Her Runaway Duke

Noble Pursuits #1

by Ellie St. Clair

A runaway bride. A reclusive duke. A beastly beginning turned into a beautiful love story.

Running away from her wedding was Lady Siena’s first act of bravery. Facing her future is the second. When she is saved in her flee by a mysterious figure, she is shocked to finally discover his true identity.

Driven out of London by rumours and rejection, the grieving Duke is but a shell of a man. When he reluctantly saves a woman during one of his nightly rides, little does he realize the ramifications of his act of compassion.

For Lady Siena sees more than his face — she sees the soul of the man beneath. When demons threaten from within and beyond, will they find a way forward together or allow them to break them apart?

This is a beauty and the beast, runaway bride, grumpy vs sunshine, alpha male steamy regency romance.

Genres: Historical Romance, Historical, Amazon, Regency, Fiction, Retellings, Romance

252 pages, Kindle Edition

Published June 14, 2024

About the author

Ellie St. Clair writes heartwarming Regency romances with spirited heroines, swoon-worthy heroes, and happily ever afters. Her passion for history shines through in richly drawn characters and romances brimming with irresistible tension.

A former journalist with an incurable love of history, she is the author of popular series such as Remingtons of the Regency and The Bluestocking Scandals. She lives in Saskatchewan, Canada, with her husband and three children.

When she isn’t crafting romantic tales or keeping up with her kids, she’s mainlining coffee, sweating it out on her Peloton, valiantly attempting to keep her plants alive, planning her next dog rescue, or dreaming of lake escapes.

Ellie loves corresponding with readers, so visit her website, email her, sign up for her newsletter or join her Facebook group for exclusive content, giveaways, and sneak peeks at upcoming books.

Contact her on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/elliestclair, and sign up for her mailing list at http://www.elliestclair.com/subscribe.

Reviews

[🐝 Shaz 🐝 · Rating 4 out of 5]

First read by this author, I enjoyed this story about Levi and Siena. Siena runs away from an arranged marriage to an old fossil. She is rescued by Levi. Who takes her back to his home. He just wants to be left alone. But Siena worms her way into his life.

[Pam Bereznak · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is my 30th book by her. I picked up 1 book in late 2017, then 2 more in 2018 and then not again until May 2022 and I have read 27 of her books since. She is quickly becoming a favorite.

I’m not sure how to explain this but I’ll try. I research new authors when I don’t have any of my regulars out with any new releases. I used to do that with Ellie St. Clair but I’ve read so many of her books, really enjoy them and she has become a favorite, I feel she is more of one of my regular authors now and not a read only in-between author. 😊 Some of the books I read this month were really good, then a few were okay, then some really good again, then some not bad but I just love it when you start reading someone you really enjoy their books and from the first sentence you are hooked and can’t wait to get into it. I loved this book from the very start. I actually finished it in just a few hours.

I loved Siena and Levi. I loved how she treated him and looked past his torment, all to his surprise. I loved how genuine she was. He was so tortured but with the love of a good women. Watch out. Just a great read. Another added to my favorite reads for June.

[Nicole · Rating 5 out of 5]

Ellie knows how to build up not only a love story but a love story with a sprinkle of suspense.

A flawless story to start a new series with.

The hero in this story is known for being a recluse because he supposedly did something horrific to his brother so now he scares anyone and everyone away from him so that they don't get too close and so he doesn't get hurt. But when a certain fiery woman comes into his world and shows him not everyone is judgemental and that not everyone believes in the rumors that they hear about.

The heroine is known as a kind compassionate do anything for everyone around and never break the rules until she is convinced that there has to be more to life than being traded off to someone twice her age and decides to be selfish for once and live for her own happiness, and if that means standing up and showing a reclusive Duke that she's not going anywhere and that she cares about him and only him then so be it.

This story has it all from the teary eyed moments to the laughter to the sit on the edge of your seat suspense to the happily ever after.

I definitely enjoyed the entire story from beginning to the end.

I received this book from the author as an advanced reader's copy in exchange for voluntary review and this is purely based upon my own personal opinion and that of no one else.

