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A Chronicle of Misadventures #2
Secrets of a Duke
By station, they’re worlds apart, but living under the same roof brings their hearts dangerously close.
William Yorke faces a tall order: convince people he is worthy of the Dukedom of Rockwood that has unexpectedly fallen to him. Returning from London to his enormous estate, he breaks his journey at an inn and finds himself witness to a drunkard selling his wife to the highest bidder.
William outbids the coarse competition and offers the woman a position as housemaid at his estate, uncomfortably aware that his impulsive chivalry will lead to talk—something he abhors.
Life has brought Clara Quinn very low indeed. Once an esteemed lady’s maid dismissed on false charges, her marriage of desperation lasts just long enough for her husband to sell her for gambling money.
Clara is thrust into the heart of the Duke of Rockwood’s household, but the duke himself keeps his distance to quell the rumors. She is determined to leave rather than complicate his life—until she stumbles upon one of the duke’s greatest secrets.
As their paths become irrevocably intertwined, distance becomes not only impossible but increasingly undesirable—and a romance? Unthinkable.
Secrets of a Duke is the second in a new series of Regency romances, full of stolen moments, a touch of suspense, and all the swoon without the steam.
William Yorke faces a tall order: convince people he is worthy of the Dukedom of Rockwood that has unexpectedly fallen to him. Returning from London to his enormous estate, he breaks his journey at an inn and finds himself witness to a drunkard selling his wife to the highest bidder.
William outbids the coarse competition and offers the woman a position as housemaid at his estate, uncomfortably aware that his impulsive chivalry will lead to talk—something he abhors.
Life has brought Clara Quinn very low indeed. Once an esteemed lady’s maid dismissed on false charges, her marriage of desperation lasts just long enough for her husband to sell her for gambling money.
Clara is thrust into the heart of the Duke of Rockwood’s household, but the duke himself keeps his distance to quell the rumors. She is determined to leave rather than complicate his life—until she stumbles upon one of the duke’s greatest secrets.
As their paths become irrevocably intertwined, distance becomes not only impossible but increasingly undesirable—and a romance? Unthinkable.
Secrets of a Duke is the second in a new series of Regency romances, full of stolen moments, a touch of suspense, and all the swoon without the steam.
370 pages, Kindle Edition
First published October 1, 2024
438 people are currently reading
451 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 145 reviews
September 30, 2025
Secrets
William Yorke had the title of Duke unceremoniously thrust upon him, and was forced to utilize the services of a dear friend to help him adapt. William was terribly uncomfortable with being called “Your Grace” and felt useless having people do every for him.
William rescued Clara from an inn where he had stopped to rest. She was being sold by her husband who was more interested in drink and gambling than making a good life for himself.
Clara became a maid in the Duke’s household and it became even more complicated when the stirring of both attraction and admiration developed between them. William and Clara both harbor secrets that could be devastating to the Dukes reputation and worse for Clara. How can they see their way to happiness? This is a solid four star clean romance.
William Yorke had the title of Duke unceremoniously thrust upon him, and was forced to utilize the services of a dear friend to help him adapt. William was terribly uncomfortable with being called “Your Grace” and felt useless having people do every for him.
William rescued Clara from an inn where he had stopped to rest. She was being sold by her husband who was more interested in drink and gambling than making a good life for himself.
Clara became a maid in the Duke’s household and it became even more complicated when the stirring of both attraction and admiration developed between them. William and Clara both harbor secrets that could be devastating to the Dukes reputation and worse for Clara. How can they see their way to happiness? This is a solid four star clean romance.
July 27, 2025
I wasn’t sure about a story where a duke marries a maid — and I was right. It was a stretch.
However, this author has an uncanny ability to make me forget all reason and just enjoy the fairy tale. So I went with the flow, so to speak, and let go of historical accuracy and logic. The only thing that mattered was the Cinderella love story between a woman with a difficult past and a man struggling with his new role. And it was cute!
I love the Yorke family and their eccentric aunt (who should absolutely get her own HEA — I don’t care how old she is). I love how they support and accept each other, and the way they’re willing to sacrifice for one another makes for a great story.
However, this author has an uncanny ability to make me forget all reason and just enjoy the fairy tale. So I went with the flow, so to speak, and let go of historical accuracy and logic. The only thing that mattered was the Cinderella love story between a woman with a difficult past and a man struggling with his new role. And it was cute!
I love the Yorke family and their eccentric aunt (who should absolutely get her own HEA — I don’t care how old she is). I love how they support and accept each other, and the way they’re willing to sacrifice for one another makes for a great story.
