What do you think?
Rate this book
Viennese Waltz #1
The Forgotten Duke
When a penniless Viennese musician is told she may be an English duke’s wife, a quest for lost love begins.
Amid the glamour and intrigue of the Congress of Vienna, Lena Arenheim and her musical family perform at aristocratic soirees to make ends meet. When, out of the blue, the sister of the arrogant Duke of Aldingbourne proclaims Lena to be her brother's long-lost duchess, her safe but small world is turned upside down. Amid opulent ballrooms and echoes of forgotten memories, Lina embarks on a quest to uncover the secrets of her past.
For Julius Stafford-Hill, Duke of Aldingbourne, the wounds of a tragic loss still linger after eight long years. When he encounters a woman who bears an uncanny resemblance to his late wife Catherine, he will do anything to uncover the truth, even if it means immersing himself in her world and facing the everyday challenges of a common middle-class life.
Can the lost Duchess be found, and can they rebuild a love that transcends the boundaries of time and circumstance?
This is a sweet and clean Regency romance and the first book of the Viennese Waltz
Set against the backdrop of Vienna’s 1814 elegance, diplomacy, and intrigue, this series twirls through the entwined destinies of friends, enemies, and lost lovers in charming tales of love, desire and courtship.
My Lady, Will you Dance?
Amid the glamour and intrigue of the Congress of Vienna, Lena Arenheim and her musical family perform at aristocratic soirees to make ends meet. When, out of the blue, the sister of the arrogant Duke of Aldingbourne proclaims Lena to be her brother's long-lost duchess, her safe but small world is turned upside down. Amid opulent ballrooms and echoes of forgotten memories, Lina embarks on a quest to uncover the secrets of her past.
For Julius Stafford-Hill, Duke of Aldingbourne, the wounds of a tragic loss still linger after eight long years. When he encounters a woman who bears an uncanny resemblance to his late wife Catherine, he will do anything to uncover the truth, even if it means immersing himself in her world and facing the everyday challenges of a common middle-class life.
Can the lost Duchess be found, and can they rebuild a love that transcends the boundaries of time and circumstance?
This is a sweet and clean Regency romance and the first book of the Viennese Waltz
Set against the backdrop of Vienna’s 1814 elegance, diplomacy, and intrigue, this series twirls through the entwined destinies of friends, enemies, and lost lovers in charming tales of love, desire and courtship.
My Lady, Will you Dance?
350 pages, Kindle Edition
Published October 28, 2024
376 people are currently reading
206 people want to read
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 83 reviews
October 14, 2025
3.75 stars
I fell in love with the charming prequel novella, My Lady, Will You Dance?, and this first novel in the series did not disappoint. Okay, the first half was a little on the absurd side (esp. the spying sub-plot) though the amnesia premise was interesting. The second half was utterly sweet and wholesome and here's where things got real. Sofi Laporte has a knack for writing with gentle emotional depth and she excelled in that once the romance really picked up. Julius and Catherine/Lena exuded honesty in their tender feelings.
Heartily recommended series!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
October 29, 2024
Wonderful is not a big enough word to describe this story. From the very first pages the book pulled me into the characters' lives. The historical background of the Congress of Vienna adds to the richness of the story.
The beginning of the story seems to be a comparison between the lives of a penniless Viennese musician, Lena Arenheim, trying to provide for her family and the richness of the life of
Julius Stafford-Hill, the Duke of Aldingbourne who was attending the Congress. He was well known and also came across as very precise and cold. When his sister tells him he saw a woman who looked like Catherine - you begin to see the first cracks in his cold composure. He didn't want to discuss his dead wife and he didn't believe a word she said until he too got a look at the musician who was the replica of his wife Catherine down to the birthmark on her face.
Julius was determined to discover the truth about the woman so he must discover where she lives.
Lena has no memories of the Duke or their marriage. She was found half dead after a carriage accident in Scotland many years before. The doctor who helped heal her, adopted her into his family of three children and gave her a new name. Lena was pregnant and had a son who was now eight years old. Is it possible the Duke's wife is still alive and he actually has an heir?
Can Julius prove that Lena is his missing duchess and what will happen if her forgotten memories come back?
This is a story that I definitely would read over and over. I am looking forward to the next book in the series.
I received a copy of this book form the author and this is my honest unbiased review.
The beginning of the story seems to be a comparison between the lives of a penniless Viennese musician, Lena Arenheim, trying to provide for her family and the richness of the life of
Julius Stafford-Hill, the Duke of Aldingbourne who was attending the Congress. He was well known and also came across as very precise and cold. When his sister tells him he saw a woman who looked like Catherine - you begin to see the first cracks in his cold composure. He didn't want to discuss his dead wife and he didn't believe a word she said until he too got a look at the musician who was the replica of his wife Catherine down to the birthmark on her face.
Julius was determined to discover the truth about the woman so he must discover where she lives.
Lena has no memories of the Duke or their marriage. She was found half dead after a carriage accident in Scotland many years before. The doctor who helped heal her, adopted her into his family of three children and gave her a new name. Lena was pregnant and had a son who was now eight years old. Is it possible the Duke's wife is still alive and he actually has an heir?
Can Julius prove that Lena is his missing duchess and what will happen if her forgotten memories come back?
This is a story that I definitely would read over and over. I am looking forward to the next book in the series.
I received a copy of this book form the author and this is my honest unbiased review.
December 12, 2024
Recommended by Kim I wasn’t sure if I liked it for the first few chapters but I stuck with it and soon fell in love with the Von Trapp (I mean Arenheim) family and the slow romance. The Viennese setting and historical details were an added bonus. I’ll read more.
