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The Heart of a Duke #4
Loved by a Duke
For ten years, Lady Daisy Meadows has been in love with Auric, the Duke of Crawford. Ever since his gallant rescue years earlier, Daisy knew she was destined to be his Duchess. Unfortunately, Auric sees her as his best friend's sister and nothing more. But perhaps, if she can manage to find the fabled heart of a duke pendant, she will win over the heart of her duke. Auric, the Duke of Crawford enjoys Daisy's company. The last thing he is interested in however, is pursuing a romance with a woman he’s known since she was in leading strings. This season, Daisy is turning up in the oddest places and he cannot help but notice that she is no longer a girl. But Auric wouldn’t do something as foolhardy as to fall in love with Daisy. He couldn’t. Not with the guilt he carries over his past sins... Not when he has no right to her heart...But perhaps, just perhaps, she can forgive the past and trust that he’d forever cherish her heart—but will she let him?
281 pages, Kindle Edition
First published April 27, 2015
600 people are currently reading
850 people want to read
About the author
Christi Caldwell
137 books2,561 followersUSA TODAY Bestselling author CHRISTI CALDWELL blames Judith McNaught's "Whitney, My Love!" for luring her into the world of historical romance. While sitting in her graduate school apartment at the University of Connecticut, Christi decided to set aside her notes and pick up her laptop to try her hand at romance. She believes the most perfect heroes and heroines have imperfections, and she rather enjoys torturing them before crafting them a well deserved happily ever after!
Christi makes her home in Charlotte, North Carolina where she spends her time writing her own enchanting historical romances, and baking surprisingly good cakes (almost 2 years in lockdown will do that) with her courageous son and twin daughters, each who with their daily antics provides limitless source material.
Christi makes her home in Charlotte, North Carolina where she spends her time writing her own enchanting historical romances, and baking surprisingly good cakes (almost 2 years in lockdown will do that) with her courageous son and twin daughters, each who with their daily antics provides limitless source material.
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December 14, 2025Read: 2015
Setting: Regency England
trope: brother's bff
I can't rate this one because I can't remember the story. I had archived it shortly after reading it. So, all signs point to my being disappointed.
Note to self: remember this book is on my old Nook's archive
Setting: Regency England
trope: brother's bff
I can't rate this one because I can't remember the story. I had archived it shortly after reading it. So, all signs point to my being disappointed.
Note to self: remember this book is on my old Nook's archive
December 18, 2024
Wow that was good
Oh how I wish Lionel would have lived. Then their daughter wouldn't have been named 'Lionella'!!! Lol. Not really but I think I would have loved that man for a hero in one of the books. A youthful night of debauchery ended in his death and the two boys with him lived with guilt for 7 years. His mother basically lost her mind and his sister mourned but held on to her love for Auric. And one day he looked up and saw her. Really saw her and even though he fought it, he loved her deeply. He was not a rake. He had sex on that tragic night with a light skirt but never since. His guilt over his friend being killed in that brothel haunted him. I cried buckets again in this book and I am hopelessly Lin love with the the last four heroes. They are faithful and bexotted. I wish all books had good heroes like these.
Oh how I wish Lionel would have lived. Then their daughter wouldn't have been named 'Lionella'!!! Lol. Not really but I think I would have loved that man for a hero in one of the books. A youthful night of debauchery ended in his death and the two boys with him lived with guilt for 7 years. His mother basically lost her mind and his sister mourned but held on to her love for Auric. And one day he looked up and saw her. Really saw her and even though he fought it, he loved her deeply. He was not a rake. He had sex on that tragic night with a light skirt but never since. His guilt over his friend being killed in that brothel haunted him. I cried buckets again in this book and I am hopelessly Lin love with the the last four heroes. They are faithful and bexotted. I wish all books had good heroes like these.
November 7, 2015
~Karen's Two Cents Worth~
"I never wanted a Duke, I only wanted you."
I have an affinity for the heroines in Christi Caldwell's historical romances as they are more twenty-first century woman embedded into a historical romance. This isn't necessarily a bad thing as the reality of Regency England and my reader's view is definitely at odds. I have degrees in history, but I never go about reading a historical romance as a treatise in history; for if I did I would find most all, but a very few writers lacking. Just as I would not read a pirate romance for insight into how to sail a boat. Romances in general are escapism, those readers who think they are reading real history will be highly disappointed in most all authors; those reviewers who review them as historical treatises are asses or arses; if you want to give the English dialect it's due.
Now that I have said my peace, you will be enchanted by Caldwell's books. In Caldwell's book you have witty banter, fun escapism and of course the Happily Ever After as required in a true romance. Plus there is plenty of angst and longing in book four of Daring Hearts series. The series revolves around pretty young misses looking for the Heart of a Duke, a magical gypsy necklace. In book four of the series Loved by a Duke, Lady Daisy Laurel Meadow, the girl of the flowers, has been in love with Auric, the Duke of Crawford, who happens to be her brothers best friend. She has loved him since she was a girl and he was the gallant older friend who was always quick to laugh and smile. Time changed Auric into the paragon of decorum, never willing to laugh or smile to quickly now that he is a Duke. The story revolves around Daisy's quest to find the gypsy necklace, and a chance to claim Auric's heart. The story is romantic and amusing, and as a reader I was pulled into the book from the prologue, which is of a young Daisy, and her not fitting in.
I do wish that Daisy not being embraced society, which was set up in the prologue, would have been expanded on in the plot of the book. Daisy's isolation has impacted her view on life. I believe that the girls who were shown to ridicule her as a child would have continued that into adulthood. Especially since Daisy because of circumstances in her life feels that she is invisible and passed over. It would have been a good foil for the romance of Auric and Daisy.
