piano, he hears her, and a bargain is struck. If she plays for a month, he will pay her 5,000 pounds. They each have their motives.
I enjoy reading books with characters from different classes. The next in the series is the Governess and the Duke, also different classes.
I received an EARC from Netgalley and the publisher for an honest review. Though I gave it 3 stars, I did enjoy it and I will definitely read the 2 other books in the series.
This book had a unique plot. The hero Rafe Winters, born in a brothel, raised on the streets, is the titular wolf. He owns a gambling establishment called the Wolf's den. Susannah Fletcher visits one night at a masked ball, ends up playing the piano, he hears her, and a bargain is struck. If she plays for a month, he will pay her 5,000 pounds. They each have their motives.
I enjoy reading books with characters from different classes. The next in the series is the Governess and the Duke, also different classes.
I received an EARC from Netgalley and the publisher for an honest review. Though I gave it 3 stars, I did enjoy it and I will definitely read the 2 other books in the series.
August 31, 2023
I voluntarily read and reviewed an eARC of this book via NetGalley and Entangled Publishing, LLC. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
Rating: 3/5 Stars
Publishing: September 18, 2023
Series: Debutantes of London #1
Pages: 400
I’ve only read one other book by Lydia Drake and very much enjoy it. Susannah very much wants to travel and play her music instead of marrying a duke that her mother so wants to make her way into society. Rafe needs to make his establishment more relatable to society in order to purchase a building from a nob of the ton. Susannah and Rafe contracts into an opportunity that would benefit their own aspirations and desires. I very much enjoyed the relationship and romance between the two main characters. A trope of class and opposites attract, and another take on the “Little Red Riding Hood” fairy tale. As with all historical romances that I read, I look for a bit of steamy and the intimate scenes were spicy and well-written, although it appeared that the heroine was more of the wolf than the hero in this area. Both main characters are themselves…unchanging that also made for a lovely story. Well-written, interesting plot and good transition from chapter to chapter for an expected HEA.
Rating: 3/5 Stars
Publishing: September 18, 2023
Series: Debutantes of London #1
Pages: 400
I’ve only read one other book by Lydia Drake and very much enjoy it. Susannah very much wants to travel and play her music instead of marrying a duke that her mother so wants to make her way into society. Rafe needs to make his establishment more relatable to society in order to purchase a building from a nob of the ton. Susannah and Rafe contracts into an opportunity that would benefit their own aspirations and desires. I very much enjoyed the relationship and romance between the two main characters. A trope of class and opposites attract, and another take on the “Little Red Riding Hood” fairy tale. As with all historical romances that I read, I look for a bit of steamy and the intimate scenes were spicy and well-written, although it appeared that the heroine was more of the wolf than the hero in this area. Both main characters are themselves…unchanging that also made for a lovely story. Well-written, interesting plot and good transition from chapter to chapter for an expected HEA.
October 6, 2023
Susannah Fletcher at twenty-one, is a little immature. Afraid of disappointing her mother, she is torn with her own hopes and dreams. On a whim, Rafe Winters, owner of The Wolf's Den, offers Susannah a job to perform on the pianoforte several nights a week for a month. Much help from friends and outmaneuvering her mother, provide ways to perform as The Red Duchess. How exhausting to lead two lives! Her mother may be expecting Susannah to marry a duke, but she has her heart set on winning a wolf.
Too much self-sacrificing between Susannah and Rafe before a happy ending.
Open bedroom door.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book.
Too much self-sacrificing between Susannah and Rafe before a happy ending.
Open bedroom door.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book.
January 1, 2025
Rating: 3.1 / 5
I was quite prepared to like this more than Cinderella and the Duke, in part because I definitely like Little Red Riding Hood more as a story than Cinderella. I figured this would be a beauty-and-the-beast style of romance, where the hero, Rafe, would need to be seriously reformed out of a life of the underworld, and slowly open up his heart to the loving care of Susannah, our heroine, and thus a slow-burn romance would blossom!
For the first half of the book, this is definitely the case; but then...complications abound in the second half, which honestly are kind of stupid.