[Janet · Rating 5 out of 5]

The start of a new series & what a good starter it was. Lady Siena is about to be married to a man who’s not only her father’s age but has a less than savoury reputation so with the help of her best friend Eliza she flees. She then loses her way, is waylaid by three highwaymen & is rescued by a scarred man. Levi, the Duke of Dunmore has been driven out of London by rumours and rejection, the grieving Duke is but a shell of a man. When he reluctantly saves a woman during one of his nightly rides, little does he realize the ramifications of his act of compassion.
I loved both Levi & Siena who were perfect for each other, he’s cloaked in darkness & she’s the breath of fresh air who brings him into the light plus the chemistry between them sizzles. I loved their journey to a HEA which is going smoothly until events take a turn & Levi has to face his demons. Another very well written engrossing romance the characters have depth, the pace is very good & there’s also some intrigue & mystery. The author’s books just keep getting better & better
I voluntarily read and reviewed a special copy of this book; all thoughts and opinions are my own

[NelleRenn · Rating 5 out of 5]

I thoroughly enjoyed the story. The heroine with the help of her friend runs away from a wedding planned by her domineering father. She gets lost and highwaymen surround her. The hero comes to her rescue, but he is a reluctant one. He is scarred both physically and emotionally. He obtained his scars when he was unable to save his older brother from a fire. She slowly brings him out of his shell. The villains return to cause havoc. I like stories where one of the main characters has to break down emotional walls of the other. I felt the story was nicely paced.

[Ellie Clair]

Today is the day you can all meet Siena and Levi! I hope you enjoy this wonderfully grumpy, reclusive duke, who unexpectedly and reluctantly saves a runaway bride who needs to learn how to stand up for herself. Enjoy!

[Nanna · Rating 5 out of 5]

I have read many books with the theme of Beauty and the Beast. Most were very entertaining and fun to read. This story is also along those lines to a point. Lady Siena is a very special lady and has always been a dutiful daughter. Her parents on the other hand are awful and always have been. All they care about is their place in society and don’t care how or what they need to do to grow in the ton. Which is what causes Siena to run away from a wedding to a horrible, mean much older man who her father picked out. He has children older than her!!! With help from her best friend, Eliza, she escapes into the night. Unfortunately, Eliza's plans don’t go well as Siena can’t read the map and gets very lost. When all seems lost, she is rescued by a stranger and taken to his home for the night left in the care of his housekeeper. Helped by mother nature and tons of rain, she spends a lot of time there. Little miss sunshine and the grumpy bear! Oh, who will win between these two. Levi has had a great deal of pain and suffering to deal with along with tons of rumors about him. He cares nothing about what society thinks or does. Between being wounded in the war and burned in a fire. The worst was the loss of his beloved brother. He can’t believe or trust how good, kind and friendly Siena is. She looks behind his mask to the real him. Wow, such a great read. Tons of secrets, intrigue, betrayal, villain's and most important affection, love and faith. If the rest of the books are this good, we are in for a real treat. Be sure and get your copy to see how it all ends. The epilogue is perfect and will leave you feeling great. I was so glad it is part of the story, and you don’t have to jump through hoops to read it. I received an ARC from the author and wish to thank her. This is my honest opinion and am freely giving it.

[Linda J. · Rating 5 out of 5]

I love this author and how she pulls you into her stories and doesn't let up until the end. The pacing was perfect with great main and secondary characters. How the H came to rescue the h was emotional. You could feel the tug of ignoring what he should do and what he wanted to actually do - run.

The h has a best friend who is daring and encourages the h to follow her own path. The h is a people pleaser, but for once, decides to be daring and not settle what her parents want. Which isn't in her best interest at all. As the story progresses, she not only gets her nerve but her voice as well. The interaction near the end with her father was fantastic, great dialogue that proved she was taking charge of her life.

Such an emotional journey for both our MC. The H, because he is severely disabled through no fault of his own. My heart ached for his pain was not only physical but deep within.

Lovemaking, outside of marriage - heat level 5 out of 5, filled with passion and love. Romance builds slowly which added to this amazing, heartfelt journey to their HEA.

No cheating, no cliffhanger, great set up for the two best friends next story, romantic and steam. Story is suspenseful, with many twists and surprises. I can't improve on the blurb, just giving you extra tidbits to decide whether to purchase, which I recommend.

I received ARC from Bookfunnel, all opinions are my own and freely given. (ljb)

[Lana Birky · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book was a delightful romance that captivated me its heartfelt characters and engaging storyline. The main characters, Lady Siena and the reclusive, scarred Duke, are beautifully crafted and bring depth to the classic “Beauty and the Beast” trope. Lady Siena’s bravery and compassion shine through as she sees beyond the duke’s exterior to the soul beneath, making their journey together both touching and inspiring. The chemistry between the grumpy Duke and the sunshine-filled Lady Siena creates a perfect balance of tension and tenderness, making this book an enjoyable and memorable read. The author’s skillful writing and vivid descriptions pulled me into the era, making it easy to get lost in the romance and drama of the story.

Overall, this first book in the new series was wonderful and is a must-read for fans of historical romance who appreciate well-developed characters and a love story that tugs at the heartstrings. I voluntarily read and reviewed an Advanced Reader's Copy of this book; all thoughts and opinions are my own.