Because of mistakes in Auric's past he feels that he needs to be the standard of grace and manners, and he has hid his own personality behind being a Duke. He is such a wonderful hero in this book, and tries to fight his attraction for Daisy, as she is the young sister of his best friend. He feels protective of her, but at the same time unwilling to become overly close to her since he became Duke.
Caldwell writes a lovely romance full of heart and it made me sigh in places. Caldwell has become my great pleasure. I can't wait until her next book comes out.
The fifth book in the series To Love a Lord will be releasing on July 17, 2015
This review was originally posted on Literati Literature Lovers
August 1, 2018
3.5/5 Stars.
Overall an enjoyable HR read, but perhaps not something I'll be coming to read again.
The premise of the book is quite simple; Daisy has been in love with Auric since she was a child, and Auric has only ever seen her as the little sister of his best friend Lionel. Cut to years later when Lionel has died a gruesome death, Auric is wraught with guilt and Daisy is looking for some way to matter to Auric. The story flows from there, and to a great extent the chemistry, the emotions and the angst is palpable.
The reason I don't give it a very high rating is because it took way too long for things to go their way, which left us too little of them together. The back and forth on Auric's guilt got tiresome to read. Daisy was refreshing, and I really do love her character. The other complaint I have is how many repititions there are throughout the book. Take a shot anytime you read "What sort of maddness possesed her to...", "Guilt gripped his heart like a ...., "He saw red in an instant..." etc etc. It becomes too obvious, like the author couldn't be bothered to even google synonyms.
Also, Auric is one of those indecisive-the-world-revolves-around-me heroes that I just wanted to whack over the head in many occasions. Otherwise, he was quite enjoyable.
Overall an enjoyable HR read, but perhaps not something I'll be coming to read again.
The premise of the book is quite simple; Daisy has been in love with Auric since she was a child, and Auric has only ever seen her as the little sister of his best friend Lionel. Cut to years later when Lionel has died a gruesome death, Auric is wraught with guilt and Daisy is looking for some way to matter to Auric. The story flows from there, and to a great extent the chemistry, the emotions and the angst is palpable.
The reason I don't give it a very high rating is because it took way too long for things to go their way, which left us too little of them together. The back and forth on Auric's guilt got tiresome to read. Daisy was refreshing, and I really do love her character. The other complaint I have is how many repititions there are throughout the book. Take a shot anytime you read "What sort of maddness possesed her to...", "Guilt gripped his heart like a ...., "He saw red in an instant..." etc etc. It becomes too obvious, like the author couldn't be bothered to even google synonyms.
Also, Auric is one of those indecisive-the-world-revolves-around-me heroes that I just wanted to whack over the head in many occasions. Otherwise, he was quite enjoyable.
March 9, 2023
#4 in the Heart of a Duke series. The h is Daisy Meadows and the H is Auric the Duke of Crawford. They have known each other since Daisy was a baby as their parents were great friends. Lionel was Daisy’s older brother and Auric’s best friend. When he Lionel and their good friend Marcus Viscount Wessex were 22 and in University they went to the seven dials gaming hell and paid for courtesans. Lionel was robbed and murdered. Auric blamed himself for his death. Daisy fell in love with Auric when she was eleven, now twenty one. Auric always went to visit once a week but his guilt hung over him like a cloud. It was sucking the life out of him. He felt an obligation to see Daisy married and he had made a list of candidates along with Marcus. Meanwhile Daisy looked in Gipsy hill for the Heart of Duke pendant from a Roma gypsy.
Will Auric ever see Daisy as anything but a responsibility?
Review https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
Will Auric ever see Daisy as anything but a responsibility?
Review https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
September 11, 2015
Loved by A Duke was another solid and enjoyable Historical Romance, in "The Heart of a Duke series.
Auric, The Duke of Crawford is loyal and best friend to our Heroine Lady Daisy Meadows's brother Lionel. They all grew up together and Daisy has all ways been in love with Auric. He has often protected her when she was a child. When her feelings had been hurt by some friends Auric promises to make her his Duchess, when she grows up. Hummmm!!
11 years later Daisy beloved brother is dead. 2 years later her Marquis father dies leaving her and her mother alone in the world except for Auric who visits weekly because he has grown up with Daisy and Lionel. He also feels he has some responsibility in Lionel's death. Daisy thinks herself not attractive and doesn't believe that Auric will ever see her as his Duchess. So Daisy goes in search of the mysterious pendant that the entire series is based upon. If one fines the Pendent they will gain the heart of a Duke!!
The story is based on Daisy search for the pendant and Auric realizing that he has always loved Daisy. This was a beautiful romance between Daisy and Auric and I enjoyed Daisy's antics in getting Auric to notice her.
Auric, The Duke of Crawford is loyal and best friend to our Heroine Lady Daisy Meadows's brother Lionel. They all grew up together and Daisy has all ways been in love with Auric. He has often protected her when she was a child. When her feelings had been hurt by some friends Auric promises to make her his Duchess, when she grows up. Hummmm!!
11 years later Daisy beloved brother is dead. 2 years later her Marquis father dies leaving her and her mother alone in the world except for Auric who visits weekly because he has grown up with Daisy and Lionel. He also feels he has some responsibility in Lionel's death. Daisy thinks herself not attractive and doesn't believe that Auric will ever see her as his Duchess. So Daisy goes in search of the mysterious pendant that the entire series is based upon. If one fines the Pendent they will gain the heart of a Duke!!
