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Windham #0.5-0.6
The Duke and His Duchess / The Courtship
Two Novellas of the Windham series by New York Times bestselling author Grace Burrowes, for the first time in print.
THE COURTSHIP
The first novella to be published by New York Times bestselling author Grace Burrowes features the foundation story for her bestselling Windham series. This is the tender story of love tested and won, and how Percy Windham, the dashing and brilliant man who was never supposed to become the Duke of Moreland, wooed Esther Himmelfarb, the amazing lady who became his beloved Duchess.
THE DUKE AND HIS DUCHESS
In this second prequel novella to the popular Windham series, Grace Burrowes continues the story of the Duke and Duchess of Moreland through the tumultuous and bittersweet first years of marriage and parenthood. Percival Windham is a second son and cavalry officer when he weds the beautiful Esther Himmelfarb. Percy and Esther must grow into the nobility they've been resisting and stand together, or face the threat of destroying their young family and the beautiful love that started out with such promise...
THE COURTSHIP
The first novella to be published by New York Times bestselling author Grace Burrowes features the foundation story for her bestselling Windham series. This is the tender story of love tested and won, and how Percy Windham, the dashing and brilliant man who was never supposed to become the Duke of Moreland, wooed Esther Himmelfarb, the amazing lady who became his beloved Duchess.
THE DUKE AND HIS DUCHESS
In this second prequel novella to the popular Windham series, Grace Burrowes continues the story of the Duke and Duchess of Moreland through the tumultuous and bittersweet first years of marriage and parenthood. Percival Windham is a second son and cavalry officer when he weds the beautiful Esther Himmelfarb. Percy and Esther must grow into the nobility they've been resisting and stand together, or face the threat of destroying their young family and the beautiful love that started out with such promise...
256 pages, Mass Market Paperback
First published September 1, 2015
39 people are currently reading
793 people want to read
About the author
Grace Burrowes
190 books2,917 followersGrace Burrowes started writing as an antidote to empty nest and soon found it an antidote to life in general. She is the sixth out of seven children, raised in the rural surrounds of central Pennsylvania. Early in life she spent a lot of time reading romance novels and practicing the piano. Her first career was as a technical writer and editor in the Washington, DC, area, a busy job that nonetheless left enough time to read a lot of romance novels.
It also left enough time to grab a law degree through an evening program, produce Beloved Offspring (only one, but she is a lion), and eventually move to the lovely Maryland countryside.
While reading yet still more romance novels, Grace opened her own law practice, acquired a master's degree in Conflict Transformation (she had a teenage daughter by then) and started thinking about writing.... romance novels. This aim was realized when Beloved Offspring struck out into the Big World a few years ago. ("Mom, why doesn't anybody tell you being a grown-up is hard?")
Grace eventually got up the courage to start pitching her manuscripts to agents and editors. The query letter that resulted in "the call" started out: "I am the buffoon in the bar at the RWA retreat who could not keep her heroines straight, could not look you in the eye, and could not stop blushing--and if that doesn't narrow down the possibilities, your job is even harder than I thought." (The dear lady bought the book anyway.)
To contact Grace, email her at graceburrowes@yahoo.com.
It also left enough time to grab a law degree through an evening program, produce Beloved Offspring (only one, but she is a lion), and eventually move to the lovely Maryland countryside.
While reading yet still more romance novels, Grace opened her own law practice, acquired a master's degree in Conflict Transformation (she had a teenage daughter by then) and started thinking about writing.... romance novels. This aim was realized when Beloved Offspring struck out into the Big World a few years ago. ("Mom, why doesn't anybody tell you being a grown-up is hard?")
Grace eventually got up the courage to start pitching her manuscripts to agents and editors. The query letter that resulted in "the call" started out: "I am the buffoon in the bar at the RWA retreat who could not keep her heroines straight, could not look you in the eye, and could not stop blushing--and if that doesn't narrow down the possibilities, your job is even harder than I thought." (The dear lady bought the book anyway.)
To contact Grace, email her at graceburrowes@yahoo.com.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 49 reviews
September 2, 2015
Happy Release Week!
I've read many of the books in the Wyndham Series (and there are several series) by this author. The Duke and his Duchess have always been there...managing the grown children together while SHE manages HIM! These two novellas, following along their courtship and early years together, were simply charming.
Their first kiss about melted my kindle. It was EVERYTHING a first kiss should be. I loved it. At one point she notices that he was counting their kisses...yes, I swooned, just a bit.
I thoroughly enjoyed their meeting and coming together. There was humor, romance...and then joy.
The second book starts with some issues between the couple. Esther is exhausted (she has FOUR very YOUNG sons) and Percival has some secrets, too, much to his own surprise. I like how the characters (finally) talk things out. Like ADULTS and everything! Ms. Burrowes excels at that and I am most grateful.
While both novellas had been available in ebooks, this is the first time for them to be out in print. You should have the set on your own bookshelf to read at your leisure. They are a joy!
*Thank you, Sourcebooks ~ Casablanca and NetGalley, for the opportunity to read this book.
