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Gentlemen of War #1
Lucas
Four younger sons,
Four brothers-in-arms,
Four gentlemen willing to do whatever it takes to protect the women they love.
-Gentlemen of War Series
Lucas Walsh thought he had left the horrors of war behind when he returned home to London after Napoleon's exile to Elba, but little did he know that his promised peace would be shattered by his noble father’s mysterious death.
While his elder brother, the Marquess' heir, sees to affairs in the country, Lucas takes on the responsibility of his three younger sisters’ welfare and, truthfully, he would have it no other way. But when he stumbles upon a perplexing secret, one that involves him more than he cares to admit, the weight upon his shoulders is tested.
Lady Helena Webster has always lived a free-spirited life of luxury as the daughter of a powerful Earl, but when her father’s failed investments are discovered and his debts are called in, her once good and kind father is replaced by a man to fear. In his desperation, Lord Webster arranges a marriage between Helena and the loathsome Lord Foxton, a man known for his deep pockets as well as his widespread cruelty.
When Helena’s safety is put at risk, she seeks refuge in the townhouse of her dear friend Genevieve Walsh where fate takes an unexpected turn…
Lucas’ wit, intelligence, and fierce protectiveness embody everything Helena desires in a gentleman, but as their paths intertwine, will Helena’s presence threaten more than the undeniable attraction that ignites between them?
Lucas is a clean, stand-alone Regency Romance. #1 in the Gentlemen of War Series featuring honorable military men who, after fighting for King and Country, return home to unexpected and unfamiliar lives.
Four brothers-in-arms,
Four gentlemen willing to do whatever it takes to protect the women they love.
-Gentlemen of War Series
Lucas Walsh thought he had left the horrors of war behind when he returned home to London after Napoleon's exile to Elba, but little did he know that his promised peace would be shattered by his noble father’s mysterious death.
While his elder brother, the Marquess' heir, sees to affairs in the country, Lucas takes on the responsibility of his three younger sisters’ welfare and, truthfully, he would have it no other way. But when he stumbles upon a perplexing secret, one that involves him more than he cares to admit, the weight upon his shoulders is tested.
Lady Helena Webster has always lived a free-spirited life of luxury as the daughter of a powerful Earl, but when her father’s failed investments are discovered and his debts are called in, her once good and kind father is replaced by a man to fear. In his desperation, Lord Webster arranges a marriage between Helena and the loathsome Lord Foxton, a man known for his deep pockets as well as his widespread cruelty.
When Helena’s safety is put at risk, she seeks refuge in the townhouse of her dear friend Genevieve Walsh where fate takes an unexpected turn…
Lucas’ wit, intelligence, and fierce protectiveness embody everything Helena desires in a gentleman, but as their paths intertwine, will Helena’s presence threaten more than the undeniable attraction that ignites between them?
Lucas is a clean, stand-alone Regency Romance. #1 in the Gentlemen of War Series featuring honorable military men who, after fighting for King and Country, return home to unexpected and unfamiliar lives.
295 pages, Kindle Edition
Published January 9, 2024
432 people are currently reading
157 people want to read
About the author
Leah Moyes
31 books188 followersLeah Moyes is a wife and a mother, a former teacher and coach with a background in Anthropology and History. Between writing and archaeological digs, the world is her playground.
She loves popcorn and seafood (though not together) and is slowly checking off her very long bucket list.
She loves popcorn and seafood (though not together) and is slowly checking off her very long bucket list.
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Displaying 1 - 25 of 25 reviews
May 4, 2025
Lucas, the first installment in Leah Moyes’ Gentlemen of War series, is a masterfully crafted Regency romance that seamlessly weaves together honor, heartbreak, and heroism. Lucas Walsh, a soldier returning from war, is on a quest to redefine peace in a world that continues to demand more from him. With sensitivity, Moyes portrays Lucas’ inner turmoil, revealing a character torn between duty, loyalty, and a deep-seated longing for something to call his own.
Lady Helena Webster, a spirited and strong-willed individual, finds herself trapped in a desperate situation due to her family’s circumstances and the expectations placed upon her. As her world begins to unravel, she finds solace in the lives of the Walsh family and, more specifically, in Lucas, with whom she shares a deep and abiding connection that transcends romance, rooted in mutual respect, resilience, and a shared longing for freedom.
What sets Lucas apart is its delicate balance of epic romance and realistic portrayal, as Moyes tackles post-war trauma, aristocratic life’s intricacies, and the era’s painful sacrifices with unflinching honesty, yet still manages to weave in charm, wit, sisterly love, and a tender, slow-burning love story that unfolds organically.