The story is based on Daisy search for the pendant and Auric realizing that he has always loved Daisy. This was a beautiful romance between Daisy and Auric and I enjoyed Daisy's antics in getting Auric to notice her.
June 26, 2022
daisy has always been in love with her brother’s best friend, auric, but he has only seen her as his best friend’s sister. after the death of lionel, auric is guilt-ridden because he thinks he’s the cause of lionel’s untimely passing and putting lionel’s family through losing a loved one. however, to both daisy and lionel’s mother, they didn’t see it that way, with daisy still not knowing certain details to lionel’s death.
now that daisy is of marriage age, auric feels like he has to make a perfect match for daisy. that would’ve been what lionel wanted. daisy, knowing that she will only love auric, is desperate for him to open his eyes and see the duchess he needs. with time, auric does see daisy as a blossoming woman–someone to be desired. but with the past and the detail of lionel’s death still hidden from daisy, he has no idea how to proceed with his feelings.
daisy and auric’s romance was really sweet. i think it’s because they already have a shared history and both of them are grieving about a dear friend and brother. it’s easy to empathise with their emotions and the pain and confusion. i really enjoyed this instalment of the whole series.
now that daisy is of marriage age, auric feels like he has to make a perfect match for daisy. that would’ve been what lionel wanted. daisy, knowing that she will only love auric, is desperate for him to open his eyes and see the duchess he needs. with time, auric does see daisy as a blossoming woman–someone to be desired. but with the past and the detail of lionel’s death still hidden from daisy, he has no idea how to proceed with his feelings.
daisy and auric’s romance was really sweet. i think it’s because they already have a shared history and both of them are grieving about a dear friend and brother. it’s easy to empathise with their emotions and the pain and confusion. i really enjoyed this instalment of the whole series.
March 23, 2022
Too much self-angst and inner monologue.
Otherwise it was actually a pretty good book. I would go so far as to say 3.5 stars.
I liked the couple together, they were cute and childhood mates but it could have done with more chemistry and banter and antics. God, I can't believe I of all people would want to read more antics.
But I think what shines is more the friendship dynamic between the heroine, Duke and Viscount. They were very chirpy.
But it really lost me in the last 80%. Too convoluted and then too fleeting when the last hurdle is solved and tbh for someone hellbent on his feelings, the I love you moment was just so random.
Anyways, I've read worse though so I think this book is good enough that I'll even look through her backlist for more Dukes, Marquess and Earls!
Otherwise it was actually a pretty good book. I would go so far as to say 3.5 stars.
I liked the couple together, they were cute and childhood mates but it could have done with more chemistry and banter and antics. God, I can't believe I of all people would want to read more antics.
But I think what shines is more the friendship dynamic between the heroine, Duke and Viscount. They were very chirpy.
But it really lost me in the last 80%. Too convoluted and then too fleeting when the last hurdle is solved and tbh for someone hellbent on his feelings, the I love you moment was just so random.
Anyways, I've read worse though so I think this book is good enough that I'll even look through her backlist for more Dukes, Marquess and Earls!
September 3, 2016
I honestly was a bit bored by this one.
It follows the duke of Crawford that we first meet in the second book of the series when Anne Adamson sets her mind on marrying him.
Auric is too tormented and Daisy is too... bland. And I thought the ending was just silly, what happened to Christi Caldwell? where is the brilliance of book 1 and 2?
So I'll stop there for that series and try something else. I might pick it up again later.
It follows the duke of Crawford that we first meet in the second book of the series when Anne Adamson sets her mind on marrying him.
Auric is too tormented and Daisy is too... bland. And I thought the ending was just silly, what happened to Christi Caldwell? where is the brilliance of book 1 and 2?
So I'll stop there for that series and try something else. I might pick it up again later.
December 23, 2022
Straight to the DNF shelf with this one!
I've realized now that I either really love or hate Christi Caldwell's stories. This bulk of this story relied too much on the repetition and rehashing of the angst. So the hero had strong guilt over the death of his bff, the heroine's brother. I never did get to the part to understand exactly what happened and how/why the chap died, but I was told thru the hero's constant inner dialogue about how guilty he felt and how unworthy he would be for our heroine. It was just too much rehashing and I quickly lost any care for the hero and his outcome.
I read a description of the author and saw that she likes to add flaws to her heroes or heroines. To make them more relatable to us, the readers, maybe? I understand why she wants to do that, being all-inclusive these days.... but on the other hand, many people read romance as an escape from the stress of our flawed daily life to a happy, perfect place. I do not want to read about a chubby, frizzy hair, clumsy, glasses always sitting crooked on the nose type of heroine. It hits too close to home.
As for the heroine of this story... she was CONSTANTLY being described as plump. I think another reviewer counted a total of 'plump' being used 28 times. That means it was used at least once a chapter, sometimes twice. I consider myself somewhat plump, but if I was living a fairytale romantic life, I would not wish to be plump with drab mousy brown hair.
Oh, and the scene with the heroine hopping up on down on one leg (just because her mother was not looking and couldn't prevent it) was silly. Of course because she was a clumsy heroine, she fell down on the floor while hopping as the hero walked in to the room. I don't know if the author thinks a plump, overly clumsy heroine is cute and endearing, but it makes me feel embarrassed for the heroine. And I want to root for the characters, not be frustrated or embarrassed by them.
I've realized now that I either really love or hate Christi Caldwell's stories. This bulk of this story relied too much on the repetition and rehashing of the angst. So the hero had strong guilt over the death of his bff, the heroine's brother. I never did get to the part to understand exactly what happened and how/why the chap died, but I was told thru the hero's constant inner dialogue about how guilty he felt and how unworthy he would be for our heroine. It was just too much rehashing and I quickly lost any care for the hero and his outcome.