August 27, 2024
Do my eyes look puffy? Because it would be a miracle if they didn’t after reading this book. HOLY CANNOLI this book is filled with so much emotion and tension. I am 💯 in book hangover mode. My heart was repeatedly devastated and glued back together in all the right ways. Clara and William are such amazing MCs. I felt the connection between them the moment they were on page together. And this PREMISE!? So unique and well written. You can’t help but feel for Clara, who is sold by her husband for so little to her handsome rescuer, William, a duke green in the title he now holds and carrying the weight of the world on his shoulders. I loved them both and loved watching them grow into their best selves with each other. Their time together is agonizingly beautiful. Heart wrenching. But a HEA with subtle Cinderella vibes is the perfect satisfying conclusion to a story riddled with tension that keeps you turning the page. Phenomenal read. 10k stars. Highly HIGHLY recommended read
October 16, 2024
4.25 stars
This is book 2 in the series. You can read it as a standalone but there is part of it that goes with book 1 so I recommend reading the first one as well. William is new to being a Duke. When he stops at an inn he witnesses a kind woman being sold by her husband to the highest bidder. He can’t stand to see her treated this way so he makes himself the highest bidder. Of course he intends to let her go free. But the woman, Clara, has nowhere to go so she asks to be a maid at his estate. William agrees. However, there is gossip amongst the other household staff when they find out how Clara came to be there and they speculate the Duke and Clara to be involved. William and Clara form a friendship and he feels he can be himself around her. And though the attraction is there they must remember she is still a married woman.
I enjoyed this story and I kept waiting to see how they would end up together since she was married. Her husband is a horrible man. I liked how William and Clara were more friends than anything else. But I do wish the first kiss would have not come while she was married, I thought that inappropriate. Other than that though I enjoyed the story and the characters were great.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️.25
I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book which I received from the author. All views expressed are only my honest opinion.
This is book 2 in the series. You can read it as a standalone but there is part of it that goes with book 1 so I recommend reading the first one as well. William is new to being a Duke. When he stops at an inn he witnesses a kind woman being sold by her husband to the highest bidder. He can’t stand to see her treated this way so he makes himself the highest bidder. Of course he intends to let her go free. But the woman, Clara, has nowhere to go so she asks to be a maid at his estate. William agrees. However, there is gossip amongst the other household staff when they find out how Clara came to be there and they speculate the Duke and Clara to be involved. William and Clara form a friendship and he feels he can be himself around her. And though the attraction is there they must remember she is still a married woman.
I enjoyed this story and I kept waiting to see how they would end up together since she was married. Her husband is a horrible man. I liked how William and Clara were more friends than anything else. But I do wish the first kiss would have not come while she was married, I thought that inappropriate. Other than that though I enjoyed the story and the characters were great.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️.25
I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book which I received from the author. All views expressed are only my honest opinion.
September 22, 2025
I’m disappointed. Normally I’m a huge Martha Keyes fan 🙋♀️ but that first kiss scene soured the whole story.
Being unfaithful is NOT romantic.
Even though Clara’s husband is basically scum and “sold” her… she is still legally married when she has an emotional affair and kisses another man. Where is Clara’s integrity? Her grit? (She had previously had shown so much of it!)
Also, the Duke was very selfish to pressure her into that kiss after telling her that would be women coming to whom he planned to eventually marry. 🙄 (The premise was already trying my suspension of disbelief as I foresaw all the issues a marriage of that class difference would bring. Apparently in the author’s note this is based on a true story, but the real Duke had already produced a legitimate heir and the maid was his second marriage. Yes it sucks to be a duke, but “with great power” and all that.)
Started skimming @ 50%. If you want to skip ahead like me, Chapter 22 will let you at least see Aunt Eugenia & the reunion of brothers.
While the first book of the series was cute, I’m uncertain if I will continue to book three. Or with Martha Keyes for that matter. She is currently in my black book. 🤨
Ok, fine. I shallprobably forgive her, but I must stew a bit first.
Being unfaithful is NOT romantic.
Even though Clara’s husband is basically scum and “sold” her… she is still legally married when she has an emotional affair and kisses another man. Where is Clara’s integrity? Her grit? (She had previously had shown so much of it!)
Also, the Duke was very selfish to pressure her into that kiss after telling her that would be women coming to whom he planned to eventually marry. 🙄 (The premise was already trying my suspension of disbelief as I foresaw all the issues a marriage of that class difference would bring. Apparently in the author’s note this is based on a true story, but the real Duke had already produced a legitimate heir and the maid was his second marriage. Yes it sucks to be a duke, but “with great power” and all that.)
Started skimming @ 50%. If you want to skip ahead like me, Chapter 22 will let you at least see Aunt Eugenia & the reunion of brothers.
While the first book of the series was cute, I’m uncertain if I will continue to book three. Or with Martha Keyes for that matter. She is currently in my black book. 🤨
Ok, fine. I shall
November 2, 2024
William + Clara
Clara’s husband sells her for money and The Duke buys her. She goes back with him to work at his home and he eventually puts her in charge of a top secret project. The more they see each other and talk a connection starts to form. He’s not in good standing yet due to how he came to be a Duke so he has to make sure he marries someone who will help his reputation. He needs this desperately to finally be able to help his brother. Clara has secrets herself and she knows it could never work between her & William but she really wants to help him with his brother.
I thought this was a great book. This is book 2 in this series.
—Quotes
✨ It is the dilemma I face each day, Clara: the choice between what I want and what is best for the title.
✨ But without fail, they would reach the fork, and reality would strike. The duke went his way, and she went hers. She might hold the duke’s secrets, but she would never hold his heart.
✨ Every time we walk this road, I am reminded that there is no path I have to walk alone now; that there are no crossroads to dread. We walk every path together, Clara, and I am ready for the next one.”
—Content
Clara is still married whenever her & William’s bond is formed and whenever they share their first kiss.
