A Dilemma for the Duke

Barrington’s Brigade #2

by Ruth A. Casie

In a game of loyalty and lies, surrendering to love is the boldest move of all.

Lady Lora has spent years forging her independence, dedicated to her work and determined to carve her own path. Marriage was never a priority—until Duke Rockford returns to Sommer-by-the-Sea. With his smoldering gaze and quiet strength, he awakens a longing she never dared acknowledge. But Rockford is a man bound by duty, harboring secrets that could shatter the fragile trust between them.

Duke Rockford’s world has always been defined by honor and responsibility, but Lora makes him dream of something more—something dangerous. As whispers of betrayal swirl and an unseen enemy threatens the very fabric of England’s security, he is forced to make an impossible protect the woman who has captured his heart or fulfill his mission before it’s too late.

With deception at every turn and a love neither can deny, Lora and Rockford must risk everything to claim their future together. But when the truth is finally revealed, will love be enough to bridge the divide between duty and desire?

A sweeping Regency romance filled with passion, intrigue, and the undeniable power of love.

Barrington's Brigade
Book 1 - A Match for the Marquess
Book 2 - A Dilemma for the Duke
Book 3 - A Bonny Lass for the Baron
Book 4 - A Vixen for the Viscount
Book 5 - Enlightening the Earl
Book 6 - Bewitching the Baron

Genres: Historical, Amazon, Historical Romance, Romance

286 pages, Kindle Edition

Published April 19, 2025

About the author

Hi! I'm Ruth A Casie. I write historical adventures from the shores of medieval Scotland to the cobblestone streets of Regency London. My stories embrace strong woman and the men who deserve them. Within the pages you’ll discover ‘edge-of-your-seat suspense, mind boggling drama, and heart melting emotions. Grab your favorite cup of tea, or an ale if you prefer, and join my heroes and heroines as they race across the pages to find their happily ever after. I hopes her stories are your next favorite adventures!

Here are five things you probably don’t know about me.
1. I filled my passport up in one year.
2. I have three series. The Druid Knight stories are a historical time travel series. The Stelton Legacy is historical fantasy about the seven sons of a seventh son. The Ladies of Sommer-by-the-Sea, a regency romance about ladies who all graduated from the same women's seminary. I also write stories in the Pirates of Britannia Connected World.
3. I did a rap to “How Many Trucks Can a Tow Truck Tow If a Tow Truck Could Tow Trucks.”
4. When I cook I dance.
5. My Sudoku book is in the bathroom. I’m not saying anything else about that.
My stories feature strong women and the men who deserve them, endearing flaws and all. Their stories will keep you turning the pages until the end. I hope my stories become your favorite adventures.
I’m a USA Today bestselling author.
My hobbies:
* counted cross stitch
* ballroom dancing - not just between the fridge and stove
* reading almost anything
* Sudoko - I'm still staying quiet about that

Reviews

[Carla · Rating 4 out of 5]

A Dilemma for the Duke is the second book in the Barrington's Brigade series, which is a spinoff from her Sommer-by-the-Sea series. You don't have to read these books in order, as they are all standalone stories. Lady Lora has worked hard to be an independent woman. She works at the medical clinic that serves the residents and workers in the area. They are trying to expand, but need donations and perhaps government money. Someone doesn't want it to expand and is trying to sabotage Lady Lora. There are many men from the Peer, business owners etc. who think it will change the balance of power, and greed always plays in. Barrington has called the Duke of Rockford to Sommer-by-the-Sea to try and figure out who is behind this power play. He arrives and immediately meets up with Lady Lora, someone he played with as a child, and is surprised to see the lovely woman she has grown into. His plan is to befriend her and get close, thus figuring out who is trying to undermine her. Of course, this plan backfires, as chemistry rears its ugly head, and he finds himself wanting to be more than just friends. The next thing he knows, he is now being smeared as well. They are pretty sure they know what is happening, but have to find proof. With a highwayman intercepting any messages to London, specifically to the king, there might be lives in danger as well.

I enjoyed this story and read it in one day (sitting by the pool on holiday). As Ruth Casie says in her biography, "My stories embrace strong woman and the men who deserve them. Within the pages you’ll discover ‘edge-of-your-seat suspense, mind boggling drama, and heart melting emotions." Problems in the Regency times are different than they are today, and in this story the biggest problem was scandal. There is a rake in the story, who is also trying to get his hands on Lady Lora's inheritance, and he was about as smooth and snake oil. He made me shiver, but Lady Lora seems to like his presentation. Rockford is willing to play a part, while simmering underneath. For a smart woman, Lora makes some big mistakes along the way, but with her intellect and knowledge of the area, she redeems herself. This is a Regency Romance, so you know Lora and Rockfort will get together, but the journey there was fun, a bit dangerous, twisty and intriguing. There is lots of cute banter that made me smile along the way. I'm read for my next trip to Sommer-by-the-Sea when I read A Bonny Lass For the Baron.

