Maid for the Marquess

by Melanie Moreland, Scarlett Scott

A brand new Regency romance from New York Times and USA Today Bestselling author Melanie Moreland and USA Today Bestselling author Scarlett Scott. Prepare to be swept away by this steamy, heartwarming tale of Lord Wheaton and his Maddie...

Miss Maddie Smythe

My callous father wagered me to a brooding stranger during a hand of cards, leaving me terrified.

But Lord Wheaton was nothing like the baron who’d forced me into servitude and gave me away.

The handsome marquess was compassionate, honorable, and my only hope for a future.

I married him to save myself, not intending to lose my heart.

Never thinking of the danger that loomed, threatening to tear us apart forever.

Alexander, Marquess of Wheaton

The last thing I needed was an innocent to protect, but I couldn’t leave the frightened maid to her vile father’s mercy.

It didn’t take me long to realize Maddie was everything I never knew I needed, sweet and caring and lovely.

She made me whole.

When her villainous father tried to take her from me, I vowed to do everything in my power to save my wife.

Even if it meant sacrificing myself…

Genres: Historical Romance, Romance, Historical, Regency Romance, Regency, Found Family, Adult

350 pages, Kindle Edition

First published November 14, 2025

About the author

Welcome Romance Readers!
Join my newsletter for news on upcoming releases and sales CLICK HERE

Make sure to follow me on Amazon for new release alerts CLICK HERE

Join me on Facebook in my reader group CLICK HERE

Check out my excerpts on Verve Romance CLICK HERE

A bit about me:
NYT/WSJ/USAT International bestselling author Melanie Moreland, lives a happy and content life in a quiet area of Ontario with her beloved husband of lots of lovely years and their rescue cat, Amber. Nothing means more to her than her friends and family, and she cherishes every moment spent with them.
While seriously addicted to coffee, and highly challenged with all things computer-related and technical, she relishes baking, cooking, and trying new recipes for people to sample. She loves to throw dinner parties, and also enjoys travelling, but finds coming home is always the best part of any trip.
Melanie loves stories, especially paired with a good wine, and enjoys skydiving (free falling over a fleck of dust) extreme snowboarding (falling down stairs) and piloting her own helicopter (tripping over her own feet.) She's learned happily ever-afters, even bumpy ones, are all in how you tell the story. 

Melanie is represented by Flavia Viotti at Bookcase Literary Agency. For any questions regarding subsidiary or translation rights please contact her at flavia@bookcaseagency.com

Reviews

[Debbie DiFiore]

Good

I love both authors and this book was excellent. It had a Cinderella type of story line and I just loved the hero! The heroine.had been abused by her Father and treated like a maid and it was sad but she did Live happily.ever after !

[Lana Birky · Rating 5 out of 5]

If you’ve ever wanted to see a Regency heroine go from pawn to powerhouse with a marquess who treats emotional baggage like a sacred trust, Maid for the Marquess delivers the goods and then some.

Madeleine (Maddie) Smythe was wagered away like a bad poker chip by her father, handed off to a stranger, and still manages to marry up without losing her soul. She’s not just a damsel in distress, she’s a woman who marries for survival and ends up with a love story that feels earned, not handed out like a calling card.

Alexander, Marquess of Wheaton has an aristocratic title, zero aristocratic ego. He’s the kind of man who sees a terrified maid and thinks “wife,” not “problem.” Protective without being possessive, tender without being toothless, and refreshingly uninterested in society’s nonsense. Honestly, if more lords were like him, the ton would be tolerable.

Together, they’re a slow-burning storm of healing, heat, and high-stakes devotion. No, third act breakup angst here - just danger, drama, and a man who’d burn down the peerage for his bride. The dual POV lets you live inside both hearts, and the writing sings with the combined magic of both authors.

And speaking of magic; this collaboration is a triumph. I’ve devoured every Scarlett Scott novel like it’s my birthright, and while I haven’t read Melanie Moreland’s contemporary work, her voice here blends seamlessly - heartfelt, vivid, and emotionally rich. Together, they’ve crafted a Regency romance that’s lush, layered, and impossible to put down.

𝐓𝐡𝐢𝐬 𝐢𝐬𝐧’𝐭 𝐣𝐮𝐬𝐭 𝐚 𝐫𝐨𝐦𝐚𝐧𝐜𝐞. 𝐈𝐭’𝐬 𝐚 𝐫𝐞𝐜𝐥𝐚𝐦𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧. 𝐀𝐧𝐝 𝐢𝐭’𝐬 𝐬𝐞𝐱𝐲 𝐚𝐬 𝐡𝐞𝐥𝐥! 

