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The Widow Reforms A Rake
Historical Romance Short.
Robert Balfour, the Duke of Stanworth has been besotted by his close peer and friend, the Earl of Hartwell’s bride for twenty-three years.
Eliza Carden, now, the Dowager Countess of Hartwell had been widowed for eight years had found an ardent correspondent in the Duke of Stanworth.
They recited John Donne, shared news of the day and the tone of their speech held a comfortable intimacy they both savoured even if they dared not confront it. That is until Robert invites Eliza for a short stay at his secluded cottage. Almost a decade of epistolary contact will be brought to life, warm skin and gentle breath to collide.
Was the secret to their magic weaved in their letters or can their suppressed affection bloom from the heat of their touch?
Robert Balfour, the Duke of Stanworth has been besotted by his close peer and friend, the Earl of Hartwell’s bride for twenty-three years.
Eliza Carden, now, the Dowager Countess of Hartwell had been widowed for eight years had found an ardent correspondent in the Duke of Stanworth.
They recited John Donne, shared news of the day and the tone of their speech held a comfortable intimacy they both savoured even if they dared not confront it. That is until Robert invites Eliza for a short stay at his secluded cottage. Almost a decade of epistolary contact will be brought to life, warm skin and gentle breath to collide.
Was the secret to their magic weaved in their letters or can their suppressed affection bloom from the heat of their touch?
63 pages, Kindle Edition
First published July 1, 2025
3 people want to read
About the author
Steffy Smith
11 books96 followersInspired by my dreams and fantasies, I write stories across the eras combining my love of history + happily ever afters. My furbaby Ariel has been by my side every step of this indie journey, which is why she features on my shoulder. My writing is fuelled by Earl Grey, sporadic bouts of manic energy & keeping myself accountable with deadlines. Come with me on a journey as my stories begin to unfold and step back into a Georgian England or a Regency ball. Be swept away on a journey throughout the Scottish Highlands or whisked off to a majestic castle in medieval England. From Viking longboats to Western saloons - I will have a story for you xxx
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Displaying 1 - 23 of 23 reviews
February 2, 2026
3.5 stars
This was an enjoyable and quick read about an older couple. Eliza , Dowager Countess of Hartwell had been a widow for 8 years and was around 40 years old. She had been in correspondence with Robert Balfour, Duke of Stanworth for a good number of years. They shared a love of poetry. Robert hadn’t married, he had been a good friend of her husband and he did have a reputation. He was 14 years older. Robert always loved Eliza and now they decided to meet for the first time since her husband’s death. Eliza was under no illusion why they were meeting but she did have some reservations. This story illustrates that it’s never too late for love and enjoyment in each other’s company. I do like it when a story is about an older couple, I just wish it had been a bit longer, so I could have read what Eliza’s marriage had been like. I received a copy via Booksprout and have voluntarily reviewed it l all thoughts and opinions are my own.
This was an enjoyable and quick read about an older couple. Eliza , Dowager Countess of Hartwell had been a widow for 8 years and was around 40 years old. She had been in correspondence with Robert Balfour, Duke of Stanworth for a good number of years. They shared a love of poetry. Robert hadn’t married, he had been a good friend of her husband and he did have a reputation. He was 14 years older. Robert always loved Eliza and now they decided to meet for the first time since her husband’s death. Eliza was under no illusion why they were meeting but she did have some reservations. This story illustrates that it’s never too late for love and enjoyment in each other’s company. I do like it when a story is about an older couple, I just wish it had been a bit longer, so I could have read what Eliza’s marriage had been like. I received a copy via Booksprout and have voluntarily reviewed it l all thoughts and opinions are my own.
February 13, 2026
This historical romance, set in the 1800s, offers a refreshing take on the genre by focusing on characters in midlife rather than debutantes and young rakes. Both main characters are widowed, and the hero has quietly admired the heroine for nearly twenty years. When circumstances finally bring them together, the result is a heartfelt and mature second-chance romance.
One of the strongest aspects of the book is its emotional depth. These aren’t impulsive young lovers—they are people shaped by decades of experience, loss, responsibility, and quiet longing. Watching them navigate love again after grief feels genuine and tender. The long-standing admiration adds a beautiful layer of devotion and patience to the romance.