Moyes’ Regency romance world will captivate fans, offering a rich blend of history and heart, with well-crafted characters and prose that make Lucas a journey of self-discovery and love, and a compelling start to the series.
Lady Helena Webster, a spirited and strong-willed individual, finds herself trapped in a desperate situation due to her family’s circumstances and the expectations placed upon her. As her world begins to unravel, she finds solace in the lives of the Walsh family and, more specifically, in Lucas, with whom she shares a deep and abiding connection that transcends romance, rooted in mutual respect, resilience, and a shared longing for freedom.
What sets Lucas apart is its delicate balance of epic romance and realistic portrayal, as Moyes tackles post-war trauma, aristocratic life’s intricacies, and the era’s painful sacrifices with unflinching honesty, yet still manages to weave in charm, wit, sisterly love, and a tender, slow-burning love story that unfolds organically.
Moyes’ Regency romance world will captivate fans, offering a rich blend of history and heart, with well-crafted characters and prose that make Lucas a journey of self-discovery and love, and a compelling start to the series.
March 7, 2024
This book was hard for me to get into at first but once the 2 main characters finely met it got a lot better for me! Lucas was dreamy and a perfect gentleman. I was smitten with him just like Helena! I'm excited for the 2nd book to come out.
July 30, 2025
Not a bad debut for a Regency romance, but there’s definitely room for improvement. My biggest issue was the dialogue - it felt very immature at times, to the point where I actually checked the author’s age on Goodreads. Some of the conversations just didn’t fit the setting at all and made me wonder if a good editor couldn’t help things. It did improve as the story went along, but the beginning is fairly rocky.
One thing that really didn’t work for me was the MFC’s “not like other girls” take on marriage. It didn’t feel realistic for the time and largely misinterprets the point of the “season”. There was some solid research on the period, especially around the Napoleonic Wars, which I appreciated. But other aspects (like the language, names, food, and general cultural details) were definitely surface-level. What sets great Regency books apart is the little stuff - the immersive details that make you feel like you’re in another period of time. This one didn’t quite hit that mark, but like with the dialogue, did improve as the story unfolded.
I was really pleasantly surprised by how much I liked the main characters together - the author is a clearly gifted writer and knows how to write Romance; I actually found myself shaking my fists at certain scenes, wanting Lucas and Helena to be together already. Lucas, in particular, is a very good hero. He’s kind and gallant without being desperate or boring and there’s nothing villainous about him, which is refreshing. So, if you’re new to the genre and just want something light to ease into it, this could be worth a try!
One thing that really didn’t work for me was the MFC’s “not like other girls” take on marriage. It didn’t feel realistic for the time and largely misinterprets the point of the “season”. There was some solid research on the period, especially around the Napoleonic Wars, which I appreciated. But other aspects (like the language, names, food, and general cultural details) were definitely surface-level. What sets great Regency books apart is the little stuff - the immersive details that make you feel like you’re in another period of time. This one didn’t quite hit that mark, but like with the dialogue, did improve as the story unfolded.
I was really pleasantly surprised by how much I liked the main characters together - the author is a clearly gifted writer and knows how to write Romance; I actually found myself shaking my fists at certain scenes, wanting Lucas and Helena to be together already. Lucas, in particular, is a very good hero. He’s kind and gallant without being desperate or boring and there’s nothing villainous about him, which is refreshing. So, if you’re new to the genre and just want something light to ease into it, this could be worth a try!
July 17, 2025
This author is new to me, and I am impressed with the author's writing skills. In this novel, Lucas Walsh, one of the "Gentlemen of War," comes back from the fighting with Napoleon to find his sister, Genevieve, helping her best friend avoid a horrible marriage. Lucas, because his older brother is busy with estate business elsewhere, assumes responsibility for his three younger sisters.
Lady Helena Webster's father has demanded that she marry Lord Foxton, whom she finds utterly repulsive. She does not understand the reason for his insistence, because her parents had always assured her that she could wait for a love match. When things come to a head (Lord Foxton tells Helena that they will be married soon), she runs to Genevieve's house and hides. It doesn't take long for Lucas to realize there is someone extra in the house. When he finds out the story, he assures Helena that she can stay.
This is a promising series with lots of twists and turns. I found it difficult to believe that Lucas could fall in love with Helena in such a short time, less than three weeks. Otherwise, the plot moved smoothly, and the characters were interesting. This is a nice setup for the remaining three stories.