Clara’s husband sells her for money and The Duke buys her. She goes back with him to work at his home and he eventually puts her in charge of a top secret project. The more they see each other and talk a connection starts to form. He’s not in good standing yet due to how he came to be a Duke so he has to make sure he marries someone who will help his reputation. He needs this desperately to finally be able to help his brother. Clara has secrets herself and she knows it could never work between her & William but she really wants to help him with his brother.
I thought this was a great book. This is book 2 in this series.
—Quotes
✨ It is the dilemma I face each day, Clara: the choice between what I want and what is best for the title.
✨ But without fail, they would reach the fork, and reality would strike. The duke went his way, and she went hers. She might hold the duke’s secrets, but she would never hold his heart.
✨ Every time we walk this road, I am reminded that there is no path I have to walk alone now; that there are no crossroads to dread. We walk every path together, Clara, and I am ready for the next one.”
—Content
Clara is still married whenever her & William’s bond is formed and whenever they share their first kiss.
November 24, 2024
Secrets of a Duke follows William Yorke who has just inherited a Dukedom and is trying to learn his new role. On a journey toward his estate, William has a chance encounter with a maid, who with unfortunate circumstances finds herself being sold by her drunk husband to the highest bidder. With an impulsive decision, William finds himself with a new housemaid for his estate-which will of course provide extensive gossip among society.
I love how Martha isn't afraid of writing stories with unusual circumstances. A maid and a Duke? Impossible right? But she made it happen! Two very sweet cinnamon rolls like characters, and an adorable romance. Lots of humility in here too, especially for Clara.
I really really like this one character that shows up. I don't want to give anything away as this character is a part of the whole back story of the series. But goodness he is a riot- I need his story STAT!
Brief thoughts- I think two cinnamon roll main characters is just not my thing. Totally a me problem!
Highly recommend starting with book one. This one can be read as a standalone but reading in order would be better with the back story.
I love how Martha isn't afraid of writing stories with unusual circumstances. A maid and a Duke? Impossible right? But she made it happen! Two very sweet cinnamon rolls like characters, and an adorable romance. Lots of humility in here too, especially for Clara.
I really really like this one character that shows up. I don't want to give anything away as this character is a part of the whole back story of the series. But goodness he is a riot- I need his story STAT!
Brief thoughts- I think two cinnamon roll main characters is just not my thing. Totally a me problem!
Highly recommend starting with book one. This one can be read as a standalone but reading in order would be better with the back story.
October 16, 2024
Secrets of a Duke. A roller coaster of two people trying to find their way to each other and in their world.
I had never heard of wife selling. Of course I googled it and found the details. Pretty sad details really. While wife selling sounds awful, I did love that I learned something new!
This book had a lot of romantic tension. It was a roller coaster of emotions and problems that popped up. I did a lot of hoping for a happily ever after as each chapter passed. I so badly wanting good things for these two individuals that overcame a lot. Romance with a lot of obstacles is quite the ride!
I love all of Martha’s books and really enjoyed this one!
Content warning. Don’t keep reading if you don’t want to know!
Because wife selling isn’t quite legal and emotions grew before a marriage could be legal, this might be tricky to those who are sensitive to this moral dilemma. This romance includes just kissing.
I had never heard of wife selling. Of course I googled it and found the details. Pretty sad details really. While wife selling sounds awful, I did love that I learned something new!
This book had a lot of romantic tension. It was a roller coaster of emotions and problems that popped up. I did a lot of hoping for a happily ever after as each chapter passed. I so badly wanting good things for these two individuals that overcame a lot. Romance with a lot of obstacles is quite the ride!
I love all of Martha’s books and really enjoyed this one!
Content warning. Don’t keep reading if you don’t want to know!
Because wife selling isn’t quite legal and emotions grew before a marriage could be legal, this might be tricky to those who are sensitive to this moral dilemma. This romance includes just kissing.
January 27, 2025
Wonderful, but a little surprising…
I was hoping for a happy ending, but assumed the end result to come to pass in a different way. The real ending, however, did not disappoint and I was in love with several of the characters. A great and romantic read indeed.
I was hoping for a happy ending, but assumed the end result to come to pass in a different way. The real ending, however, did not disappoint and I was in love with several of the characters. A great and romantic read indeed.
October 9, 2024
Secrets of a Duke is the second book in the A Chronical of Misadventures series. While each book focusses on a different couple, there are some threads in the story that have been carried on from book one (and will continue on into the next). So while I do think you would probably still be able to enjoy this one as a standalone without too many issues, I do think it's one best read in order.
The first book in this series absolutely blew me away--- making me truly fall in love with a regency story when those are not always my go to. But as much as I enjoyed the first one, I think I loved this one even more. The idea of selling a wife was such a unique premise for the story... made even more intriguing to know that it's inspired by a true story. Needless to say, it drew me in right away. I really loved the chemistry between William and Clara... there was such a tender trust between the two. I loved how they saw each other for who they were and not for their very different positions (him as a duke and her as a maid). They kept me intrigued from start to finish, and I enjoyed every minute. Silas's story continued from the first book, and I found myself even more drawn in and wondering how it would all play out. I absolutely cannot wait to get his story next!
Secrets of a Duke is a closed-door romance with kisses only and no language.