I've read many of the books in the Wyndham Series (and there are several series) by this author. The Duke and his Duchess have always been there...managing the grown children together while SHE manages HIM! These two novellas, following along their courtship and early years together, were simply charming.
Their first kiss about melted my kindle. It was EVERYTHING a first kiss should be. I loved it. At one point she notices that he was counting their kisses...yes, I swooned, just a bit.
I thoroughly enjoyed their meeting and coming together. There was humor, romance...and then joy.
The second book starts with some issues between the couple. Esther is exhausted (she has FOUR very YOUNG sons) and Percival has some secrets, too, much to his own surprise. I like how the characters (finally) talk things out. Like ADULTS and everything! Ms. Burrowes excels at that and I am most grateful.
While both novellas had been available in ebooks, this is the first time for them to be out in print. You should have the set on your own bookshelf to read at your leisure. They are a joy!
*Thank you, Sourcebooks ~ Casablanca and NetGalley, for the opportunity to read this book.
September 2, 2015
I was one of those people who hadn’t jumped on the wagon of this new author that everyone was talking about. I resisted for almost a year to buy her début ‘The Heir’, but in the end I gave in. To this day I’m shaking my head when I think about it! I adored every word I read and from that point on, I was hooked on Grace Burrowes. I also wondered about the secondary/supportive character of the Duke of Morland, the man that started it all. Who is this man?! Why would his Duchess even consider, let alone agree to raise his bastard children?
I really wondered after a few books that followed in this series, if Madam Author would ever answer those burning questions for me.
I can’t tell you how happy I was when she released the two novellas that explained this to me.
The love story of Esther and Percival is truly one for the ages and I highly recommend it to all of my bookworms, especially to those that have never read this author. This is a great way for you to be introduced to this series and to a wonderful writing voice of an author that has become one of my all time favorites in a blink of an eye.
Melanie for b2b
Complimentary copy provided by the publisher
I really wondered after a few books that followed in this series, if Madam Author would ever answer those burning questions for me.
I can’t tell you how happy I was when she released the two novellas that explained this to me.
The love story of Esther and Percival is truly one for the ages and I highly recommend it to all of my bookworms, especially to those that have never read this author. This is a great way for you to be introduced to this series and to a wonderful writing voice of an author that has become one of my all time favorites in a blink of an eye.
Melanie for b2b
Complimentary copy provided by the publisher
June 22, 2015
A pair of prequel novellas to Burrowes's Windham series of Regency romances, set a generation earlier. (These were originally released in e-format only, but are now being released in print.)
"The Courtship" is chronologically first, despite coming second in the title. At an excruciating house party, Lord Percival, not yet the Duke of Windham but merely the spare, second in line after his ailing brother Peter, decides to court the beautiful and set-upon Esther Himmelfarb. Esther, who is at the party merely to keep an eye on her cousin Michael, has spent the time so far dodging the dubious attentions of Sir Jasper. Lord Percival comes as a huge relief. A charming look at the process of falling in love.
"The Duke and His Duchess" takes place five years--and four sons--later, when Lord Percival (still not the duke yet) and Esther hit a bad patch in their marriage. The stresses on their relationship are made worse by the reappearance of two of his former mistresses--the mothers of his two older children. This is not a perspective commonly found in romance novels, but it is beautifully done.
The characterizations are rich and believable, and the conflicts arise naturally out of the situations and personalities. Wonderful as always.
"The Courtship" is chronologically first, despite coming second in the title. At an excruciating house party, Lord Percival, not yet the Duke of Windham but merely the spare, second in line after his ailing brother Peter, decides to court the beautiful and set-upon Esther Himmelfarb. Esther, who is at the party merely to keep an eye on her cousin Michael, has spent the time so far dodging the dubious attentions of Sir Jasper. Lord Percival comes as a huge relief. A charming look at the process of falling in love.
"The Duke and His Duchess" takes place five years--and four sons--later, when Lord Percival (still not the duke yet) and Esther hit a bad patch in their marriage. The stresses on their relationship are made worse by the reappearance of two of his former mistresses--the mothers of his two older children. This is not a perspective commonly found in romance novels, but it is beautifully done.
The characterizations are rich and believable, and the conflicts arise naturally out of the situations and personalities. Wonderful as always.
September 1, 2017
Recently I've started reading the works of Grace Burrowes. After randomly chosing a few of the later Windham books, I wanted to go back and read the prequel to this series. I'm glad I did! It was so much fun getting to know Percy and Esther, and I simply love the interaction with the children and babies. Their story was so sweet and tender, and their love a strong enough bond to withstand whatever threatened. Now as I go forward with this series, understanding the foundation and ties of that family will only enhance the remaining stories I can't wait to read. Love it ❤️
September 25, 2015
original post at: http://ramblingsfromthischick.blogspo...
The Courtship
Grace Burrowes is one of those authors who I just want to sit and read all her books. I think she is a fantastic writer. Aside from that, she also really knows how to develop her characters to make them real. I think that her writing is so poetic and gracefully. She flows from scenes with such a smooth transition that it feels like I a watching a movie instead of reading.