To keep things brief, let's just say that once the hero and heroine get together, it feels like there's nothing really keeping them apart except for Susannah's mother's social climbing aspirations, but those really aren't that much of a problem, in my opinion--especially seeing as Susannah was perfectly willing to disappoint her mother with her whole "move away and study music" plan at the beginning of the book. It should've been a done deal at that point, but instead the author drags it out for quite a bit, and then takes Rafe's character a bit far with being self-sacrificing, to the point that it just felt like stalling for time so that she'd get a proper page count in.
Really no other way for me to describe the second half of the book, therefore, than a colossal waste of time, and how I wish there could've been just any other conflict to keep the couple apart--i.e. Rafe's past catching up with him, maybe? (I mean, not to say that the whole social structure of their society isn't enough of a deterrent, but seeing as Rafe kind of flaunts the rules anyway and Susannah herself seems ready to do just that, I was thrown off by how much they both cared about appearances in the second half, and therefore couldn't take it seriously as a conflict compared to something that would be actually dangerous--like, some life-threatening, bodice-ripping moments, please and thank you.)
Therefore, while this book wasn't what I expected or wanted it to be, I am still being fair in ranking it for what it was, and giving the first half the full credit it deserves for being good. I will be checking out book 3 in this series as well, and hope that the governess x duke pairing is all that I hope it will be.
I was quite prepared to like this more than Cinderella and the Duke, in part because I definitely like Little Red Riding Hood more as a story than Cinderella. I figured this would be a beauty-and-the-beast style of romance, where the hero, Rafe, would need to be seriously reformed out of a life of the underworld, and slowly open up his heart to the loving care of Susannah, our heroine, and thus a slow-burn romance would blossom!
For the first half of the book, this is definitely the case; but then...complications abound in the second half, which honestly are kind of stupid.
To keep things brief, let's just say that once the hero and heroine get together, it feels like there's nothing really keeping them apart except for Susannah's mother's social climbing aspirations, but those really aren't that much of a problem, in my opinion--especially seeing as Susannah was perfectly willing to disappoint her mother with her whole "move away and study music" plan at the beginning of the book. It should've been a done deal at that point, but instead the author drags it out for quite a bit, and then takes Rafe's character a bit far with being self-sacrificing, to the point that it just felt like stalling for time so that she'd get a proper page count in.
Really no other way for me to describe the second half of the book, therefore, than a colossal waste of time, and how I wish there could've been just any other conflict to keep the couple apart--i.e. Rafe's past catching up with him, maybe? (I mean, not to say that the whole social structure of their society isn't enough of a deterrent, but seeing as Rafe kind of flaunts the rules anyway and Susannah herself seems ready to do just that, I was thrown off by how much they both cared about appearances in the second half, and therefore couldn't take it seriously as a conflict compared to something that would be actually dangerous--like, some life-threatening, bodice-ripping moments, please and thank you.)
Therefore, while this book wasn't what I expected or wanted it to be, I am still being fair in ranking it for what it was, and giving the first half the full credit it deserves for being good. I will be checking out book 3 in this series as well, and hope that the governess x duke pairing is all that I hope it will be.
September 5, 2023
This is a beautiful book! Susannah is the perfect girl; she’s beautiful, smart, well accomplished, educated, everything a gentleman of the ton would want. That is why the duke of Huntington, considered to be the most eligible bachelor any girl could want, has his eyes on her as his prospective future wife. And of course everybody assumes that is what she wants as well, because the duke is perfect on paper: handsome, young, rich, nice and a duke. He’s also a dear friend to Susannah but she doesn’t love him and doesn’t want her days filled as his wife, living a secluded life in his castle at the remote countryside. She wants to play the piano, perform for an audience and live her live on her own terms. When she meets Rafe, the Wolf of Mayfair, and plays the piano at his club, he offers her a job in order to give his establishment more posh for the wealthier visitors of the ton, which would raise his standing with the lord whose corner house he wants to buy. Susannah agrees because the small fortune Rafe offers her gives her the opportunity to leave everything behind and travel the world, something she desperately wants. But the moment she plays the piano, Rafe and Susannah connect on an emotional level that surprises them both.
Rafe looked as if he’d heard Susannah herself speaking through the music. Susannah hadn’t guessed how astonishing it could feel to be recognized by somebody else. Especially not someone for whom she felt such overpowering hunger.