[Janet · Rating 4 out of 5]

3.75 Stars
Lady Lora has spent years forging her independence, dedicated to her work and determined to carve her own path. Marriage was never a priority until Duke Rockford returns to Sommer-by-the-Sea. Rockford is a man bound by duty, harbouring secrets that could shatter the fragile trust between them. As whispers of betrayal swirl and an unseen enemy threatens the very fabric of England’s security, he is forced to make an impossible protect the woman who has captured his heart or fulfil his mission before it’s too late.
The second book in the series & it could be read on its own but there are a lot of characters & reading previous books by the author would help. I liked both Rockford & Lora & there was chemistry between them but for me it didn’t sizzle. I did enjoy their banter & the way they worked together whilst falling in love. There was some mystery & intrigue. An enjoyable book which I enjoyed but didn’t love
I voluntarily read and reviewed a special copy of this book; all thoughts and opinions are my own

[Margaret · Rating 4 out of 5]

The Duke of Rockford works for Barrington's Brigade. A secret organization to uncover a criminal element, the Order of Shadows, thriving on manipulation and power. Lady Lora Preston, Lockford's childhood friend, has a mission to provide health care for those who can't afford it. With Rockford's help, Lora is organizing benefits to raise money to expand the clinic. Unfortunately, someone is spreading rumors that the money isn't going to the medical clinic. Barrington's Brigade must find proof of who is spreading the rumor to those in Society with power. Lockford and Lora must provide a united front and catch a traitor. Not always easy to do with lies, but they must believe in love and trust each other to succeed.
Implied sex.
I voluntarily read and reviewed a copy of this book from NetGalley.

[N.N. Heaven · Rating 5 out of 5]

Lady Lora likes her independence and has no need for a husband. Duke Rockford stirs something in her very soul, something she’s never felt before. He’s duty-bound to the Crown and harbors many secrets. A dilemma presents itself to Rockford and he must choose between love and his mission. Which one will he choose?

A Dilemma for the Duke is a sweeping historical romance filled with passion, suspense, betrayal, and the unrelenting power of love. Ruth A. Casie writes historical romance with descriptive narration, emotion-filled romance, intriguing characters, and a bit of spy suspense for good measure. Once I started reading, I couldn’t put it down.

What makes A Dilemma for the Duke unforgettable are the characters. I connected with Lady Lora right away. She’s an independent woman and doesn’t feel the need to secure a favorable match. Her strength and fortitude impressed me the most.

Duke Rockford is a conflicted man. He’s part of Barrington’s Brigade, a spy network sussing out enemies of the Crown. He’s dedicated to his work above all else. But his feelings for Lady Lora turns his life upside down.

A Dilemma for the Duke is another gem from Ruth A. Casie. It’s even better than book one. Take my advice and read it now. I can’t wait for the next book in the series.

My Rating: 5+ stars

Reviewed by: Nancy

This review first appeared: https://www.nnlightsbookheaven.com/po...

[Anonymous 5 · Rating 5 out of 5]

Lady Lora is the kind of heroine I love to root for: intelligent, fiercely independent, and unwilling to settle for a life dictated by society’s expectations. Her journey from guarded determination to vulnerable strength is both empowering and deeply emotional. Enter Duke Rockford, a man of quiet intensity and unwavering loyalty, whose sense of duty is matched only by the depth of his feelings for Lora. Their chemistry? Absolutely smoldering.

But what really sets this book apart is how it balances romance with rich layers of intrigue. There’s espionage, betrayal, and secrets that could tip the balance of power in England—and in Lora and Rockford’s fragile trust. The stakes feel real, and the emotional tension is deliciously taut throughout.

This isn’t just a love story—it’s a battle between head and heart, between doing what's right and following the pull of something far more dangerous: true love.

This book offers all the sweeping romance and political intrigue you could want, wrapped up in a story that lingers long after the final page.

I received a complimentary copy from NetGalley and Dragonblade Publishing and am voluntarily leaving my review.

[Sahar's Honest Reviews · Rating 4 out of 5]

Can Love Triumph over Deception?
Rockford has a mission. A traitor threatens both his country and his life, and the duke is determined to bring the villain down. But when Lady Lora is drawn into the crossfire, things grow complicated. To shield her from danger—and from a fortune hunter’s schemes, Rockford pretends to court her.
What begins as deception soon turns into something real. But when Lora discovers the truth, will his silence cost him her trust? His intentions were honorable, yet secrets can be just as dangerous to love as any enemy. If only he had trusted her strength from the beginning, he might have spared them both heartbreak. Still, love just might have a chance after all.
This Regency romance blends intrigue, suspense, and heartfelt emotion. If you enjoy historical romance with danger lurking in the shadows and love tested by secrets, this story may be just what you’re looking for.