I read a description of the author and saw that she likes to add flaws to her heroes or heroines. To make them more relatable to us, the readers, maybe? I understand why she wants to do that, being all-inclusive these days.... but on the other hand, many people read romance as an escape from the stress of our flawed daily life to a happy, perfect place. I do not want to read about a chubby, frizzy hair, clumsy, glasses always sitting crooked on the nose type of heroine. It hits too close to home.
As for the heroine of this story... she was CONSTANTLY being described as plump. I think another reviewer counted a total of 'plump' being used 28 times. That means it was used at least once a chapter, sometimes twice. I consider myself somewhat plump, but if I was living a fairytale romantic life, I would not wish to be plump with drab mousy brown hair.
Oh, and the scene with the heroine hopping up on down on one leg (just because her mother was not looking and couldn't prevent it) was silly. Of course because she was a clumsy heroine, she fell down on the floor while hopping as the hero walked in to the room. I don't know if the author thinks a plump, overly clumsy heroine is cute and endearing, but it makes me feel embarrassed for the heroine. And I want to root for the characters, not be frustrated or embarrassed by them.
December 10, 2021
This was a very pleasant read. It was angsty, and would tear your heart quite blatantly by the fact that one would wish one had known the dead brother, Lionel. He truly sounded like a dear, dear person ... caring, gentlemanly and just a wonderful person. My heart quite literally 'cracked' whenever reading about the deceased brother. The heroine's character was very entertaining; she's funny and witty. On the other hand, the hero was always glaring, sulking ... always brooding.
Auric had been plagued with guilt for the past 7 years. His dear friend, Lionel, was murdered because of him. Hence, he's been going to visit Lionel's younger sister, Daisy, and her still mourning mother diligently ever since. Daisy, a plump but beautiful and kind heroine, had been pinning for Auric since she was an adolescent. She already has had two seasons but couldn't seem to find any suitable gentleman. Finally, Auric weighed down by his intense guilt, sought to wed Daisy. Could they find happiness? Would Daisy ever forgive Auric for lying to her all these time? Especially when he wedded her because he felt sorry for her?
I didn't give 5 stars because I felt the ending was a bit flat. It was very predictable. I wished Auric would go after Daisy - instead of the other way around. Other than that, this was a very nice book.
Auric had been plagued with guilt for the past 7 years. His dear friend, Lionel, was murdered because of him. Hence, he's been going to visit Lionel's younger sister, Daisy, and her still mourning mother diligently ever since. Daisy, a plump but beautiful and kind heroine, had been pinning for Auric since she was an adolescent. She already has had two seasons but couldn't seem to find any suitable gentleman. Finally, Auric weighed down by his intense guilt, sought to wed Daisy. Could they find happiness? Would Daisy ever forgive Auric for lying to her all these time? Especially when he wedded her because he felt sorry for her?
I didn't give 5 stars because I felt the ending was a bit flat. It was very predictable. I wished Auric would go after Daisy - instead of the other way around. Other than that, this was a very nice book.
June 26, 2018
I don't really like the whole unrequited love thing... and I honestly didn't like it here either. I can not fathom being in love with someone for 12 years and never saying anything. I will say that Daisy at least didn't continue to throw herself at Auric. I recently read a book where that happened and I had to DNF it. So kudos to her for having some damn self respect there. I guess what I am trying to say is that this is one of the better unrequited love stories I have read. I enjoyed the characters. And this is one of the only Christi Caldwell books that didn't have a super abrupt ending so yay!!
August 3, 2021
I found this book unexpected and utterly wonderful. Daisy was such a delight and the whole friends-to-lovers thing hasn't been done so much in this series/by this author (that I've read), so it was a welcome change.
February 4, 2019
I loved this book. There were so many funny moments in it. Lady Daisy Meadows has quite the quick wit. And I loved her relationship with Auric the hero. I can't wait to read more in this series.
May 2, 2015
*I received a copy from the author in exchange for an honest review*
I’ve been a constant follower of Christi Caldwell since I started reading her books and she has kept my interest without fail. Loved by a Duke was a tantalizing tale of love, friendship, and loyalty. It’s definitely one of Christi Caldwell’s best!
“Lady Daisy Meadows.” The lady who refused to stay buried in the proper chambers of his mind.
Lady Daisy Meadows was invisible. She was used to being out of the ton’s sights. She didn’t care much, though. She only wanted to capture one person’s attention anyway. I can’t put into words how much I loved Daisy’s character! One would expect she’d be drunk on her own insecurities and would be playing the traditional damsel in distress role. But Daisy possessed an infectious sense of positivity and vigour that made her unique. Christi Caldwell did a magnificent job in balancing her vulnerabilities and highlighting her strengths.
She’d merely thought his feelings were those reserved for a younger sister. Where she had loved him with a woman’s heart.
Auric, the 8th Duke of Crawford is in search for his duchess. After losing his battle to win Lady Anne’s heart, Auric had to find another woman worthy of his family name. Little did he know that he already had her for more than a decade... There were a number of times in the book when I wanted to hit Auric hard in the head. He was stubborn but I guess it was part of his unique charm and I won’t fall in love with him this much if it wasn’t for his dukish ways. If Daisy was a contrast of vulnerability and strength, Auric was a perfect mix of power and passion. Man, that duke could charm!
She’d tasted of springtime and life and innocence and he’d wanted to drown himself in the sweetness of her.