I voluntarily read and reviewed an Advanced Reader's Copy of this book; all thoughts and opinions are my own. 

[Ariel · Rating 2 out of 5]

Sweet, I guess. A sort of Cinderella-esque retelling that I don't really have any feelings about one way or the other because I feel like nothing actually happened.

He won her in a card game from her abusive father and decided that she'd make a perfect wife because she rubbed his sprained ankle (foot?), I don't know. And she agrees because what the fuck else is she going to do?

My point is that I don't feel like they fell in love with each other. They were just consistently kind to each other and just went with it for various reasons. And that's fine...but not for 350 pages.

[it.sgottabethebooks · Rating 5 out of 5]

I love watching period pieces but reading historical romance is not usually a go-to for me. When I found out one of my favorite authors was jumping in and doing a passion project with a new to me historical romance author I had to dive in. I really enjoyed this book. The details on setting, clothing, vocabulary really set the mood. This was giving me Cinderella-esque vibes. I loved that reading it I could feel the period authenticity mixed with modern. It was Bridgerton meets Princess Diaries in my mind. The era with the formal tone. I wasn’t sure if I was going to have a hard time with the dialogue but it was well-written especially for a newbie like me. The characters were so likeable. I enjoyed everything about their story. When it comes to storytelling this author and her co-writer delivered a swoony hero and sweet heroine with an unputdownable journey. This book hit me with the feels. I absolutely adored it and recommend it.

[Heather · Rating 3 out of 5]

I'm about 78% into this one and I'm just about ready to give up on it and put it away. Not that there's anything technically wrong with it. It's just so incredibly boring. At first it was pretty sweet and endearing. A change of pace from my usual enemies to lovers preference since the two MC's got along so well right from the beginning and the MMC was swooping in to save the FMC from the very poor lot in life she had found herself in. But that's actually where the problem came in. With no conflict between the two MC's or internal conflict being fraught within either of them, as well as not much of an external conflict surrounding them, there just wasn't much driving the story forward and therefore not much of an incentive for me to keep picking it back up to see what happens next...because it didn't really matter what happened next. You can't really get emotionally invested in wondering whether or not the hero will buy the heroine clothes or books next, ya know what I mean?

I'm not trying to say anything negative toward the author or their ability to write. This was written nicely. It just wasn't written in a way that would consistently captivate my often chaotic mind, is all.

[Daisy.readsromance · Rating 5 out of 5]

swoon worthy Regency Romance!

ᗯᕼᗩT TO ᗴ᙭ᑭᗴᑕT:
♥︎𝗥𝗲𝗴𝗲𝗻𝗰𝘆 𝗥𝗼𝗺𝗮𝗻𝗰𝗲
♥︎𝗖𝗶𝗻𝗱𝗲𝗿𝗲𝗹𝗹𝗮 𝗩𝗶𝗯𝗲𝘀
♥︎𝗠𝗮𝗿𝗿𝗶𝗮𝗴𝗲 𝗼𝗳 𝗰𝗼𝗻𝘃𝗲𝗻𝗶𝗲𝗻𝗰𝗲

✨𝒯𝒽ℴ𝓊𝑔𝒽𝓉𝓈✨
𝗔𝘀 always, 𝗠𝗲𝗹𝗮𝗻𝗶𝗲 𝗠𝗼𝗿𝗲𝗹𝗮𝗻𝗱 delivers a charming love story, this time a romantic Regency romance with Cinderella vibes co-written with 𝗦𝗰𝗮𝗿𝗹𝗲𝘁𝘁 𝗦𝗰𝗼𝘁𝘁!

𝗠𝗮𝗱𝗱𝗶𝗲 grew up feeling like a mere servant in her own home. Her father, who saw her as nothing but a pawn, gambled her away along with all his possessions to wealthy gentlemen. Little did Maddie know, the dashing Marquess who won the game was actually there to reclaim the land that belonged to his family and rescue Maddie from a bleak future.

𝗧𝗵𝗲 storyline is heartwarming. The minute Alexander decides to be engaged to Maddie, he's completely devoted. With him, Maddie finally has the chance to be herself. Though their marriage starts as a matter of convenience, it soon turns into something much deeper. Maddie takes time to heal from her past, and Alexander stands by her every step of the way. And I just loved it. It’s easy to get lost in a sweet romance like this one. If you enjoy Regency romances and marriage of convenience, this is definitely the book for you!