January 2, 2026
ughhhh, there is something about the 1800s that is so enjoyable to read. This is another very cute, angsty romance 😍
October 28, 2024
Julius, Duke of Aldingbourne, never knew how much his wife cared for him until she left him - and was promptly killed in a carriage accident. He's grieved her, and what might have been, ever since. So seeing her alive in Vienna as a musician with four children is an extreme shock. Lena remembers nothing of her life before an accident introduced her to Simon Arenheim and his children, but she and the children have since become everything to each other, particularly following Simon's death. When a man claims to be her husband, she's horrified, and fearful of losing her family. But the man strikes a chord in her vanished memories, and he's determined to make things right. Can the pair overcome past hurts and long separation to make a true marriage at last?
A delightful read with plenty of twists, a range of characters who I really came to care about, the odd bit of spying, moments of tenderness and some good humour. There's something special about watching people who have been estranged come together again, and tossing amnesia into the mix makes it all the more interesting! I loved Lena's relationship with her children, and seeing Julius develop his own relationship with them, particularly Hector, is also touching. I thought the spying might play a more prominent role in the story, but I suspect it would have distracted from the main story, so I'm glad it doesn't. Now I'm hoping Julius' friends get their own stories, because I want to see more of them and the Congress. Recommended.
Note that I received a complimentary copy of the book from the author. I was not required to write a positive review and this is my considered opinion of the book.
A delightful read with plenty of twists, a range of characters who I really came to care about, the odd bit of spying, moments of tenderness and some good humour. There's something special about watching people who have been estranged come together again, and tossing amnesia into the mix makes it all the more interesting! I loved Lena's relationship with her children, and seeing Julius develop his own relationship with them, particularly Hector, is also touching. I thought the spying might play a more prominent role in the story, but I suspect it would have distracted from the main story, so I'm glad it doesn't. Now I'm hoping Julius' friends get their own stories, because I want to see more of them and the Congress. Recommended.
Note that I received a complimentary copy of the book from the author. I was not required to write a positive review and this is my considered opinion of the book.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
October 28, 2024
WOW! Another clever, heart-warming book by Sofi Laporte. I love LOVE strong, witty female MC’s who DO NOT SIMPER! And our Lena does not. Nor does the male MC simper either. In fact, he’s very manly, intelligent and handsome and I thoroughly enjoy this.
I couldn’t put the book down and even finished the last few pages during a concert. I learned a lot about French cuisine, the palace and how broad the cultures were during that time which I’m sure was scrupulously researched. I appreciate that. The writing was such that you could smell the market place and picture the gowns both peasants and royal wore.
I couldn’t put the book down and even finished the last few pages during a concert. I learned a lot about French cuisine, the palace and how broad the cultures were during that time which I’m sure was scrupulously researched. I appreciate that. The writing was such that you could smell the market place and picture the gowns both peasants and royal wore.
October 19, 2024
An enchanting story of love and second chances.. Heartfelt and emotional.. Really enjoyed it.
December 7, 2024
A mysterious “resurrection “.
The encounter between the Duke and his amnesiac wife, whom he’d believed he’d buried 8 years ago, weaves together two worlds: that of the aristocracy, and that of the working poor, in the political maelstrom that was the Council of Amiens. Laporte has developed into an excellent author. Her writing is so good, ditto the editing, and it combines wit, humour and poignancy with compassion and depth of character. The denouement is just superb. Highly recommended.
The encounter between the Duke and his amnesiac wife, whom he’d believed he’d buried 8 years ago, weaves together two worlds: that of the aristocracy, and that of the working poor, in the political maelstrom that was the Council of Amiens. Laporte has developed into an excellent author. Her writing is so good, ditto the editing, and it combines wit, humour and poignancy with compassion and depth of character. The denouement is just superb. Highly recommended.
December 31, 2025
Teased by the epilogue of the novella prequel, I immediately looked up this book to read. It was slightly disappointing in comparison to the novella, but I still enjoyed it. I found it disappointing in some of the plot points, but the overall idea was creative.
October 20, 2024
He lost her before he realized the treasure he had in her. Her amnesia provided his second chance and with her new family, he seeks to redeem himself. Wonderfully tender love story amidst politics, spies, love triangles and tons of music.
I received an ARC of this romantic tale and leaving my review voluntarily.
I received an ARC of this romantic tale and leaving my review voluntarily.
March 24, 2025
Very interesting story. The heroine did get on my nerves a bit by being clumsy. She fell into horse shit and twice she didn't look before crossing the street.
November 14, 2024
This is a sweet and darling story about a young woman, Helena Arenheim, living in Vienna and raising her children on her own after their father suddenly dies. She, her three sons and one daughter are all musically talented. While she’s barely making ends meet, with the help of her neighbors and a few musical gigs, they get by.
It’s around 1815, and the Congress of Vienna is about to get underway. Their purpose is to create a plan to establish peace in Europe following the Napoleonic Wars. Diplomats have arrived from all over Europe, including Englishman Julius Stafford-Hill, the Duke of Aldingbourne. It isn’t long until Helena’s and the Duke’s paths cross, and a secret is discovered.
This is a delightful book about learning the value of love, of beginning a new life with a new family, diplomacy, and a touch of espionage. There’s a bit of everything, an arranged marriage, amnesia, death of a parent, class differences, political wrangling, children, and most of all true love. Everything works together beautifully. While a few things might stretch reality a bit, it’s mostly believable and engaging. I loved every page of this book.