There was something really special with Auric and Daisy’s relationship. Although half of the time, Daisy was mooning over Auric and Auric was doing everything to fight what he felt for Daisy, there was an unspoken attraction between them that pulled me from page to page. The way they knew each other, the way they reminisced their childhood together, and that fondness that prompted that fiery passion between them.
I must say that Christi Caldwell stepped up on this one! There was more heat and more pull, the story progressed wonderfully, each scene more felt and engaging. Versed with Christi Caldwell’s engaging prose and characters that will keep readers wanting, Loved by a Duke is a sweet and emotionally-stirring story that appeals to every lover of happily-ever-afters!
I’ve been a constant follower of Christi Caldwell since I started reading her books and she has kept my interest without fail. Loved by a Duke was a tantalizing tale of love, friendship, and loyalty. It’s definitely one of Christi Caldwell’s best!
“Lady Daisy Meadows.” The lady who refused to stay buried in the proper chambers of his mind.
Lady Daisy Meadows was invisible. She was used to being out of the ton’s sights. She didn’t care much, though. She only wanted to capture one person’s attention anyway. I can’t put into words how much I loved Daisy’s character! One would expect she’d be drunk on her own insecurities and would be playing the traditional damsel in distress role. But Daisy possessed an infectious sense of positivity and vigour that made her unique. Christi Caldwell did a magnificent job in balancing her vulnerabilities and highlighting her strengths.
She’d merely thought his feelings were those reserved for a younger sister. Where she had loved him with a woman’s heart.
Auric, the 8th Duke of Crawford is in search for his duchess. After losing his battle to win Lady Anne’s heart, Auric had to find another woman worthy of his family name. Little did he know that he already had her for more than a decade... There were a number of times in the book when I wanted to hit Auric hard in the head. He was stubborn but I guess it was part of his unique charm and I won’t fall in love with him this much if it wasn’t for his dukish ways. If Daisy was a contrast of vulnerability and strength, Auric was a perfect mix of power and passion. Man, that duke could charm!
She’d tasted of springtime and life and innocence and he’d wanted to drown himself in the sweetness of her.
There was something really special with Auric and Daisy’s relationship. Although half of the time, Daisy was mooning over Auric and Auric was doing everything to fight what he felt for Daisy, there was an unspoken attraction between them that pulled me from page to page. The way they knew each other, the way they reminisced their childhood together, and that fondness that prompted that fiery passion between them.
I must say that Christi Caldwell stepped up on this one! There was more heat and more pull, the story progressed wonderfully, each scene more felt and engaging. Versed with Christi Caldwell’s engaging prose and characters that will keep readers wanting, Loved by a Duke is a sweet and emotionally-stirring story that appeals to every lover of happily-ever-afters!
May 10, 2015
"When you have your come-out I will gladly make you my future duchess". Simple words spoken to boost her confidence so long ago; however, Daisy Laurel Meadows has not forgotten them in the last 10 years. That was when she first fell in love with Auric Ashburn, future Duke of Crawford. Things have changed a lot in the last 10 years...her beloved brother, best friend of Auric, was killed then her father passed away. Her mother lives in her own little world not quite having recovered from the loss of her son & Auric, now the Duke of Crawford, only comes around once a week out of a sense of obligation to the family of his best friend. And Auric is looking for a bride but he's not looking at Daisy...in fact much to her chagrin, he still thinks of her as a child - the sister of his best friend. And as 10 years ago, Daisy is still unlike what the ton considers beauties, in fact she's become quite the wallflower.
Auric, the Duke of Crawford, cannot forget the fateful night that his best friend died, a death he feels completely responsible for. The reason he still visits the mother & sister of his best friend...to try & make sure they are cared for. Now he's looking for a bride - one that does not require love & will never know & judge him about that horrible night.
After several weeks of absence (in which he was searching for a bride) Auric makes his obligatory visit the the Meadows home. A time that Daisy has made up her mind that if she can find the fabled "Heart of a Duke" necklace, the necklace that has brought true love to people around her, she can at last capture the heart of Auric. As Daisy searches for the necklace, Auric starts to realize that Daisy is no longer a little girl but a beautiful woman. A fact brought home after her mother has a brief period of awareness in which she helps Daisy to shine. No longer a wallflower Daisy enjoys the attention while continuing her quest for the necklace. While Daisy is enjoying the attention Auric is not. When he realizes his feelings for Daisy will he be able to accept them despite his guilt? Will Daisy still love him when she finds out his horrible secret? Can he convince Daisy that he loves her & is not offering marriage out of a sense of obligation?
The twists & turns, ups & downs along this adventure is highly entertaining. Ms. Caldwell does an amazing job of bringing flawed characters to life & giving them purpose. An excellent read & highly recommended. Even though it is part of a series it can be read along but might I HIGHLY suggest reading the entire series...you won't be disappointed!
Auric, the Duke of Crawford, cannot forget the fateful night that his best friend died, a death he feels completely responsible for. The reason he still visits the mother & sister of his best friend...to try & make sure they are cared for. Now he's looking for a bride - one that does not require love & will never know & judge him about that horrible night.
After several weeks of absence (in which he was searching for a bride) Auric makes his obligatory visit the the Meadows home. A time that Daisy has made up her mind that if she can find the fabled "Heart of a Duke" necklace, the necklace that has brought true love to people around her, she can at last capture the heart of Auric. As Daisy searches for the necklace, Auric starts to realize that Daisy is no longer a little girl but a beautiful woman. A fact brought home after her mother has a brief period of awareness in which she helps Daisy to shine. No longer a wallflower Daisy enjoys the attention while continuing her quest for the necklace. While Daisy is enjoying the attention Auric is not. When he realizes his feelings for Daisy will he be able to accept them despite his guilt? Will Daisy still love him when she finds out his horrible secret? Can he convince Daisy that he loves her & is not offering marriage out of a sense of obligation?