Soon enough they can’t let go of each other and must overcome their own fears but also find a way through the difficult demands and limitations of society and the people around them. The struggles are real and very well laid out. Rafe struggles with the differences in social standing, and Susannah struggles with what is expected of her; this suffocating straitjacket forced upon her by society.
I liked that Susannah didn’t shy away from confronting Rafe when he puts up these emotional walls to guard his heart. Rafe quickly recognizes her uniqueness, her inner beauty and strength, but feels he could never be good enough for her so he snarls to scare her away, but Susannah isn’t impressed. I like that she just talked to him and was not cowed by his attitude or snarls. She didn’t let him get away with being rude but instead confronted him or tears these walls down by just being herself, which is unique to Rafe. She sees behind the ‘mask’ that he is a kind and good man and is wildly attracted by that. And the fact that she sees and values Rafe for the man he is on the inside, touches well buried emotions and desires in his heart. It was a beautiful story and although there was more sex in the book than was necessary, the story and characters were well developed and realistic. The ending was not cheesy but played out very well. The had a great pace, I couldn’t put the book down and finished it in a single day. I can honestly recommend this book!
I received an advanced copy of this book in exchange for my honest opinion. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
Rafe looked as if he’d heard Susannah herself speaking through the music. Susannah hadn’t guessed how astonishing it could feel to be recognized by somebody else. Especially not someone for whom she felt such overpowering hunger.
Soon enough they can’t let go of each other and must overcome their own fears but also find a way through the difficult demands and limitations of society and the people around them. The struggles are real and very well laid out. Rafe struggles with the differences in social standing, and Susannah struggles with what is expected of her; this suffocating straitjacket forced upon her by society.
I liked that Susannah didn’t shy away from confronting Rafe when he puts up these emotional walls to guard his heart. Rafe quickly recognizes her uniqueness, her inner beauty and strength, but feels he could never be good enough for her so he snarls to scare her away, but Susannah isn’t impressed. I like that she just talked to him and was not cowed by his attitude or snarls. She didn’t let him get away with being rude but instead confronted him or tears these walls down by just being herself, which is unique to Rafe. She sees behind the ‘mask’ that he is a kind and good man and is wildly attracted by that. And the fact that she sees and values Rafe for the man he is on the inside, touches well buried emotions and desires in his heart. It was a beautiful story and although there was more sex in the book than was necessary, the story and characters were well developed and realistic. The ending was not cheesy but played out very well. The had a great pace, I couldn’t put the book down and finished it in a single day. I can honestly recommend this book!
I received an advanced copy of this book in exchange for my honest opinion. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
September 18, 2023
ARC kindly provided by NetGalley and Entangled though all thoughts and swoons are my own.
This little red riding retelling was sweet and sexy and I absolutely loved this couple. Susannah wants to be free to practice her art and finds herself embroiled in a business proposition with the broody, dark Wolf of Mayfair named Rafe (seriously all characters named Rafe are my favorite, I need to make a list!). They bicker, they challenge each other, but they have an intense pull and longing to3arda each other. the latter half of this book was my favorite, and I really hope the next one involves the Duke of Huntington and, well lets not give that away.
A fun historical romance retelling from a bright new author that I will for absolutely continue reading from!
This little red riding retelling was sweet and sexy and I absolutely loved this couple. Susannah wants to be free to practice her art and finds herself embroiled in a business proposition with the broody, dark Wolf of Mayfair named Rafe (seriously all characters named Rafe are my favorite, I need to make a list!). They bicker, they challenge each other, but they have an intense pull and longing to3arda each other. the latter half of this book was my favorite, and I really hope the next one involves the Duke of Huntington and, well lets not give that away.
A fun historical romance retelling from a bright new author that I will for absolutely continue reading from!
September 2, 2023
I need more relationship building and this one was too insta-lust for me. Time spent rehashing Julia’s story could have been spent developing Rafe and Susannah’s relationship. Overall not much happened, and then at the end after such smooth sailing I couldn’t understand their why Rafe thought she abandoned him. This was low stakes that became contrived stakes.
I’ll still probably stick around for the governess’s story because I liked the duke.
I received an arc from netgalley.