Thank you to Melanie Moreland for this reading copy. All thoughts shared here are my own.

𝗦𝘁𝗼𝗿𝘆. 𝟰.𝟱⭐️ 𝗦𝗽𝗶𝗰𝗲 𝗹𝗲𝘃𝗲𝗹: 𝟯/𝟱🌶️

[Janet · Rating 5 out of 5]

Alexander, Marquis of Wheaton is seen as cold hearted, but he cares about his dependents & thinks nothing of rolling up his sleeves & helping his tenants. He’s worked hard to rebuild the marquisate & would love to buy the piece of land which was his mother’s favourite. So he goes to a card party where after some shenanigans by himself & his steward Edward, he not wins the land back but also the Baron’s daughter. Miss Maddie Smythe has been nothing more than a servant in her father’s household since her mother died & now she’s been wagered away to a Marquis with not the best of reputations.
The first book in what looks like being a partnership made in heaven, whilst it’s my first book by Melanie, Scarlett is one of my top three must read authors, this book is a gem. Alexander melted my heart he could have made Maddie a scullery maid, ruined her or thrown her out but no this delicious man married her. Maddie is one strong woman, yes she was frightened but still was helping & caring, I loved how Alexander gradually reduced her fears & allowed her to shine. I absolutely adored their journey to a HEA, which wasn’t easy but made for a riveting, engrossing romance that was unputdownable
I voluntarily read and reviewed a special copy of this book; all thoughts and opinions are my own

[Mackenzie Jones · Rating 5 out of 5]

I loved this sweet (little bit spicy) Regency romance! The MMC was such an honorable man and went above and beyond to make the FMC understand and believe in her worth.

“We found each other at the right time, Maddie mine.”

[Yvonne Qin]

Rate：3🌟..

Review：

Too tame for my taste..

[BookAddict · Rating 5 out of 5]

This gifted storyteller is one I’ll follow anywhere, even into a regency-era romance. Historical romance is definitely not my usual, but aside from a little vocabulary expanding, this one reads like the timeless romance it is. It has all the hallmarks of our marvelous Ms. M's style, from witty repartee to character vulnerability and depth of heart.

Alexander Wheaton is our marquess, who finds himself in a poker game with a life-long rival. He has his reasons, but what he doesn’t anticipate is his host tossing his own daughter, Madeline, into the pot. Now Alexander has an innocent young woman who was treated as a servant as his new charge. Rather than subjugating her further, as her father expected, Alexander decides to make her his wife.

This story is like and breath of fresh air after leaving a smoke-filled room. It's charming and easy with characters who are endearing and relatable. The old-world feel is warm and invites us back to a time where community, family, and relationships were the focus. In a world that's lost the plot, this escape to simpler times will fill your heart and feed your soul.

[Beth · Rating 5 out of 5]

I will not spoil this wonderful and suspenseful (insert a couple of twists) and you have a HEA tale of love and heart and heat!
I could not put this book down! Alexander and Maddie (he calls her Maddie Mine (swoon, melt) don’t meet in your typical ‘meet cute’.
And the rest of their relationship is wonderfully spicy and romantic. Alexander didn’t only sweep Maddie off her feet but he swept me right along too!
And the epilogue is absolutely perfect and ties up all the side characters who get their own picture perfect ending!
This is an awesome collaboration of Scott and Moreland and I hope they will work together again!
I will be reading this again and again!

Thank you to Scarlett Scott for this reading copy. All thoughts shared here are my own.

[Stacie Irwin · Rating 3 out of 5]

This is a 2.5 rounded to 3. I really had a hard time rating this book. I normally LOVE everything from Scarlett Scott. She is one of my absolute favorite authors. I don’t know if it was because this was a duo or what, but I had a difficult time staying engaged with this. I liked the storyline, I liked the premise, and I liked the characters, but the story just fell flat for me. I couldn’t really feel involved with the story for some reason. It may not make sense, but it just didn’t grip me and make me feel part of the plot. I felt like I was reading something dry rather than deep. I can’t explain it exactly, but that’s the best I can do. I wanted to like it more.

I did love how our mains came together under such intriguing circumstances and our hero fell hard for the lady without second thought. He was protective and honorable, but also passionate. I enjoyed that aspect the most. There is so much possibility that I would recommend it for others even if it wasn’t for me.