If you enjoy historical romance, this book is definitely worth a read to see how people who appear to come from such disparate backgrounds discover so much common ground. I found the children especially entertaining and amusing, in the best ways possible. Several real-life historical personages of renown make appearances in this tale. I highly recommend this book from an author who never lets her readers down.
I received an advanced reader copy of this book from the author. I thank her for her generosity, but it had no effect on this review. All opinions in this review reflect my true and honest reactions to reading this book.
It’s around 1815, and the Congress of Vienna is about to get underway. Their purpose is to create a plan to establish peace in Europe following the Napoleonic Wars. Diplomats have arrived from all over Europe, including Englishman Julius Stafford-Hill, the Duke of Aldingbourne. It isn’t long until Helena’s and the Duke’s paths cross, and a secret is discovered.
This is a delightful book about learning the value of love, of beginning a new life with a new family, diplomacy, and a touch of espionage. There’s a bit of everything, an arranged marriage, amnesia, death of a parent, class differences, political wrangling, children, and most of all true love. Everything works together beautifully. While a few things might stretch reality a bit, it’s mostly believable and engaging. I loved every page of this book.
If you enjoy historical romance, this book is definitely worth a read to see how people who appear to come from such disparate backgrounds discover so much common ground. I found the children especially entertaining and amusing, in the best ways possible. Several real-life historical personages of renown make appearances in this tale. I highly recommend this book from an author who never lets her readers down.
I received an advanced reader copy of this book from the author. I thank her for her generosity, but it had no effect on this review. All opinions in this review reflect my true and honest reactions to reading this book.
November 18, 2025
I had forgotten that this author uses so much real emotion and human interaction that you don’t need bedroom scenes to show how a beautiful love evolved! We have Helena aka Lena aka Duchess of Aldingbourne and Julius Duke of Aldingbourne her husband!
She has been missing and presumed dead for 8 years! She meets Evie his sister by accident and her world is rocked on its hinges!
Lena has 4 children and a couple of pets! She’s been quite busy!
It takes the cold Duke Julius some time to reconcile the fact that this is his wife! He also can’t get over Hector! You will have to read the book! 😉
He has a ready made family and it’s all or none as she is Helena Arenheim “wife” of a prominent older physician who died suddenly and left her to take care of 4 children and a household!
Julius moves in and becomes a commoner determined to woo his wife and her new family! Can he succeed?
When he also invites them to his world the truth comes out! Can they rebuild a marriage and the lies that Catherine was told that tear them apart!
You won’t put this one down! I stayed up way past my bedtime! Each character stays with you long after the last page! Bravo
She has been missing and presumed dead for 8 years! She meets Evie his sister by accident and her world is rocked on its hinges!
Lena has 4 children and a couple of pets! She’s been quite busy!
It takes the cold Duke Julius some time to reconcile the fact that this is his wife! He also can’t get over Hector! You will have to read the book! 😉
He has a ready made family and it’s all or none as she is Helena Arenheim “wife” of a prominent older physician who died suddenly and left her to take care of 4 children and a household!
Julius moves in and becomes a commoner determined to woo his wife and her new family! Can he succeed?
When he also invites them to his world the truth comes out! Can they rebuild a marriage and the lies that Catherine was told that tear them apart!
You won’t put this one down! I stayed up way past my bedtime! Each character stays with you long after the last page! Bravo
February 15, 2025
2.5 stars
Last year, I binged on this author's books. I joyously devoured all her regency romances published by then and hankered for more. But this book disappointed. Its idea had merits, but the execution sucked, and the editing was horrible. For example, one character, Theo, a stepson of the heroine of the story, was introduced as a 12-year-old boy at one point and as a man of 21 at another. He behaves like a young teenager throughout the story though. If he were 21, an adult in any culture, why doesn't he work and support his family financially? Why does the burden of money-making falls on his stepmother, while she already has another three young children to care for?
His full name also fluctuates. At one point, he is Theophil. A few chapters before that, he was Theseus or some other Greek hero name I don't remember. His siblings all have mythical Greek names as well, so at least it was consistent, while Theophil stood out.
Overall: bleh.
Last year, I binged on this author's books. I joyously devoured all her regency romances published by then and hankered for more. But this book disappointed. Its idea had merits, but the execution sucked, and the editing was horrible. For example, one character, Theo, a stepson of the heroine of the story, was introduced as a 12-year-old boy at one point and as a man of 21 at another. He behaves like a young teenager throughout the story though. If he were 21, an adult in any culture, why doesn't he work and support his family financially? Why does the burden of money-making falls on his stepmother, while she already has another three young children to care for?
His full name also fluctuates. At one point, he is Theophil. A few chapters before that, he was Theseus or some other Greek hero name I don't remember. His siblings all have mythical Greek names as well, so at least it was consistent, while Theophil stood out.
Overall: bleh.
November 4, 2024
Sofi Laporte has a gift for transporting readers to a bygone era and immersing them in that world from the first page to the last, making any book by her next to impossible to put down! The Forgotten Duke follows this pattern and embroils the reader in a world of scandal, gossip, mysteries and secrets, with a Viennese spy network so intricate that “one cannot sneeze without Prince Metternich hearing about it.”
The cast of The Forgotten Duke is a clever mix of real historical figures and fictional characters, who draw you into their lives and allow you a glimpse of a time long gone. An era where the contrast between rich and poor was even more pronounced than it is today, and the juxtaposition of two such lives was fascinating to behold! -
Julius Stafford-Hill, Duke of Aldingbourne lost his wife Catherine eight years ago in a tragic carriage accident, and the grief near tore him apart. Imagine his shock then, when he beholds his Catherine alive and well, playing the pianoforte at a ball hosted by Prince Metternich himself during the Congress in Austria. Why is she dressed as an 18th century musician? Who are the other people she’s performing with and why does his own wife not recognise him?