I’ll still probably stick around for the governess’s story because I liked the duke.
I received an arc from netgalley.
September 24, 2023
I voluntarily read and reviewed this advanced copy from NetGalley. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
My fingers are an absolute magnet for historical romances and this title was calling my name. The title, cover art, and color palette all culminated into an enticing siren song. Rather appropriate considering the heroine played the piano in disguise at the hero's seedy club. The main couple were complete opposites, yet I could tell from the beginning they were soulmates. They had an immediate connection and I was rooting for them from the first page. The heroine was practically engaged to a rich duke she had zero interest in and I wish she cut those ties way sooner to pursue her romance with the hero.
Susannah was a dynamite heroine and I adored her. She was headstrong, but still remained unfailingly kind. She knew her future plans and was willing to do whatever it took to fulfill them. I thought it was so unique how she was a masked piano player and known as the Red Duchess. I loved how dedicated she was to her music. Susannah was very passionate and that translated to her romance with Rafe. They had a lovely dynamic and the best part was their communication. They shut down the dreaded third-act breakup and I could have jumped for joy. Who knew tickling the ivories could lead to a happy ever after?
The Duchess and the Wolf was a spectacular historical romance and I would love to read more from this author. She had a fantastic writing style and I loved the way she wrote her characters. From the dialogue to the conflict resolution, Lydia Drake is an author to watch. I may have to take some piano lessons if I hope to find the same happy ending as The Duchess and the Wolf.
My fingers are an absolute magnet for historical romances and this title was calling my name. The title, cover art, and color palette all culminated into an enticing siren song. Rather appropriate considering the heroine played the piano in disguise at the hero's seedy club. The main couple were complete opposites, yet I could tell from the beginning they were soulmates. They had an immediate connection and I was rooting for them from the first page. The heroine was practically engaged to a rich duke she had zero interest in and I wish she cut those ties way sooner to pursue her romance with the hero.
Susannah was a dynamite heroine and I adored her. She was headstrong, but still remained unfailingly kind. She knew her future plans and was willing to do whatever it took to fulfill them. I thought it was so unique how she was a masked piano player and known as the Red Duchess. I loved how dedicated she was to her music. Susannah was very passionate and that translated to her romance with Rafe. They had a lovely dynamic and the best part was their communication. They shut down the dreaded third-act breakup and I could have jumped for joy. Who knew tickling the ivories could lead to a happy ever after?
The Duchess and the Wolf was a spectacular historical romance and I would love to read more from this author. She had a fantastic writing style and I loved the way she wrote her characters. From the dialogue to the conflict resolution, Lydia Drake is an author to watch. I may have to take some piano lessons if I hope to find the same happy ending as The Duchess and the Wolf.
September 13, 2023
Susannah Fletcher finds herself in a position every eligible lady of the ton wishes for: being courted by a duke. Yet Susannah finds herself despondent for the life of a Duchess as her fervent wish is to travel playing her music for the masses. A wish she never thinks possible until she stumbles upon the “Wolf of Mayfair” at one of his soirées.
In order to secure a coveted property Rafe Winters needs to draw in the polished aristocrats to his “Wolf’s (gambling/club) Den” and when he hears a masked fiery red-head playing classical music, a deal is struck. One that leads them both down a passion filled path of discovery!
Having absolutely adored Lydia Drake’s Cinderella and the Duke I was so excited to read about Julia’s stepsister’s story. I love a fairy tale retelling and had yet to read one based on Little Red Riding Hood.
I found myself very much drawn to Susannah and her wish to fulfill her musical dreams. And when we briefly met Rafe’s character in Cinderella and the Duke I was so hoping he would get his own story. Goodness, did I fall for him fast. I ADORE a ‘he falls first’ trope and Lydia Drake created the perfect amount of pining and adoration Rafe had for Susannah. I really loved the dichotomy between the two of them, and I found the character motivations very believable for the MCs. Rafe’s POV particularly had me falling for him and wanting him to have the HEA he had so longed for.
I also was very intrigued by the dynamics of the relationship between Susannah and her mother as well as Susannah inner turmoil with being the dutiful daughter and debutante. And how Rafe was able to help facilitate her in any way possible to chose herself and her own wants and needs over how she was raised to be viewed by society. I loved how when a conflict arrived that would have/could have led to a possible third act breakup up that with simple communication the couple overcame the conflict. It was rather refreshing especially not being a fan of possible miscommunication leading to a third act break up.