[RomanceLand65 · Rating 5 out of 5]

lordie I read this book so fast. I'm a huge historical romance nerd. I love this genre. this book was amazing. you get a deep look into the time period of what happens in a running if a manor. from the absolutely worst side of how staff was treated to the side of the kind and understanding that you get more riches from treating people better.
Maddie and Alexander are the couple I read historical romance for. from Maddie's ride from literal rags to riches. spoiler alert she's not the maid you think she is.
the characters in this book were very likeable. even the side characters who championed Maddie and her rise to her greatness.
I'm just so happy I had found out that this author wrote historical romance and finding a new historical romance author who co wrote with Melanie. i am very glad this author wrote such an amazing story for her fans. it was truly very time period pleasing

[Marguerite · Rating 3 out of 5]

⭐️⭐️⭐️, 🌶️🌶️🌶️
It was a decent story. I enjoyed the FMC (Maddie) and the MMC (Alexander) and their friends. The story felt a bit long and drawn out. Once Alexander rescued Maddie from a bad situation, it was mostly about them falling in love which was sweet. There was some third act excitement that was quickly resolved.

[CATHERINE BURHANS · Rating 5 out of 5]

Her father was a despicable Baron who turned her into a maid. Lord Wheaton (Alexander) won her in a game of cards and turned her into a Marchioness. A true Cinderella story , as Alexander patiently wooed her and cared for her, earning her trust and her love This is such a delightful story with absolutely wonderful characters . The authors did a great job of developing their relationship that grew into a love to last for a lifetime

[Stephanie Rose · Rating 5 out of 5]

I loved every minute of this book. I hope this isn't the last historical romance from this powerhouse duo.

[Sonia N. · Rating 5 out of 5]

I absolutely loved reading this beautiful historical romance! The beautiful Madeleine was a servant in her cruel father’s house. When her father used her as a bargaining chip in wager.
But when he lost to the very handsome Marquess of Wheaton it’s an unknown dream come true for her.
I was so happy reading this book knowing that Maddie who had a horrible life with her father, finally found true love and happiness with Alexander! He did everything he could to make her happy and comfortable in his love and life.
I am so in love with the ending of this book! The epilogue is just priceless!
This book is a definite must read.

[Lynn Put · Rating 4 out of 5]

A bit too sugary sweet but still romantic.

[Debbie Steed · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book was epic!
It was the first book I have read by Melanie Moreland but Scarlett Scott is an automatic must read for me and was not disappointed, in fact I found it exquisite. The writing is amazing, I could really experience the feelings and emotions of the characters. The detail of the writing is so well executed. It has gone right back on my to read again list (and right at the top).

The main characters; Alexander, the Marquess of Wheaton and Madeleine (Maddie) Barnett are just perfect together. Their story was one of the most emotional reads I have encountered in a long time.

Every page of this book has some emotional moments in it; from the friendly banter between Alexander and Edward, the son of Alexander’s late mother’s maid and now Alexander’s closest friend; the unwavering support and friendship given to Maddie from Lydia and Geraldine; the fear in Maddie that is with her all the time and then the emotional healing of the two souls that slowly becomes love, Maddie needs healing much more than Alexander but even he finds he is also healed by Maddie.

This is a slow burn story because it has to be. I would love to have Alexander as my man. He totally understands what Maddie needs by instinct. He really sees her and wants to banish all of the bad experiences that she has lived and only know happiness and feel protected and cherished for the rest of her life. He wants to make happy memories for her so she can let go of the past. At the same time he realises that not only did he win back the land he wanted but also a wonderful woman and her entourage, that he never knew he needed or wanted. He also calls her such an endearing name that every time he spoke it, it warmed my heart. I love Alexander!

The confidence that grows in Maddie with the protection and support of Alexander and all in his household is such a blessing to read. There’s a bit of angst in the story when people from the past try to sabotage Alexander and Maddie’s happiness and the result of the final desperate act of the past does result in an injury that Alexander hoped to avoid. Maddie slowly blossoms through her growing confidence to become the perfect marchioness for Alexander even when she lived half her life as a terrified maid. Alexander is able to give Maddie closure to one chapter of her life and perhaps open another in the future with letters from the long lost only relative she has. There’s some open door steamy scenes that are really well done and fit perfectly in the plot.

This book reminded me that even today there are real life “Maddie’s” trying to survive every day in all various situations and I can only hope that their own supportive “Alexander” will come and rescue them from their misery, protect them and help them heal from their emotional and physical trauma or that they can find the strength and opportunity to escape themselves and find somewhere to heal and find peace and true happiness. This book has changed me and inspired me.