In “The Duke and His Duchess” we meet Miss Ester Himmelfarb. She is attending a three week house party. Miss Ester is considered on the shelf and a spinster. She is a part of society mostly as a chaperone and also as a “maid” for Mrs. Morrisette. Ester is bored with the party but tolerates it as she has no choice. Although she is considered a spinster that doesn’t stop men from groping her or staring at her cleavage.
Lord Percival is also at the house party and equally as bored. But he too tolerates it. When he sees Miss Ester he is intrigued by her peculiar personality. She is very quick witted and has no problem saying what is on her mind. Lord Percy quickly forms a friendship with Lord Percy. They are often trying to get either her cousin Michael out of trouble or his brother Tony. During their little adventures they start to share a few kisses here and there. Things quickly progress and both must decide where they want their relationship to proceed.
In true Burrowes fashion, Ester was a great heroine. I really enjoyed the barbs she shared with Percy. Even though their relationship starts off teasing it quickly turns into something else and I was happy to see that both Ester and Percy finally got the ending they deserved.
The Duke and His Duchess
This novella catches up with Percy and Ester. They are a married couple with children. Here we learn about Percy and Ester as a married couple. Although there were other characters also presented, they seemed very trivial and malicious at times. It was very unique to read about Percy and Ester as a married couple. They are definitely hitting a rough patch in their marriage and their love it tested. I have to hand it to Burrowes she reveals a big hidden secret here and I was completely shocked. Overall, this was a sweet story. Personally I like when happily ever after ends. It made me a little sad to see some of the issues that they faced in their marriage. Overall, interesting read.
The Courtship
Grace Burrowes is one of those authors who I just want to sit and read all her books. I think she is a fantastic writer. Aside from that, she also really knows how to develop her characters to make them real. I think that her writing is so poetic and gracefully. She flows from scenes with such a smooth transition that it feels like I a watching a movie instead of reading.
In “The Duke and His Duchess” we meet Miss Ester Himmelfarb. She is attending a three week house party. Miss Ester is considered on the shelf and a spinster. She is a part of society mostly as a chaperone and also as a “maid” for Mrs. Morrisette. Ester is bored with the party but tolerates it as she has no choice. Although she is considered a spinster that doesn’t stop men from groping her or staring at her cleavage.
Lord Percival is also at the house party and equally as bored. But he too tolerates it. When he sees Miss Ester he is intrigued by her peculiar personality. She is very quick witted and has no problem saying what is on her mind. Lord Percy quickly forms a friendship with Lord Percy. They are often trying to get either her cousin Michael out of trouble or his brother Tony. During their little adventures they start to share a few kisses here and there. Things quickly progress and both must decide where they want their relationship to proceed.
In true Burrowes fashion, Ester was a great heroine. I really enjoyed the barbs she shared with Percy. Even though their relationship starts off teasing it quickly turns into something else and I was happy to see that both Ester and Percy finally got the ending they deserved.
The Duke and His Duchess
This novella catches up with Percy and Ester. They are a married couple with children. Here we learn about Percy and Ester as a married couple. Although there were other characters also presented, they seemed very trivial and malicious at times. It was very unique to read about Percy and Ester as a married couple. They are definitely hitting a rough patch in their marriage and their love it tested. I have to hand it to Burrowes she reveals a big hidden secret here and I was completely shocked. Overall, this was a sweet story. Personally I like when happily ever after ends. It made me a little sad to see some of the issues that they faced in their marriage. Overall, interesting read.
June 27, 2015
This is a new combination of two previously published novellas. Both of which I had read previously. However, I enjoyed rereading them.
The Courtship might be one of my favorite stories by Grace Burrowes. It is the story of the romance and love between the Duke and Duchess who are the parents in the later books.
He is the spare of the Duke of Moreland, and she is the poor relation an Earl's granddaughter invited to parties to even the numbers and assist the more "worthy" women.
The love they share conquers all.
The second novella The Duke and his Duchess is an exploration of married life, the challenges, the dramas, and the victories.
This is a great way to get both prequels in the single package.
The Courtship might be one of my favorite stories by Grace Burrowes. It is the story of the romance and love between the Duke and Duchess who are the parents in the later books.
He is the spare of the Duke of Moreland, and she is the poor relation an Earl's granddaughter invited to parties to even the numbers and assist the more "worthy" women.
The love they share conquers all.
The second novella The Duke and his Duchess is an exploration of married life, the challenges, the dramas, and the victories.
This is a great way to get both prequels in the single package.
June 17, 2015
Reviewed for NetGalley:
I love these novellas. I was slightly disappointed when I read them to realize I'd read them (and purchased them) individually before. But I still love the stories, it give enormously important background information to Burrowes' first book series. So I really enjoy them. I find how they meet and fall in love, in the first novella, adorable, but it really is the second novella, which explores postpartum depression and illegitimate children, which really helps make the rest of the book series make sense. So, I love these novellas.
I love these novellas. I was slightly disappointed when I read them to realize I'd read them (and purchased them) individually before. But I still love the stories, it give enormously important background information to Burrowes' first book series. So I really enjoy them. I find how they meet and fall in love, in the first novella, adorable, but it really is the second novella, which explores postpartum depression and illegitimate children, which really helps make the rest of the book series make sense. So, I love these novellas.