There were so many refreshing aspects within The Duchess and the Wolf. (I’m looking at you reverse proposal scene 😉) All-in-all I fell head over heels for this novel and Lydia Drake has officially become an autobuy author for me!
Thank you to the publisher and netgalley for an eARC in exchange for an honest review.
In order to secure a coveted property Rafe Winters needs to draw in the polished aristocrats to his “Wolf’s (gambling/club) Den” and when he hears a masked fiery red-head playing classical music, a deal is struck. One that leads them both down a passion filled path of discovery!
Having absolutely adored Lydia Drake’s Cinderella and the Duke I was so excited to read about Julia’s stepsister’s story. I love a fairy tale retelling and had yet to read one based on Little Red Riding Hood.
I found myself very much drawn to Susannah and her wish to fulfill her musical dreams. And when we briefly met Rafe’s character in Cinderella and the Duke I was so hoping he would get his own story. Goodness, did I fall for him fast. I ADORE a ‘he falls first’ trope and Lydia Drake created the perfect amount of pining and adoration Rafe had for Susannah. I really loved the dichotomy between the two of them, and I found the character motivations very believable for the MCs. Rafe’s POV particularly had me falling for him and wanting him to have the HEA he had so longed for.
I also was very intrigued by the dynamics of the relationship between Susannah and her mother as well as Susannah inner turmoil with being the dutiful daughter and debutante. And how Rafe was able to help facilitate her in any way possible to chose herself and her own wants and needs over how she was raised to be viewed by society. I loved how when a conflict arrived that would have/could have led to a possible third act breakup up that with simple communication the couple overcame the conflict. It was rather refreshing especially not being a fan of possible miscommunication leading to a third act break up.
There were so many refreshing aspects within The Duchess and the Wolf. (I’m looking at you reverse proposal scene 😉) All-in-all I fell head over heels for this novel and Lydia Drake has officially become an autobuy author for me!
Thank you to the publisher and netgalley for an eARC in exchange for an honest review.
September 12, 2023
I hate to do this, but it was a DNF for me. The FMC is described as demure, but she is at a club that ladies during that time would have been ruined over. She doesn't seem as concerned as she probably should be to be found out, and her whole character doesn't mesh. If she was really that demure, she would not be there. Then, the MMC is the person who owns the club, and the only reason why the respectable gentlemen won't sell the house across the street for a hotel is because the club isn't "respectable" enough, which makes no sense whatsoever. Since when would a club like that be "respectable," and why would you want to put a respectable hotel across the street? I see where this is going, and the whole plot and even the characters do not make sense. Too many plot holes to continue.
September 1, 2023
Susannah Fletcher has the attention of a Duke and her mother is expecting a proposal any moment. But the Duke, although very nice, sparks nothing inside her. She dreams of travel and playing music. At a party she meets the scandalous Rafe Winter, the Wolf of Mayfair. To get a property he wants the gentleman says he must raise the level of his clientele. Susannah offers to play her music in concerts at his establishments in disguise hopefully bringing in more of the ton. He agrees to her high price, that she hopes to use to get away and travel.
Performing as the Red Duchess she is more of a success than they could imagine. But spending time together she can’t help but be drawn to the rough Rafe. I was a little perplexed at this book as the last book I read from this author was a Cinderella retelling. I went into this thinking this was going to somehow follow Red Ridinghood. It doesn’t. There is imagery, in his being called the Wolf and she is always in red but that is where the similarities stop. That story, Cinderella and the Duke, is the romance of Susannah's beloved stepsister who is helpful and supportive in this book.
I enjoyed this story. I love where heroines get to rescue themselves. She comes up with the solutions and is herself a wonderful marketer. The Duke is an interesting character because he is genuinely nice but a little self absorbed and clueless. And I like that Rafe has a woman, Jacks, as a business partner. A very enjoyable romantic adventure. I'm a little perplexed as Goodreads is showing this as the first in a series but this is clearly connected to a previous story.