There is also a beautifully written, fairly long epilogue that really shows how the world has changed for the couple and their close friends. It completes their journey and left me feeling very contented.

I would definitely recommend this book a thousand times over to anyone who wants to read a throughly transformative story of a couple who find amazing true love that transcends the past and will live forever in the future.

I have been blessed to receive a copy of this book from the author. I’m voluntarily leaving this review.

[Jennifer · Rating 5 out of 5]

Highly recommend this sweet Regency romance!

This is one of the sweetest romances I have read in a while. This is the story of Alexander, the Marquess of Wheaton, and Maddie, the daughter of Lord Barnett. Maddie has been relegated to a servant, a poorly treated one at that, sharing an attic bedroom with another servant, Lydia, after the death of her mother when she was 14. Her father hates her and goes out of his way to make her as miserable as possible. As her father gambles away his fortune, he decides to host other prominent men for a time of gambling over cards, intent on cheating to win money to cover his debts. Alexander has his sights set on betting and winning back an estate his father had sold during his youth after his mother died in an accident there. Unexpectedly for Alexander, Maddie's father throws her in with the bet, hoping Alexander will ruin her and cast her aside. Alexander was intrigued by Maddie from the start, but as an honorable man, had no intentions of hurting her or letting her stay in Barnett's household. After outsmarting Barnett and winning both Maddie and the estate, he and his best friend Edward set off early the next morning for Wheaton, with Geraldine, another servant and somewhat of a mother figure to Maddie in tow, as well as Lydia, who had stowed away between the luggage on the roof of the carriage. After an accident with Alexander's horse and a sprained ankle, he and Maddie find themselves getting to know one another on the trip to Wheaton, where he finds himself quite smitten with her and asking her to be his wife. After further pleading his case back home, Maddie finally accepts Alexander's offer of marriage. I loved that there was no antagonizing here. Alexander had the patience of a saint and the sense to recognize Maddie needed time to overcome fear and trauma and get to know him, even after they married. He was the absolute sweetest, spoiling her, being patient and reassuring, and while their marriage was quick, their romance took a slower pace, yet they were always on the same team. I enjoyed seeing them overcome past trauma together and facing off against threats together, and Alexander being the protector Maddie always should have had. And in turn, Maddie made an excellent wife and Marchioness, coming out of her shell and doing her best to be a support and soft place for her husband. I loved the found family and side characters in this book as much as the main characters. The writing and speech is befitting the time period while still being very easy to follow, and the descriptions of settings, clothing, etc are all very well done without overtaking the story or dragging. Truly a well-written book. There is on page spice, but it is easy to pass over those pages without losing anything of the story if open door is not your thing, and if it is, it was very well done. Highly recommend this one. I can't wait to read the next one now!

[Karen_Lee_Reads · Rating 5 out of 5]

Maid for the Marquess
by Melanie Moreland
and Scarlett Scott

One of my favorite genres is Historical, so when I saw that Author Melanie Moreland an Author Scarlett Scott were penning a book together I knew that I would have to read the love story of Madeleine (Maddy) Barnett and Marquess Alexander Lord Wheaton.

Alexander had a bone to pick with Lord Barnett, he wanted back the land Barnett had tricked his father out of and he was prepared to play Barnett the exact same way Barnett usually played dirty, marked cards, slight of hand and drink! Alexander also knew that Barnett was close to debtors prison, his home was crumbling, many items sold to pay debts and a very small group of servants. One of them a young lady, who was shy, who tried to keep out of Barnetts way and who caught Alexander’s eye. As is turned out that young lady Madeleine (Maddy) Barnett was thrown into the pot, by her own father….figuring he wouldn’t lose.

But it seemed the stars were aligned because Alexander won and slipped out and set back to Wheaton Hall early in the morning. Along with Maddy’s best friend Lydia and Geraldine who had been keeping Maddy hidden from the Baron. It didn’t take long for Alexander to find out from Maddy, Lydia and Geraldine just how bad things had been for Maddy!

Now the scene is set and we as readers watch how Maddy learns to trust, how much she realizes Alexander wants to help her and as he finds out more of her background he realizes maybe he was lucky keeping all those daughters of the Ton away from him, maybe it was meant to be. As he brought Maddy out of the darkness she had been made to live through, maybe he could be the one to bring light to her pretty eyes.

My favorite parts of historicals’ are the descriptions of a mad dash carriage ride, the countryside that is described and we feel that we are right there. But we also can figure out that there will be a reconning coming and Maddy always lives with a bit of fear each day.