These questions and more are answered in one of the most enchanting and gripping stories I have ever had the pleasure of reading. I won’t go into much detail, for fear of spoilers, but the Duke is so determined to help Catherine regain her memory that he agrees to get to know her and her children by experiencing the life of a poor person, with none of his wealth or trappings for a month and the results are entertaining to say the least!
I have to date read all of Sofi’s books. Each one was excellent, but I would go so far as to say that this one was the best of all! The plot was intriguing with the perfect mix of humour and mystery, the characters were realistic and perfectly flawed, the twists were impossible to predict and the prose was poetic and spellbinding!
This book is book two in the Viennese Waltz series and can be read as a standalone, but your reading experience will certainly be enriched if you read ‘My Lady Will You Dance?’ first, as many of the characters are first introduced in that book.
I highly recommend The Forgotten Duke to fans of Regency, new and old alike. Sofi’s writing will surely turn any reader who is as yet unfamiliar with the Regency genre into a lifelong fan who is constantly thirsting for more of that world. Luckily for them, Sofi has another fourteen books to satisfy that craving, with more on the way.
I was privileged to receive an early copy of this book and all opinions are my own.
The cast of The Forgotten Duke is a clever mix of real historical figures and fictional characters, who draw you into their lives and allow you a glimpse of a time long gone. An era where the contrast between rich and poor was even more pronounced than it is today, and the juxtaposition of two such lives was fascinating to behold! -
Julius Stafford-Hill, Duke of Aldingbourne lost his wife Catherine eight years ago in a tragic carriage accident, and the grief near tore him apart. Imagine his shock then, when he beholds his Catherine alive and well, playing the pianoforte at a ball hosted by Prince Metternich himself during the Congress in Austria. Why is she dressed as an 18th century musician? Who are the other people she’s performing with and why does his own wife not recognise him?
These questions and more are answered in one of the most enchanting and gripping stories I have ever had the pleasure of reading. I won’t go into much detail, for fear of spoilers, but the Duke is so determined to help Catherine regain her memory that he agrees to get to know her and her children by experiencing the life of a poor person, with none of his wealth or trappings for a month and the results are entertaining to say the least!
I have to date read all of Sofi’s books. Each one was excellent, but I would go so far as to say that this one was the best of all! The plot was intriguing with the perfect mix of humour and mystery, the characters were realistic and perfectly flawed, the twists were impossible to predict and the prose was poetic and spellbinding!
This book is book two in the Viennese Waltz series and can be read as a standalone, but your reading experience will certainly be enriched if you read ‘My Lady Will You Dance?’ first, as many of the characters are first introduced in that book.
I highly recommend The Forgotten Duke to fans of Regency, new and old alike. Sofi’s writing will surely turn any reader who is as yet unfamiliar with the Regency genre into a lifelong fan who is constantly thirsting for more of that world. Luckily for them, Sofi has another fourteen books to satisfy that craving, with more on the way.
I was privileged to receive an early copy of this book and all opinions are my own.
October 29, 2024
“Truth conquers.”
-I give 4.5 stars!
~When a penniless Viennese musician is
told she may be an English duke’s wife, a quest for lost love begins…
“Never be ashamed of love. “Especially when it is
unrequited. Because then the heart has to gather all its strength to love even more so it can let go. Even if it
feels like your heart is breaking, you’ll have loved the noblest love of all.”
-The Forgotten Duke, is a sweet and clean Regency romance, as well as the first book of the Viennese Waltz Series. Set against the backdrop of Vienna’s 1814 elegance, diplomacy, and intrigue, this series twirls through the entwined destinies of friends, enemies, and lost lovers in charming tales of love, desire and courtship. I found this story to be a delightful read. It is precisely weaved with plenty of twists, a great amount of endearing characters, a bit of spying, and many moments of tenderness and delightful humor. In addition to the vivid details and imagery, that nicely brings this heartfelt story to life, includes an amnesia trope, that offers an interesting and unique set up for the journey of second chance romance. It’s a story that is worth the read!🙌🏻📚 🎶
“We belong together. All of us.”
-Content: amnesia, minor language, a bit of spying, a moment with alcohol infused cherries.
“That kiss. It had all come rushing back to her, overwhelming her, while at the same time wrapping her in a feeling of homecoming after a long journey.”
#theforgottenduke
#allaboutthebestreads
“I want a new beginning with you. Now. Based on the present, not haunted by the past.”
-I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book which I received from the author. All views expressed are only my honest opinion.
“No more regrets. No more torment. We have now. The
present to focus on. A family to care for. A love to rediscover.”
-I give 4.5 stars!
~When a penniless Viennese musician is
told she may be an English duke’s wife, a quest for lost love begins…
“Never be ashamed of love. “Especially when it is
unrequited. Because then the heart has to gather all its strength to love even more so it can let go. Even if it
feels like your heart is breaking, you’ll have loved the noblest love of all.”
-The Forgotten Duke, is a sweet and clean Regency romance, as well as the first book of the Viennese Waltz Series. Set against the backdrop of Vienna’s 1814 elegance, diplomacy, and intrigue, this series twirls through the entwined destinies of friends, enemies, and lost lovers in charming tales of love, desire and courtship. I found this story to be a delightful read. It is precisely weaved with plenty of twists, a great amount of endearing characters, a bit of spying, and many moments of tenderness and delightful humor. In addition to the vivid details and imagery, that nicely brings this heartfelt story to life, includes an amnesia trope, that offers an interesting and unique set up for the journey of second chance romance. It’s a story that is worth the read!🙌🏻📚 🎶
“We belong together. All of us.”