For the most part, the writing flows very well. The plot is nicely structured, and the pacing works especially well for a shorter historical romance. It moves steadily without feeling rushed, giving the relationship time to develop in a believable way.
Occasionally, though, there are moments where certain phrases or sentences feel a bit too modern for the 1800s setting. Those instances briefly pulled me out of the story. However, they are relatively minor compared to the overall quality of the narrative.
All in all, this is a well-written, gently paced, and emotionally satisfying historical romance. If you enjoy second-chance love stories with mature characters and a touch of long-held devotion, this book is definitely worth reading.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
One of the strongest aspects of the book is its emotional depth. These aren’t impulsive young lovers—they are people shaped by decades of experience, loss, responsibility, and quiet longing. Watching them navigate love again after grief feels genuine and tender. The long-standing admiration adds a beautiful layer of devotion and patience to the romance.
For the most part, the writing flows very well. The plot is nicely structured, and the pacing works especially well for a shorter historical romance. It moves steadily without feeling rushed, giving the relationship time to develop in a believable way.
Occasionally, though, there are moments where certain phrases or sentences feel a bit too modern for the 1800s setting. Those instances briefly pulled me out of the story. However, they are relatively minor compared to the overall quality of the narrative.
All in all, this is a well-written, gently paced, and emotionally satisfying historical romance. If you enjoy second-chance love stories with mature characters and a touch of long-held devotion, this book is definitely worth reading.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
January 25, 2026
Robert Balfour, the Duke of Stanworth, has been captivated by his close friend’s bride, Eliza Carden, for twenty-three years. Their first meeting—marked by a single dance—left a lasting impression on Robert, but before anything could blossom, Eliza became engaged to his good friend, the Earl of Hartwell. Years later, after Eliza is widowed, the two begin an exchange of letters that continues for eight years, building a relationship founded on trust, honesty, and deep affection.
Eventually, Robert invites Eliza to his secluded cottage, where their years of epistolary longing finally come to life. What begins as a reunion filled with passion evolves into a love that feels both inevitable and timeless.
I truly enjoyed this novella. It’s a heartfelt second-chance romance that beautifully explores the enduring bond between Robert and Eliza. Their correspondence reveals a slow, intimate connection that matures into something profound and lasting. The story captures the poignancy of love delayed but never forgotten, making their ultimate reunion all the more satisfying.
The author’s elegant storytelling and gift for crafting tender, emotionally resonant moments make this a truly memorable read.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Eventually, Robert invites Eliza to his secluded cottage, where their years of epistolary longing finally come to life. What begins as a reunion filled with passion evolves into a love that feels both inevitable and timeless.
I truly enjoyed this novella. It’s a heartfelt second-chance romance that beautifully explores the enduring bond between Robert and Eliza. Their correspondence reveals a slow, intimate connection that matures into something profound and lasting. The story captures the poignancy of love delayed but never forgotten, making their ultimate reunion all the more satisfying.
The author’s elegant storytelling and gift for crafting tender, emotionally resonant moments make this a truly memorable read.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
December 10, 2025
Thanks to Booksprout for a copy of this short story and this is my freely given opinion.
A steamy second chance historical romance about a rakish man, Robert Balfour, the Duke of Stanwith, who has loved his best friend's widow from afar for many years, but stayed away. When Eliza, the Countess of Harthwell, is widowed, he connects with her and they start a comfortable friendship through correspondence. This progresses for 8 years, before Robert makes a proposition to Eliza to meet with him at a remote cottage. Eliza accepts, making the decision to take their relationship beyond the page, to an affair.
There is a sweet slow burn element of their letter writing, and that Robert has had such a long burning desire for Eliza, but there is a bit of underlying tension as well - with some guilt because of his friendship with her husband, and her not knowing what to expect because of his rakish past.
Short, steamy with some graphic open door love scenes, and an HEA in the end. What I loved the most was the sweetness of their slow brewing friendship through the letters and how they continue that even when they are together... love love letters :) I kind of wish there was more of that.