March 3, 2017
Read together, back to back, is a nasty shock to the system. The first book is perfect. Balanced and without wasted words, plot, or inner monologue. The second is dreary and somber to the point of depression. And there is no balance. The HEA is not earned by the characters, but throw at the reader after paying excess penitence.
July 15, 2020
I was interested to pick this up after meeting the characters in The Trouble with Dukes, the spin off series to the Windhams. Percival and Esther are enviable because they are loving even years later into their relationship. But I wonder how did they manage that when Percy had affairs and his sons are good friends.
How did they reconcile his cheating and still remain in love?
A long term relationship like this is not really shown in fiction or media usually. Much more focus is on getting into a relationship and the attraction surrounding that. How does a couple navigate ups and downs as they pass milestones in life?
The Courtship
3/5 stars
So I decided to start at the beginning, Esther was likeable and it was not surprising to see why Percy was attracted to her. She did not try too hard like the other ladies, was humble and he felt surprisingly comfortable around her. He struggles with the pressure from his mother to marry. It was surprising to find that his parents grew up after they married, lost a son and now lived in separate bedrooms. They persist in calling each other "your grace" and behaving formally.
I think it was good how Percival admits that he is tired of having superficial and scheming women try to get with him for his title and looks. That was a deep observation because he sounded like a rake.
If there was anything I didn't like, it was the confusion over the time period and the lack of explanation for characters. The way the characters spoke at times was tough to catch.
The sex scenes were vague. The author skirts around what happens and makes the reader guess. This was an okay short story. Things happen way too fast and we see the consequences of that in the next novella.
The Duke and His Duchess
3.5/5 stars
Things are strained between Esther and Percival five years into their marriage and with four children. By right, they have done their duty by producing heirs and spares. I never did like the word spare. I loved that the author wrote this novella to couples who struggle. It is a reality that I don't see often in fiction.
Things change after a couple first get together. Originally, it was all lust and sex and being in sync. Now with a tired mother and wife, a grandfather with dementia and a confused and busy husband, things get awkward. They have conversations about not having enough money and more children which surprised me since Percy's father is a duke. What becomes obvious is that they receive an allowance and are dependent.
What was once a happy couple has now grown apart. What could have helped is if they had just talked. Granted Percy does try to sort things out but Esther is reticent. She is exhausted from having to care for her four boys and breastfeeding. Thus, She only opens up to her sister in law, Gladys. I found out that her body is weak after so many births, Which seems fair, people hardly talk about how tough birth is for women or postpartum depression. I realised how ignorant men can be towards getting pregnant. I mean, there was little to no contraceptives during that time period and Esther has to bare the full brunt of unprotected sex. Whilst Percival wonders how he can help his wife and considers using a lambskin sheath, the regency version of a condom. The inequality felt outrageous.
I was interested to find out how Percy and Esther would meet his half son and daughter and the book reveals this. But I can't imagine it would be easy to accept these children as your own.
I wanted to read Maggie and Devlin’s books when I met them here. Interestingly, both their mothers are courtesans but raise them in different environments. Cecily does not care about her daughter but only to use her as a pawn and Kathleen loves her son but struggles to support him. The moment where Esther offers to take him away was so sad because he was not aware what it meant. How will their pasts affect them as adults?
I do like stories with big families but this is really big!
I did like Percival alot more here. He seems matured and the scenes with his brother are nice too. While he does Make mistakes he is not over possessive and irrational. It's a throwback since I read about Tony's daughters in the Windham brides.
Not sure if it is possible for Esther to have six children and still be okay. Well they now have eight children including Devlin and Maggie. It was quite ironic how they both saved the two kids and wondered how angry the other would be but it turns out to be the opposite. I did wish they talked so there was less misunderstanding but it gets sorted out in the end.
I really enjoyed this. Even more then the Courtship because this felt real. It felt like what any couple could suffer from centuries later. The themes of a strained marriage and ailing relatives leading to how it changes the relationship of the couple are universal. If there was anything I did not like, it was the writing. It was not the easiest to understand but maybe this is the way people talk in the 1700s?
Again, the sex scenes are not very explicit. For an author who has such racy covers, I wonder why she makes sex so vague.
How did they reconcile his cheating and still remain in love?
A long term relationship like this is not really shown in fiction or media usually. Much more focus is on getting into a relationship and the attraction surrounding that. How does a couple navigate ups and downs as they pass milestones in life?
The Courtship
3/5 stars
So I decided to start at the beginning, Esther was likeable and it was not surprising to see why Percy was attracted to her. She did not try too hard like the other ladies, was humble and he felt surprisingly comfortable around her. He struggles with the pressure from his mother to marry. It was surprising to find that his parents grew up after they married, lost a son and now lived in separate bedrooms. They persist in calling each other "your grace" and behaving formally.
I think it was good how Percival admits that he is tired of having superficial and scheming women try to get with him for his title and looks. That was a deep observation because he sounded like a rake.
If there was anything I didn't like, it was the confusion over the time period and the lack of explanation for characters. The way the characters spoke at times was tough to catch.