**ARC received for consideration. All opinions are my own.
The first book in this series absolutely blew me away--- making me truly fall in love with a regency story when those are not always my go to. But as much as I enjoyed the first one, I think I loved this one even more. The idea of selling a wife was such a unique premise for the story... made even more intriguing to know that it's inspired by a true story. Needless to say, it drew me in right away. I really loved the chemistry between William and Clara... there was such a tender trust between the two. I loved how they saw each other for who they were and not for their very different positions (him as a duke and her as a maid). They kept me intrigued from start to finish, and I enjoyed every minute. Silas's story continued from the first book, and I found myself even more drawn in and wondering how it would all play out. I absolutely cannot wait to get his story next!
Secrets of a Duke is a closed-door romance with kisses only and no language.
**ARC received for consideration. All opinions are my own.
December 12, 2024
4.75⭐️ This book got me KEYED UP! The wrist sniffing master who’s woefully starched falls for the bargain wife who smells of orange blossoms and thievery… She ruefully smiled as the vaaassstttt difference in station made it wholly unbelievably, but wildly swoon-worthy.
October 10, 2024
When William takes pity on a poor woman who’s drunken husband is selling her for gambling money. He has no idea how much his impulsive act will wreak havoc on his reputation and on his heart.
This was a story that was both engrossing and heart wrenching. Two people who must keep their distance even as their hearts and lives become more and more entwined. This is forbidden romance at its best. I had to keep reading to see how this situation could possibly be resolved.
Martha Keyes is an author who knows how to create and tell a story. I’ve never been disappointed. If you’ve read her books you know. If you haven’t, what are you waiting for?
This was a story that was both engrossing and heart wrenching. Two people who must keep their distance even as their hearts and lives become more and more entwined. This is forbidden romance at its best. I had to keep reading to see how this situation could possibly be resolved.
Martha Keyes is an author who knows how to create and tell a story. I’ve never been disappointed. If you’ve read her books you know. If you haven’t, what are you waiting for?
October 17, 2024
"Bliss as she had never known consumed her, filling the spaces in her lungs left by the breath he had stolen, quieting every doubt she had harbored about the wisdom of kissing him."
This is the third book I've read by Martha Keyes and it is now my favorite! I absolutely devoured every page of this book. Forbidden romance is one of my favorite tropes and it was done so well! I was never sure what would happen next.
The tragic accident of distant relatives thrust William into becoming a Duke, which set the stage for an exciting yet harrowing adventure. It was interesting how both he and Clara were put in difficult circumstances by none of their own doing. Their resilient love was fun to read about and my heart ached when they had to keep their distance.
5/5 stars
Read if you enjoy:
Forbidden Romance
Regency Romance
Family Antics
Cinderella Retellings
*I received a complimentary ARC. All opinions expressed are my own.
This is the third book I've read by Martha Keyes and it is now my favorite! I absolutely devoured every page of this book. Forbidden romance is one of my favorite tropes and it was done so well! I was never sure what would happen next.
The tragic accident of distant relatives thrust William into becoming a Duke, which set the stage for an exciting yet harrowing adventure. It was interesting how both he and Clara were put in difficult circumstances by none of their own doing. Their resilient love was fun to read about and my heart ached when they had to keep their distance.
5/5 stars
Read if you enjoy:
Forbidden Romance
Regency Romance
Family Antics
Cinderella Retellings
*I received a complimentary ARC. All opinions expressed are my own.
January 19, 2025
3.5⭐️
It took me a little bit to get back into the Yorke family since it’s been like a month since I finished Reputation at Risk, but once I started remembering the characters, I was invested in the story! I didn’t love it as much as Reputation at Risk, but it was okay. The further I got into the story, the more I realized that it was not my cup of tea. I still plan on reading more by Martha Keyes though because I’ve loved most of her books so far!
I was not expecting this plot line to be honest. I hadn’t read the book description so I didn’t have a clue what I was getting into, but the Duke and lady’s maid plot line was unique and unexpected. I didn’t hate it, but I also didn’t love it for some reason. I got the ick with the fact she was technically still married and carrying on with another man. Not a fan of that at all. Honestly, the whole relationship felt a little forced between William and Clara. It didn’t make a ton of sense to me at times. I don’t care that in the end it worked out for them to be together; the process of getting there was not okay in my opinion.
I like that we finally got to meet Silas and learn a bit more about him before his story comes out. His interactions with Clara were quite amusing at times. I’m looking forward to reading his story eventually!
It took me a little bit to get back into the Yorke family since it’s been like a month since I finished Reputation at Risk, but once I started remembering the characters, I was invested in the story! I didn’t love it as much as Reputation at Risk, but it was okay. The further I got into the story, the more I realized that it was not my cup of tea. I still plan on reading more by Martha Keyes though because I’ve loved most of her books so far!
I was not expecting this plot line to be honest. I hadn’t read the book description so I didn’t have a clue what I was getting into, but the Duke and lady’s maid plot line was unique and unexpected. I didn’t hate it, but I also didn’t love it for some reason. I got the ick with the fact she was technically still married and carrying on with another man. Not a fan of that at all. Honestly, the whole relationship felt a little forced between William and Clara. It didn’t make a ton of sense to me at times. I don’t care that in the end it worked out for them to be together; the process of getting there was not okay in my opinion.