I know I will be reading this again and again, as I love my historical reads and I love this book! It is deserving of far more that five stars. And Melanie, now that you’ve cowritten an historical, will there be more in the future?

[redreadsromance_ · Rating 5 out of 5]

It’s been far too long since I indulged in a regency romance, but the moment I heard Melanie was co-writing one, I knew I needed it, and it fully delivered. This story blends emotional healing, tender intimacy and deliciously restrained desire in the most addictive way.

Maddie was an unforgettable heroine. Intelligent, gentle and inherently strong, yet forced into a life beneath her station, serving in her own home under her father’s cruelty. Watching her rediscover her worth felt powerful. Alexander, Marquess of Wheaton, was the perfect storm of charm, honour, quiet dominance and unshakeable protectiveness. He fell for Maddie immediately. Not just with affection but with a fierce, patient hunger that simmered beneath every interaction.

Their dynamic was intoxicating. The elegance of regency speech mixed with the occasional wicked line or suggestive remark had me thriving. That blend of proper manners and simmering desire? Perfection. And the chemistry between Maddie and Alexander sparked from the start. Long looks, soft touches and so much passion, you could feel it vibrating off the page.

Because Maddie was innocent, Alexander’s patience became its own form of seduction. He never rushed her, never pushed. He simply adored her until she trusted him enough to reach back. And when she did… their passion ignited. The moment Maddie let herself truly want her husband, the sweetness turned ravenous. Their intimacy was sensual, emotional and deliciously steamy without ever losing its tenderness.

Lord Barnett, on the other hand, was vile to the core and deserved every consequence that came for him. Watching Maddie step out from his shadow and into Alexander’s protection felt cathartic.

Maddie and Alexander’s love was pure, aching and beautifully erotic in the softest, most heartfelt way. Their journey had me tearing up and fanning myself in equal measure. I adored this book and I’m desperately hoping this writing duo gifts us more regency romances because I’ll be devouring every single one.

[Rixxyreadsss · Rating 5 out of 5]

I. AM. FLOORED.

I LOVE THIS BOOK! ONE OF MY 'BEST READS OF 2025'

Idk how to express this exactly but damn, this book is the epitome of tender loving romance. I swooned over and over again. I AM HEAD OVER HEELS IN LOVE WITH THE MMC...AND WHY IS HE ONLY A FICTIONAL CHARACTER😭 WE ALL DESERVE A MAN LIKE HIM. As you can see, my hopeless romantic, lover of romance ass really devoured and enjoyed this one because it really is pure romance and..... it's so good👌

And the FMC? Girl, did you save the world on your past life? Girl got her fairytale-like love story, loyal friends, and became a marchioness to one honorable, handsome, and always horny marquess who also rails her anytime anywhere and every which way she wanted it. And oh, she's also spoiled by her dear husband, always gives her all that she wants and not want, what she needs and don't need (I WANT HER LIFE!!!).

The way that he dotes on her? Respects her boundaries and opinions? And my heart, THE WAY HE SPOILS HER!😭😍 I loved the shopping scenes where he just buys her everything she needs and not need. And ugh, I just loved how this MMC is so different from the usual HR mmc's who are emotionally constipated and is so starchy and acts like a cad most of the time, well you will not see that here. The MMC here is like, not the green flag but the whole damn forest! He is just so emotionally available and kind and generous, I just love him🥺.

Why am I even surprised, this is Scarlett Scott and Melanie Moreland. Two very talented authors, though I was really surprised when I saw Melanie's name cause' I just know that she's a contemporary romance author but damn, she really did show her versatility in releasing this book! I think this book was written well, execution was good, and while some dialogue felt a little bit too cheesy at times, its still really good and very much romantic. I think Miss Moreland can do more HR and I'll certainly read it!

[Brandy · Rating 3 out of 5]

Characters: Alexander, Marquess Wheaton and Miss Maddie Smythe


Trope: class difference


Content warning: talk of physical violence and emotional trauma


I did enjoy reading this book, but the reason for my star rating was the fact that I felt like the romance was too easy. The hero wins the heroine in a card game, the man who gambled her away was her father, and because he is a cheater when it comes to card games, he didn’t expect to lose. Of course, if he admitted to cheating at cards, other people would have found out, and it would have been bad for him socially. So he had to allow the Marquess to take Maddie. After that, it was pretty smooth sailing for the heroine, for the fact that the Marquess was a very nice man who didn’t want to hurt her or use her in any way sexually.