The sex scenes were vague. The author skirts around what happens and makes the reader guess. This was an okay short story. Things happen way too fast and we see the consequences of that in the next novella.
The Duke and His Duchess
3.5/5 stars
Things are strained between Esther and Percival five years into their marriage and with four children. By right, they have done their duty by producing heirs and spares. I never did like the word spare. I loved that the author wrote this novella to couples who struggle. It is a reality that I don't see often in fiction.
Things change after a couple first get together. Originally, it was all lust and sex and being in sync. Now with a tired mother and wife, a grandfather with dementia and a confused and busy husband, things get awkward. They have conversations about not having enough money and more children which surprised me since Percy's father is a duke. What becomes obvious is that they receive an allowance and are dependent.
What was once a happy couple has now grown apart. What could have helped is if they had just talked. Granted Percy does try to sort things out but Esther is reticent. She is exhausted from having to care for her four boys and breastfeeding. Thus, She only opens up to her sister in law, Gladys. I found out that her body is weak after so many births, Which seems fair, people hardly talk about how tough birth is for women or postpartum depression. I realised how ignorant men can be towards getting pregnant. I mean, there was little to no contraceptives during that time period and Esther has to bare the full brunt of unprotected sex. Whilst Percival wonders how he can help his wife and considers using a lambskin sheath, the regency version of a condom. The inequality felt outrageous.
I was interested to find out how Percy and Esther would meet his half son and daughter and the book reveals this. But I can't imagine it would be easy to accept these children as your own.
I wanted to read Maggie and Devlin’s books when I met them here. Interestingly, both their mothers are courtesans but raise them in different environments. Cecily does not care about her daughter but only to use her as a pawn and Kathleen loves her son but struggles to support him. The moment where Esther offers to take him away was so sad because he was not aware what it meant. How will their pasts affect them as adults?
I do like stories with big families but this is really big!
I did like Percival alot more here. He seems matured and the scenes with his brother are nice too. While he does Make mistakes he is not over possessive and irrational. It's a throwback since I read about Tony's daughters in the Windham brides.
Not sure if it is possible for Esther to have six children and still be okay. Well they now have eight children including Devlin and Maggie. It was quite ironic how they both saved the two kids and wondered how angry the other would be but it turns out to be the opposite. I did wish they talked so there was less misunderstanding but it gets sorted out in the end.
I really enjoyed this. Even more then the Courtship because this felt real. It felt like what any couple could suffer from centuries later. The themes of a strained marriage and ailing relatives leading to how it changes the relationship of the couple are universal. If there was anything I did not like, it was the writing. It was not the easiest to understand but maybe this is the way people talk in the 1700s?
Again, the sex scenes are not very explicit. For an author who has such racy covers, I wonder why she makes sex so vague.
June 10, 2025
These two novella prequels are an absolute delight.
The Duke and Duchess of Moreland are the foundation for the entire extended Windham family series. They are witty and cunning, but also compassionate and wise.
The Courtship tells the story of Percival and Esther's romance, from the first moment they meet at a house party where Percy is smitten by the smart (and a bit sassy) but largely overlooked Esther.
The Duke and His Duchess follows the pair's relationship after the first few years of their married life, when they are now parents to 4 boys under 5, and Esther is fatigued and overwhelmed, while Percy is struggling with the pressures of the Dukedom while the health of his aged father and infirm elder brother continues to decline.
Added to these dramas are the appearance of (not one, but two) illegitimate children, fathered before his marriage two separate mistresses. Only the truest of true loves could prevail.
So much story in such a few short pages... Excellent.
This book contains descriptive love scenes.
The Duke and Duchess of Moreland are the foundation for the entire extended Windham family series. They are witty and cunning, but also compassionate and wise.
The Courtship tells the story of Percival and Esther's romance, from the first moment they meet at a house party where Percy is smitten by the smart (and a bit sassy) but largely overlooked Esther.
The Duke and His Duchess follows the pair's relationship after the first few years of their married life, when they are now parents to 4 boys under 5, and Esther is fatigued and overwhelmed, while Percy is struggling with the pressures of the Dukedom while the health of his aged father and infirm elder brother continues to decline.
Added to these dramas are the appearance of (not one, but two) illegitimate children, fathered before his marriage two separate mistresses. Only the truest of true loves could prevail.
So much story in such a few short pages... Excellent.
This book contains descriptive love scenes.
August 8, 2018
I loved this, although THE COURTSHIP was not as good as THE DUKE AND HIS DUCHESS. They were just marvelous, especially when Esther got into the baby-making mode. Then she took in two more, but can't say more without giving something away. All the characters, even the bad ones, were so well developed that I felt as if I knew them. This is a prequel to at least eight more and my library has all of them.. YAY for libraries. Also YAY for Grace Burrowes.
June 20, 2017
So much fun to see how the Windham Family got started. The Courtship was a lovely read with unexpected turns, but always the arrival at the happy ending. The Duke and His Duchess is even more compelling because it tells the story of not only keeping love alive during the bumps in the road of life, but also showing the generous hearts of those who do love and are loved in return.
August 4, 2024
I wish I read the Wyndham books in order starting with these books. I guess I’ll have to reread “The Wyndham Brides” all over once I finish this series.