-Content: amnesia, minor language, a bit of spying, a moment with alcohol infused cherries.
“That kiss. It had all come rushing back to her, overwhelming her, while at the same time wrapping her in a feeling of homecoming after a long journey.”
#theforgottenduke
#allaboutthebestreads
“I want a new beginning with you. Now. Based on the present, not haunted by the past.”
-I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book which I received from the author. All views expressed are only my honest opinion.
“No more regrets. No more torment. We have now. The
present to focus on. A family to care for. A love to rediscover.”
January 3, 2025
Lena Arenheim is trying to secure musical performances for her penurious family when a strange woman calls out to her on the street–“Catherine?” Perplexed, Lena brushes off the encounter, but it is not long before the woman’s brother, Julius, Duke of Aldingbourne, declares that Lena is none other than his duchess Catherine who had been presumed dead. The trouble is, Lena can’t remember anything that happened before she hit her head after a carriage accident in Scotland. Is this her husband? If so, what will happen to the family she’s forged for herself in Vienna, including her own young son and three adopted children?
Julius, the Duke of Aldingbourne, never knew he was in love with his wife until she was gone. When visiting Austria for the Congress of Vienna after the Napoleonic Wars, he learns that the woman he buried in Scotland might not have been his wife after all. But this new Catherine, Lena Arenheim, is not the shy flower he married–rather, she is the living heartbeat of a household of rambunctious children. Can he extricate her from the new life she has created without being as much of brute as he was in the past? And if Lena recovers her memory, will she like the husband that she remembers?
Usually Sofi Laporte novels (at least, the ones I’ve read) or more lighthearted, but this book had depth to it that set it apart. The historical backdrop of the Congress of Vienna is unusual for a Regency romance and utterly fascinating. Prince Metternich’s network of spies form an important piece of the plot as well as the infighting between the Austrians, Russians, and English. Lena’s effervescent children add humour to the story, and Julius’ noble efforts to atone for his past make him a hero to be admired.
I had a three hour car ride to family’s for the holidays and finished this book in one sitting on the way there. Recommended.
Julius, the Duke of Aldingbourne, never knew he was in love with his wife until she was gone. When visiting Austria for the Congress of Vienna after the Napoleonic Wars, he learns that the woman he buried in Scotland might not have been his wife after all. But this new Catherine, Lena Arenheim, is not the shy flower he married–rather, she is the living heartbeat of a household of rambunctious children. Can he extricate her from the new life she has created without being as much of brute as he was in the past? And if Lena recovers her memory, will she like the husband that she remembers?
Usually Sofi Laporte novels (at least, the ones I’ve read) or more lighthearted, but this book had depth to it that set it apart. The historical backdrop of the Congress of Vienna is unusual for a Regency romance and utterly fascinating. Prince Metternich’s network of spies form an important piece of the plot as well as the infighting between the Austrians, Russians, and English. Lena’s effervescent children add humour to the story, and Julius’ noble efforts to atone for his past make him a hero to be admired.
I had a three hour car ride to family’s for the holidays and finished this book in one sitting on the way there. Recommended.
July 26, 2025
When I started this book, I did not realize it had Evie and her brother from My Lady Will You Dance. I love it when characters from one book get their own book. I bet Evie gets her own book, too. I have to read it.
Evie saw a woman on the street who was the spitting image right down to the birthmark of her brother's dead wife Catherine. The woman said she was not Catherine, but Helena. Evie went home and told her brother Julian that she saw this woman. Julius, who has a ton of guilt about his long dead wife, gets pretty angry with Evie.
Imagine his surprise in a couple of weeks when he saw her at a party. Evie was right!
Helena is the Mama of a small horde of children Thao( who is only 8 years younger than her) Mona, Achilles and her biological son Hector. They call the young boys Hecky and Les, and I love it. Simon, who is the older children's father, died, and Helena has kept them together poor as church mice, but rich in love and loyalty.
When Julian approaches Helena, who goes by Lena, he tells her who he believes her to be and even tells her of a birthmark only an intimate partner would know. Lena told the story of how she was found and how Simon had taken her in. As the truth comes out, it becomes obvious that Hector is Julian's son.
This book does a really great job of showing how strongly the children feel about their Mama. They make Juian come live their life.They make him prove he deserves them.
He does indeed prove that he loves and wants them all in his life.
The climax of the book where Juilan once again thinks he is too late was some of the best writing I've ever read. I was so swept away in that scene. It was perfect, every second of it. I almost cried with Hecky. I almost cried writing that.
Honestly, if you aren't reading Sofie Laporte's books, you are really missing out!
Evie saw a woman on the street who was the spitting image right down to the birthmark of her brother's dead wife Catherine. The woman said she was not Catherine, but Helena. Evie went home and told her brother Julian that she saw this woman. Julius, who has a ton of guilt about his long dead wife, gets pretty angry with Evie.
Imagine his surprise in a couple of weeks when he saw her at a party. Evie was right!
Helena is the Mama of a small horde of children Thao( who is only 8 years younger than her) Mona, Achilles and her biological son Hector. They call the young boys Hecky and Les, and I love it. Simon, who is the older children's father, died, and Helena has kept them together poor as church mice, but rich in love and loyalty.