[Nancy · Rating 5 out of 5]

Thank you NetGalley. This story takes place in Sommer-by-the-Sea. Lady Lora has been so busy working to expand the clinic that serves the workers in the area. They are trying to raise the money they need. Rockford has come from London to respond to Barrington. They were in the war together and he hopes to be there a short time and return to London. But Barrington needs his help and it works in with helping Lora and her raising the money for the clinic. There is a highway man stealing the information sent to the king. Rockford finds himself falling in love with Lora again. There is a lot happening, they work together to raise the money, try to catch the highway man and keep their feelings under control.

[Margaret Watkins · Rating 3 out of 5]

After enjoying the first book in this series, I looked forward to reading A Dilemma for the Duke. Unfortunately, I found my attention wandering, and much of the Duke of Rockford's motives for keeping secrets from Lady Lora left me puzzled. There is some suspense, with a snake in the grass, resulting in Rockford having to come to Lora's rescue, however, the drama was low-key.. Obviously, there is an attraction between Rockford and Lora, but even that is not terribly exciting. However, they do find their way to future happiness, and the felons are dealt with. I received a copy of this book as a gift through Dragonblade Publishing and NetGalley, and this is my honest and voluntary review.

[Fredine Purvis · Rating 5 out of 5]

A Dilemma for the Duke: A Regency Historical Romance (Barrington is Bridlington as Brigade Book 2)

A most delightful, interesting and intriguing story. The Duke of Rockford, a former soldier in his Magestie's Army, a member of Parliament, in charge of Financial Affairs. Hopelessly falls in love with an Earl daughter, Lady Lora, a woman of interety and very involved with fundraising for expansion not the local clinic. She also falls for the Duke of Rockford, but evil forces try to undermine their romance for greed since she has a very large dowery. The characters are very involve with intrigue and dangers for our couple. A must read.

[Jo · Rating 4 out of 5]

A beautiful series related to men of honor, loyalty and service to the Crown. Rockford has a responsibility to . maintain secrets for his country. Sadly, he must also keep them from Lola, an intelligent woman, who he finds himself attracted to. I would recommend reading the series in order, as some of the characters cross over into this tale. You will find suspense, romance, great banter and a villain woven into a entertaining story. Each book brings forth what we deeply wish for in both men and women related to intelligence, honor, respect and love.

[N Dent · Rating 5 out of 5]

Men of Honor

Lady Lora had never considered marriage until her childhood friend Duke Rokeford came back into her life. Rokeford had paid a heavy price working for the Crown but Lora’s deceit was worse than the war. He had always been a man of honor and his feelings for Lora was making it hard to do his job. A great story filled with a community that pulled together and helped each other and a forever love!

[Sven · Rating 3 out of 5]

okay, I love the dude on the cover. handsome. the story itself is meh, why meh, bacuse it was nothing new. it follows the usual script of a woman who is independent, a guy working for his country, they butt heads, work together, a few adventures, and fall in love. nothing special in the characters, writing, or story.

#netgalley #ADilemmafortheDuke

[Lyn D Rose · Rating 5 out of 5]

This second book in Barrington's Brigade series was an exciting and well written historical romance about a group of men devoted to their king, country, and one another. It has drama, action, intrigue, mystery, danger, deception, and twists that kept me very engaged. I enjoyed their banter and chemistry. I highly recommend reading!

[Petula · Rating 3 out of 5]

This historical romance has a very interesting plot with lots of intrigue and danger. It is a sweet romance where any action is left to our own imagination. The lead characters are brave and intelligent.
Unfortunately, I personally thought a bit more of the underhanded dealings could have been more exciting.

[Mahnoor Lasania · Rating 5 out of 5]

This second book in Barrington's Brigade series was an exciting and well-written historical romance about a group of men devoted to their king, country, and one another. It has drama, action, intrigue, mystery, danger, deception, and twists that kept me very engaged. I enjoyed their banter and chemistry. Can't wait to read the next book!

[Jessica · Rating 4 out of 5]

Overall this was a good book. I do feel that it dragged a bit in revealing the mystery of the highwayman. I know time needed to pass in the story, but it felt dull at times. The ending was worth it though. I can't wait to see what happens in the next one. Will the Oder of Shadows be brought down? Will they hurt anyone else?

[Carol · Rating 3 out of 5]

The duke revisits his town and childhood friends while on a mission and in the end finds both situations are ultimately related and with the help of Lora and her brother joining in the mission is accomplished successfully and he finds his hea

[Lisa H · Rating 3 out of 5]

Not much of a dilemma...

Great cover. But Lora and Rockford's relationship is littered with other troubles, mainly a plot to over throw the government. There's a lot of characters in this series.

[Aj · Rating 4 out of 5]

An entertaining romance filled with forbidden desire and duty vs desire. I enjoyed the story, Lora and Rockford are a solid pairing.

[Anita Sievert · Rating 4 out of 5]

Interesting story. Good characters. Good action between characters. A bit of suspense. A bit of romance. A good read.