I really loved this look at Percy and Esther, the grandparents in The Wyndham Brides, when THEY were young and falling in love and then coming into being Duke and Duchess.
They have a wonderful relationship.
I really loved this look at Percy and Esther, the grandparents in The Wyndham Brides, when THEY were young and falling in love and then coming into being Duke and Duchess.
They have a wonderful relationship.
April 8, 2021
This is lovely. Both stories are. The writing is exquisite, with an eloquence I deeply admire. These are both a beautiful look "behind the scenes" at how Esther and Percy met... and stayed together through some troubling events. I have nothing but praise.
Excellent.
Excellent.
December 30, 2025
Light, easy to read, fun and with some twists and turns that give one some things to think about. Because I read this out of order, I had to think of it as a prequel. Maybe it was. Anyway, the Duke and Duchess were MUCH nicer when they were young than after their later tragedies.
July 1, 2017
Loved it!
July 30, 2017
Full review here: https://courtneyreadsromancesite.word...
February 2, 2018
OMG! I loved this book so much! I wish I would have read it first because it explains so much. Now I have to go back and reread all the Windham books :)
July 25, 2018
(Read “The Courtship” as an ebook, then read this two-part publication for “The Duke and His Duchess”. Thoroughly enjoyed both parts - but separately. 👍🏽)
January 2, 2019
Read 1/2/19
November 7, 2020
Both good novellas as extras to the series!
December 4, 2020
3.5 Stars
September 13, 2022
Mannerly and romantic.
November 12, 2023
Two short novellas and the moral of their story made for an appreciable effort.
September 27, 2024
Awesome, loved it! Love all the Windhams.
October 31, 2025
A soft 5. The first story takes you to the HEA. if you've ever wondered what happens after the HEA the second story covers the rest. An epilogue on steroids.
September 1, 2015
THE COURTSHIP
Esther Himmelfarb, a woman without a fancy title or substantial dowry but with suitable connections, is invited to a three-week house party as a last minute substitute to keep numbers even. She is used to feeling second-class at these functions and has long since stopped worrying about every little word or action. She isn't there to land a rich husband like the other ladies, so Esther is quit content to assist the servants and escape to a quick nook to read and relax. She certainly doesn't expect to gain the interest and attentions of Percival Windham, a rich and titled gentleman recently returned from Canada who is the "one to catch" at this particular party. Percival is intrigued by Esther's open, honest, and humble nature. It's quickly obvious to him that she isn't like the other scheming, conniving ladies in the house and when he makes an effort to get to know her, he finds his initial interest turning into something much more serious.
Esther is quite practical and enjoys learning about the world and people around her. She knows she is not destined for some great society marriage and this attitude makes it easy to talk to Percy when he approaches her for conversation. The two hit it off right away and Esther is quickly pulled into a friendship with Percy and his brother Anthony, two rakes desperate to escape the clawing clutches of the other marriage-minded females desperate to land a titled husband.
THE DUKE AND HIS DUCHESS
Ever wonder what happens after "happily ever after?" When kids show up? When couples get older and begin losing friends and family? Courtship is always exciting, but how do couples keep the foundation - that love and trust - strong during the hard times? These are just some of the themes explored in THE COURTSHIP. In this novella, readers are taken five years into Esther and Percy's future. They are raising several children, are learning to live without Percy's mother, and Esther may even been battling postpartum depression. This is definitely not your typical romance novel fare, but on the other hand I thought that's part of what made this novella special. We get to see Esther and Percy working at their actual marriage. Because as any married person can tell you, that's the hard part of any relationship! So when an ex-mistress (or two!) shows up with a child in tow, even more troubles are added to Esther and Percy's life.
Neither of these novellas were what I would call "typical regency fare." Yes, both are historical romances set in the regency period, but Ms. Burrowes tackles some very serious topics in these novellas - especially in THE DUKE AND HIS DUCHESS. But frankly, the serious subject matter just made these novellas stand out from the crowd and I enjoyed reading something different for a change. That said, while these novellas could be read as stand-alones, I think it would be best if new readers read the other novels in the Windham series before picking these up. Characters and their stories make much more sense if you read the other novels first since this fills in a lot of backstory. But these two novellas were quite enjoyable too.
Originally posted at Plot Twist Reviews [dot] Com
I received this book for free from the Publisher in exchange for an honest review. This does not affect my opinion of the book or the content of my review.
Esther Himmelfarb, a woman without a fancy title or substantial dowry but with suitable connections, is invited to a three-week house party as a last minute substitute to keep numbers even. She is used to feeling second-class at these functions and has long since stopped worrying about every little word or action. She isn't there to land a rich husband like the other ladies, so Esther is quit content to assist the servants and escape to a quick nook to read and relax. She certainly doesn't expect to gain the interest and attentions of Percival Windham, a rich and titled gentleman recently returned from Canada who is the "one to catch" at this particular party. Percival is intrigued by Esther's open, honest, and humble nature. It's quickly obvious to him that she isn't like the other scheming, conniving ladies in the house and when he makes an effort to get to know her, he finds his initial interest turning into something much more serious.