Thank you to NetGalley and Entangled Publishing, LLC for the ARC and I am leaving a voluntary review.
Performing as the Red Duchess she is more of a success than they could imagine. But spending time together she can’t help but be drawn to the rough Rafe. I was a little perplexed at this book as the last book I read from this author was a Cinderella retelling. I went into this thinking this was going to somehow follow Red Ridinghood. It doesn’t. There is imagery, in his being called the Wolf and she is always in red but that is where the similarities stop. That story, Cinderella and the Duke, is the romance of Susannah's beloved stepsister who is helpful and supportive in this book.
I enjoyed this story. I love where heroines get to rescue themselves. She comes up with the solutions and is herself a wonderful marketer. The Duke is an interesting character because he is genuinely nice but a little self absorbed and clueless. And I like that Rafe has a woman, Jacks, as a business partner. A very enjoyable romantic adventure. I'm a little perplexed as Goodreads is showing this as the first in a series but this is clearly connected to a previous story.
Thank you to NetGalley and Entangled Publishing, LLC for the ARC and I am leaving a voluntary review.
September 24, 2023
The Duchess and the Wolf by Lydia Drake is book 1 of the Debutantes of London Series.
It's my first Lydia Drake book and won't be my last!
Susannah Fletcher has it all - wealth, the attention of the Duke of Huntington and a brilliant reputation.
But... nothing's as important as her music... and when the mysterious "Wolf of Mayfair" has a special offer of her... she's not sure if she could refuse it...
Awwwww!
Right from the beginning of The Duchess and the Wolf I was HOOKED!
I loved the storyline and the writing style of Lydia Drake! I guess I found a new historical romance I can add to my favourite list! 😍
For Susannah music is such an important part in her life... more important than it should be - if you'd ask her mother.
So when Rafe Winters, also known as the Wolf of Mayfair, has this special offer... it's really a temptation for her she can't refuse...
But how could it work? Well behaved young lady by day and mysterious musician in a club by night?!
Awwww! I loved it! And don't be afraid! I won't spoil you because you should experience the whole story for yourself!
It's a wonderful love story I really enjoyed. (Yes, I know I said it before, but I can't say it often enough!)
Susannah is a great, strong willed woman and a great choice as a main character!
And OMG! RAFE! Holy... he's... he's... PERFECT! He seems like a moddy, dubious and mysterious business man... but he's SO MUCH MORE!!! ❤️ He definitely stole my heart!
What a match they are! I loved their banter! Their chemistry and just EVERYTHING!
The Duchess and the Wolf is a brilliant historical love story full of this special kind of attraction, banter and sexy times.
Thanks a lot to Lydia Drake and Entangled Publishing for this ARC via NetGalley.
This is my honest review in my own words.
It's my first Lydia Drake book and won't be my last!
Susannah Fletcher has it all - wealth, the attention of the Duke of Huntington and a brilliant reputation.
But... nothing's as important as her music... and when the mysterious "Wolf of Mayfair" has a special offer of her... she's not sure if she could refuse it...
Awwwww!
Right from the beginning of The Duchess and the Wolf I was HOOKED!
I loved the storyline and the writing style of Lydia Drake! I guess I found a new historical romance I can add to my favourite list! 😍
For Susannah music is such an important part in her life... more important than it should be - if you'd ask her mother.
So when Rafe Winters, also known as the Wolf of Mayfair, has this special offer... it's really a temptation for her she can't refuse...
But how could it work? Well behaved young lady by day and mysterious musician in a club by night?!
Awwww! I loved it! And don't be afraid! I won't spoil you because you should experience the whole story for yourself!
It's a wonderful love story I really enjoyed. (Yes, I know I said it before, but I can't say it often enough!)
Susannah is a great, strong willed woman and a great choice as a main character!
And OMG! RAFE! Holy... he's... he's... PERFECT! He seems like a moddy, dubious and mysterious business man... but he's SO MUCH MORE!!! ❤️ He definitely stole my heart!
What a match they are! I loved their banter! Their chemistry and just EVERYTHING!
The Duchess and the Wolf is a brilliant historical love story full of this special kind of attraction, banter and sexy times.
Thanks a lot to Lydia Drake and Entangled Publishing for this ARC via NetGalley.