I like that we finally got to meet Silas and learn a bit more about him before his story comes out. His interactions with Clara were quite amusing at times. I’m looking forward to reading his story eventually!
October 19, 2024
A clean story. The story is based around the true story of the Duke of Chandos. We have a gentleman newly elevated to a Duke and uncomfortable in the role, trying to make his mark and be accepted, who buys a wife put up for sale by her husband. There are secrets on both sides but an attraction between them.
I expected more excitement and confrontation when Clara meets her former employer, and potentially Lord Drayton, who was staying near by, but he never made an appearance. We also never really heard how the housekeeper (and Eliza) reacted to Clara marrying the Duke, and who was giving Clara all the extra work that was not part of her role? The housekeeper seemed strict but fair, I am not sure she would be sending her for ice without a footman to carry or telling her to clean chamber pots. Lady Cassandra’s acceptance they would not ‘work’ also seemed low key, a bit of a non event - wonder what her parents thought fully expecting a betrothal. So a pleasant story but it just lacked something. It could have been 4 stars but gave 3 as it kept me reading to see how things worked out, but feeling a little deflated waiting for a little more excitement.
I expected more excitement and confrontation when Clara meets her former employer, and potentially Lord Drayton, who was staying near by, but he never made an appearance. We also never really heard how the housekeeper (and Eliza) reacted to Clara marrying the Duke, and who was giving Clara all the extra work that was not part of her role? The housekeeper seemed strict but fair, I am not sure she would be sending her for ice without a footman to carry or telling her to clean chamber pots. Lady Cassandra’s acceptance they would not ‘work’ also seemed low key, a bit of a non event - wonder what her parents thought fully expecting a betrothal. So a pleasant story but it just lacked something. It could have been 4 stars but gave 3 as it kept me reading to see how things worked out, but feeling a little deflated waiting for a little more excitement.
October 13, 2024
What a great story. I fell in love with the Yorke family in the first book and have been looking forward to William's story. Wow, what a ride. This story has a lot of secrets and most of them come to light. I loved Clara. She has had some hard things happen to her and has not always made the best decisions, but she is still a wonderful person. I enjoyed her story and experienced all the feels. William was better than I expected and I loved getting to know him better. He and Clara are wonderful together. I'm really looking forward to the next book.
October 19, 2024
loved it
I really enjoyed this book. Both main characters had a lot of overcome but I liked how they worked together and how the story developed. Well written with great characters and a great story.
I really enjoyed this book. Both main characters had a lot of overcome but I liked how they worked together and how the story developed. Well written with great characters and a great story.
November 18, 2024
Like other books by this author, I wanted to like it more. All the pieces are there….but things just fall flat. Maybe too sentimental? Weird plot holes? Characters walking into head-scratching situations? This is the first book I’ve read with the wife selling plot line. I’m VERY curious about that.
November 27, 2024
The tender love between William & Clara left me swooning numerous times. I genuinely didn’t know how Martha Keyes was going to get the two out of the conflict keeping them apart, but she pulled it off masterfully!
April 25, 2025
3.5⭐️
This was sweet but I didn’t love it. Although I really liked William and Clara, I found their romance to be a little boring. I felt like they fell in love really quickly which I didn’t enjoy because I wanted to see the romance really develop. It was a cute story and entertaining enough though!
I also absolutely adore Silas and can’t wait to read his book.
This was sweet but I didn’t love it. Although I really liked William and Clara, I found their romance to be a little boring. I felt like they fell in love really quickly which I didn’t enjoy because I wanted to see the romance really develop. It was a cute story and entertaining enough though!
I also absolutely adore Silas and can’t wait to read his book.
October 18, 2024
Fall break fluff
January 12, 2025
For some reason the duke-housemaid romance just didn't work for me in this one.
April 18, 2025
Sweet Read
I am thoroughly enjoying this series. The author does a wonderful job drawing you into the story. The family is well developed and the love they share is heartwarming.
I am thoroughly enjoying this series. The author does a wonderful job drawing you into the story. The family is well developed and the love they share is heartwarming.
December 29, 2025
It was based on a true story OKAY?
December 31, 2025
Audiobook.
October 19, 2024
nice clean story
I've enjoyed this series, but I removed a star primarily because I don't feel a good story requires the H and h to continually have their feelings repeated over and over. Their feelings should be more subtle to the plot (in my opinion). A great author can weave the love story in subtly by their actions and interactions. I don't mean displays of kissing all three time or that nonsense,, but just by reactions and observations. I don't even know how to explain it as I'm no author, but books from Austen and Heyer you can tell they have those feelings without the author writing their direct thoughts down over and over. Or even just rarely having their thoughts noted. But not over and over to fill space.
I would love to see Ms. Keyes writing expand to that level and hence be 5 stars always to me.
I did really enjoy this plot and liked how she nearly cleans up the drama, without stupidity. For example, the lousy husband blackmailing and trying too get the h to steal for him. Having the H take care of the mess simply and fairly realisticly.
In the end I did feel the story was worth it the price :)
I've enjoyed this series, but I removed a star primarily because I don't feel a good story requires the H and h to continually have their feelings repeated over and over. Their feelings should be more subtle to the plot (in my opinion). A great author can weave the love story in subtly by their actions and interactions. I don't mean displays of kissing all three time or that nonsense,, but just by reactions and observations. I don't even know how to explain it as I'm no author, but books from Austen and Heyer you can tell they have those feelings without the author writing their direct thoughts down over and over. Or even just rarely having their thoughts noted. But not over and over to fill space.