After knowing her for a few days in his carriage, he decides to marry her, since he needed a wife to start a family with.
I felt like if the heroine truly was abused by her father (he would scold her and smack her hands with a tool for punishment), I feel like with her years of abuse and definitely having a form of PTSD, I would have liked seeing the Marquess courting her either BEFORE marrying her, or courting her AFTER marrying. Either way, I felt like this book was lacking any buildup within the relationship and more yearning. They got together WAY too quickly for my taste, then all throughout the book he was constantly doting on her with jewelry, clothing, them having a good amount of great sex, and then shortly after they have sex she discovered she was pregnant.


The only conflict was her father arriving at the Marquess’s estate, and the father obviously wanting money, and that got resolved rather quickly. The Marquess was a very good and fair man, and he was liked by his staff and the people who lived in the village.

[Jennifer Leigh (jenjenbookfan) · Rating 5 out of 5]

𝐌𝐚𝐢𝐝 𝐟𝐨𝐫 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐌𝐚𝐫𝐪𝐮𝐞𝐬𝐬 by Melanie Moreland and Scarlett Scott is a riveting regency romance featuring a marriage of convenience with definite Cinderella vibes for Maddie and Lord Alexander Wheaton. He went into a fixed card game to win back a piece of family land, and came out with a woman, too. Only the worst kind of man abuses his daughter, sentences her to a life of servitude, then gives her away as a wager in a card game. Luckily for Maddie, she was won by an honorable man, determined to give her a completely different life, full of happiness and safety. While I don’t read historical romance often, I was excited to see what kind of spin Melanie Moreland would put on it. Scarlett Scott is new to me, but I’m now curious about her work. I loved every second of this story! Maddie’s backstory was extremely emotional, bringing drama and tension with the Cinderella energy. Lord Alexander was completely swoon-worthy in the way that he cared for Maddie, always being considerate of her boundaries, so compassionate, and spoiling her. Maddie was surprisingly strong and loving, despite her horrific treatment at the hands of her father. She and Alexander developed such an amazing connection through conversation, separate from their physical chemistry. The world building was fantastic… from the imagery to the supporting characters like their friends Edward and Lydia. The layered plot twists, drama, and slow burn romance. kept me glued to the pages from beginning to end. Although the epilogue was absolutely perfect, I’d love to read a story for the other characters!😉

Thank to Melanie Moreland for the ARC. My opinions are my own, and are freely expressed.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

[Hailey · Rating 5 out of 5]

When I saw that Melanie Moreland teamed up with Scarlett Scott for a Regency romance, I knew this was a must-read. While Scottish Highlanders is usually what I gravitate to, I do dabble in regency romances.

💛 “We found each other at the right time, Maddie mine.”

Maid for the Marquess completely swept me away with its tender, Cinderella-esque charm. Maddie is far more than a frightened maid; she’s a survivor, quietly strong, and deeply easy to root for. Alexander, Marquess of Wheaton, is the kind of swoony, protective hero who leads with kindness instead of ego.

💛 “Do not fear me, my wife. I swear to you, nothing shall hurt you under this roof. Ever. I will not allow it.”

Their marriage of convenience unfolds into a slow, healing love that feels earned and deeply satisfying. I adored how devoted Alexander is from the very start, giving Maddie the space and safety to truly become herself. There’s no unnecessary breakup drama here… just duels, devotion, and growth.

💛“You are the most generous, thoughtful man,” she whispered. “I am honored to be your wife.”
“I am the fortunate one, Maddie Mine. You make me happier than I deserve.”

The dual POV makes every emotion hit harder, and the writing blends both authors’ voices seamlessly. Sweet, emotional, and utterly unputdownable, this is a Regency romance that delivers all the feels. I am crossing my fingers that Melanie Moreland continues in this genre

💫 Maid for the Marquess by Melanie Moreland (@morelandmelanie) and Scarlett Scott (@scarlettscottauthor)
Historical Regency Romance | Marriage of Convenience | Trauma x Healing | 350 pp | ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️.5 (4.5/5)
💫 “You are, and will forever be, the light of my days and the stars in my night sky.”

[AJ's Book ReMarks · Rating 4 out of 5]

Maid for the Marquess is Melanie Moreland's first Regency era story, written in the first-person point of view. Meanwhile, Scarlett Scott is a master storyteller of this era and usually writes in the third person. Their collaboration makes for one enjoyable period piece. Let's talk about the cover. It's giving me Poldark feels and is reminding me of the older Harlequin book covers meant to be risque. Meet Lord Alexander Wheaton, owner of the Wheaton country estates, and his right-hand man and steward, Edward Warwick. Edward's mother was Alexander's Mother's lady's maid. They grew up together. Edward saved Alexander's life when they were younger, a debt never to be repaid. Lord Wheaton has always wanted to regain the land next to his property, which his father sold to Lord Barnett. At one time, the land had a beautiful apple orchard. It was his mother's favorite place, and he is determined to make it so again.