This is my honest review in my own words.
September 17, 2023
3.5 Stars
Susannah Fletcher has everything a young lady could desire: wealth, the attentions of well-to-do duke. Yet, she would throw it all away for one opportunity to perform her music on stage–scandalous as that may be. Which is precisely when the rich and menacing “Wolf of Mayfair” makes her an offer she couldn’t possibly refuse. Born on the streets of London, Rafe Winters knows only ruthless ambition. But he’s missing one thing: respectability. It’s within reach…if he can draw the polished aristocrats to his establishment with a classically trained musician, and just a soupçon of mystery—like the flame-haired Susannah. Now Susannah performs in a red cloak as the enigmatic “Red Duchess,” and all of London is entranced—along with Rafe.
A reworking of a fairy tale & class differences. I enjoyed the book but didn’t love it, I liked Rafe & Susannah but didn’t love them. I read the book over a few days as it didn’t grab me but I still wanted to finish it. The chemistry between them didn’t sizzle & it felt a bit forced, it could have been so good but fell a bit short for me
My review is for a special copy I voluntarily read
Susannah Fletcher has everything a young lady could desire: wealth, the attentions of well-to-do duke. Yet, she would throw it all away for one opportunity to perform her music on stage–scandalous as that may be. Which is precisely when the rich and menacing “Wolf of Mayfair” makes her an offer she couldn’t possibly refuse. Born on the streets of London, Rafe Winters knows only ruthless ambition. But he’s missing one thing: respectability. It’s within reach…if he can draw the polished aristocrats to his establishment with a classically trained musician, and just a soupçon of mystery—like the flame-haired Susannah. Now Susannah performs in a red cloak as the enigmatic “Red Duchess,” and all of London is entranced—along with Rafe.
A reworking of a fairy tale & class differences. I enjoyed the book but didn’t love it, I liked Rafe & Susannah but didn’t love them. I read the book over a few days as it didn’t grab me but I still wanted to finish it. The chemistry between them didn’t sizzle & it felt a bit forced, it could have been so good but fell a bit short for me
My review is for a special copy I voluntarily read
September 29, 2023
I enjoyed how the story started out with humor and the characters sharing the history and background story. Rafe is my most favorable character, but is Annabelle that’s most kinky when wants to be. The different things that the couples in the book enhanced the expected entertainment from Rafe and Susannah. The romance is definitely a slow burn. The plot in between the romance is a simple story that ok for the book. I like that the writer up the age for the heroine that helped with the enjoyment of the romance scenes. I loved the humor among the characters as well as the flow the story and dialogue among the characters. I thought that these details helped the seem real to the reader. I give this book two snaps and a twist. Until next time my fellow readers. Read on! I received a copy of this book from the author in exchange for an honest review.
September 23, 2023
Steamy historical romance
This book started like a pleasant tune that continued to build to a fantastic crescendo. Appropriate enough for the Red Duchess who the reader will know as Susannah Fletcher, 21yo young woman who wants a life much different than the life prescribed by the ton and her mother. She happens to meet Rafe Winters who is 31yo and the owner/operator of the Wolf’s Den, a risqué gentleman’s club. In order to pursue a dream, Rafe will need to bring a little class to his Den. When he catches Susannah playing his pianoforte, he has an idea! The problem occurs because The Duke of Huntington has looked for the perfect Duchess and he sees her in Susannah. Both men want her, but only one will succeed.
This was such a good book that I read as often as time allowed. I was thinking about it when I couldn’t read it. For me that is a sign of a good book. If you like angsty, passionate storytelling where the underdog doesn’t feel worthy but just might win in the end, you must read this book. Loved the cover too. I volunteered to review an ARC of this book through Entangled/NetGalley.
This book started like a pleasant tune that continued to build to a fantastic crescendo. Appropriate enough for the Red Duchess who the reader will know as Susannah Fletcher, 21yo young woman who wants a life much different than the life prescribed by the ton and her mother. She happens to meet Rafe Winters who is 31yo and the owner/operator of the Wolf’s Den, a risqué gentleman’s club. In order to pursue a dream, Rafe will need to bring a little class to his Den. When he catches Susannah playing his pianoforte, he has an idea! The problem occurs because The Duke of Huntington has looked for the perfect Duchess and he sees her in Susannah. Both men want her, but only one will succeed.