I would love to see Ms. Keyes writing expand to that level and hence be 5 stars always to me.
I did really enjoy this plot and liked how she nearly cleans up the drama, without stupidity. For example, the lousy husband blackmailing and trying too get the h to steal for him. Having the H take care of the mess simply and fairly realisticly.
In the end I did feel the story was worth it the price :)
May 16, 2025
Clara is accused on stealing while a ladies maid, because she spurns the advances of her lady’s new husband. She actually goes and steals his pocket watch in a fit of revenge. She is too scared to sell it, so she holds onto it. She marries a guy named John thinking he will protect her, but he turns out to be alcoholic with a gambling problem. He sells her to make some money, but promises to buy her back. The Duke, William, has recently inherited from a distance uncle. He sees the woman and feels bad for her. He buys her and brings her back to his estate. She is the only person he feels he can be himself with. Silas has returned from exile in France. He has to hide out in the Duke’s lodge as he is still wanted for murder. Clara becomes the servant William trusts to bring Silas food and watch out for him to avoid discovery. John shows up asking for more
money to pay his debtors. He threatens to tell the Duke about her theft, and embarrass the Duke if she tells him first. Clara confesses all (I liked this part, often you are screaming at the characters to just communicate, but Clara does the right thing at the right time). The Duke tells Clara he will meet John. When he does he gives John 50 pounds and tells him he will get the rest if he gives up alcohol and gambling. John doesn’t and is found dead one day. The Duke is trying to put his family’s need ahead of his own and that means marrying well, but the girl chosen by his steward at the house party wants to just give Silas money from afar instead of helping to clear his name. William’s female family members spot that he likes the maid. They dress her up to show William she can look the part of a Duchess. Once she is waiting for the Duke to get to the Lodge, she notices Silas is missing and chases after him trying to meet with the guy that framed him for murder, so he can talk reason with him (Silas must be a moron). The Duke finds them both missing but sees them on their return. He proposes to Clara and introduces her at the ball he is throwing as his fiancee. They get married, book ends with them expecting and giving permission for Silas to leave with them for London.
Liked that build up of feelings. Often this genre can make men seem very shallow, but the author develops practical things in addition to Clara’s beauty that attract William to her.
Disliked the unrealistic parts. I guess I’m not a big fan of the Cinderella story, but Keyes gives it a noble attempt suggesting he hates the nobles so he doesn’t care if he gets ostracized. It just seems super impractical: the whole family supported such a match, in that time, with the scandal. Seems very much like a modern age story dressed up in regency dresses. Keyes mentions in her note that it is loosely based on the Duke of Chandos. There are some pretty big differences between those stories, but it did make me feel like maybe I am overly judgmental on this. Also, Silas thinking he could convince a murder who framed him to come to an agreement so Silas can leave hiding. No, just no. Silas is an idiot and shouldn’t pass those genetics on to future generations. I get he was isolated and desperate, but not bringing any backup! Isn’t that how he got into this mess?
I could not root for an affair. Which meant most of the book was uncomfortable. I was uncomfortable with the kissing while Clara’s marriage was still valid. Vows mean something.
money to pay his debtors. He threatens to tell the Duke about her theft, and embarrass the Duke if she tells him first. Clara confesses all (I liked this part, often you are screaming at the characters to just communicate, but Clara does the right thing at the right time). The Duke tells Clara he will meet John. When he does he gives John 50 pounds and tells him he will get the rest if he gives up alcohol and gambling. John doesn’t and is found dead one day. The Duke is trying to put his family’s need ahead of his own and that means marrying well, but the girl chosen by his steward at the house party wants to just give Silas money from afar instead of helping to clear his name. William’s female family members spot that he likes the maid. They dress her up to show William she can look the part of a Duchess. Once she is waiting for the Duke to get to the Lodge, she notices Silas is missing and chases after him trying to meet with the guy that framed him for murder, so he can talk reason with him (Silas must be a moron). The Duke finds them both missing but sees them on their return. He proposes to Clara and introduces her at the ball he is throwing as his fiancee. They get married, book ends with them expecting and giving permission for Silas to leave with them for London.
Liked that build up of feelings. Often this genre can make men seem very shallow, but the author develops practical things in addition to Clara’s beauty that attract William to her.
Disliked the unrealistic parts. I guess I’m not a big fan of the Cinderella story, but Keyes gives it a noble attempt suggesting he hates the nobles so he doesn’t care if he gets ostracized. It just seems super impractical: the whole family supported such a match, in that time, with the scandal. Seems very much like a modern age story dressed up in regency dresses. Keyes mentions in her note that it is loosely based on the Duke of Chandos. There are some pretty big differences between those stories, but it did make me feel like maybe I am overly judgmental on this. Also, Silas thinking he could convince a murder who framed him to come to an agreement so Silas can leave hiding. No, just no. Silas is an idiot and shouldn’t pass those genetics on to future generations. I get he was isolated and desperate, but not bringing any backup! Isn’t that how he got into this mess?