[Tiffany P · Rating 4 out of 5]

Predictable Beauty and the Beast…..3.5⭐️s

This was a Beauty and the Beast themed book with a twist. It was pretty predictable throughout, but I did enjoy some of the characters. Siena and Levi were good together, and I did enjoy their friends, as well as Levi’s staff. However, there were parts that left me a little disappointed. I didn’t like that the evil parents really had no consequences after all of their hurtful actions. I didn’t like the way Eliza and her mother converged on Levi’s house and their initial assumptions. I didn’t really feel like Siena handled it very well considering how uncomfortable she knew Levi would be. Some things just seemed contrary to how nice and thoughtful her character was.
I did guess the ending, but the reason behind some of the hate just didn’t make sense for the actions that occurred.

[Sonia N. · Rating 5 out of 5]

Her Runaway Duke is a beautifully written love story of a runaway bride who is saved by a mysterious man. He takes her to his castle and she finds out he is a Duke.
Lady Sienna refuses to marry an old man and with help from her best friend runs away on horseback. Levi the Duke saves her while on the road from a group of ruffians.
I enjoyed this book so much, it has everything I love in a well written romance! It also has action and revealed secrets.
Great attention to details and a strong heroine and the hero who was broken due to all of the tragedies in his life.
Reading how Sienna and Levi fall in love and how her love helped heal him was a joy to read!
And the epilogue was priceless! Such a beautiful ending it made me so happy!

[Pat Robinson · Rating 4 out of 5]

When I first started reading this story, it sounded a lot like another book I had read in the past, but it didn’t take long for the story to become its own. Watching Siena find her own voice after being the “dutiful” daughter for so long was so enthralling and seeing her change Levi’s heart was so swoonworthy. It was hard to like Levi at first, but after seeing what trauma he went through, I can understand the reasons. The twists and turns in this story kept my attention and wanting to have a few words with her father would have made me feel better! ( How can people be so self serving?) Turly, this story is a thrill ride and very enjoyable!

I received this story for free and these are my own opinions.

[SusieQ_Reviews · Rating 5 out of 5]

I do love a good Beauty and the Beast retelling and Ellie St. Clair does not disappoint in her new release, “Her Runaway Duke”. Starring Lady Siena, runaway bride of selfless nature and Levi, the scarred reclusive Duke who just wants to be left alone. The lady consistently surprises her wounded hero by not responding as he has come to expect. A well-paced read with all the feels that had me loving this couple and cheering for their HEA. It also had me wishing I could jump into my kindle and give the ole Gibbs smack to a couple of evil doers. I can’t wait to find out what happens in future to the well-meaning friends of Levi and Siena.

I received an Advanced Reader Copy from the author, and this is a voluntary review. All opinions are my own.

[Sahar's Honest Reviews · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Duke and the Runaway Bride

He rescues her from highwaymen; she saves him from loneliness and despair. Levi does not want Siena to stay at his home, but she is in danger on her own. Deciding to provide her with shelter will change his life. Siena does not see the scars; she sees the man. Can love soften the heart of a man who has felt the sting of rejection, for far too long?

Siena is running away from a hopeless situation. Her father intends to marry her off to a man, much older than she is. Will her father accept someone else? Levi and Siena will have challenges to overcome. There will be treachery and danger, but where from does the peril come? I enjoyed this story and would recommend it to those who like beauty and the beast historical romance with mystery and suspense.

[Annette Drewett]

Brilliant story which held my interest from start to finish. Siena’s flight from an undesirable marriage leads her into a situation from which Levi must rescue her. Being scarred following a house fire, Levi hides away in his estate outside of London, but when Siena arrives, he can either decide to remain as he is, or start to live again. I enjoyed the way Levi put a spoke in Siena’s father’s plans and was on the edge of my seat during the situation along the Thames. I really enjoyed the ending and highly recommend this book to Regency lovers who like a bit of suspense with their romance.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving an honest review.

[Olivia · Rating 4 out of 5]

Beauty and the Beast vibes with a grumpy scarred reclusive duke and a runaway bride. Siena is running away from her wedding day, gets lost in the woods, and needs rescuing from highwaymen. Luckily, Levi is there to save the day, even though he does it begrudgingly. He thinks that his scarred appearance will scare people away, but it’s really his personality. Siena and Levi are stuck together at his manor due to a rainstorm and of course she’s kind and understanding and helps him soften up a bit. Things get more dramatic when there are rumors about her disappearance and then the arrival of unwanted guests. This one was steamy and emotional and also plenty dramatic.