Lord Barnett has serious financial problems; he's in debt, and his estate shows the wear and tear of his neglect. He devises a plan: another rigged card game that will ensure he wins. However, he was not anticipating Lord Wheaton to be onto his deceit. When there was nothing left to wager, Lord Barnett had his man servant bring in Madeline Smythe, his daughter, and added her to the winning pot. Let the shennegains and mayhem begin!

I haven't read a period piece in a long time; it was a refreshing change of pace and quite entertaining.

[Katslovesbooks · Rating 5 out of 5]

I forgot how much I loved reading regency romances, but thanks to Melanie Moreland and Scarlett Scott I have rediscovered my passion for them.

Maid for the Marquess was an exceptional read, giving us all a wonderful glimpse into the regency era with charming characters, a beautiful setting and a love that blossoms between the Marquess of Wheaton and a woman who most of her life has been treated like a maid in the hands of the person who was supposed to protected her.

Alexander didn't fit the normal "marquess" role. He was a caring, simple and a noble man. When he crosses paths with Madeleine he sees a scare woman in need of protection and he doesn't hesitate to give a helping hand. Maddie makes an impression on him and he is charmed by her beauty and more beautiful soul. Alexander has been avoiding a marriage proposal but Maddie is the perfect candidate in his eyes.

Maddie has suffered terribly growing up, but Alexander little but little makes her realise than none was her fault on the opposite he always praises her strength and makes her realise she is worth of so many wonderful things. I just loved the way Alexander spoiled her, every present, every picnic, every kiss was just so sweet and charming.

I honestly feel in love with this story from the very beginning and if I could give more than 5 stars to this book I would. Definitely is one of my top 5 reads this year.

[Amy.Reads.Romance · Rating 5 out of 5]

In a first for Melanie Moreland, she has created—along with Regency author Scarlett Scott—an outstanding Regency-era romance. Throughout the story, I could feel Melanie’s writing style infused into every corner of the narrative, blended with something fresh and new. I’ve never read anything by Scarlett before, but I’m absolutely adding a few of her bestsellers to my reading list—and soon!

In this book, we meet our heroine, Madeline. She’s a maid in her own home—cast aside as rubbish by her own father and treated as less than the dirt under his shoes. During a high-stakes poker game, he offers her up as a prize and hands her over to the Marquess, Alexander, who snatches her up to protect her and keep her safe—to save her from her horrible life.

After speaking with Madeline and seeing who she truly is, Alexander decides she would be a perfect wife for him rather than a maid. Madeline is completely dumbfounded. She has never once considered she could hold such a high place in society as the wife of a marquess. But Alexander is kind to her and promises her the life she’s always dreamed of, so she agrees.

But just because they are married doesn’t mean she feels truly free from the terror of living under her father’s thumb. Alexander must show her what it means to be loved and treasured, and Madeline will have to allow herself the freedom to love in return.

Story:⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Spice:🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️
Butterflies: 🦋🦋🦋🦋🦋

[World Of Books 65 · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was my first step back into historical romance since my Brontë days, and Maid for the Marquessreminded me exactly why I once adored the genre. I’d forgotten how deeply, purely romantic historicals can be—how they sweep you into a world where love feels timeless, sincere, and unhurried. No third-act breakup, no modern drama—just authentic, beautifully rendered romance.

I’m so delighted that Melanie Moreland managed to persuade Scarlett Cole to take the plunge and write a historical romance with her, because what they’ve created together is something exceptional. I truly hope they team up again soon.

I don’t normally read historical romance, but the moment I saw who the authors were, I knew I wouldn’t be disappointed. From the first page, I was transported back in time. The scene setting was so vivid it reminded me of where my love for romance first began—with the Brontë sisters.

Maddie and Alexander’s story unfolds with the perfect pacing for the era. Even the smallest details—like Maddie in her night rail or Alexander’s simple, intimate gestures—made the entire story feel authentically steeped in history. The emotional moments are plentiful, the passion is undeniable yet perfectly fitting for the time period, and the romance is nothing short of captivating.

A refreshing, romantic, beautifully crafted historical escape penned by two incredibly talented authors. A perfect read.