When Julian approaches Helena, who goes by Lena, he tells her who he believes her to be and even tells her of a birthmark only an intimate partner would know. Lena told the story of how she was found and how Simon had taken her in. As the truth comes out, it becomes obvious that Hector is Julian's son.
This book does a really great job of showing how strongly the children feel about their Mama. They make Juian come live their life.They make him prove he deserves them.
He does indeed prove that he loves and wants them all in his life.
The climax of the book where Juilan once again thinks he is too late was some of the best writing I've ever read. I was so swept away in that scene. It was perfect, every second of it. I almost cried with Hecky. I almost cried writing that.
Honestly, if you aren't reading Sofie Laporte's books, you are really missing out!
January 12, 2026
3.5 stars (I'm always cursing Goodreads' whole star policy! lol)
Although "The Forgotten Duke" uses a similar plot device to the prequel, "My Lady, Will You Dance?”— a missing beloved rediscovered — it didn’t feel repetitive. Familiar characters carried over from book to book in a way that added continuity and warmth rather than sameness, while the introduction of new characters kept the story feeling fresh.
The romance here is more of a slow burn, followed by a shift that feels almost abrupt — though that may be intentional, mirroring the way the lost memories of a character could resurface. Whether by design or coincidence, it worked for me more than it didn’t.
One unexpected delight was the presence of the children, who immediately brought the Von Trapp family from "The Sound of Music" film to mind. I couldn’t unsee it and, honestly, it added another layer of enjoyment to the reading experience.
As with "My Lady," the pacing is handled well. The author avoids the trap of over-describing every historical detail at the expense of momentum, keeping the story focused and readable. Overall, this felt like a slightly stronger entry than "My Lady, Will You Dance?" — not dramatically different, but more emotionally engaging and confident in its execution.
If you enjoy gentle historical romance with a guaranteed happy ending and steady storytelling, this series fits that niche nicely.
Although "The Forgotten Duke" uses a similar plot device to the prequel, "My Lady, Will You Dance?”— a missing beloved rediscovered — it didn’t feel repetitive. Familiar characters carried over from book to book in a way that added continuity and warmth rather than sameness, while the introduction of new characters kept the story feeling fresh.
The romance here is more of a slow burn, followed by a shift that feels almost abrupt — though that may be intentional, mirroring the way the lost memories of a character could resurface. Whether by design or coincidence, it worked for me more than it didn’t.
One unexpected delight was the presence of the children, who immediately brought the Von Trapp family from "The Sound of Music" film to mind. I couldn’t unsee it and, honestly, it added another layer of enjoyment to the reading experience.
As with "My Lady," the pacing is handled well. The author avoids the trap of over-describing every historical detail at the expense of momentum, keeping the story focused and readable. Overall, this felt like a slightly stronger entry than "My Lady, Will You Dance?" — not dramatically different, but more emotionally engaging and confident in its execution.
If you enjoy gentle historical romance with a guaranteed happy ending and steady storytelling, this series fits that niche nicely.
October 24, 2024
🎵The Forgotten Duke🎵 by #SofiLaporte is a gut wrenching novel full of unexpected twists and too many forgotten memories.
** I would like to express my thanks to ☆ Sofi Laporte ☆ for providing me this ARC in exchange for an honest review **
This book was like a super dramatic drama. Long lost love, amnesia, and a spy network. What would you do if your beloved husband/wife died, but only happened to reappear, quite alive, and with no recollection of you. What tragedy and despair these characters had to overcome as they had to come to grasps with the fact that they were strangers that once loved each other. This book was page turning as class struggles, and high tension ran between the main characters.
The family dynamics was sweet between the characters, and the duke learning and doing his best to become part of the family was endearing to read. I especially loved the dedication of the characters to finding out the truth, and revealing it when necessary. Both characters held open communication with each other, that was to die for! The banter and antics between the family members was hilarious. And, I thoroughly enjoyed reading about the history of Vienna.
I highly recommend to any regency fan!
Repost of Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/p/DBebcYPPMAy/
** I would like to express my thanks to ☆ Sofi Laporte ☆ for providing me this ARC in exchange for an honest review **
This book was like a super dramatic drama. Long lost love, amnesia, and a spy network. What would you do if your beloved husband/wife died, but only happened to reappear, quite alive, and with no recollection of you. What tragedy and despair these characters had to overcome as they had to come to grasps with the fact that they were strangers that once loved each other. This book was page turning as class struggles, and high tension ran between the main characters.
The family dynamics was sweet between the characters, and the duke learning and doing his best to become part of the family was endearing to read. I especially loved the dedication of the characters to finding out the truth, and revealing it when necessary. Both characters held open communication with each other, that was to die for! The banter and antics between the family members was hilarious. And, I thoroughly enjoyed reading about the history of Vienna.
I highly recommend to any regency fan!
Repost of Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/p/DBebcYPPMAy/
February 24, 2025
So good! I just loved this book. It’s a highly engaging historical romance full of political intrigue, forgotten identities, and the bond of family.
A duke and his lost duchess are given a second chance in marriage when she is discovered alive and well 8 years after the tragic accident that was thought to have taken her life. She has lost her memory and started a new life, having been taken in by a kind doctor and become a mother to his 3 children and her own son, whom she was found pregnant with. Though the doctor has since died, they remain a tight and loving family of performing musicians. It’s during one of their performances that she is seen and recognized by her husband.
This is a beautiful story of new and rekindled love as their lives once again cross and blend together. This book is sweet and heartwarming, and I can’t recommend it enough.
Content:
There’s no foul language, violence, or sex. There are many mentions of mistresses and infidelity, but the romance itself is limited to a few lightly descriptive kisses. There is no real mention of God or faith.