3.75 stars out of 5
A steamy second chance historical romance about a rakish man, Robert Balfour, the Duke of Stanwith, who has loved his best friend's widow from afar for many years, but stayed away. When Eliza, the Countess of Harthwell, is widowed, he connects with her and they start a comfortable friendship through correspondence. This progresses for 8 years, before Robert makes a proposition to Eliza to meet with him at a remote cottage. Eliza accepts, making the decision to take their relationship beyond the page, to an affair.
There is a sweet slow burn element of their letter writing, and that Robert has had such a long burning desire for Eliza, but there is a bit of underlying tension as well - with some guilt because of his friendship with her husband, and her not knowing what to expect because of his rakish past.
Short, steamy with some graphic open door love scenes, and an HEA in the end. What I loved the most was the sweetness of their slow brewing friendship through the letters and how they continue that even when they are together... love love letters :) I kind of wish there was more of that.
3.75 stars out of 5
January 8, 2026
This is a short fast read about two people who have known each other for twenty years. Robert and his best friend, Michael, both young handsome gentlemen, went to many balls and events together. At one of the balls Robert sees Eliza and likes what he sees. Michael and he both danced with her. Unfortunately, Michael moved faster and marries her. Robert being the friend he was never told Michael had he felt about her. Even after Michael passed, he kept his feelings to himself. Eliza and him have been writing letters to each other for over eight years. Eliza found his cold, and formal at first but now they are the highlight of her days. They are warm and friendly, and she looks forward to them. The last one surprises her as he invites her to visit. This is a wonderful story of second chances and two people who have been waiting a lifetime to share how they feel. It was a great read good for a break of before bedtime. I love stories with older characters who have lived, had dreams and losses and still have dreams to come.
February 12, 2026
The Duke and the Countess
“The Widow Reforms a Rake” is a standalone historical romance novella. It is billed as a second chance at love. Sadly, I found this novella lacked substance. As a reader, I wanted to know the characters better, I was barely afforded an introduction before Robert and Eliza were meeting at a secluded cottage. At times, these two acted liked nervous teenagers instead of adults. The letters in the story did nothing to further any understanding of the characters or the plot. I didn’t feel any chemistry between Robert and Eliza, apparently they barely interacted in social situations. The story had good bones, but no muscles on those bones. There was some steam but the chemistry and passion were missing. I was confused by the title, where was the reforming? Well, enough said. I usually like stories written by Steffy Smith, sadly, she dropped the ball on this one.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review, my thoughts and opinions are entirely my own.
“The Widow Reforms a Rake” is a standalone historical romance novella. It is billed as a second chance at love. Sadly, I found this novella lacked substance. As a reader, I wanted to know the characters better, I was barely afforded an introduction before Robert and Eliza were meeting at a secluded cottage. At times, these two acted liked nervous teenagers instead of adults. The letters in the story did nothing to further any understanding of the characters or the plot. I didn’t feel any chemistry between Robert and Eliza, apparently they barely interacted in social situations. The story had good bones, but no muscles on those bones. There was some steam but the chemistry and passion were missing. I was confused by the title, where was the reforming? Well, enough said. I usually like stories written by Steffy Smith, sadly, she dropped the ball on this one.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review, my thoughts and opinions are entirely my own.
December 30, 2025
The Widow Reforms a Rake is a quick, fun read about two lovers who were like ships passing in the night. Robert was profligate, not ready to be tied down, when he met Eliza. She ended up marrying his friend Michael—to Robert’s eventual regret. He even kept his distance for years after she was widowed. But a monthly correspondence has sprung up between them, and that has led Robert to invite Eliza to his home for a visit. Both of them realize what that will mean between them.
It’s easy for the reader to see that Robert has lived with years of regret, while Eliza has wondered for years what might have been between them. Robert essentially realizes that he made a mistake and that his debauched lifestyle is empty in comparison. Theirs is an easy slide into sensuality; after all, they’ve basically been building to it for a quarter century. If you’re searching for a gentle yet steamy novella, Smith has a lovely one in The Widow Reforms a Rake.
It’s easy for the reader to see that Robert has lived with years of regret, while Eliza has wondered for years what might have been between them. Robert essentially realizes that he made a mistake and that his debauched lifestyle is empty in comparison. Theirs is an easy slide into sensuality; after all, they’ve basically been building to it for a quarter century. If you’re searching for a gentle yet steamy novella, Smith has a lovely one in The Widow Reforms a Rake.