The twists & turns, ups & downs along this adventure is highly entertaining. Ms. Caldwell does an amazing job of bringing flawed characters to life & giving them purpose. An excellent read & highly recommended. Even though it is part of a series it can be read along but might I HIGHLY suggest reading the entire series...you won't be disappointed!
April 29, 2015
#4 in the highly anticipated "The Heart Of A Duke" series. Can be read as a stand alone, however, I would suggest reading the others in this series, just because it is sn awesome series, and the reader will find re-occurring characters throughout the series. "Loved by a Duke" is a quick, charming Regency Historical Romance. This is Auric snd Daisy's story, a very complicated, sweet story, that is filled with guilt, grief, sensual tension, healing, and, yes, forgiveness and romance. Finding true love in a most unexpected place, between the heart of a tortured Duke and a romantic young Lady. Emotional,compelling and very satisfying! Once again Ms. Caldwell has written a story that fans can and will hold dear to their hearts. A quick read to me, that was at times was sad, witty, sensual and seemed personal, other times, I wanted to jerk both, Daisy and Auric by their proverbial butts. A wide range of emotions converge into a suburbly written story! Another hit for Ms. Caldwell, she never disappoints her fans. Fans of Regency Historical Romance, well developed characters and anyone who enjoys a true Romance will, I believe enjoy "Loved by a Duke", if only we all could be so lucky. Enjoyable and very satisfying!
* Received for an honest review from the author*
* * Will be cross-posted to My Book Addiction Reviews**
Rating : 4.5
Heat rating : Mild
Reviewed by : AprilR, Courtesy of My Book Addiction and More
* Received for an honest review from the author*
* * Will be cross-posted to My Book Addiction Reviews**
Rating : 4.5
Heat rating : Mild
Reviewed by : AprilR, Courtesy of My Book Addiction and More
January 16, 2016
Loved by a Duke by Christi Caldwell
Heart of a Duke Series Book Four
Lady Daisy Laurel Meadows was in love with a duke, no, a man who just happened to be a duke. But she was invisible to him. What she needed was that special necklace she had heard about, the heart of a duke necklace from an old gypsy. Then he would love her too.
Auric Kinsley Richards, the 8th Duke of Crawford had made an error in his life seven years ago that has haunted him ever since. And ruined so many lives. He had to do his best for the mother and sister left behind after his friend's death. Only when did little Daisy go from being that little girl to a beautiful woman?
Another great story in this series that follows young women who are determined to find that perfect gentleman to marry. They believe the fabled heart of a duke necklace will bring the love of their lives to them.
**Sexual content within marriage
http://justjudysjumbles.blogspot.com/...
Heart of a Duke Series Book Four
Lady Daisy Laurel Meadows was in love with a duke, no, a man who just happened to be a duke. But she was invisible to him. What she needed was that special necklace she had heard about, the heart of a duke necklace from an old gypsy. Then he would love her too.
Auric Kinsley Richards, the 8th Duke of Crawford had made an error in his life seven years ago that has haunted him ever since. And ruined so many lives. He had to do his best for the mother and sister left behind after his friend's death. Only when did little Daisy go from being that little girl to a beautiful woman?
Another great story in this series that follows young women who are determined to find that perfect gentleman to marry. They believe the fabled heart of a duke necklace will bring the love of their lives to them.
**Sexual content within marriage
http://justjudysjumbles.blogspot.com/...
December 23, 2017
Loved By a Duke is the fourth book in The Heart of a Duke series and my least favourite so far. So. Much. Guilt. It is emotionally draining to read and repetitive and boring. Very generic story-telling and below average plot.
For Love of the Duke: 3 stars
More than a Duke: 3- stars
The Love of a Rogue: 3 stars
Loved By a Duke: 2 stars
For ten years, Lady Daisy Meadows has been in love with Auric, the Duke of Crawford, her dead brother’s best friend.
Auric enjoys Daisy’s company but he’s known her since she’s been in leading strings.
This average nice series just took a nose dive.
I shall take a break and read other author’s before continuing with this series.
For Love of the Duke: 3 stars
More than a Duke: 3- stars
The Love of a Rogue: 3 stars
Loved By a Duke: 2 stars
For ten years, Lady Daisy Meadows has been in love with Auric, the Duke of Crawford, her dead brother’s best friend.
Auric enjoys Daisy’s company but he’s known her since she’s been in leading strings.
This average nice series just took a nose dive.
I shall take a break and read other author’s before continuing with this series.
April 14, 2016
Possibly one of the worst romances I've read in awhile.
If there's one thing I like about the book is the connection between the two main leads. What I didn't like so much was the heroine. She was just TSTL. Yes, I understand that desperate times call for desperate needs, but maybe she was just so sheltered (not to mention, spoiled) that she didn't see the repercussions of her actions. Oh yeah, she was also grieving. So that kinda explains it all.
2 solid stars because the writing was good.
If there's one thing I like about the book is the connection between the two main leads. What I didn't like so much was the heroine. She was just TSTL. Yes, I understand that desperate times call for desperate needs, but maybe she was just so sheltered (not to mention, spoiled) that she didn't see the repercussions of her actions. Oh yeah, she was also grieving. So that kinda explains it all.
2 solid stars because the writing was good.