A duke and his lost duchess are given a second chance in marriage when she is discovered alive and well 8 years after the tragic accident that was thought to have taken her life. She has lost her memory and started a new life, having been taken in by a kind doctor and become a mother to his 3 children and her own son, whom she was found pregnant with. Though the doctor has since died, they remain a tight and loving family of performing musicians. It’s during one of their performances that she is seen and recognized by her husband.
This is a beautiful story of new and rekindled love as their lives once again cross and blend together. This book is sweet and heartwarming, and I can’t recommend it enough.
Content:
There’s no foul language, violence, or sex. There are many mentions of mistresses and infidelity, but the romance itself is limited to a few lightly descriptive kisses. There is no real mention of God or faith.
June 15, 2025
Lena, a Viennese musician and “mother” to five children, tells one of them (only eight years her junior), “Love is never stupid. Especially when it is unrequited. Because then the heart has to gather all its strength to love even more so it can let go. Even if it feels like your heart is breaking, you’ll have loved the noblest love of all.”
Little did she know that such was the theme of her own story.
In the midst of the intrigues of the Congress of Vienna, powerful men and women move like shadows in and out of Lena’s world while she seeks to provide for her orphaned brood in a culture that only honors male musical virtuosos.
This playful intrigue glories in strong females in a society that demands submission, while wagging a finger at those who would use their feminine wiles to gain sexual favors, and hence, status. I love how family bonds are cherished and class prejudices are pushed aside in this treatise of what might have been. It’s not meant to be a real historical novel, but it sure is fun!
Little did she know that such was the theme of her own story.
In the midst of the intrigues of the Congress of Vienna, powerful men and women move like shadows in and out of Lena’s world while she seeks to provide for her orphaned brood in a culture that only honors male musical virtuosos.
This playful intrigue glories in strong females in a society that demands submission, while wagging a finger at those who would use their feminine wiles to gain sexual favors, and hence, status. I love how family bonds are cherished and class prejudices are pushed aside in this treatise of what might have been. It’s not meant to be a real historical novel, but it sure is fun!
July 26, 2025
The Forgotten Duke absolutely captivated me and I resented having to put it down even to sleep.
It takes place during the first congress of Vienna. The British group includes the Duke of Aldingbourne, Julius Stafford-Hill and his sister. He is a widower of 8 years.
Lena Arenheim is a widow trying to support her four children and having little success. They are musicians and hope to be chosen to entertain at some of the parties for the congress.
One day as Lena trudges home after a fruitless search for work, an English lady grabs her and calls her Catherine. She cries and hugs her even as Lena tries to tell her she is mistaken.
The head of the notorious espionage for Vienna offers Lena and her family a venue in which to perform for the visitors in exchange for information about who talks to whom...etc. Lena's cupboards are bare so she agrees.
When the Duke of Aldingbourne sees Lena he nearly faints. He feels she must be his deceased wife for they are identical.
I found this story absolutely absorbing and fascinating. 5*****
It takes place during the first congress of Vienna. The British group includes the Duke of Aldingbourne, Julius Stafford-Hill and his sister. He is a widower of 8 years.
Lena Arenheim is a widow trying to support her four children and having little success. They are musicians and hope to be chosen to entertain at some of the parties for the congress.
One day as Lena trudges home after a fruitless search for work, an English lady grabs her and calls her Catherine. She cries and hugs her even as Lena tries to tell her she is mistaken.
The head of the notorious espionage for Vienna offers Lena and her family a venue in which to perform for the visitors in exchange for information about who talks to whom...etc. Lena's cupboards are bare so she agrees.
When the Duke of Aldingbourne sees Lena he nearly faints. He feels she must be his deceased wife for they are identical.
I found this story absolutely absorbing and fascinating. 5*****
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
March 20, 2025
Originally: DNF at 43%. (See P.S.) This author is known for outlandish premises, and this one is beyond endurance. But the premise pales in comparison to the awful execution.
The book gets sillier and sillier with every page. Apparently, the heroine lost not just all of her memories, but also all of her brain. And so did the sophisticated experienced diplomat she it's married to. It's one of the worst executed amnesia tropes I had ever seen, and that set includes Latin American soap operas my grandma used to watch in the last century.
Now, I know this author can do better — I had read her better books. I am rather surprised that she would want her name associated with something so poorly thought through and half-baked. The fact that this is one of the more recently published books is alarming.
P.S. Skip-read to the end before returning the borrowed book — just for my own records. Things do not improve, they just get plastered over with more piled on nonsense.
The book gets sillier and sillier with every page. Apparently, the heroine lost not just all of her memories, but also all of her brain. And so did the sophisticated experienced diplomat she it's married to. It's one of the worst executed amnesia tropes I had ever seen, and that set includes Latin American soap operas my grandma used to watch in the last century.
Now, I know this author can do better — I had read her better books. I am rather surprised that she would want her name associated with something so poorly thought through and half-baked. The fact that this is one of the more recently published books is alarming.
P.S. Skip-read to the end before returning the borrowed book — just for my own records. Things do not improve, they just get plastered over with more piled on nonsense.
October 26, 2024
4.5 stars
This is an amnesia trope that offers an interesting set up for this romance. It would be a freaky experience to have no memory of your past and then have someone come up and tell you who you are and that you are married and so forth. From Lena's point of view it had to be shocking but also there has to be a sense of this could be true. From Julius' point of view it would be shocking and difficult to explain, at least until they learn more. As a reader, I couldn't figure out what was going on for a while. Is it mistaken identity? Was it really his wife? Does she really have amnesia? Is she really just a doppleganger? You'll have to read to find out exactly how all this goes down.