I could not root for an affair. Which meant most of the book was uncomfortable. I was uncomfortable with the kissing while Clara’s marriage was still valid. Vows mean something.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
October 9, 2024
I really enjoyed this second book in the series which continues the story of the Yorke family. It is really best to read these books in order because the story-line picks up from the first book. This book focuses on the oldest brother William Yorke who had recently become the Duke of Rockwood. He wants to make his deceased father proud as he always wanted his sons to protect the family name. He knows he has to win the approval of the other lords because he is an unknown to them. He also knows that he has to overcome the scandal of his younger brother, Silas being accused of murder. In the previous story he had finely come to believe that Silas was actually innocent of the crime.
While William is traveling home from London, he stops in an inn. A young woman had found his signet ring and returned the important piece of jewelry to him. The next day as he is leaving the inn, he sees her being dragged away bound, by 3 men. He realizes that one of them is her drunken husband who is going to auction her off in the village. He cannot stand by without intervening to help this young woman making a deal with the husband.
Clara Quinn has always worked hard and she recently has a wonderful job as a lady's maid until the woman married a man that tried to seduce her. When she reviled him, he accused her of theft and she lost her job. With no reference for a new job she was desperate and she married a man who she thought would take care of her. Less than three weeks of marriage reveal he was a drunken gambler who stole all her money and wasted it. Then he totally humiliated her by selling her in the village market to the highest bidder so he could continue his drunken lifestyle. When the Duke of Rockwood purchased her, she had no place to go so she asked if he had a position in his household. Life continued to be difficult as the gossip about her and the Duke went through the household. She was given horrible jobs not in her position and the staff didn't want her to take meals with them. Just as she has decided it is time to leave the household to protect the Duke's reputation, she discovers a family secret. When the Duke discovered she was planning to leave, he asked her to stay and assist him with his family problem.
Will Clara decide to remain to help even though she knows there is no future for her with the Duke she has come to have feelings for? What will William do when he knows his heart is leaning towards Clara but he must marry someone else to save his brother Silas?
I received a copy of this book from the author and this is my honest unbiased review.
While William is traveling home from London, he stops in an inn. A young woman had found his signet ring and returned the important piece of jewelry to him. The next day as he is leaving the inn, he sees her being dragged away bound, by 3 men. He realizes that one of them is her drunken husband who is going to auction her off in the village. He cannot stand by without intervening to help this young woman making a deal with the husband.
Clara Quinn has always worked hard and she recently has a wonderful job as a lady's maid until the woman married a man that tried to seduce her. When she reviled him, he accused her of theft and she lost her job. With no reference for a new job she was desperate and she married a man who she thought would take care of her. Less than three weeks of marriage reveal he was a drunken gambler who stole all her money and wasted it. Then he totally humiliated her by selling her in the village market to the highest bidder so he could continue his drunken lifestyle. When the Duke of Rockwood purchased her, she had no place to go so she asked if he had a position in his household. Life continued to be difficult as the gossip about her and the Duke went through the household. She was given horrible jobs not in her position and the staff didn't want her to take meals with them. Just as she has decided it is time to leave the household to protect the Duke's reputation, she discovers a family secret. When the Duke discovered she was planning to leave, he asked her to stay and assist him with his family problem.
Will Clara decide to remain to help even though she knows there is no future for her with the Duke she has come to have feelings for? What will William do when he knows his heart is leaning towards Clara but he must marry someone else to save his brother Silas?
I received a copy of this book from the author and this is my honest unbiased review.
July 2, 2025
👑 Secrets of a Duke by Martha Keyes
A slow-burn Regency romance of secrets, social scandal, and quiet redemption—elegant and emotionally rich.
📚 Plot Snapshot
When Clara Quinn is sold by her husband and rescued by a brooding stranger, she has no idea he’s the newly titled Duke of Rockwood. Bound by duty and shadowed by scandal, William Yorke brings her into his household under pretenses, sparking a connection that challenges class divides and unlocks buried truths neither dared to face.
🖋 Writing Style & Vibe
✨ Elegant & Introspective – Graceful prose with emotional depth
✨ Slow-Burn Romance – Built on mutual respect, restraint, and gradual vulnerability
✨ Layered Themes – Touches of redemption, grace, and quiet spiritual undertones wrapped in polished historical detail
❤️ My Highlights
✨William Yorke: A reluctant duke with a heavy past, struggling to do right even when the consequences are steep. His protectiveness and self-control make him a deeply sympathetic hero.
✨Clara Quinn: From respectable maid to social outcast, her journey of reclaiming her worth was one of strength and grace.
✨I loved how their connection developed not through dramatics but quiet understanding, small kindnesses, and moral integrity.
✨The story’s exploration of dignity in disgrace and love forged in hardship gives it a thoughtful, spiritual depth that lingers.
✨Subtle Christian themes of redemption, forgiveness, and unseen value are woven in without overt preaching, adding heart and grounding.
🤔 What Fell Flat (if anything)
The pacing may feel slower to readers looking for high drama; it’s a character-driven narrative more than a plot-twisting one.
⭐ Final Rating + Shelf Status
3.5☆ | Thoughtful and well-written—keep-worthy for those who savor slow emotional arcs and understated romance.