[Carol P - H · Rating 4 out of 5]

A Runaway Bride is saved under the direst of circumstances by a Runaway Duke—but they’re a long way away from joining forces. After all, Siena’s parents were forcing her to marry a repulsive older man with no regard for their daughter’s well-being and Levi was rumored to have murdered his older brother… Ellie St Clair tells their complicated story masterfully so the pieces all fit together in a meaningful way. There are a few key clues held back to build suspense to the very end. I thank the author for an advance review copy and am voluntarily leaving this honest review.

[Michele · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book was a wonderful retelling on Beauty and the Beast. I enjoyed watching Levi and Siena fall in love and change each other. Learning of Levi’s past was heart breaking. It was no wonder he became a recluse. It was great to see him open up to Siena.

I also liked the secondary characters, Eliza and Lord Fitzroy. And Levi’s servants- Thornsbury, Mrs. Porter and Mary.

I would have liked a little more story after learning of McGregor’s betrayal but the epilogue was a nice conclusion.

Look forward to the next book.

[Dominique Englebert · Rating 5 out of 5]

Appearances are not everything
Siena is running away from an arranged marriage to a man older than her father. Levi is running away from his past, hiding his scars, visible as well as hidden. When a fleeing Siena gets lost at night in a snowstorm, he saves her and offers her a reluctant hospitality.
A sweet and enticing story on the known theme of Beauty and the Beast, but well written and an enjoyable read.

[KAREN MARTIN · Rating 5 out of 5]

A wonderful love story,

This is a retelling of beauty and the beast, but with so much more. Siena is a runaway bride at the encouragement of her dearest friend. This led to her running and getting lost. Levi is a war hero who survived to only find himself alone and scarred. I will not go into more of TBE story because it is that good and you will want to read it for yourself. The story has a tumult of emotions and kept me awake most of the night reading. Enjoy!

[Carolyn Meredith · Rating 5 out of 5]

This grumpy/sunshine story was a fun read. Siena gets into the trouble you would expect for her circumstance. Levi rides to the rescue not knowing he will be the one to put her in more danger. I really enjoyed this story (apart from her father). I am looking forward to more books in this new series.

[Lisa H · Rating 5 out of 5]

Enjoyable take on Beauty and the Beast…

I liked this take on B&B. Lady Siena has always done everything she could to make other people happy. But not in her wedding day. She runs.

Levi is a duke, ostracized from the ton and hiding out in his manor with scars, staff and grumpiness. He’s still curious and saves
Recommend.

[Lwalalba · Rating 3 out of 5]

From loneliness to love

A scarred hero unexpectedly finds love with a lady escaping the confines of society. A well trodden story of beauty and the beast but he quickly falls for the beautiful girl who lands on his doorstep which seemed too predictable to me. I was not as drawn to this one as I have been to some of Ellie's other books.

[Heycandyj · Rating 5 out of 5]

Who saves who

Levi and Siena's story was beautiful! Filled with everything I love, snappy dialogue, intrigue, emotion and of course HEA. Siena has heart that accepts everyone even when they are not very accepting! She was just what Levi needed. To find out more, go quickly and pick up a copy of "Her Runaway Duke!" Thanks for an awesome beginning to a series Ellie!

[Gina · Rating 5 out of 5]

A heartwarming story of a runaway bride who is saved by a scarred and defeated Duke. Her kindness shows him he has something to live for and they can have something beautiful. But they have her father and an unknown enemy who want to tear them apart.

[Ann Brown · Rating 5 out of 5]

A captivating story of a runaway bride and a scarred reclusive Duke. Levi and Siena were captivating characters in this wonderful romance that had engaging best friends, action, drama and emotion. A delight.

[Rebekah Carulli Hanson · Rating 4 out of 5]

Great read!

I really enjoyed this book. So awesome that the Duke saved Siena and she saved him too. Intriguing storyline and well written characters. This book makes you think and feel.

[TerryRose · Rating 5 out of 5]

intriguing

A most unusual storyline! Numerous twists and turns in the storyline keep the reader on their toes! The characters are well written, engaging individuals! Well done, Ms. St. Clair!

[Pamela · Rating 5 out of 5]

Success!

For Book 1 of a series I was enthralled from the beginning. There was action, love and more. The characters were very likable and relatable. You can sort of see what’s coming but there are still twists to hold your attention. I can’t wait to move on to Book 2…..

[Sandra · Rating 4 out of 5]

Runaways

Great story wonderful story line great characters. A young lady due to marry a cruel man runs away, and right into the arms of a scared lord. It doesn't take long until they realize, that fate has given them more than they could of imagined.
Thank you ❤️