Esther is quite practical and enjoys learning about the world and people around her. She knows she is not destined for some great society marriage and this attitude makes it easy to talk to Percy when he approaches her for conversation. The two hit it off right away and Esther is quickly pulled into a friendship with Percy and his brother Anthony, two rakes desperate to escape the clawing clutches of the other marriage-minded females desperate to land a titled husband.
THE DUKE AND HIS DUCHESS
Ever wonder what happens after "happily ever after?" When kids show up? When couples get older and begin losing friends and family? Courtship is always exciting, but how do couples keep the foundation - that love and trust - strong during the hard times? These are just some of the themes explored in THE COURTSHIP. In this novella, readers are taken five years into Esther and Percy's future. They are raising several children, are learning to live without Percy's mother, and Esther may even been battling postpartum depression. This is definitely not your typical romance novel fare, but on the other hand I thought that's part of what made this novella special. We get to see Esther and Percy working at their actual marriage. Because as any married person can tell you, that's the hard part of any relationship! So when an ex-mistress (or two!) shows up with a child in tow, even more troubles are added to Esther and Percy's life.
Neither of these novellas were what I would call "typical regency fare." Yes, both are historical romances set in the regency period, but Ms. Burrowes tackles some very serious topics in these novellas - especially in THE DUKE AND HIS DUCHESS. But frankly, the serious subject matter just made these novellas stand out from the crowd and I enjoyed reading something different for a change. That said, while these novellas could be read as stand-alones, I think it would be best if new readers read the other novels in the Windham series before picking these up. Characters and their stories make much more sense if you read the other novels first since this fills in a lot of backstory. But these two novellas were quite enjoyable too.
Originally posted at Plot Twist Reviews [dot] Com
I received this book for free from the Publisher in exchange for an honest review. This does not affect my opinion of the book or the content of my review.
August 1, 2015
The Duke and His Duchess, and The Courtship by Grace Burrows are two novellas which are a prequel to the Windham Regency Romance Series. I haven't read any of the books from that series yet which I am pleased about as I like to read books in chronological order where possible.
The first book in the set is The Courtship. I was a little confused at first because of the title of the book. It lead me to believe I would be reading The Duke and His Duchess first. I am not sure why the author decided to name the book that way, but it doesn't detract from the novels at all.
Lord Percival who is in line to becoming the Duke of WIndham is the lead male character. He meets the lead female in the book, Esther Himmelfarb, at a house party. Just a quick aside, I loved the names the author uses in this book, they are sweetly comical. Esther, is considered the poor relation of an Earl and she is invited to social events, parties etc just to make up the numbers when necessary. She is at this particular party though to keep an eye on her cousin Michael as well as making up numbers.
When Percival meets Esther he decides immediately that he has to court her, he is struck by her beauty and her air of serenity and is absolutely smitten. Esther though isn't so keen, especially after hearing things about him such as 'One hears he takes snuff only from his mistress's naked breasts'.
What follows is as the name of the novella suggests, their courtship. It's a very sweet read and a reader can't help but fall in love with the couple and how utterly adorable they end up being with each other.
The second novella in the set is The Duke and His Duchess. It is set 4 five years later, and the couple now have 4 sons, and they live with Percival's father in the family home. The Duke is failing, and his immediate heir, Peter, Percival's brother isn't well at all. There is plenty of stress living at home.
After having 4 children in just 5 years Esther is quite worn out, and feels unwell. She also knows that practically every time she has sex with her husband she ends up pregnant, so marital relations are quite tense. The couple love each other dearly, but they seem to be drifting apart.
Percival decides a change of scenery might be just the tonic the family need, so he, Esther and the children move to London for a while. What was meant to make things better could end up making things so much worse because Esther is sure Percival is going to take a mistress. Also there are two big events that occur which would rip a less sure marriage apart at the seams. I won't give spoilers, you need to read the book to find out what those events are and how the couple deal with them.
Although The Courtship was a sweet read, The Duke and His Duchess had far more going on in it, so felt like a much more substantial story. In parts I really couldn't see how Esther and Percival's marriage could survive. It was a thoroughly gripping story which I really enjoyed. The two novellas together are a perfect pair and I wholeheartedly recommend them.
I was given a complimentary copy of this book in exchange for my honest review.
5 Stars
The first book in the set is The Courtship. I was a little confused at first because of the title of the book. It lead me to believe I would be reading The Duke and His Duchess first. I am not sure why the author decided to name the book that way, but it doesn't detract from the novels at all.
Lord Percival who is in line to becoming the Duke of WIndham is the lead male character. He meets the lead female in the book, Esther Himmelfarb, at a house party. Just a quick aside, I loved the names the author uses in this book, they are sweetly comical. Esther, is considered the poor relation of an Earl and she is invited to social events, parties etc just to make up the numbers when necessary. She is at this particular party though to keep an eye on her cousin Michael as well as making up numbers.
When Percival meets Esther he decides immediately that he has to court her, he is struck by her beauty and her air of serenity and is absolutely smitten. Esther though isn't so keen, especially after hearing things about him such as 'One hears he takes snuff only from his mistress's naked breasts'.