Gentlemen of War
** 1. Lucas (2024)
2. Hunter (2024)
3. Zachary (2024)
4. Jaxon (2025)
Lady Helena Webster's father has demanded that she marry Lord Foxton, whom she finds utterly repulsive. She does not understand the reason for his insistence, because her parents had always assured her that she could wait for a love match. When things come to a head (Lord Foxton tells Helena that they will be married soon), she runs to Genevieve's house and hides. It doesn't take long for Lucas to realize there is someone extra in the house. When he finds out the story, he assures Helena that she can stay.
This is a promising series with lots of twists and turns. I found it difficult to believe that Lucas could fall in love with Helena in such a short time, less than three weeks. Otherwise, the plot moved smoothly, and the characters were interesting. This is a nice setup for the remaining three stories.
Gentlemen of War
** 1. Lucas (2024)
2. Hunter (2024)
3. Zachary (2024)
4. Jaxon (2025)
April 17, 2025
"Lucas" is a heartwarming and engaging Regency Romance that follows the story of Lucas Walsh, a noble and honorable military man, and Lady Helena Webster, a free-spirited and determined young woman. The novel is set against the backdrop of 19th-century London, with its intricate social hierarchy and strict rules of propriety.
The romance between Lucas and Helena is captivating, with a slow-burning tension that builds into a passionate and all-consuming love. The characters are well-developed, with distinct personalities, motivations, and backstories that add depth and complexity to the story.
The novel's historical setting is meticulously researched, with vivid descriptions of Regency-era London and its social customs. The author's attention to detail brings the period to life, immersing readers in the world of the story.
With a well-crafted plot, engaging characters, and a romantic storyline, the novel is a great starting point for the Gentlemen of War Series, and readers will be eager to explore the stories of the other honorable military men featured in the series.
The romance between Lucas and Helena is captivating, with a slow-burning tension that builds into a passionate and all-consuming love. The characters are well-developed, with distinct personalities, motivations, and backstories that add depth and complexity to the story.
The novel's historical setting is meticulously researched, with vivid descriptions of Regency-era London and its social customs. The author's attention to detail brings the period to life, immersing readers in the world of the story.
With a well-crafted plot, engaging characters, and a romantic storyline, the novel is a great starting point for the Gentlemen of War Series, and readers will be eager to explore the stories of the other honorable military men featured in the series.
January 21, 2024
I read all of Leah Moyes' novels. I am a bigger fan of her historical fiction than romance but I enjoy her writing either way. I thought this was an interesting book into the world of regency. I have read a few other authors with similar works and enjoyed them so I know some about the time period. I loved the developing relationship between the two main characters and especially enjoyed Lucas and his sisters. If you are looking for a clean, engaging story, you have found it!
January 10, 2024
I’m new to the Regency genre but I like Moyes’ writing style so I thought I’d check this one out. I was just as IMPRESSED with this book as her other historical fiction writings.
She always tells a great story and this one adds to her multiple collections of well written books. I look forward to her next book on Hunter, I believe…?
She always tells a great story and this one adds to her multiple collections of well written books. I look forward to her next book on Hunter, I believe…?
March 12, 2025
The bones were good! This story could have ended fantastically. The drama was too contrived, some important conversations felt forced. It bugs me to no end when an intelligent character changes suddenly and stops protecting themselves at the end of the story by not talking to the person they’ve been trusting to help keep them safe. Lame. Lame. Lame.
July 14, 2025
This first book in the Gentlemen of War series is a well-written historical romance that combines action and emotion. It alternates POV between the two main characters, Lucas and Helena. The story follows Lucas, a brave and honorable soldier, back home following his service fighting Napoleon. With rich character development, plot twists, and excellent historical detail, this book kept me enthralled to the end. It is a wonderful start to an interesting series.
September 29, 2025
Lord Lucas Walsh is a second son of a Marques and, as such, he took a military commission to serve on the war against Napoleon. Now back home, he can’t wait to find peace in the family home, but this doesn’t come easy as he finds out upon his return his father died under suspicious circumstances and his 3 younger sisters have been left under the care of servants by his elder brother.
Lady Helena Webster is the daughter of an Earl who is closed to be engaged to the worse prospect in London and, when she feels herself threatened, will ask for help of her dearest friend Lady Genevieve Walsh.
This book was quite a lovely read. Fast paced, witty and romantic, Lucas is the perfect war hero trying to conquer his demons while helping others and keeping propriety at all times and Helena is quite the heroine even in her darkest moments.
I had never read anything by the author, but really enjoyed this story and I’m looking forward to the other Gentlemen of War books.