The story is sweet and has a very sweet resolve for their relationship. I enjoyed that ending.
This is an amnesia trope that offers an interesting set up for this romance. It would be a freaky experience to have no memory of your past and then have someone come up and tell you who you are and that you are married and so forth. From Lena's point of view it had to be shocking but also there has to be a sense of this could be true. From Julius' point of view it would be shocking and difficult to explain, at least until they learn more. As a reader, I couldn't figure out what was going on for a while. Is it mistaken identity? Was it really his wife? Does she really have amnesia? Is she really just a doppleganger? You'll have to read to find out exactly how all this goes down.
The story is sweet and has a very sweet resolve for their relationship. I enjoyed that ending.
July 6, 2025
3.5 ⭐ stars
While I did enjoy this book, coming up with a rating was hard because I found a certain subplot (, specifically) to be rather unnecessary? I didn't feel like it added or enhanced the story. It probably could have been a different book with different characters and have been more interesting.
The first few chapters were pretty hard for me to get through and I even dropped this book for a few months until I found an audiobook version and decided to give it another go. I'm glad I did because the main characters and their story had more to it than I initially thought and I wanted to see it through to the end.
I felt like if the book focused a bit more on that, as well as some more deeper interactions between the Duke and the children (which felt a bit surface level at times), than this could have been a solid 4 stars to me if not more.
While I did enjoy this book, coming up with a rating was hard because I found a certain subplot (, specifically) to be rather unnecessary? I didn't feel like it added or enhanced the story. It probably could have been a different book with different characters and have been more interesting.
The first few chapters were pretty hard for me to get through and I even dropped this book for a few months until I found an audiobook version and decided to give it another go. I'm glad I did because the main characters and their story had more to it than I initially thought and I wanted to see it through to the end.
I felt like if the book focused a bit more on that, as well as some more deeper interactions between the Duke and the children (which felt a bit surface level at times), than this could have been a solid 4 stars to me if not more.
February 6, 2025
3.5 stars, rounded down.
Despite the writer using a bit too much liberty on the "historical" part, reading this was a joyful ride. As I would expect from Ms. Laporte!
I've read My Lady, Will You Dance?, and I think this Viennese Waltz series is leaning towards the angsty, darker vibes. But as angsty as it is, the humor remains. And the heartwarming feeling of a family. Although, I say the heroine sounds more like a big sister rather than mother, even to her biological son (Hector).
As usual, hero and heroine are both lovable. Like it!
Despite the writer using a bit too much liberty on the "historical" part, reading this was a joyful ride. As I would expect from Ms. Laporte!
I've read My Lady, Will You Dance?, and I think this Viennese Waltz series is leaning towards the angsty, darker vibes. But as angsty as it is, the humor remains. And the heartwarming feeling of a family. Although, I say the heroine sounds more like a big sister rather than mother, even to her biological son (Hector).
As usual, hero and heroine are both lovable. Like it!
October 20, 2024
Ohh! What’s not to love in this book?
Spies, amnesia, royalty all wrapped up within a romance.
The author is very creative in her fictional world and a few historical names mixed into the story adds a delightful level of depth.
The author’s characters are well developed and jump off the page as if they are real people. The plot line is very interesting and has several twists and turns.
I really enjoyed how the hero and heroine both had to remember things in order to move forward.
I look forward to reading the next in the series!
I received an ARC copy of the book and all opinions are my own.
Spies, amnesia, royalty all wrapped up within a romance.
The author is very creative in her fictional world and a few historical names mixed into the story adds a delightful level of depth.
The author’s characters are well developed and jump off the page as if they are real people. The plot line is very interesting and has several twists and turns.
I really enjoyed how the hero and heroine both had to remember things in order to move forward.
I look forward to reading the next in the series!
I received an ARC copy of the book and all opinions are my own.
October 28, 2024
Sweet slow burn romance with a bit of mystery. Helena Arenheim and her children are musicians trying to eke out a living as the Congress of Vienna begins. Lena is “recognized” as the Duchess of Aldingbourne, who is believed to have died 8 years prior. But Lena has no memories prior to 8 years ago, and has completely forgotten Julius Stafford-Hill, the Duke. Beautiful and sweet story as Lena slowly regains her memories and Julius and Lena build a relationship amid the political backdrop of the Congress. Another enjoyable romance by this author, entertaining and emotional, with a bit of humor.
I received a free copy from the author, and this is my honest and voluntary review.
I received a free copy from the author, and this is my honest and voluntary review.
November 2, 2024
A love forgotten… and remembered!
What a beautiful story of a love forgotten, and allowed to bloom again, charmingly set in the beautiful city of Vienna.
Lena lost her memory in an accident eight year ago and has built a new life as a musician with her adopted family. Her husband the Duke has grieved for her all this time, thinking her dead. When duty takes him to the Congress of Vienna with the British delegation, he finds her alive and well! And not just that, she has grown into herself, a confident and lively woman he can’t help but fall over for again! Absolutely delightful.
What a beautiful story of a love forgotten, and allowed to bloom again, charmingly set in the beautiful city of Vienna.
Lena lost her memory in an accident eight year ago and has built a new life as a musician with her adopted family. Her husband the Duke has grieved for her all this time, thinking her dead. When duty takes him to the Congress of Vienna with the British delegation, he finds her alive and well! And not just that, she has grown into herself, a confident and lively woman he can’t help but fall over for again! Absolutely delightful.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 83 reviews