January 1, 2026
He has always loved her but Robert Balfour, the Duke of Stanworth’s close friend is the one who married her. She was the Earl of Hartwell’s bride for twenty-three years while he stood by. Now she is a widow and his penfriend.
Eliza Carden, now, the Dowager Countess of Hartwell has been widowed for eight years and has an ongoing correspondence with Robert her dead husband’s close friend and the man she should have married years ago.
They are more than just friends; reading and sharing John Donne’s poems and getting closer through letters they send both wishing for more until Robert bites the bullet and invites Eliza for a private stay at his secluded cottage. This contact will bring their separate lives into a collision of deep passions.
A sensual short story that is fun and satisfying! Don’t miss it.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Eliza Carden, now, the Dowager Countess of Hartwell has been widowed for eight years and has an ongoing correspondence with Robert her dead husband’s close friend and the man she should have married years ago.
They are more than just friends; reading and sharing John Donne’s poems and getting closer through letters they send both wishing for more until Robert bites the bullet and invites Eliza for a private stay at his secluded cottage. This contact will bring their separate lives into a collision of deep passions.
A sensual short story that is fun and satisfying! Don’t miss it.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
February 7, 2026
We have Eliza Carden, Dowager Countess of Hartwell has been friends and writing correspondence with Robert for eight years!
It is unclear why they have not acted as more than friends since she has been a widow for eight years! I had hoped her marriage was happy but it was not it seemed her husband wanted to win her because he knew that Robert wanted her too!
Robert Balfour, the Duke of Stanworth has been besotted by his close peer and friend, the Earl of Hartwell’s bride for twenty-three years. Now they are older and she is widowed this is the perfect time!
But Eliza wants to reform Robert and not just be another notch in his bedpost or belt!
These two start off and end on a wrong note at their planned outing!
Can Robert convince Eliza to take a chance on a man who has made mistakes but only wants her more than any other? Bravo well done!
I received an ARC copy for my unbiased review!
It is unclear why they have not acted as more than friends since she has been a widow for eight years! I had hoped her marriage was happy but it was not it seemed her husband wanted to win her because he knew that Robert wanted her too!
Robert Balfour, the Duke of Stanworth has been besotted by his close peer and friend, the Earl of Hartwell’s bride for twenty-three years. Now they are older and she is widowed this is the perfect time!
But Eliza wants to reform Robert and not just be another notch in his bedpost or belt!
These two start off and end on a wrong note at their planned outing!
Can Robert convince Eliza to take a chance on a man who has made mistakes but only wants her more than any other? Bravo well done!
I received an ARC copy for my unbiased review!
February 8, 2026
This is a quick and delightful second chance story. Robert Balfour, the Duke of Stanworth and known rake, had become enchanted when he danced with eighteen year old Eliza at a ball. Unfortunately, while he was deciding whether or not he actually needed to wed yet, his best friend Michael Carden, the Earl of Hartwell, courted and married her. After reconnecting at Michael’s funeral, Eliza and Robert began corresponding regularly. Now eight years after Micheal’s death, Robert invited Eliza for a weekend getaway. However, things did not go as smoothly as he had hoped, and it took a little kick in the pants from his valet, for Robert to acknowledge his feelings and take action. This is a sweet, slightly steamy story wherein two people who had longed for each other finally got their happy ending.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
February 4, 2026
Well written, fast paced novella. Full of drama, love, family, trust, steam, emotions and dreams. Robert the Duke of Stanworth has had a dream about his friend's wife for years. They had one dance before she was engaged to the Earl of Hartwell. Eliza has been married and widowed for a while. After her husband's death, she and Robert have exchanged letters to each other. He finally asks her to come to his cottage for some alone time. Each has much to regret but spending time together helps them to their happily ever after. sometimes mistakes do happen but they get their a happy ending . Loved the cover and the storyline. Would recommend to others.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
December 20, 2025
This was a short novella about a second chance romance. A duke who watched the one woman he thought he could love marry his friend found a second chance after she was widowed. They developed a friendship through letters over an eight year period. Their letters showed their intimate connection and friendship based on honesty and openness. They planned to spend a weekend together with very different objectives, but it ultimately just led to them admitting their love and a HEA. It was a sweet novella with a bit of steam but more romance and longing.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