🎯 For Readers Who Love:
✨ Class-crossing love stories
✨ Gentle, brooding heroes with past regrets
✨ Emotional healing over spicy tension
✨ A Regency setting with moral depth and grace
💕 The Swoon Scale 💕
💍 Swoon-Worthy Sparks: ★★★★☆ (3.5/5)
💬 Dialogue & Banter: ★★★★☆ (3.5/5)
🦋 Emotional Depth: ★★★★☆ (4/5)
📖 Re-Readability: ★★★★☆ (3.5/5)
🔍 Advisory Notes
🌶️ Spice: None
💬 Language: None
💞 Romance: Kisses only
ℹ️ Content Info: Emotional abuse (implied), Class prejudice, Public scandal and social ruin, Redemption themes
A slow-burn Regency romance of secrets, social scandal, and quiet redemption—elegant and emotionally rich.
📚 Plot Snapshot
When Clara Quinn is sold by her husband and rescued by a brooding stranger, she has no idea he’s the newly titled Duke of Rockwood. Bound by duty and shadowed by scandal, William Yorke brings her into his household under pretenses, sparking a connection that challenges class divides and unlocks buried truths neither dared to face.
🖋 Writing Style & Vibe
✨ Elegant & Introspective – Graceful prose with emotional depth
✨ Slow-Burn Romance – Built on mutual respect, restraint, and gradual vulnerability
✨ Layered Themes – Touches of redemption, grace, and quiet spiritual undertones wrapped in polished historical detail
❤️ My Highlights
✨William Yorke: A reluctant duke with a heavy past, struggling to do right even when the consequences are steep. His protectiveness and self-control make him a deeply sympathetic hero.
✨Clara Quinn: From respectable maid to social outcast, her journey of reclaiming her worth was one of strength and grace.
✨I loved how their connection developed not through dramatics but quiet understanding, small kindnesses, and moral integrity.
✨The story’s exploration of dignity in disgrace and love forged in hardship gives it a thoughtful, spiritual depth that lingers.
✨Subtle Christian themes of redemption, forgiveness, and unseen value are woven in without overt preaching, adding heart and grounding.
🤔 What Fell Flat (if anything)
The pacing may feel slower to readers looking for high drama; it’s a character-driven narrative more than a plot-twisting one.
⭐ Final Rating + Shelf Status
3.5☆ | Thoughtful and well-written—keep-worthy for those who savor slow emotional arcs and understated romance.
🎯 For Readers Who Love:
✨ Class-crossing love stories
✨ Gentle, brooding heroes with past regrets
✨ Emotional healing over spicy tension
✨ A Regency setting with moral depth and grace
💕 The Swoon Scale 💕
💍 Swoon-Worthy Sparks: ★★★★☆ (3.5/5)
💬 Dialogue & Banter: ★★★★☆ (3.5/5)
🦋 Emotional Depth: ★★★★☆ (4/5)
📖 Re-Readability: ★★★★☆ (3.5/5)
🔍 Advisory Notes
🌶️ Spice: None
💬 Language: None
💞 Romance: Kisses only
ℹ️ Content Info: Emotional abuse (implied), Class prejudice, Public scandal and social ruin, Redemption themes
June 21, 2025
Sweet read, but there were some awkward situations I couldn’t really wrap my brain around. Also, Clara seemed almost infatuated with the Duke pretty quickly. His journey towards her seemed more believable. I understand that Clara was shy, but her strength and character didn’t come across well to me because I didn’t feel like I had a lot of internal dialogue from her. William said as much, but it didn’t feel those were her actual feelings or motivations because of this internal dialogue I felt was missing. There was a whole lot of looking away and down at the floor without reading what her internal struggles truly were. I know some of it was written in there, but I don’t feel it was conveyed very properly.
Everything was wrapped up in a neat little bow with multiple problems being solved all at once at the end and that was a little jarring.
-Still married? Kill old husband - Check (saw this one coming)
-Family will accept Duke in love with a maid? They love her immediately even though she didn’t say much - Check
-Society will accept Clara as the next Duchess and to heck with what everyone thinks despite being curtailed by this very fact the whole book? Sure, just dress her up and walk her into a ballroom - Check
It happened very quickly and suddenly to me - and galloping off after Silas felt superfluous, as well. It was quick and underdeveloped.
That being said, I still read it pretty quickly and didn’t want to put it down. Four stars because it was still compelling enough for me to recommend and want to get through. So far, the first book is my favorite in the series. Excited to read Silas’s story as he seems like an indelible amount of fun!
Everything was wrapped up in a neat little bow with multiple problems being solved all at once at the end and that was a little jarring.
-Still married? Kill old husband - Check (saw this one coming)
-Family will accept Duke in love with a maid? They love her immediately even though she didn’t say much - Check
-Society will accept Clara as the next Duchess and to heck with what everyone thinks despite being curtailed by this very fact the whole book? Sure, just dress her up and walk her into a ballroom - Check
It happened very quickly and suddenly to me - and galloping off after Silas felt superfluous, as well. It was quick and underdeveloped.
That being said, I still read it pretty quickly and didn’t want to put it down. Four stars because it was still compelling enough for me to recommend and want to get through. So far, the first book is my favorite in the series. Excited to read Silas’s story as he seems like an indelible amount of fun!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
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