November 28, 2017
Another wonderful story with likable characters but for me, just misses the mark on sizzling hot passion.....this is a no sex before marriage type of book...and even the sex after marriage is a tad to homogenized for me especially in 2017. Feel maybe this author is uneasy about writing passion between two people who are deeply enlove...at least that is my opinion. I will be reading the rest of this series but need to read a Elizabeth Hoyt, , Mary Balogh or Lisa Keypas who can write passion for adults.
May 3, 2015
As I love all of Christi Caldwell's books, I knew I would not be disappointed, an, of course, I wasn't!!! I must say that this was so touching that I cried through most of it. Auric just takes my breath away and Daisy filled my heart in many different ways. Most definitely worth the read! Be sure to read all the books, each is amazing!
January 22, 2016
I died!!!
This one oh this one had me in tears. I could not put it down. All I could do was hope things ran smoothly. In the end they did but this one tore at my heart. And I loved every minute of it!!!
This one oh this one had me in tears. I could not put it down. All I could do was hope things ran smoothly. In the end they did but this one tore at my heart. And I loved every minute of it!!!
May 14, 2015
Loved it. Out of all the Heart of a Duke series, this was my favorite. Really good read, just love this series.
May 21, 2015
Beautiful Story!
Sweet and heartwarming. Two people looking for love, fighting old demons and trying to move on with their live's and find happiness.
Sweet and heartwarming. Two people looking for love, fighting old demons and trying to move on with their live's and find happiness.
February 16, 2018
Awesome sweet romance x
August 30, 2018
I'd rate more as 3.5 stars.
I picked this up on a whim since I haven't read any of the previous books in this series. While there are brief references to the previous book's characters, there was no problem following the story without reading the prior books. I've enjoyed the Wicked Wallflowers series (books 1 and 2) and book 1 of Sinful Brides (The Rogue's Wager), and I'd say this one is probably the heaviest one I've read so far. Actually, it's probably the heaviest historical romance I've read ever (so far). It deals with grief and guilt, as one of the MCs, Lady Daisy Laurel Meadows's, brother, Lionel, died 7 years prior to the current day of the book, and she's lived with the aftermath of that loss. Also affected by Lionel's death is the other MC, Duke Auric, one of Lionel's best friends, and friend of Daisy's too when she was growing up and tagging along with her older brother. He carries guilt for what happened that night of Lionel's death, and also the grief of the loss of his friend.
There's some unrequited love at at first on Daisy's part as she's been in love with Auric for years, and he sees her only as a sister. However, circumstances change and his feelings for her develop from brotherly to more. Aside from the romance, there's the shadow of Lionel's death constantly cast upon their interactions, and Daisy believes Auric does many things for her and her mother out of a sense of obligation. Auric is very hard on himself, and there's this constant self-loathing that made this book harder to read than the usual light historical romance. There's some pretty heavy emotions, especially near the end and it made me sad- all that guilt and sadness over the years, not just for Daisy and the lonely life she's lived, but Auric and all the heaviness of guilt.
Daisy is a romantic, and while she can be dismissed as silly, she's a bit of a wilder person than most ladies while also being subdued at times. I loved her banter with Auric, and even with Marcus (Lionel's other best friend). Auric isn't charismatic or charming. He's stern, shuttered, and mostly carefully composed after Lionel's death. However, his POV was sometimes funny to read, regarding Daisy and his slips in composure. He's uncertain or himself at times, and could be wildly jealous, but it was amusing seeing him struggle with his newfound romantic feelings for Daisy. Regarding the dark past though, that was saddening to read. After some drama, I was happy with that ending and the peace and happiness achieved.
I picked this up on a whim since I haven't read any of the previous books in this series. While there are brief references to the previous book's characters, there was no problem following the story without reading the prior books. I've enjoyed the Wicked Wallflowers series (books 1 and 2) and book 1 of Sinful Brides (The Rogue's Wager), and I'd say this one is probably the heaviest one I've read so far. Actually, it's probably the heaviest historical romance I've read ever (so far). It deals with grief and guilt, as one of the MCs, Lady Daisy Laurel Meadows's, brother, Lionel, died 7 years prior to the current day of the book, and she's lived with the aftermath of that loss. Also affected by Lionel's death is the other MC, Duke Auric, one of Lionel's best friends, and friend of Daisy's too when she was growing up and tagging along with her older brother. He carries guilt for what happened that night of Lionel's death, and also the grief of the loss of his friend.
There's some unrequited love at at first on Daisy's part as she's been in love with Auric for years, and he sees her only as a sister. However, circumstances change and his feelings for her develop from brotherly to more. Aside from the romance, there's the shadow of Lionel's death constantly cast upon their interactions, and Daisy believes Auric does many things for her and her mother out of a sense of obligation. Auric is very hard on himself, and there's this constant self-loathing that made this book harder to read than the usual light historical romance. There's some pretty heavy emotions, especially near the end and it made me sad- all that guilt and sadness over the years, not just for Daisy and the lonely life she's lived, but Auric and all the heaviness of guilt.
Daisy is a romantic, and while she can be dismissed as silly, she's a bit of a wilder person than most ladies while also being subdued at times. I loved her banter with Auric, and even with Marcus (Lionel's other best friend). Auric isn't charismatic or charming. He's stern, shuttered, and mostly carefully composed after Lionel's death. However, his POV was sometimes funny to read, regarding Daisy and his slips in composure. He's uncertain or himself at times, and could be wildly jealous, but it was amusing seeing him struggle with his newfound romantic feelings for Daisy. Regarding the dark past though, that was saddening to read. After some drama, I was happy with that ending and the peace and happiness achieved.