February 13, 2026
Great short story. Robert met Eliza when his closest friend announced his engagement to her. He was attracted to her, but refrained from acting on it. When Robert died he started to write to Eliza. After eight years of letters she decides to accept Roberts invite to his cottage and is determined to tame the Duke for herself. This book is full of anticipation, mixed emotions and the determination of a woman who knows what she wants. I enjoyed this book.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
February 7, 2026
The story of Robert Balfour and Eliza Carden is exceptionally well written, featuring a compelling storyline and memorable characters. The transition from their decade-long epistolary friendship to their meeting at the secluded cottage was beautifully handled, and I was particularly moved by the suppressed affection that was captured with a satisfying happy ending. I received a copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
February 18, 2026
The Widow Reforms a Rake by Steffy Smith is a beautifully written short historical romance that begins with heartfelt letters between Eliza and Robert, the Duke of Stanworth. When they finally meet in person, the emotions that words couldn’t capture on paper blossom into a tender, genuine connection. It’s a sweet, elegant read that blends Regency charm with the warmth of unexpected love.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
December 5, 2025
A Rake, A Widow, A Delightful Romance:
Robert has always desired Eliza his best friend's wife.
Eliza a widow now has always desired her husband best friend.
A quick and delightful romance story that was a treat to read.
Terrific beach read for a lazy afternoon.
Full of passion but will these two people get what they thought they wanted?
Mature Reader 1+/5
Robert has always desired Eliza his best friend's wife.
Eliza a widow now has always desired her husband best friend.
A quick and delightful romance story that was a treat to read.
Terrific beach read for a lazy afternoon.
Full of passion but will these two people get what they thought they wanted?
Mature Reader 1+/5
February 2, 2026
Delightful, short love story
A rake duke falls for the beautiful Eliza. As Robert refuses to succumb to marriage, Eliza marries his friend. After eight years of being a widow, Eliza reunites with Robert for a tryst. Robert refuses to let her go this time.
I received an ARC copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
A rake duke falls for the beautiful Eliza. As Robert refuses to succumb to marriage, Eliza marries his friend. After eight years of being a widow, Eliza reunites with Robert for a tryst. Robert refuses to let her go this time.
I received an ARC copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
February 7, 2026
A second chance story of a young man who ignored his feelings of love and chose being single instead. Years pass and the opportunity presents itself again. Will he take it or skip this last chance? Read this well written story to find out.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
February 7, 2026
“The Widow Reforms a Rake” by Steffy Smith
-A fast-paced Regency novella filled with longing, letters, and simmering regret. I received a free copy and am voluntarily sharing my honest thoughts.
Robert and Eliza’s missed chances make their second chance tender and steamy. Short but satisfying, this is a sweet, emotional quick read with a happy ending.
-A fast-paced Regency novella filled with longing, letters, and simmering regret. I received a free copy and am voluntarily sharing my honest thoughts.
Robert and Eliza’s missed chances make their second chance tender and steamy. Short but satisfying, this is a sweet, emotional quick read with a happy ending.
February 13, 2026
This book was really nice. It's not really a second chance for this older couple but for the Duke to finally express his feelings after waiting for so long. A great representation of an older couple who have a bond as friends that then turns into something meaningful.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
December 7, 2025
This short little story tells of a man who envies his friend’s wife. When she is widowed he and she write and over time get together and find their hea. It had open intimate scenes which were not necessary to the plot.
January 31, 2026
A quick read filled with seduction. Twenty three years of knowing each other and eight years of corresponding after the death of her husband leads to a lot of longing. I wish it had been longer to add more depth to the characters and story. If you like quickies, this one is for you.
February 13, 2026
This was a fast-paced alowburn second chance historical romance novella. I enjoyed this compelling, well written, sweet, slightly steamy love story with memorable characters that find their happy ending. I highly recommend reading!
Displaying 1 - 23 of 23 reviews