This was such a good book that I read as often as time allowed. I was thinking about it when I couldn’t read it. For me that is a sign of a good book. If you like angsty, passionate storytelling where the underdog doesn’t feel worthy but just might win in the end, you must read this book. Loved the cover too. I volunteered to review an ARC of this book through Entangled/NetGalley.
September 3, 2023
I give this a 3.5. I enjoyed this book but I do feel like it was missing something. I’m not sure it was the dialog or what but something took me out of the historical ness of it all. I liked Both the main characters. Susannah coming into her own and taking control of her future and Rafe giving her the space to be and grown into herself. I felt like some of there miscommunications (which never led to breakups and I really appreciate that) were silly and I laughed at them, the proposal jumps to mind. I am interested in reading Julie and her dukes story as well as the governess and her dukes story. Thank you NetGalley for providing me this ARC to read
September 17, 2023
Lydia Drake is quickly becoming one of my favorite HR authors. This is only my second book by her but I have loved every second of her books.
I’m such a sucker for a “retelling” and I was so happy when I realized this was a Red Riding Hood retelling! I loved that Suzanna was the Red Duchess and Rafe owned The Wolf’s Den and he’s a self-made man 🤤Perfection!
I also loved that while this will be a different series, we got some of our favorite characters and not so favorite characters (Susannah’s mother) from the first book! There was so much drama in this and I felt like I was a fly on the wall watching it unfold!
Now I have to wait until December for the next book😢
I’m such a sucker for a “retelling” and I was so happy when I realized this was a Red Riding Hood retelling! I loved that Suzanna was the Red Duchess and Rafe owned The Wolf’s Den and he’s a self-made man 🤤Perfection!
I also loved that while this will be a different series, we got some of our favorite characters and not so favorite characters (Susannah’s mother) from the first book! There was so much drama in this and I felt like I was a fly on the wall watching it unfold!
Now I have to wait until December for the next book😢
September 25, 2023
Lydia Drake has written a superb story in The Duchess and the Wolf. I was extremely fortunate to receive an ARC of it via Netgalley. Susannah Fletcher is on the verge of being proposed to by a Duke. She, however, wishes to travel and see the world. She works out a deal with Rafe Winters, owner of a gaming den that she will try to lure customers in via her outstanding piano performance but in disguise in return for five thousand pounds. She plans to use the money to run away from home and escape the forced marriage. Events turn out way more complicated than expected and she ends up falling in love with Rafe, not knowing if he is as infatuated as she. Nice read with interesting characters.
September 27, 2024
This is my first book by this author. I really enjoyed her style of writing. I loved the anticipation throughout the book of what would happen next and the build-up between the two main characters. I mean, who doesn't love a happily ever after? I would recommend this book.
Thank you to Entangled Publishing for providing me with this ARC in exchange for an honest review.
Pub Date: Sep 18, 2023
Thank you to Entangled Publishing for providing me with this ARC in exchange for an honest review.
Pub Date: Sep 18, 2023
September 24, 2023
A steamy bridgerton era retelling of little red riding hood. There were several smutty scenes. I liked that the Mc went against social norms of the times. I suggest this book to historical romance readers.
September 22, 2023
The Duchess and the wolf by Lydia Drake is such a wonderful read. I am over the moon after receiving the advanced copy. The whole book are just so sweet.
This book have a little bit of suspense, angst, sweet romance, high sexual tension, hot spicy scenes, heart breaking moments and tears. I'll definitely be waiting for more books from Lydia Drake and I'm looking forward to read the next story perhaps about Jacks.
This book have a little bit of suspense, angst, sweet romance, high sexual tension, hot spicy scenes, heart breaking moments and tears. I'll definitely be waiting for more books from Lydia Drake and I'm looking forward to read the next story perhaps about Jacks.
September 24, 2023
Oh Susannah, an heiress on track to get engaged to a Duke. But that is not the life that she wants, and soon she is playing piano in the Wolf’s Den, a gentleman’s club run by Rafe Winters. Lydia Drake writes delightful adventures and I really enjoyed this one, can’t wait to read the next in the series!
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