October 7, 2017
Dieses Buch ist der vierte Teil der „Heart of a Duke“ – Reihe der Autorin und in diesem hier erzählt sie uns die Geschichte von Daisy, die seit dem Tod ihres Bruders kein leichtes Leben hat, denn ihre Mutter scheint sie vergessen zu haben und auch kein Ehemann ist in greifbarer Nähe. Allerdings ist sie immer noch begeistert von Auric, einem Freund ihres Bruders, der sie auch nach wie vor noch regelmäßig besuchen kommt.
Die Handlung der Geschichte hat mir wirklich gut gefallen, denn es waren sehr viele Emotionen vorhanden und mir hat Daisy dann stellenweise recht leid getan, denn ihre Situation war dann doch abschnittsweise recht schwierig und ich habe mir das als nicht sehr leicht vorgestellt. Anderseits gibt es in diesem Buch auch Textpassagen, die sehr humorvoll waren und bei denen ich wirklich viel lachen musste. Ich sage euch hierzu nur: Kette.
Ich fand die Geschichte im großen und ganzen aber wunderbar unterhaltsam und es hat mir gut gefallen, diese zu lesen. Manche Dinge waren aus meiner Sicht etwas vorhersehbar, aber ich denke, wenn man damit ein Problem hätte, dürfte man das Genre nicht lesen. 😉
Daisy fand ich einen reizenden Hauptcharakter. Sie wirkte auf mich sehr sympathisch und stark, außerdem hat es mich begeistert, wie sie versucht für ihr Glück zu kämpfen.
Auch Auric fand ich gelungen und ich konnte es verstehen, dass er zu Beginn etwas gebraucht hat, bis er wirklich wusste, wen oder was er will. Ich empfand auch ihn als sehr authentisch.
Der Schreibstil der Autorin hat mir gefallen. Die Geschichte lässt sich sehr flüssig und flott lesen. Das Buch ist zudem sehr verständlich geschrieben, sodass man kein Problem haben sollte, der Handlung zu folgen.
Das Cover gefällt mir gut und ich finde, dass es wunderbar zu Handlung passt.
Fazit:
5 von 5 Sterne. Klare Kauf – und Leseempfehlung.
Die Handlung der Geschichte hat mir wirklich gut gefallen, denn es waren sehr viele Emotionen vorhanden und mir hat Daisy dann stellenweise recht leid getan, denn ihre Situation war dann doch abschnittsweise recht schwierig und ich habe mir das als nicht sehr leicht vorgestellt. Anderseits gibt es in diesem Buch auch Textpassagen, die sehr humorvoll waren und bei denen ich wirklich viel lachen musste. Ich sage euch hierzu nur: Kette.
Ich fand die Geschichte im großen und ganzen aber wunderbar unterhaltsam und es hat mir gut gefallen, diese zu lesen. Manche Dinge waren aus meiner Sicht etwas vorhersehbar, aber ich denke, wenn man damit ein Problem hätte, dürfte man das Genre nicht lesen. 😉
Daisy fand ich einen reizenden Hauptcharakter. Sie wirkte auf mich sehr sympathisch und stark, außerdem hat es mich begeistert, wie sie versucht für ihr Glück zu kämpfen.
Auch Auric fand ich gelungen und ich konnte es verstehen, dass er zu Beginn etwas gebraucht hat, bis er wirklich wusste, wen oder was er will. Ich empfand auch ihn als sehr authentisch.
Der Schreibstil der Autorin hat mir gefallen. Die Geschichte lässt sich sehr flüssig und flott lesen. Das Buch ist zudem sehr verständlich geschrieben, sodass man kein Problem haben sollte, der Handlung zu folgen.
Das Cover gefällt mir gut und ich finde, dass es wunderbar zu Handlung passt.
Fazit:
5 von 5 Sterne. Klare Kauf – und Leseempfehlung.
December 9, 2021
This was a very pleasant read. It was angsty, and would tear your heart quite blatantly by the fact that one would wish one had known the dead brother, Lionel. He truly sounded like a dear, dear person ... caring, gentlemanly and just a wonderful person. My heart quite literally 'cracked' whenever reading about the deceased brother. The heroine's character was very entertaining; she's funny and witty. On the other hand, the hero was always glaring, sulking ... always brooding.
Auric had been plagued with guilt for the past 7 years. His dear friend, Lionel, was murdered because of him. Hence, he's been going to visit Lionel's younger sister, Daisy, and her still mourning mother diligently ever since. Daisy, a plump but beautiful and kind heroine, had been pinning for Auric since she was an adolescent. She already has had two seasons but couldn't seem to find any suitable gentleman. Finally, Auric weighed down by his intense guilt, sought to wed Daisy. Could they find happiness? Would Daisy ever forgive Auric for lying to her all these time? Especially when he wedded her because he felt sorry for her?
I didn't give 5 stars because I felt the ending was a bit flat. It was very predictable. I wished Auric would go after Daisy - instead of the other way around. Other than that, this was a very nice book.
Auric had been plagued with guilt for the past 7 years. His dear friend, Lionel, was murdered because of him. Hence, he's been going to visit Lionel's younger sister, Daisy, and her still mourning mother diligently ever since. Daisy, a plump but beautiful and kind heroine, had been pinning for Auric since she was an adolescent. She already has had two seasons but couldn't seem to find any suitable gentleman. Finally, Auric weighed down by his intense guilt, sought to wed Daisy. Could they find happiness? Would Daisy ever forgive Auric for lying to her all these time? Especially when he wedded her because he felt sorry for her?
I didn't give 5 stars because I felt the ending was a bit flat. It was very predictable. I wished Auric would go after Daisy - instead of the other way around. Other than that, this was a very nice book.
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