What follows is as the name of the novella suggests, their courtship. It's a very sweet read and a reader can't help but fall in love with the couple and how utterly adorable they end up being with each other.
The second novella in the set is The Duke and His Duchess. It is set 4 five years later, and the couple now have 4 sons, and they live with Percival's father in the family home. The Duke is failing, and his immediate heir, Peter, Percival's brother isn't well at all. There is plenty of stress living at home.
After having 4 children in just 5 years Esther is quite worn out, and feels unwell. She also knows that practically every time she has sex with her husband she ends up pregnant, so marital relations are quite tense. The couple love each other dearly, but they seem to be drifting apart.
Percival decides a change of scenery might be just the tonic the family need, so he, Esther and the children move to London for a while. What was meant to make things better could end up making things so much worse because Esther is sure Percival is going to take a mistress. Also there are two big events that occur which would rip a less sure marriage apart at the seams. I won't give spoilers, you need to read the book to find out what those events are and how the couple deal with them.
Although The Courtship was a sweet read, The Duke and His Duchess had far more going on in it, so felt like a much more substantial story. In parts I really couldn't see how Esther and Percival's marriage could survive. It was a thoroughly gripping story which I really enjoyed. The two novellas together are a perfect pair and I wholeheartedly recommend them.
I was given a complimentary copy of this book in exchange for my honest review.
5 Stars
September 8, 2015
Originally written for Buried Under Romance www.buriedunderromance.com
THE DUKE AND HIS DUCHESS and THE COURTSHIP combines two previously published novellas into one, novel length book. It takes readers who have been following the Windham family series by best-selling author Grace Burrowes back to the beginning of the series and the family. For readers that have never read any of the Windham books (like me!), it serves as a great introduction to the series.
THE COURTSHIP introduces us to Percival Windham, the “spare” heir of a Duke, who had just returned from military service in Canada. Now that he was home, his mother insisted it was time for him to take a bride. He was not interested in any of the young debutantes he met at a Lady Morrisette’s, several day long, house party, but he was intrigued by Esther Himmelfarb, who was well-read and intelligent but a nobody since her only claim to society fame was a grandfather who was an earl. After an interesting private conversation they had when they accidentally found themselves alone together in the kitchen garden, they both knew they were destined to be together.
Jump ahead several pages and five years and THE DUKE AND HIS DUCHESS finds Percival and Esther married and the parents of four very young children. While Percival entertains himself playing cards with the Duke’s heir, the other spare, and their friends, Esther is wearing herself out running the house and taking care of the children. They are still very much in love, but they are having trouble relating to the new roles that each finds themselves playing.
I loved both Percival and Esther. Both were strong characters but they both had faults. Ms. Burrowes has developed both characters so well and has written them with such love and emotion that it is very easy to care about them and get drawn into their lives. There are unexpected twists and turns, and my only criticism of the book is that I don’t feel Esther’s reaction to one of these twists is very realistic, at least at first.
I’m sure that I’ll meet all of these characters again when I read the second book in the series, and I’m looking forward to finding out what becomes of everyone. The best part? I don’t have to wait for each new installment to be released. They already exist!
I’m giving THE DUKE AND HIS DUCHESS/THE COURTSHIP four stars.
I received a complimentary copy of this book in exchange for my honest review.
THE DUKE AND HIS DUCHESS and THE COURTSHIP combines two previously published novellas into one, novel length book. It takes readers who have been following the Windham family series by best-selling author Grace Burrowes back to the beginning of the series and the family. For readers that have never read any of the Windham books (like me!), it serves as a great introduction to the series.
THE COURTSHIP introduces us to Percival Windham, the “spare” heir of a Duke, who had just returned from military service in Canada. Now that he was home, his mother insisted it was time for him to take a bride. He was not interested in any of the young debutantes he met at a Lady Morrisette’s, several day long, house party, but he was intrigued by Esther Himmelfarb, who was well-read and intelligent but a nobody since her only claim to society fame was a grandfather who was an earl. After an interesting private conversation they had when they accidentally found themselves alone together in the kitchen garden, they both knew they were destined to be together.
Jump ahead several pages and five years and THE DUKE AND HIS DUCHESS finds Percival and Esther married and the parents of four very young children. While Percival entertains himself playing cards with the Duke’s heir, the other spare, and their friends, Esther is wearing herself out running the house and taking care of the children. They are still very much in love, but they are having trouble relating to the new roles that each finds themselves playing.
I loved both Percival and Esther. Both were strong characters but they both had faults. Ms. Burrowes has developed both characters so well and has written them with such love and emotion that it is very easy to care about them and get drawn into their lives. There are unexpected twists and turns, and my only criticism of the book is that I don’t feel Esther’s reaction to one of these twists is very realistic, at least at first.
I’m sure that I’ll meet all of these characters again when I read the second book in the series, and I’m looking forward to finding out what becomes of everyone. The best part? I don’t have to wait for each new installment to be released. They already exist!
I’m giving THE DUKE AND HIS DUCHESS/THE COURTSHIP four stars.
I received a complimentary copy of this book in exchange for my honest review.
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