4 stars
Lady Helena Webster is the daughter of an Earl who is closed to be engaged to the worse prospect in London and, when she feels herself threatened, will ask for help of her dearest friend Lady Genevieve Walsh.
This book was quite a lovely read. Fast paced, witty and romantic, Lucas is the perfect war hero trying to conquer his demons while helping others and keeping propriety at all times and Helena is quite the heroine even in her darkest moments.
I had never read anything by the author, but really enjoyed this story and I’m looking forward to the other Gentlemen of War books.
4 stars
October 17, 2025
The beginning was a bit slow and it was several chapters until the two main characters finally interact but their chemistry was off the charts. Lucas is such a great man who loves his sisters and wants the best for them while also protecting Helena who is under his care. It’s a slow burn but when they finally confess their feelings, sparks fly. Can’t wait to read the next one!
October 30, 2025
Lucas returns home from war with scars both inside and outside and must learn to live again in society despite it. Upon coming home he learns of his father’s death andhas the worries of his three sisters in London as his elder brother is away handling estate matters. In between all this he takes on lady Helena’s problem which ultimately leads to their hea
August 21, 2024
Slow burn love
I love how this love developed between Lucas and Helena. The writing is skillful and beautiful. Moyes does a great job with the details of the period. Highly recommend.
I love how this love developed between Lucas and Helena. The writing is skillful and beautiful. Moyes does a great job with the details of the period. Highly recommend.
July 20, 2025
an historical Romance
A novel full of anguish, twists and turns, betrayal, friendship, villains, a loyal family, and family betrayal. Well written. I fell in love with the main characters and loved the happily-ever- after ending.
A novel full of anguish, twists and turns, betrayal, friendship, villains, a loyal family, and family betrayal. Well written. I fell in love with the main characters and loved the happily-ever- after ending.
August 7, 2025
I bought this first book in the series at a writers' conference. I was intrigued with the concept of how the men and their families adapted after they had gone to serve their country in war. I loved Lucas and found that each time I finished book, I was hungry for the next and had read them all.
May 27, 2024
Great start to series
I really liked this book. The characters you can't help but like. The 4 friends coming back from war is so intriguing. Can't wait for book 2.
I really liked this book. The characters you can't help but like. The 4 friends coming back from war is so intriguing. Can't wait for book 2.
June 20, 2025
Wonderfully sweet story! I was so engulfed in it.
July 15, 2025
It started off fine, but then I got annoyed at the dumb choices Lady Helena kept making in the guise of being an extraordinary girl. I’ll pass on the rest of the series.
July 23, 2025
Excellent!
Great storyline from the very beginning. It kept me interested the entire way. And the epilogue was very good to let us know that ot all worked out. Great read!
Great storyline from the very beginning. It kept me interested the entire way. And the epilogue was very good to let us know that ot all worked out. Great read!
September 16, 2025
Refreshing ROMANCE!
This book did start a bit slowly to me, but once it settled in it was a wonderful story with no ripped bodices but plenty of honor and intrigue.
This book did start a bit slowly to me, but once it settled in it was a wonderful story with no ripped bodices but plenty of honor and intrigue.
September 17, 2025
ptsd in the regency, involving a man who has been inured both mentally and physically. This is also the story, whose father is forcing to marry a dardard who wears bright, silly clothes,
September 22, 2025
Good first draft and sweet tale
A sweet tale of young love and desperation. The anachronisms and short cuts take with exposition was too much a distraction. Unfinished.
A sweet tale of young love and desperation. The anachronisms and short cuts take with exposition was too much a distraction. Unfinished.
September 25, 2025
Great story, well done
A wonderful story with a few unforeseen twists. A clean romantic novel that pulls you in to the story. Looking forward to the rest of the series.
A wonderful story with a few unforeseen twists. A clean romantic novel that pulls you in to the story. Looking forward to the rest of the series.
January 16, 2026
Didn’t have a Christian theme but was still clean and a good read. Will continue in the series to book two.
February 15, 2024
This book masterfully weaves you through the life of several of the characters as it introduces them and begins their story. Leah Moyes is so good at spinning her stories that the only disappointment is that they end too fast. Lucas starts us on a journey of adventure and love that happens unexpectedly and swiftly draws the readers into their lives. Can't wait for the next book so we can continue Lucas's stories and find out what happens with his friends and family. Thank you Leah Moyes for helping us embark on yet another story with new characters and places that we are sure to enjoy.
Displaying 1 - 25 of 25 reviews